Hard Hart by E. Davies ~ Audio Review

Title: Hard Hart

Series: Hart’s Bay 01

Author: E. Davies

Narrator: Greg Boudreaux

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 19 mins

Publisher: E. Davies (3rd October 2019)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: I felt all wrong until I met you.

Jesse Stone is rebuilding his life. He’s ditched his no-good ex, sworn off men, moved to a new town with his four best friends, and started the pottery business of his dreams. And then he slept with his hunky new neighbor. Oops. Jesse needs to focus on work, but all he can think about is getting Finn between his hands like a perfectly-shaped work of clay.

Trouble just blew into town, and his name is Jesse. Finn Hart knows that pursuing Jesse will ignite old family tensions, but he can’t stay away. The construction foreman has never built a lasting relationship. He’s too busy keeping the peace in a town that was founded by one Hart, but is slowly being strangled by another – Finn’s grandfather.

Finn and Jesse are on the same page: they want to save Hart’s Bay, and it starts by bringing tourists in with Jesse’s new art gallery. But their hearts are bruised, and taking a chance comes with a price. Not everyone in Hart’s Bay wants change. For a few narrow minds, nothing good should come to Finn’s branch of the Harts, and that includes love.

Can love wash away 20 years of bad blood and bring a new dawn for Jesse, Finn, and all of Hart’s Bay?
Hard Hart is the first book in the new Hart’s Bay series about a small town full of nosy but well-meaning neighbors and brotherly banter. It’s a stand-alone novel with a happily-ever-after end-ing, and plenty of smiles and steam along the way. If that cove could talk…oh boy, has it ever seen things.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Hard Hart is the first book in E. Davies Hart’s Bay series, set in the small, beautiful town of Hart’s Bay. The author, E. Davies, is completely new to me, so I didn’t know what to expect, but was drawn in by the blurb.

In two ways, this book was a series of first times for me. This is the first E. Davis I’ve read/heard the audio for and this was also the first time I’ve heard narration by Greg Boudreaux. And in the end I really enjoyed both the story – as well as Davies writing style – and the narration. Boudreaux has a great tone and speed which perfectly matched the characters and their emotions. It helped me to effectively connect with the characters, particularly Jesse.

The story introduces is about Jesse Stone and Finn Hart.

Jesse recently went through a rough break up which ended in he and his friends swearing off men and leaving the big city for the small idyllic town of Hart’s Bay. Jesse and his friends are artists and their dream is to launch an art co-op, which could also bring in other local artists. They got the house, now they needed a place to set up their co-op/gallery and their workspaces. It’s a lot to do and while on the surface Hart’s Bay seems like a charming town, there are tensions that the newbies don’t understand. However, Jesse learns all about the town’s darker secrets when he gets close to his neighbour, Finn Hart.

Finn has lived in Hart’s Bay all his life. He was only young when the family – the richest family and who own most of town – had a fight, which was something of a mystery to the younger generation of Harts but nonetheless maintained. Along with the argument there was the collapse of the Hart family’s fishery and associated processing plant, which had kept much of the town employed. Now the town was considered a quaint, if dying town, and it seemed that one side of the Hart family – Finn’s grandfather – would rather see the town die and the tourists.

The Hart family argument is the main cause of most of the issues in this book, and in that way Hard Hart is very stereotypical of what you’d expect from a small town whose founding family is locked in a years old, bitter fight. However, the romance between Jesse and Finn is a really sweet contrast to all the tension. Jesse and his friends are the new men in town and they have big plans that Finn supports but his fears of going up again his grandfather and “the other side” of the family is a really important point for Finn’s development.

Great story and great narration. Whether in book or audio, I can’t wait for book 2!

His Hart’s Command by A.E. Via ~ Audio Review

Title: His Heart’s Command

Series: Nothing Special 06

Author: A.E. Via

Narrator: Aiden Snow

Genre: Contemporary, Action, Cops

Length: 8 hrs, 51 mins

Publisher: Tantor (5th November 2019)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Lennox Freeman (Free) is one of the best hackers in the world which has caused him to spend most of his life on the run. Never able to put down roots, he couldn’t trust anyone not to take advantage of him, even his own family.

Ivan Hart has lived and bled one creed all of his life: To Serve and Protect. His intense focus and determination in law enforcement has led him to finally commanding his own team. He’d worked hard to put together a squad of badasses capable of backing up a very dangerous team of detectives. Being God and Day’s last line of defense came with a lot of responsibility that he took very seriously.

After his divorce was final Hart turned right around and remarried his job. He had his good friends there in the office with him every day, so it was easier to ignore the few quiet hours he spent at home alone each night. He’d settled well into his new routine and was comfortable with it. Then God decided to disrupt everything by hiring another tech specialist for his department. A man whose brains, trendy looks, and voice would leave Hart tongue-tied and captivated at their first introduction.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: His Hart’s Command is the sixth book in A.E. Via’s fantastic series, Nothing Special, which follows the love lives and the action at work of the elite Atlanta PD drug taskforce led by Lieutenants God and Day.

His Hart’s Command continues with the same intensity and tone as the five previous books in the series. It’s seamless transition between books and Via has this wonderful knack to mix hot, steamy sexual attraction with a complex storyline. I find every minute – either as an audio or on page – compelling and interesting. While it’s impossible for me to relate to tough alpha males who work in a high stakes, possibly deadly line of work, I love that they also feel like they aren’t extraordinary human wonders that no one could possibly understand. I love that this series doesn’t forget the guys who we’ve already seen find the love of their lives, because we get to see that they are human and that even down the track these are still have their own issues cropping up from time to time.

Aiden Snow, who has performed the narration for the entire series so far, continues a fantastic job and really just completes the job of getting me engrossed in the world of the guys on God and Day’s team. Snow’s voice suits the action and the passion throughout the book, as well as hitting the emotions and uncertainty. The part that has me in awe the most is how Snow has managed to give all the characters in this series their own voices and portrays them so well. After all, just because the guys in the previous books found their men doesn’t mean that we don’t see them all the time in subsequent books and continue to see more of their stories.

His Hart’s Command starts with Lennox Freeman (aka Free). He got onto Day and God’s team with a brief introduction in book 5, he’s one of the best hackers around and his skills has landed him in trouble, so much so he’s always struggled to make roots from himself. Until now that is, now that he has been invited to be God and Day’s team’s technical eyes and ears when his friend (and the team’s previous hacker) became a field cop. Free is getting comfortable in his new life and there is one man that has him intrigued, Ivan Hart.

Ivan is the leader of the SWAT team who is more often than not providing back up for God’s and Day’s team. He loves his job. It is perhaps his greatest passion. He prides himself on his expertise. Meanwhile his personal life is in disarray. He is recently divorced and since the end of his marriage he has thrown even more of himself into his job. But things change when Free join’s God and Day’s team. Free challenges Hart’s every day normal but there is a strong current of attraction between them. With issues arising God and Day and their team seeming to take unnecessary risks, romance between these guys appears to be something that could cause a lot of issues amongst the drug taskforce and the SWAT.

As I said earlier, this is a wonderful series. It’s amazing and I can’t stop gushing about how much I love it. If you’ve not read the previous books you should go back to the start as there is a lot of overarching and interconnecting storylines. Those that love some action and danger and men in uniform with their romance will definitely dig this series.

The Prince and His Bedeviled Bodyguard by Charlie Cochet ~ Audio Review

Title: The Prince and His Bedeviled Bodyguard

Series: Paranormal Princes 01

Author: Charlie Cochet

Narrator: Greg Boudreaux

Genre: Paranormal

Length: 3 hrs, 18 mins

Publisher: Charlie Cochet (26th December 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Prince Owin

Being a fierce predator – not at all adorable, despite my graceful stature – the last thing I needed was a bodyguard. Especially a wolf shifter, whose presence alone was an insult to my princely principles.

As prince of the Ocelot Shifters, I prided myself on my infallible feline instincts, uncompromising dignity, and flawless fashion sense. If having a canine follow me around at all times wasn’t bad enough, I now faced the most important moment of my entire life.

The time had come to prove I was worthy of my crown. If only I could find a way to get rid of the pesky bodyguard…

Grimmwolf

When the king of All Shifters asked me to guard Prince Owin, I admit I had no idea what to ex-pect. Cat shifters tend to be a little intense, not to mention kinda cranky. Owin was no exception, though he seemed crankier than most.

Being his bodyguard was proving to be one of the greatest challenges of my life, but not nearly as great as convincing him there was something special between us.

When Owin was tasked with a perilous quest to prove his worth, I was determined to keep him safe, even if the same couldn’t be said of my heart.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: The Prince and His Bedeviled Bodyguard is the first book on Charlie Cochet’s Paranormal Princes series. I was actually really surprised by this and how much I enjoyed it.

I’ve known of Cochet’s work for years but never really took a full dive into their body work – I’m not sure why, I thought I wouldn’t enjoy the books or whatever caused my aversion. Whatever, it was silly. And I really enjoyed The Prince and His Bedeviled Bodyguard. The flow of the story just worked well for me, of course it also a relatively short story, and so the pace is quite fast. However, for me everything in this story just clicked into the place fairly well.

The narration of this book was performed by Greg Boudreaux, this is only the second audio I’ve heard by this narrator, but so far I’ve been impressed. I have simple needs, all I need is a narrator that is engaging and shows a good connection for the main characters they are portraying. I’ll definitely be looking for more from Boudreaux in the future. Who knows, he might go into my ultimate list of narrators (yes, I do have that list in my head).

The story is pretty simple, which considering the length makes perfect sense. What you read in the blurb is essentially what you get, so I’m not about to and rehash the blurb and then potentially spoil the book. This is a paranormal romance that includes an ocelot shape shifter and a wolf shifter. The two MCs are interesting guys, the titular Prince is Prince Owin and his bodyguard is Grimmwolf. Owin seems a little on the high strung side, and I suppose that’s the cat in his characters, while Grimmwolf is all growling and brooding strength. They are essentially two sides of the same coin, so different and yet there is enough similarity to start the simmering sexual tension between them.

Fans of shape shifter romances will no doubt be entertained, this was a fun and action filled story. This certainly has piqued my interest for the rest of the series.

Nothing Special V by A.E. Via ~ Audio Review

Title: Nothing Special V

Series: Nothing Special 05

Author: A.E. Via

Narrator: Aiden Snow

Genre: Contemporary, Action, Men in Uniform

Length: 12 hrs, 29 mins

Publisher: A.E. Via

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Atlanta’s notorious narcotics task force is at it again. They are stronger, bigger, and better than ever. Especially when a city councilman sends RECON Marine Edwin Steele – who’s been black-listed from his Oakland department – to join the team.

Steele was ready to hang up his shield. He was done fighting with bigoted bastards that couldn’t respect the job. He was good at fighting; he just needed the right team to fight with. When his uncle – City Councilman Rasmus Steele – shows him a video of God’s team in action, he knows right away it’s where his nephew belongs in order to restore his faith.

Steele was skeptical about his new placement, but when he meets God’s technology special-ist/computer genius, “Tech”, he’s willing to give it his all, and he definitely shows and proves.
Tech is stunning. His sweater vest and khakis, a stark contrast to the blue-jeaned roughnecks he works with. A beautiful sheep amongst the wolves. Steel thinks there’s no way the brilliant man would be interested in a hardhead like him, but Tech has a few badass hidden talents of his own and manages to surprise him…surprise all of them.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Nothing Special V is (obviously), the fifth book in AE Via’s Nothing Special series.
I have absolutely loved this series from the start, although I’ve not read it and only been listening to the audio. Which I at first found out, because this book has some very long and steamy sex scenes, which usually I find rather boring. However, Via does an excellent job of writing multiple, very explicit scenes into books that actually fit in the flow of story, as opposed to being crow-barred in because hey, let’s have characters have sex in stupid places (Via doesn’t do the latter, but it’s one of my pet hates in romances, erotic or otherwise).

The audio narration is performed by Aiden Snow, which summed up in one word is sublime. Each book, although has one couple which is the primary focus, features a whole cast of characters which become more complex and developed throughout the course of the books. At this point we’re talking seven or eight sets of lovers with a handful of other characters who have popped up more than once in the course of the series. What I love the most about Snow’s audio is how he gives these very complex characters distinctive voices and feels. I felt this more so in this book because at the end we have a character with an English accent pop up, and another with a Southern drawl also pop up. This was a totally amazing performance that reflected Snow’s skill and versatility to narrate a story and perform the characters in a way that does the writing justice.

Nothing Special V brings technical, computer and communications specialist for the Atlanta PD’s most successful narcotics squad, Tech. Tech joined the team as part of a deal, which Lieutenants God and Day helped him get a deal when he was caught hacking into government databases while trying to find his brother. Tech is smart as hell, he’s been to MIT and only got caught hacking that one time. He joined the unit as their tech specialist, but he continued to become a detective in his own right. However, being much younger than his colleagues, as well as having a much more slight build with significantly less muscle, means that he feels his team are over protective of him. But Tech has been working and training because it is his dream to become a field officer, as well as help with the technical side of things.

To make this more complicated, we multiple storylines from multiple characters. In particular, the first couple that started this series, God and Day, the leaders of the squad. After becoming engaged, and despite working together and living together, fears and insecurities have caused a breakdown in communication. While they aren’t all out brawling there is a lot of tension. I liked this particular aspect because not only did it reflect the characters past. I liked how the tension showed that things aren’t always rosy in a relationship, especially with the dangerous and stressful job they have, even though they have their HEA.

Lieutenant Godfrey of the APD isn’t took happy when he is forced to take a new member on his squad. They aren’t even recruiting and he and Day haven’t asked for more boots on the ground. But he has a new guy and that man is ex-marine, medal of honour recipient Steele. Since leaving the service Steele has found it difficult to find his place in a career as a police officer. But it is his uncle who pulls some pretty serious strings to join a team that would better fit him before Steele’s dependence on alcohol got any worse. Steele isn’t exactly happy that his uncle did what he did, despite being his only surviving family, and it also has Steele living in the same state as his uncle once more. Yet when he first lays eyes on Tech, he is instantly intrigued. Suddenly, his new job is looking better and better, and he finds out his uncle left out a few important details when he had shown Steele a video of the APD team in action.

The book is full of passionate love scenes, a number of comedic moments and plenty of action. This is a must read (or listen) series for anyone that loves to read about rough and tough law enforcement guys. They work and play hard. This is an ongoing story, so it’s vital to start this series from the start and not treat this as a standalone book.

The end of this audio also features a short story which involves the brother and the adopted son of some of our most beloved characters from the APD Narcotics squad. It was a nice little story, and while it’s removed from the world of cops and action, I really liked how well developed the romance and characters felt – both have changed a lot since we first met them in earlier novels of this series and have been written into very mature young men that reflect the values of the cops in their lives.

There is one more book in this series, the set up for it was laid towards the end of Nothing Special V, and I can’t wait to hear the audio for it and get what I’m sure will be another stellar performance by Aiden Snow.

Family Camp by Eli Easton ~ Audio Review

Title: Family Camp

Series: Daddy Dearest 01

Author: Eli Easton

Narrator: Matthew Shaw

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 10 mins

Publisher: Eli Easton (14th August 2019)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: When Geo signs up for Family Camp, he envisions nature hikes, s’mores, and a chance to win over his recalcitrant new foster kids, Jayden and Lucy. He’s tried to become a dad for so long, and he hopes the three of them can be the family he’s always wanted. What he doesn’t antici-pate is the prickly and gorgeous camp counselor who constantly comes to his rescue.

Travis spends a week every year at Camp Evermore, the camp his adoptive parents own. As a pro baseball player, his presence guarantees a full campground and excited campers. He has one rule: Never, ever mess around with anyone at camp. His profession demands he stay in the closet. But one sweet and funny new dad is about to test all his resolve.

Sparks fly for Geo and Travis, and not because of the nightly campfire. Having been a foster kid himself, Travis is drawn to Geo’s sincerity and big heart and to his kids. The four of them just fit. But will this be a summer romance? Or can they find a way to be a family long after Family Camp is over?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Family Camp is the first book in Eli Easton’s newest series, Daddy Dearest. I’ve come to enjoy many of Easton’s books in the past year or so, and this was no different. I love the writing style and down to earth characters that make them so relatable – in both story and emotion.

In Easton’s own words, this is what we can expect from the new series: “The Daddy Dearest series will consist of stand-alone contemporary novels focusing on single gay dads who find hot romance. Expect laughs, sweet and sexy slow-burn romance, and lots of family feels!”

That is exactly what you will get as a reader when you read, or listen to, Family camp. So if you’re into sweet romances with down to earth characters, and a couple of cute kids, then I think that this is the book for you.

I’ve not read this book, so the audio was a complete introduction into this new world for me. The narration of this was performed by Matthew Shaw, who is a completely new narrator to me. However, I really enjoyed the voice and tone that he gave this story. It completely suited both main characters, as well as the kids. A great performance that was a joy to listen to.

The story starts with Geo. He’s stressed out. His dreams have finally come true now that he is a foster father to Jayden and Lucy, with hopes to adopt the children once he’s gone through all the necessary legal hoops. They haven’t been a family for long, but Geo signs them up to Family Camp, with the hope that some bonding over nature walks, camp fires, s’mores and all that kind of stuff will help the kids adapt. Being foster kids Jayden and Lucy haven’t had an easy time, Geo understands this but it is taking all his energy to bring them together. All he wants to do is be a daddy and bring joy to his kids life.

A breakdown on the side of the road means that a stranger helps him. A sexy stranger called Travis who had been sending some pretty flirty vibes out – and was good to the kids – until he turned cold and left Geo confused. But Geo wasn’t about to let that get in his way, because he’s a father now and he knows that romance isn’t something that he is actively seeking.

However, Travis is a camp counsellor. He was adopted by his family, after spending years in the foster system. And despite being a famous pro baseball player, he spends the summer helping his family at the camp they have run for years. Travis doesn’t expect that Geo, the good looking stranger who ran out of petrol that he helped earlier to be at his family camp. Especially when he gleans a wrong impression of the man.

There is great chemistry between these two, but this isn’t any insta-love. The two men are forced to get to know each other – not exactly against their will but they are definitely thrown together on more than one occasion. Then there are also the kids, who come with their own insecurities and trauma from being in the foster system.

While this is a fun, sweet book, there is a lot to overcome and that just means that there is a whole pile of emotions that make this book so good.

Single by R.J. Scott ~ Audio Review

Title: Single

Series: Single Dads 01

Author: R.J. Scott

Narrator: Sean Crisden

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 4 hrs, 35 mins

Publisher: Love Lane Books (9th August 2019)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Reeling from the painful rejection of a man he thought he loved, Asher is left holding the baby.

Ash wants a family, and is determined to continue with a surrogacy he’d begun with his ex. Bringing baby Mia home, he vows that he will be the best father he can be. Nothing in this world matters more to him than caring for his daughter, not even accidentally falling in lust with the doctor next door. Challenged by his growing attraction to Sean, and confronted by painful mem-ories of his family, Ash has to learn that love is all that matters.

When ER doctor Sean moves in with his friends next door to sexy, single-father Ash, he falls so quickly it takes his breath away. The sex they have is hot, but Ash is adamant his heart is too full with love for his daughter to let anyone else in. Why is Sean the only one who sees how scared Ash is, and how can he prove to his new lover that he desperately wants the three of them to become a family?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Single is the first book in RJ Scott’s Single Dads series, which its pretty easy by the end of this book to see that this is following smoking hot first responders in their quest for love.

RJ Scott isn’t an unknown author to me, I’ve recently become reacquainted with her writing through hockey romances, so Single is a bit of a change of pace for me. I’ve read the book before, but I was keen to listen to the audio. I love that this is a super sweet romance that just me so many warm feelings with main characters that felt so real, so I wanted to get the audio experience too.

The narration of the story is performed by Sean Crisden. I’ve not heard of anything narrated by Crisden in what feels like a long time, so while I knew that I had enjoyed his performances in the past I couldn’t remember why. Crisden does an excellent job, and in fact his performance allowed me to enjoy Single in audio format more than I had by simply reading it. He a gentleness to his tone that suits the paternal side that comes out in Ash’s character, as well as the caring and compassionate side that comes from Sean (the character, not the narrator himself).

If you’re into hot men with babies, which is certainly a draw for many readers of romance, then this is the book (and audio book) for you.

The story is about Ash and Sean. Ash is the single dad of the story. He’s wanted children for so long and had started investigating surrogacy with his ex. When his ex leaves just as the surrogate got pregnant, Ash is left on his own. It was not a rosy picture to begin with. Ash had so much support from his twin sister after his daughter had been born, but he now he had to get back into his own home and start a routine for him and Mia. He’s stressed and sleep deprived, and so when one night he has his new, albeit drunken, neighbour banging on his front door one night when he finally got Mia to sleep, Ash is pissed off.

That drunken neighbour was one of the three very single men who moved next door, who Ash hasn’t met at all yet. His friends wrangle him after it was clear that the he stumbled to Ash’s place because the homes look so alike. This is how he meets the other two neighbours, but it’s Sean who is immediately captured by his new neighbour.

Sean is an ER doctor, not the most glamourous of first responders, but he is a doctor, and in romances where all us fickle people swoon over certain types, a doctor is certainly up there. Sean is instantly attracted to Ash, but is going to have a difficult time to make it through the man’s defences. First because of the awkward introduction to each other, and then later because Ash is completely stressed out trying to be the best dad in the world.

And while love isn’t instantaneous, these guys slowly get to know each other, which Mia in the mix. That is what I liked the most, this wasn’t an instant happy family. They had a simmering chemistry that complimented the overall tone of the book and the characters that I really liked. It is sweet and gentle, but there is depth to the characters and some depth to their emotions (although not as much as I would want of the latter).

This was a wonderful story and the ending hints to us about book 2, which I’m totally excited for.

Nova Praetorian by N.R. Walker ~ Audio Review

Title: Nova Praetorian

Author: N.R. Walker

Narrator: Joel Leslie

Genre: Historical

Length: 12 hrs, 24 mins

Publisher: N.R. Walker (27th August 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Quintus Furius Varus is one of the best lanistas in Rome. Tall and strong in build, fearsome in manner, and sharp of wit, he trains the best gladiators bound for the arenas of Rome. When Senator Servius Augendus seeks personal guards, he attends the Ludus Varus for purchase of the very best. He puts to Quintus an offer he cannot refuse, and Quintus finds himself in Nea-polis, contracted as a trainer of guards instead of gladiators.

Kaeso Agorix was taken from his homelands of Iberia and delivered to Rome as a slave. Bought by a senator to be trained as a guard, his fate is handed to the man who would train him. Absent free will, Kaeso knows his life is no longer his own, though he soon realizes the gods have fa-vored him when he learns his new master has a kind heart.

Quintus and Kaeso forge a bond that far exceeds the collar at Kaeso’s neck, and together, they discover the senator’s move for promotion has an ulterior motive. Thrown into a world of politics and conspiracy, of keeping enemies close, they move against time to save Rome before traitors and the gods themselves see to their end.

And in doing so, see the dawn of the nova praetorian – the new guard – rise.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Nova Praetorian is a standalone historical romance by NR Walker. I am somewhat familiar with NR Walker’s previous work, and while I recall enjoying the books, I’m fairly certain that this is the first historical book I’ve read (or rather, heard) by Walker.

I have a complicated view on historical MM romances. I’ll be up front. In the world of MF romances, historical romances are the only ones I really like to read. So, I’m already inclined to like MM romances. However, because of historical views of homosexuality I find some difficult to read and that just means I really need to be in the mood for an MM historical romance.

Now, this leads me to an equally complicated view on Roman historical romances. Because let’s face it, there are a lot of such romances that are set somewhere close to Pompei on Volcano Day. And part of me finds that a tad bit tedious. Yet, with Ancient Romans (as well as the Ancient Greek) were a much more accepting society when it came to homosexuality… and so my mixed feelings continue.

But as soon as I started Nova Praetorian I was completely blown away.

This is a story that has it all. Political intrigue, power plays, gladiatorial fights, a couple with an intense attraction and loads of sexual tension, that also demonstrates the diversity of the Roman Empire. There is a lot of development as we get to know the characters and their motivations, but there is also a great rhythm throughout the story which weaves together political games, action/fighting scenes, wonderful romance between the two MCs and some great sex scenes too.

The story opens with Quintus Furius Varus, he owns a gladiatorial school which had been passed down from his grandfather and father before him, and is well renowned for training some of the most fierce and strongest gladiators, both male and female. He has interesting back story, where he lost his parents but was raised by two house slaves who kept the gladiatorial school going through Quintus’s childhood. However, now as an adult, his reputation has garnered the attention of a powerful senator that wants Quintus himself to train the senator’s own guard as the man makes a play to gain more political power.

This is how Quintus meets Kaeso. Kaeso was taken from his homeland of Ibera (comprising parts of modern day Spain and Portugal for those playing at home) by the Romans when they had come to his villages and destroyed everything, as well as killing his beloved family. Kaeso arrives in what is near modern-day Naples defiant. However, with the fear and heartache that had brought him to Rome against his will, he discovers he is given to a man who is nothing but kindness, even to slaves. The two men become close, although Quintus is insists on being noble and not taking advantage of Kaeso.

The men have to battle their feelings for each other, the physical attraction, as well as watching every step they take as the senator brings danger and intrigue. They even find themselves in the orbit of the Roman Emperor himself. I really loved – and was really relieved – when I got to read a really nice HEA because it was one well deserved for both Quintus and Kaeso.

The narration of this story was performed by Joel Leslie. I suppose like television, even ancient people tend to have a British accent (or something similar to one) in audio books. But that is not a bad thing. Leslie’s narration is a wonderful performances that keeps the momentum of the story going strong. He managed to nail the pronunciation of so many Latin words and keep it even throughout the course of the book. I also love the voice he gave Quintus and Kaeso, in particular I loved his portrayal of Kaeso. A totally wonderful performance that brings so much more life to the book.

Amazing story. If you’re a person who is unsure about historical romances, I recommend this one as an a good example of a thoroughly well written and well performed story.

The Spirit Key by Parker Williams ~ Audio Review

Title: The Spirit Key

Series: Lock and Key 01

Author: Parker Williams

Narrator: Collin Darcy

Genre: Paranormal, Spirits

Length: 10 hrs, 29 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (5th July 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: When he was eight years old, Scott Fogel died. Paramedics revived him, but he came back changed. Ghosts and spirits tormented Scott for over a decade until, thinking he was going mad, he did the only thing he could.

He ran – leaving behind his best friend, Tim Jennesee.

Scott’s had five normal, ghost-free years in Chicago, when the spirit of Tim’s mother comes to him and begs him to go home because Tim’s in trouble and needs him.

He isn’t prepared for what he finds when he goes home – a taller and sexier Tim, but a Tim who hasn’t forgiven Scott for abandoning him…a Tim whose body is no longer his own. The ghost of a serial murderer has attached itself to Tim, and it’s whispering dark and evil things. It wants Tim to kill, and it’s becoming harder for Tim to resist. To free the man who has always meant so much to him, Scott must unravel the mystery of the destiny he shares with Tim.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: The Spirit Key is the first book in Parker William’s paranormal series, Lock and Key. The audio narration is performed by Collin Darcy.

I don’t have a heck of a lot of experience when it comes to Parker Williams. I think I’ve only ever read one or two books by the author, books that from memory I know that I enjoyed them for reasons that escape me at this point in time. I also have much the same opinion of Collin Darcy as the narrator, I know that I’ve heard him narrate at least a couple of audio books before but nothing immediately comes to mind. So, I’ve effectively come into this book blind and with no expectations.

Overall, I found this a rather enjoyable story, although I admit that I found it a tad slow in parts. I really enjoyed the way Williams told the story, first starting in flashback before picking up and telling the story. I felt that the voice and tone of Collin Darcy really complimented the personalities of the characters. It certainly enhanced the story for me and particularly enjoyed the voice he gave one of the MCs, Scott.

I don’t want to go too much into the story, because I feel that the blurb tells the reader everything they need to know and I don’t want to spoil anything terribly. There is a lot of internal battles and self-discovery that dominate much of the book, as well as exploring the evolving relationship between the two MCs. You can’t say that there is no character development, because there is so much depth and complexity to these character. Unfortunately, I just felt that there were times where I was missing an emotional connection to either MC.

The story is mostly told from the POV of Scott Fogel. He starts the book by going through the events of his childhood, specifically from the moment where he had drowned in an accident before being revived, that led him to leave his family and friends behind and ran away to Chicago. It’s a really sad and heart breaking start to a story, he details his trauma while he is dealing with the talent that came about after he drowned, the ability to see and communicate with ghosts/spirits. But the death of his best friends mother brings her ghost telling him he needs to go home and help his friend. And so he does.

Scott arrives on the doorstep his best friend, who he happens to love, Tim Jennessee. Adding to the stress of having to confront the people he ran away from, after not seeing any ghosts while in Chicago, the dead are once again appearing to Scott. It’s a rocky start, but Tim’s heart isn’t totally hardened to Scott. It’s more that he spent five years worrying and grieving over his friend, unsure of what to think. Then Scott reappears.

It takes time for these guys to get on track and that’s when the next major part of the plot kicks in. Scott discovers that an evil spirit has latched onto Tim and his working on making him weaker until it can make Tim his instrument to kill. But there is a mystery that begins to unravel, relating to Scott’s talent and Tim’s mother. It’s an interesting turn.

I’m interested to see what happens next in this series and where it will take us.

Don’t Judge by A.E. Via ~ Audio Review

Title: Don’t Judge

Series: Nothing Special 04

Author: A.E. Via

Narrator: Aiden Snow

Genre: Contemporary, Action, Men in Uniform

Length: 9 hrs, 48 mins

Publisher: A.E. Via (24th July 2019)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Detective Austin Michaels didn’t think life could get any better after he was accepted into the most notorious narcotics task force on the East Coast, headed up by two of the baddest Lieu-tenants with the Atlanta Police Department – Cashel Godfrey and Leonidis Day.

Michaels knew he would fit right in as the team’s sniper, having received his fair share of com-mendations for marksmanship. He was just as badass as the rest of the twenty brothers that made up their team. But when Michaels lets their prime suspect get away from a huge bust with over a quarter of a million dollars in drugs, he’s willing to do whatever it takes to make it right.

Left with no other options, God chooses to bring in outside help, calling on his long-time friend and bounty hunter, Judge Josephson.

Judge was considered one of the best trackers during his enlistment in the United States Ma-rine Corps. After retiring, he used those skills to become one of the most sought out fugitive trackers in the country. When Judge gets a call from his old friend needing his help, he quickly tells God, yes.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Don’t Judge is the fourth book in A.E. Via’s Nothing Special series. It is important to read these books in order, there is a whole cast of strong secondary characters who have already had their romance story told and so it would be rather confusing to jump straight in at book 4.

I really only know A.E. Via’s work from this series, which I have loved. To be perfectly honest I am actually kind of surprised at how much I got into this series. However, there is so much going on, so much depth to each character and so much plot and character development. This is an action filled series with off the charts steamy sex scenes that can satisfy all the reader’s needs.

And being that this is the audio, we once again have Aiden Snow, who has done the narration on the previous books, working his magic at bringing the characters to life. He has the perfect tone and timbre that suits the rough and tough world of a police narcotics squad, as well as an equally rough bounty hunter. Absolutely love his narration and cannot think of any criticism.

Onto the story itself:

The main characters of this instalment of Nothing Special series is Detective Austin Michaels and bounty hunter Judge Josephson.

Austin got the job of a lifetime, in the equally revered and feared Atlanta PD narcotics squad run by Lieutenants Leonides Day and Cashel Godfrey (who also happen to be life partners, their story kicks off the series in book 1). Another plus is that because there are a number of gay men, a number of whom have lovers within the team, Austin is proud to serve in the most accepting and diverse group in Atlanta PD. Even if they do get stares and whispers from others who are less tolerant. However, you cannot argue with results.

Austin is a sniper and like his team mates, is dedicated to making busts and bringing down some of the most dangerous drug lords in the city. However, when a bust goes wrong, Austin is not only injured but he also balmes himself for letting a very important man get away from them.
God and Day, although against Day’s better judgement, bring in God’s old buddy from the military, who is now a kickass bounty hunter, Judge Josephson (as well as his awesome dog, a Great Dane). Judge is hired to help bring in the man that they lost, and it is Austin who is paired up to go with Judge.

Judge and Austin don’t exactly hit it off straight away, in fact, they do not get along. Joseph is surly about the job as he realises that he doesn’t have too much time left in the bounty hunter game, as both he and his dog are getting too old to keep up. Austin is high strung because he blames himself for losing their man and therefore is the reason that Day and Knight brought in Judge. These guys are complicated, there is great sexual tension between them from the start. Yet, they have complicated personal lives that pop up during the course of the book and the job of chasing one man down does get a tad complicated – but not impossible with the help of the people of the Atlanta PD Narcotics team.

This was a great addition to the series. It’s full of danger and tension (both the sexual and dangerous kinds). If you love a gritty cop story, with great sexual chemistry, high danger and high adrenalin that will keep you going from beginning to end of the book, I recommend to give this whole series a try and not just this book.

Whiskey and Moonshine by Elizabeth Noble ~ Audio Review

Title: Whiskey and Moonshine

Series: Dreamspun Desires

Author: Elizabeth Noble

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs, 51 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (20th June 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Like a well-aged whiskey, master distiller and old-money entrepreneur Malone Kensington is elegant and refined. Unfortunately he’s also a perfectionist who is more dedicated to the suc-cess of his generations-old company than his own love life.

That company needs a public spokesman.

What Colton Hale lacks in sophistication, he more than makes up for with the charisma that’s al-lowed him to survive on the street from a young age and charm his way into the lucrative – if overwhelming – public position at the Kensington Distillery. When Mal takes Colt under his wing, hoping to polish off his rough edges, opposites attract and a passionate romance blossoms de-spite the differences in age and background. But can it survive a Kensington Board of Directors who believe Colt is nothing but a gold digger and a kidnapper determined to profit from the love of Mal’s life – dead or alive?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Whiskey and Moonshine is standalone romance set in Tennessee, obviously amongst whiskey and moonshine stills by Elizabeth Noble. This was published as part of Dreamspun Desires, which is always a plus for me. The fact that John Solo is the narrator is another plus for me.

I really haven’t heard too many books narrated by John Solo lately. However, it is always awesome to hear the man perform. He is one of those narrators that has a voice that suits so many different genres of romances and different types of characters. I love how Solo manages to convey the emotions of both Mal and Colt, the two MCs. I always enjoy his performances and this is no different. It enhanced my experience and my enjoyment of the book. Overall, an excellent narration that I cannot fault.

This is a completely charming and sweet romance. The story focuses on the Kensington Distillery which produces whiskey and moonshine, and the very sexy man who is dedicated to his family’s company and making it more accessible for the younger generations that is the focus of this story. To do this it is decided that they need to employ a young, passionate person to be the PR face of the company.

The story opens with Colton Hale, he’s twenty-four and has been living on the streets of Toledo since he was fifteen. The most recent run in with violent thugs has Colton ready to make a new start, so he gets the first bus that will get him out and his new adventure starts. The bus ride brings him to the Kensington family’s whiskey distillery. They’re a rich and hugely successful distillery in Tennessee. Colt manages to get himself a job and just six weeks later shows his ingenuity and passion for his work that leads him to another job for the company.

Mal, the head of the Kensington family company which had been previously run by his mother, sees a lot of potential in Colton. There’s the potential Colton has to help sell the whiskey brand on social media and help the company branch out, but he has to hold back his attraction for the man, even though he knows Colt’s shady past. The two men work well together and Mal decides to use the age gap between them as the excuse he needs to mentally force himself from pining for his social media face of the company.

I’ve read this story before and while I remember liking it, I forgot about the awesomeness that was multiple references to the Joss Whedon TV showed Firefly. Because I’m a nerd and a browncoat and the fact that it features so prominently in a book I enjoyed was shiny. I’m a total sucker for Firefly. Because of that I see the name Mal and I think Captain Malcolm Reynolds – though I can never say I was disappointed to realise that this Mal is short for Malone. But it is sweet and smart Colt, who hasn’t had the best 9 or so years of his life getting into Firefly into the book that got to me. I really enjoyed the imagery conjured when Colt mentions the last line in the theme song, relating it to the backdrop of the rambling Kensington distillery/estate. But the best part, when everything seems to be falling apart Colt uses a Firefly reference to get Mal to help him.

This was a really enjoyable story. The characters were relatable and felt accessible to the reader, or at least to me. Again, the Firefly fan in me was totally appeased. While this isn’t actually set in a boardroom this is still at heart a story about a powerful CEO finding love in an unexpected place. So, I suppose if you like any romance set around vineyards and in boardrooms then this is one to enjoy. There is also an interesting celebrity element, where Colt navigates the world of social media and gains fame as the face of the Kensington brand. Others may also enjoy Colt’s storyline which is very much a rags to riches tale.

Spell Cat by Tara Lain ~ Audio Review

Title: Spell Cat

Series: The Aloysius Tales 01

Author: Tara Lain

Narrator: K.C. Kelly

Genre: Paranormal, Witches

Length: 6 hrs, 48 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (17th June 2019)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: When Killian Barth, history professor, meets Blaine Genneau, quantum physicist, they ignite their own big bang. But Killian can’t pursue a physics professor – or a human. As the most pow-erful male witch in 10 generations, Killian must bolster his dying race by reproducing – despite the fact that he’s gay.

Even a fling with Blaine is out of the question, because Killian has been told sex with humans drains his power. But if that’s true, why can young human Jimmy Janx dissolve spoons with the power of his mind? If Killian can sort through the lies he’s been fed, he’ll still face his biggest obstacle – convincing rational scientist Blaine to believe in magic.

With his ancient and powerful cat familiar, Aloysius, on his shoulder, Killian brings the lightning against deceit and greed to save Blaine from danger and prove love is the greatest power of them all.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Spell Cat is the first book in Tara Lain’s paranormal romance series, The Aloysius Tales. This narration is actually from the recently published second edition from Dreamspinner Press. Before coming across the audio of this story, I’ve not read either edition of this story. However, I thought the plot sounded interesting and more often than not I’ve really enjoyed Lain’s work (probably with a preferences towards her recent stuff than the older stuff).

The narration of this book was performed by KC Kelly. Who did a good job, creating tones and voices not only for the two MCs, but a whole host of minor characters, which also included a couple “European” and “Russian” type accents. It was honestly a great performance and I think this is one of those books where I wouldn’t enjoy as much if I simply read it book myself.

I will admit, I did a bit of research, because from the blurb I found it confusing as to why the series was called the Aloysius Tales. Then I actually started the book and then I realised: Aloysius is the name of the damn cat.

The story starts with Professor Killian Barth, a history professor who specialises in the history of witchcraft. The subject he teaches is popular – from kids wanting easy grades to others who find it cool to study witches. He also happens to be a bona fide witch, the most powerful witch for 10 generations and is known as the witch master, a powerful figurehead in the community. The witches are dying, the witch elders telling everyone that this is because witches have been diluting their powers by “mixing” with humans. And being the most powerful male witch means that his power-hungry mother and another power-hungry elder, have orchestrated an arranged marriage between Killian and the most powerful female witch to ensure the purity of the witch line. The biggest issue being that Killian is gay.

This makes Killian a heart breaking figure because he has never allowed himself some measure of happiness. He has been told his whole life having sex with humans will deplete his powers and make him weaker, yet he is comfortable and prefers to be in the human world. Perhaps worst of all, when he meets physics professor Blain Genneau, there is an instant spark of attraction between the two men. Which only serves to make Killian more miserable.

The story, shortly after Killian is introduced to his new familiar, the black cat Aloysius, is Killian’s battle to be find out what exactly is behind the whole “humans deplete a witch’s power”. All to find a way out of his arranged marriage and maybe even find some kind of happiness, no matter how temporary. Killian is definitely the main character here, although Blaine I felt got about as much “air time” as the secondary characters such as Killian’s fiancé Lavender and Killian’s strange student Jimmy Janks. In some ways that didn’t feel very fair to their romance, but for the overall story it worked that this was predominately told from Killian’s POV, and Killian has a lot of thing going on.

I recommend this one to those that love paranormal fiction, in particular those that like witches and magic. This is a first in a series which follows the influence of familiar Aloysius on the witch community and the love lives of a select few. I’m keen to hear or read more.

Heart Untouched by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Title: Heart Untouched

Series: Hearts Entwined 03

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 38 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (27th June 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: An accident crushed Duncan’s Olympic dreams and landed him in a chair, but he knows it’s time to get his life back on track – and he has a plan in mind. Working with his friend Todd, an Olym-pic skeleton racer, on a promotional campaign will not only help Duncan regain some direction, but it’ll give Todd the financial boost he desperately needs. The sport Todd loves is draining his resources – so much so that he’s thinking of giving up racing just to make ends meet.

As the two men work together, their friendship blossoms into much more, and suddenly the future is looking brighter than it has in a long time. But just when love, happiness, and success seem within their grasp, the USOC steps in with plans to stop their campaign. That’ll mean an end not just to Duncan’s business, but to Todd’s dreams…and Duncan isn’t about to let that happen to the man who means everything to him.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Heart Untouched is the third book in Andrew Grey’s Hearts Entwined series. You don’t necessarily have to read the series in order. However, since the couples of the previous books feature heavily I think it would make more sense to read the series in order, but that is only my opinion.

Andrew Grey is a go to author for. I could gush for a long time about how much I love his writing. I love the knack he has to make deeply emotional characters, with equally emotional and relatable storylines. I also love the knack he has with characters which are either differently abled or single fathers – I’m truly a sucker for those types of books in general.

The audio narration was performed by Greg Tremblay. Tremblay is a brilliant narrator and I have enjoyed many of his performances of Grey’s work. I love how Tremblay enhances a book by just changing his tone, giving characters their own voices and sometimes making audio experience more relatable and easier to connect to characters than just reading the book.

Part of me was a little disappointed that I didn’t love the book as much as I normally would an Andrew Grey book, and I got no idea if there has to do with either the story itself or the narration. Nonetheless, this was still an excellent and thoroughly enjoyable read. I just hold Grey to higher standards, haha.

The story starts with Olympic skeleton racer, Duncan. Unfortunately, a major accident during competition has not only shattered his dreams of competing in the Winter Olympics, but he is also now confined to a wheelchair. Duncan is lost now, but his friend and one of his fellow skeleton racer teammates, Todd.

Being an Olympian is not an easy thing. Obviously, one has to be absolutely awesome at their chosen sport. But there is also the endless need for funding so that they can take months at a time to train and meet whatever other requires are set by the US Olympic Committee. Back home, Todd is making money but is feeling the noose of tight finances threatening his Olympic dream. Add to that his friend Duncan has had his life shattered, receiving very little help from the sport governing body that had dictated their lives for so long, leaving Todd with rather mixed feelings. But with Duncan struggling, Todd also needs to help his friend. Lucky for Todd he works as a mechanic for a man who employs both a blind man and a deaf man, so he has the support of his wider group of friends to help Duncan find his way through his new normal.

The romance between Duncan and Todd is sweet and slow-burning. The fact that these guys are friends and have great chemistry is a plus. While there were times where the story felt a little flat, it was OK because these guys felt like your normal, down to earth sort of blokes. This is a real sweet, heart-warming and generally just filled with hope.

In Safe Hands by Victoria Sue ~ Audio Review

Title: In Safe Hands

Series: Heroes & Babies 02

Author: Victoria Sue

Narrator: Michael Pauley

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 31 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (27th June 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Former helicopter pilot Maverick Delgardo’s injuries ended his Air Force career, leaving him bit-ter and one drink away from becoming an alcoholic. When his sister asks for his help on a pri-vate protection case to babysit a disgraced pop star, Mav reluctantly agrees.

Deacon Daniels, onetime lead singer and idol to his teenage fans, saw his career and reputation ruined when a reporter’s exposé led to a devastating scandal. Without money or a job, a heart-broken Deacon has lost custody of his baby niece. And just when Deacon thinks his life can’t get any worse, a stalker’s threatening messages escalate to murder.

Mav only agreed to one meeting, but his protective instincts kick in, along with an attraction to Deacon. When the body count increases, however, Mav is unsure he is up to the task of pro-tecting Deacon from a killer. But it is too late for Mav to step away, now that he’s lost his heart, and he must find the strength to reassure Deacon and his niece that they are in safe hands no matter the cost.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: In Safe Hands is a standalone novel by Victoria Sue, with the audio narration performed by Michael Pauley. Both the author and the narrator are people whose work I know and am aware of, although I couldn’t tell you anything from the top of my head. Honestly, I was just intrigued by the blurb. I was sucked in by a down on his luck celebrity, a cute kid and a tough former Air Force helicopter pilot turned bodyguard. If that’s the type of thing you like as a reader, then I don’t think you got anything to lose by giving this one a go.

Michael Pauley’s narration is great. I really enjoyed listening to him perform this story. I can’t really single anything in particular out, it was overall a very enjoyable listen. I do think that this is the type of book that I would enjoy less if I read because of the emotion and tone given to the reader by the narrator.

The story itself was good. I really did like it, but I think that there were times where it felt a tad bit flat. While I enjoyed the chemistry and interactions between the two MCs, I felt that there were times where I just wanted them to get their shit together. Yet, I also found the MCs really interesting, I loved their individuals flaws and challenges that they have to face, this definitely made for a more enjoyable story.

The story starts with former Air Force pilot Maverick Delgardo. He suffered injuries which ended his career in the Air Force, leaving him scarred and also suffering PTSD. From a long hospital stay and rehab he has had a difficult time adjusting to life outside of the military. He finds himself languishing in his sister’s basement, medicating himself with alcohol to deal with his PTSD. However, his sister, who is an ex-cop and now runs her own business (she has a complicated back story too), wants to bring Mav in (as they had originally planned some time ago) to act as private security. Through her connections, they have been requested to provide security for a celebrity, who has seen his fame decline and reputation ruined from circumstances beyond his control.

That celebrity is Deacon Daniels. And not only has the scandal destroyed his life, leaving him with no money, no job to make money and also in danger of losing his home and all his belongings. Perhaps the worst of it is, it has also led him to losing custody of orphaned his baby niece, who he adores with all his heart. It is absolutely heart breaking when he tries to hide the fact that losing her has hurt him more than he lets on at first.

Mav had been ready to meet the guy and turn him away. An instant attraction and his instincts for danger has him looking into the case more. However, as the guys get to know each other, the attraction gives way to genuine affection. Mav has to get his broken self together so that he can help Deacon find out who is stalking him and get custody of his niece.

Tigerland by Sean Kennedy ~ Audio Review

Title: Tigerland

Series: Tigers and Devils 02

Author: Sean Kennedy

Narrator: Dave Gilles

Genre: Contemporary, Sports

Length: 8 hrs, 31 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 15th 2014)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: After an eventful and sometimes uncomfortably public courtship, Simon Murray and Declan Ty-ler settled into a comfortable life together. Now retired from the AFL, Declan works as a football commentator; Simon develops programs with queer content for a community television station.

Despite their public professional lives, Simon and Declan manage to keep their private life out of the spotlight. Their major concerns revolve around supporting their friends through infertility and relationship problems – until Greg Heyward, Declan’s ex-partner, outs himself in a transpar-ent bid for attention.

Though Simon and Declan are furious with Greg and his media antics, they can’t agree on what to do about it. Declan insists they should maintain a dignified silence, but both he and Simon keep getting drawn into Heyward’s games. Simon and Declan will once again have to ride out the media storm before they can return their attention to what really matters: each other.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Tigerland is the second book in Sean Kennedy’s Tigers and Devils series. Book 2 picks up a little down the track after the end of the first book, so it is important to read – or listen – to this series in order. I adore this series and have read it as it has been published. Being an Australian, I was attracted to a book that talks about something I am familiar with (although I don’t follow AFL it is impossible not to know something if you come from Australia – unless you’re New South Wales or Queensland, that is). It also sounds exactly like an Australian, it’s funny how much I realise Australian English is just sas ridiculous as US English. However, Kennedy writing, quirky and very well developed characters led to me falling in love with the first book of the series.

If you read my review for the audio book of the first book, it was clear that while I listened to and enjoyed the book, which I already knew I loved, to say I had a lot of problems with the narration is an understatement. However, with book 2 we have a new narrator, Dave Gilles. I’ve heard Gilles’ accent for a number of Renae Kaye’s books (set in Western Australia), so I knew what to expect and looked forward to his work. While he isn’t Australian he does an excellent accent and he has clearly done his research when it comes to pronunciation. Overall, it was a great performance and I honestly have nothing bad to say. Gilles did an awesome job giving voice to Simon and Declan, as well as their friends Roger, Fran, Abe and Lisa, as well as Nyssa, newcomer Cobie and Simon’s arch nemesis from book 1, Jasper Brunswick (real name Jon Brown). We are also introduced to a new character, the villain of the piece

Fans of the first book will not be disappointed with this sequel, Simon is as snarky as ever and Declan has come a long way from a closeted to openly gay football god to retired openly gay football god. Since injuries that have been plaguing Declan since book 1 forced his early retirement, the pain was too raw to go into coaching and so went to being a commentator and panellist for many of the numerous footy shows for a commercial television network (trust me, there’s A LOT of those IRL, and in my head it’s Channel 9 or 7 that he’s working at, haha). Simon has also had a career change, from being director of an indie film festival to a content producer for a LBGTQI community television station. However, after being together for three years Simon and Declan have to deal with their next big storm in the shape of Declan’s ex while he was still in the closet, a fellow AFL player. Simon and Declan go through their own ups and downs with Greg Heyward causing trouble with his media frenzy, maliciously dragging Simon into the mess and making him the bad guy. On top of that, we also see Simon’s pain and need to help his friends financially when he sees Fran and Roger go through hell when it comes to infertility preventing his best friends from starting a family.

It’s not difficult to feel for Simon as he tells the story. He gets a lot of shit thrown at him. And despite having the support of Declan, as well as Simon supporting Declan throughout the Heyward saga, Declan’s media silence over the various claims does hurt Simon. These guys still have and do a lot more growing as characters and as a couple throughout this book. The ups and downs make the guys really relatable and makes the relationship feel real.

Like the first book, this is great for fans of the sports romance genre. Although for fans of Simon and Murray and Declan Tyler, this a great continuation of their story.

Tigers and Devils by Sean Kennedy ~ Audio Review

Title: Tigers and Devils

Series: Tigers and Devils 01

Author: Sean Kennedy

Narrator: Paul Morey

Genre: Contemporary, Sports

Length: 15 hrs, 51 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (7th March 2013)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: The most important things in Simon Murray’s life are football, friends, and film – in that order. His friends despair of him ever meeting someone, but despite his loneliness, Simon is cautious about looking for more. Then his best friends drag him to a party, where he barges into a foot-ball conversation and ends up defending the honour of star forward Declan Tyler – unaware that the athlete is present. In that first awkward meeting, neither man has any idea they will change each other’s lives forever.

Like his entire family, Simon revels in living in Melbourne, the home of Australian Rules football and mecca for serious fans. There, players are treated like gods – until they do something to fall out of public favour. This year, the public is taking Declan to task for suffering injuries outside his control, so Simon’s support is a bright spot.

But as Simon and Declan fumble toward a relationship, keeping Declan’s homosexuality a secret from well-meaning friends and an increasingly suspicious media becomes difficult. Nothing can stay hidden forever. Soon Declan will have to choose between the career he loves and the man he wants, and Simon has never been known to make things easy – for himself or for others.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Tigers and Devils is the first book in Sean Kennedy’s series of the same name. I’ve read this whole series a few years ago and absolutely adored it. I also absolutely adore Kennedy’s spin-off series, Get Out. The narration of this book was performed by Paul Morey, not a narrator that I am able to recognise by name, but according to my audible app and my reviews, I’ve listened and enjoyed his narrations in the past.

I feel a strong connection to these books, because this is an Aussie author, from a football (AFL) obsessed state (Victoria). I am originally from the equally AFL obsessed state, South Australia, but I get the feeling. Living in New South Wales (and recently seeing this discussion in one of by Facebook groups), I know New South Welshmen and Queenlanders won’t believe the AFL fever written in these books as being accurate but trust me it is real. Every other state other than Queensland and NSW are AFL mad, those other two heathens are obsessed with Rugby League and Rugby Union. (Jokes, I don’t follow any sport codes, but living in NSW for 3 years I hear no AFL and am absolutely sick of NRL in a way I used to hate hearing about AFL). So yes, call me obsessed with this series and I am also one of those weirdos that doesn’t like sports IRL but am a total glutton for sport romances. Add to that, the scenery of Melbourne and the feel of it is so familiar and authentic to me. Yet, unfortunately, I shake my head at how horrible culture is in the AFL that I think if any player was outed or came out, even in 2019 it would be as prickly as Declan’s journey as penned by Kennedy in 2013.

So… I guess I’m here to talk about the book.

Firstly, I’ll explain my review. Needless to say after the above outpouring, this is a 5-star book for me. However, the narration for me left a lot to be desired, which I give 3-stars, hence the 4-star overall rating.

I’ll get the unpleasant part out of the way, my opinion on the narration. And it’s a long story that I have to tell because I can be a drama queen. Ultimately, though I know it is down to an American narrator butchering the pronunciation of many words and places horribly, the saving grace was at least the butchering was done in the said American accent and not in a false Aussie accent. Since this is a long book and I was making a long flight to one of these said AFL obsessed states recently, I decided this would be the perfect way to pass time – I love the story so if I lost some details because of the noise of the planes or airports it wouldn’t matter. So, at the first airport I press play as I wait for my plane to board. I lasted less than a minute. Within the first few sentences, as main character Simon explains Aussie Rules Football and the league, I hear Melbourne pronounced Mel-born (we say Mel-ben) and Brisbane pronounced Bris-bane (we say Bris-ben). Yes, I know Australians are lazy with their talk, as a South Australian I ridicule NSW for not pronouncing all the letters and syllables in words, but… and I’m stepping down from my soap box. And so I switched to another audio and left it for 2 weeks before trying again. It took me a bit to get used to the narration and ignore the pronounciation hiccups but I am so proud that I persevered because for me the story was completely worth it.

Anecdotally, I can tell you that I know of two other Australians, both from Melbourne, who hold the same opinion as me (to the point I had to convince one of them to move onto book 2 because the narrator does change). But you can take what you will from my opinion, I would say that this is like times I read English people get annoyed at non-English narrators butchering the local accents but I listen and like the performance well enough.

As for the story itself – oh, there was a story, I hear you say? Because I feel like and have been complaining for the past 350 words.

The story is about Simon Murray, a Melbournian who works as the managing director for a local indie film festival who loves his football that this is the only conversation he happily gets involved in when his best friends, Roger and his wife Fran, drag Simon to a party against his will. It is at this part he meets AFL God, Declan Tyler (Trademark Pending), who betrayed his Victorian fans by moving to the island state Tasmania and is now on the injuries list more than the playing list.

Simon is a prickly sort of a man, his got a quick wit and a sharp tongue. He’s not antisocial I feel he’s just particular in who he hangs out with. And while he marvels at Declan Tyler on the footy field, he sees the man as a stuck-up arsehole. Declan, who is very much in the closet being that he is a professional AFL player with a multi-million dollar contract, is intrigued and he forces himself into Simon’s life. Turning Simon’s world and his heart upside down. Their relationship starts out as a secret, with only their best friends knowing about them. However, life gets complicated in so many ways, especially when you’re a football god in the public eye.

They are a quirky couple and are the epitome of the saying that opposites attract. Simon and Declan have a wonderful chemistry, which I don’t think is diminished by there not being not many (if any) actual sex scenes. I feel that there is a great intimacy reflected between the characters by the little touches and the passionate kisses which Simon describes. I really liked it and is one of those cases for me that shows you don’t need useless and seemingly never-ending sex scenes in a book to make a romance. These guys have a lot of depth and they develop so much throughout the course of the book. It felt real and for me that made the characters more relatable.

The secondary characters also have a life and depth of their own. They aren’t token characters and I loved them all as much as I love Simon and Dec. Simon’s assistant, Nyssa, his best friends Roger and Fran, as well as Dec’s best friends Abe and Lisa, all bring as much soul to the book as the MCs.

This is a great read for those that love a sports romance, I just love the fact that it has the Australian setting.

Here Comes Trouble by A.E. Via ~ Audio Review

Title: Here Comes Trouble

Series: Nothing Special 03

Author: A.E. Via

Narrator: Aiden Snow

Genre: Contempoary, Crime, Thriller, Suspense

Length: 8 hrs, 30 mins

Publisher: A.E. Via

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Detectives Mark Ruxsberg and Chris Green are very good at their jobs. Being the enforcers for God and Day’s notorious Atlanta PD Narcotics Task Force causes the crazy duo to get into more trouble than they can often get out of. The pair never misses out on an opportunity to drive their lieutenants crazy with their dangerous, reckless, and costly stunts, landing them in the hot seat in front of God…often.

Ruxs and Green love their jobs and they don’t mind the very demanding schedule that leaves them little time for socializing or dating. It’s fine with them, they enjoy hanging out with each other anyway.

However, most of the men in their close circle of friends and colleagues are pairing off and set-tling down. God has Day, Ro has Johnson, and their Sergeant Syn has Furious.

For the past several years, Ruxs has only sought out the advice and company of one person, his partner and best friend Green, and vice versa. Both of these alpha males are presumed straight, but neither can deny the heat that’s building in their once-“just friends” relationship.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Here Comes Trouble is the third instalment of AE Via’s Nothing Special series, which is based around the action and romance of Atlanta PD’s elite narcotic team, lead by partners, both in personally and professionally, God and Day. This series can be read out of order, however, I would say that that there could be some confusion when it comes to the two couples from book 1 and 2, as well as a third couple which had formed in book 1 and featured somewhat heavily though it. Being that these characters are a team and how Via has written it, these guys lives intertwine significantly.

I’ve absolutely loved this series so far and I’ve loved Aiden Snow’s narration throughout of the series so far as well. His voice has the right tone and timbre that just goes so well, pulling off the rush of emotion combined with the danger of the job that these men do.

I looked forward to book 3, which is the story of two of the detectives, who do a lot of the leg work on the streets for the team, Mark Ruxberg and Chris Green. I think it’s because of Green’s name, but I kind had these two guys cast in my head as the two cops from the movie Boondock Saints – Greenly and Duffy. However, if you know what I’m talking about, then you will also find out that I am very wrong. Rux and Green are as strong and tough as their bosses, Lieutenants Days and Knight. These guys work hard and live hard, although lately they spend most of their free time together just hanging out eating pizza and drinking beer. Yet, despite all that even despite having openly gay bosses, Rux and Green don’t know everything about each other. When talk of dating brings tension between the two men, we begin to learn that there is even more to these guys. As it is they have complicated families, like most people, but there is a new level of emotion at play in their friendship. Add the danger from their jobs and these guys have to navigate an emotional minefield. And being tough, manly men, they aren’t super good with being honest with their feelings.

Fans of the series will not be disappointed. There is action, hot sex and so much sexual chemistry I wouldn’t have been surprised if the characters had imploded before their story started (I know, that makes little sense, bear with me). For those that like hot cops, a lot of action and deadly adventure, I think that this is the book and series for you to get into.

Femme Faux Fatale by Susan Laine ~ Audio Review

Title: Femme Faux Fatale

Series: Dreamspun Desires 70

Author: Susan Laine

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary, Mystery, Suspense

Length: 7 hrs, 39 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (2nd May 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Mystery. Murder. Men in silk stockings. Hollywood nights are heating up.

Hardboiled Los Angeles PI Cain Noble is hired by wealthy and gorgeous Camille Astor to find her husband and a priceless work of art, both of which have disappeared.

At the nightclub owned by Mr. Astor, Cain encounters the mesmerizing Lily Lavender, who has the body of a goddess and the sultry voice of an angel—but is really a young man named Riley who attracts trouble like a magnet.

What’s a private dick in the vein of LA’s bygone era and a cross-dressing burlesque starlet to do when faced with the hidden decadence and lethal dangers of the Hollywood Hills? They have their work cut out for them because they haven’t even scratched the surface of an elaborate scheme more twisted than anyone could ever have imagined.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Femme Faux Fatale is a standalone book by Susan Laine, published as part of the Dreamspun Desires line. The narration of this story was performed by John Solo.

I’ve read the story before, I already knew what I was in for the most part, and while I did have problems connecting with the MCs when I read the book, I had started the audio with the hope that Solo’s wonderful narration would add a depth to the story that I missed while reading. In fact, I had been somewhat disappointed that I didn’t enjoy reading the book more than I had because I have enjoyed almost all of Susan Laine’s books I’ve read in the past.

In the stereotypical way that seems to be the world of a PI in literature, we start with hardened and eternally tired PI Cain Noble. He’s a PI based in LA and the city serves up a constant stream of work for him. When we meet him he gets hired by Camille Astor to find her husband and a work of art. And let’s face it, when priceless art is involved you know that there is going to be some serious shit go down. Astor’s husband, Sheridan, owns a club and that is Cain’s first port of call and despite being gay, Cain finds performer Lilly Lavender strangely alluring. Only to then find out that Lily is in fact a man named Riley who seems to get in trouble at every turn, but more than anything wants to find Sheridan who he considers a friend.

As we make our way through the LA and the story, it feels like this could almost be the stereotypical 1930s-era PI tale where the hero solves the mystery and gets romanced along the way.

While I will admit that I really do think that Solo’s narration added to the book and I found myself dragged into the plot a lot more than I recall being pulled in by reading the book, I felt that I still lacked some connection to the main characters. I’m now wondering if it is also to do with the writing style, which is a little different to Laine’s usual and again I think that goes back to the whole 1930s private dick vibe. I liked Cain and Riley in terms of their personality, they were both a bit quirky, and they were certainly well developed with a definite spark between them that makes the romance natural.

I recommend this is for people that enjoy reading a dark, gritty, urban mystery where the city seems to become a wild jungle. It seems like a good metaphor for LA at any rate and makes me think of The Doors song LA Woman.

So Into You by S.E. Harmon ~ Audio Review

Title: So Into You

Series: The PI Guys 02

Author: S.E. Harmon

Narrator: Michael Stellman

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 11 hrs, 1 min

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (22nd August 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Screenwriter Noah Ashley has a few four-letter words for his agent when she suggests he im-prove his script by shadowing a PI. Still, because he’s an artist dedicated to his craft and she knows where the bodies are buried, he agrees. Then he spends a little time with the gorgeous PI, and suddenly it seems like a really good plan. The PI doesn’t seem to entirely love the idea, but Noah has never been afraid to go after what he wants.

PI Drew Rodriguez is used to people depending on him. He’s the classic rock for his family. Re-sponsible. Dependable. The classic rock would never succumb to the borderline sleazy tempta-tion of friends with benefits, no matter how sexy that temptation is. Drew is looking for some-thing enduring.

Despite Drew’s misgivings, it’s not long before they’ve got all the requisites for friends with benefits going. Friendly, good conversation? Check. Fun times in and out of bed? Check. Hot, electrolyte-sapping sex? Double check. Falling in love? Yeah. About that…

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: So Into You is the second book in SE Harmons series, The PI Guys. Since I’ve never read or heard the audio of the first book (and I couldn’t tell from my Audible App that this was book 2 of the series), I can say quite honestly that this can be read/listened to as a standalone book, or at least done out of order. Listening to the book and hearing about the couple that are the stars of book 1, I am intrigued and totally keen about getting the first book. I didn’t really know what to expect, as SE Harmon is an author that I’ve heard of but I’m not 100% sure if I’ve read anything by them.

The story starts out with Hollywood script writer, Noah Ashley, just as his personal life goes off the rails, endangering his professional life. Noah is a bisexual man whose ex-wife is still not only his friend but also his manager. He’s just found out his ex-boyfriend Marshall – well, now ex – who he penned a movie script to help further his career as an actor, has slept with another man to further his career. On top of that, the third movie in the popular action franchise may well be re-cast with another actor, Sean Fox who has more talent and unashamed when it comes to his sexual activities. After a proper bender on the booze, a one-night stand and a missed meeting for the new movie, he’s sent out of state, to Florida to get his shit together and get his script resembling a hit movie. While in Florida, his agent has set up a contract for him to shadow a PI, to help him get his script in shape. Noah also has a heap of baggage, after spending his life in the foster system, he found his biological mother a few years before. She is now a schoolteacher with tween twin girls, to almost step kids and a fiancé. She also happens to live in Florida and is the reason why Noah had brought a place in Florida.

That PI is Drew Rodriguez. He’s quite comfortable in his professional life. After being in the military he and his friend started a PI business, and despite being surly and snarky, he does love his job. He just holds people to a certain standard and many so easily disappoint him. On the personal front he’s not as lucky. His father, who has been in and out of jail for most of his life, swans back in and just like every other time his father gets out of jail, Drew tries to hold his family together. Because the painful truth is that every time the man leaves or goes to jail again, it is Drew keeping his mother and little brother going.

#As I said, these guys are complicated. They both have a lot of trust issues and their circumstances have affected them very differently. Drew craves love and romance and finding the one man for him, while Noah wants nothing to hold him down, he just wants friendship and fun sex.
The book was narrated by Michael Stellman. Like with Harmon, the name rings a bell but I can’t, from the top of my head name a book I’ve listened to the audio for narrated by Stellman, so I went into this not know what to expect from either the author or the narrator. The narration was performed well, though. I felt that Stellman had the right tone to convey the complicated feelings and baggage of both MCs. I liked the softer tones which he used for Noah, while a slightly harsher tone was used for Drew. It fit the characters so well and helped me connect to the characters, particularly to Drew.

These characters have great chemistry. They are basically two sides of the same coin, so similar and yet so different. Their romance is a rocky one, even if both guys can be persistent. I very much got emotionally invested in both characters’ journeys. I enjoyed how this played out, this wasn’t an insta-love or a romance where the wary parties change their mind in a minute and go headlong into commitment.

I recommend this one for people that like a little bit of Hollywood, a little bit of celebrity, as well as a some fun and action with a PI/cop-type character. I really liked how both characters were jaded in their own way and added to the relatability of both guys.

Truth Will Out by K.C. Wells ~ Audio Review

Title: Truth Will Out

Author: K.C. Wells

Narrator: Seb Yarrick

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs 58 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (11th April 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Jonathon de Mountford’s visit to Merrychurch village to stay with his uncle Dominic gets off to a bad start when Dominic fails to appear at the railway station. But when Jonathon finds him dead in his study, apparently as the result of a fall, everything changes. For one thing, Jonathon is the next in line to inherit the manor house. For another, he’s not so sure it was an accident, and with the help of Mike Tattersall, the owner of the village pub, Jonathon sets out to prove his theory – if he can concentrate long enough without getting distracted by the handsome Mike.

They discover an increasingly long list of people who had reason to want Dominic dead. And when events take an unexpected turn, the amateur sleuths are left bewildered. It doesn’t help that the police inspector brought in to solve the case is the last person Mike wants to see, espe-cially when they are told to keep their noses out of police business.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Truth Will Out is a standalone novel written by KC Wells – an author I am not familiar with and happy to read or listen to their work without barely reading the blurb. I connect with the writing style and for me that’s about all I need from an author – I am a tart when it comes to books. The audio of this book was performed by Seb Yarrick, a narrator that took me a bit to warm up to but now look forward to, especially when he gives a performance requiring some sort of British or European accent. In short, I looked forward to this book a lot. The fact that it involved the English country side and a Lord of the Manor type of thing and I was all set to be sucked into the story.

Overall, this was a really cool story and I think was greatly enhanced by listening to the audio. I feel that this is a book that I’ve got more out of it by listening to the audio – and the fabulous performances that brought the characters to life – than I would have reading the book.

There is a definite “British Mystery” feel to it, as in that there’s a murder in the small village but surely “it was nothing but an accident, I’m sure”. I probably have watched too many of said British Mysteries on television, and I’m not ashamed to say that Hot Fuzz is one of my favourite comedy movies. And not to mention that I figured out the plot of the story, mostly because I was thinking, “this reminds of the Doctor Who episode The Unicorn and the Wasp”. Yeah, I’m a nerd and I barely had to think to remember the name of the episode, whatever.

The story starts with Jonathon de Mountford. He goes to visit his uncle, the present Lord de Mountford at the family’s country seat/property. He has a lot of guilt for not seeing his uncle, whom he had been so close to as a kid. But the years and his career as a famous photographer sent him on a whirlwind journey that he has loved. Of course, his father, who heads the family law firm, is disappointed in Jonathon not only because he’s gay but also because he didn’t go into law and sees photography as nothing but a hobby. So clearly the guy has baggage and his life is about to get a whole lot more complicated, first when he meets local bar owner Mike Tattersall, and then goes to find his uncle and ends up finding him dead in his study.

Mike Tattersall moved to the quiet village of Merrychurch in the English countryside after losing his foot ended his career as a police officer in London. Now he owns the village pub (and oh my god! This just makes me think of watching Heartbeat with my mum when I was home sick from school). He moved to be closer to his recently divorced sister and has made something of a life for himself, even if he is lonely. Mike isn’t in the closet, though he doesn’t advertise his sexuality. He was also very much out when he was a policeman, and got his own set of baggage from that as well as dealing with his sister.

Jonathon and Mike have an instant connection. Their chemistry has been written perfectly. The sparks start to fly instantly, but they have a lot of learning to do together before anything can get too serious. On top of that, Jonathon and Mike can’t resist getting involved in the local to mystery, trying to piece together all the clues to solve what happened to Jonathon’s uncle.

I recommend this to anyone that wants a light-hearted romance with a good dose of adventure and mystery.

The Athlete and the Aristocrat by Louisa Masters ~ Audio Review

Title: The Athlete and the Aristocrat

Series: Dreamspun Desires 73

Author: Louisa Masters

Narrator: Seb Yarrick

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 38 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (4th April 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Sometimes love takes balls.

Newly retired championship footballer Simon Wood is taking on his next challenge. His plan for a charity to provide funding for underprivileged children to pursue football as a career has passed its first hurdle: he has backers and an executive consultant. Now it’s time to get the ball rolling.

Lucien Morel, heir to the multibillion-euro Morel Corporation, is shocked—and thrilled—to learn his father has volunteered him as consultant to a fledgling football charity. Better yet, the brains behind it all is heartthrob Simon Wood, his teenage idol and crush.

Although Simon and Lucien get off on the wrong foot, it’s not long before they’re getting along like a house on fire—sparks included. But with the charity under public scrutiny, can their romance thrive?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: The Athlete and the Aristocrat by Louisa Masters is the author’s most recent contribution to the Dreamspun Desires line by Dreamspinner Press. This is a book that I really enjoyed reading and so loved being able to relax, listening to the audio narration of this book.

Master’s writing is really appealing to me because it is the writing style just takes me in and I feel an instant connection to the characters. Although this book is not part of a series by Masters, we are brought back into the world of European elegance and riches which we first encountered in The Bunny and the Billionaire and even get to check in with three of the characters from that book. For me that was a bit of a thrill.

As for the narration, I really enjoyed it. The narration was performed by Seb Yarrick. To be perfectly honest it’s taken me a few books to fully get on board with Yarrick’s performance, although I wonder if it is just a case of perhaps me not being sold on Yarrick’s suitability for the ones that I didn’t really like. Regardless, I have absolutely no complaints about the narration. I enjoyed the voice he gave to both MCs and I really felt the emotion between the two men come through in the voice and tone.

The story itself is quite simple. A hot, rich, powerful, smart aristocrat and an equally hot, rich, powerful and smart athlete are thrown together when the titular athlete wants to set up a new foundation for children in need who do not have the access to equipment or their parents don’t have the time or money to allow kids to follow their dreams. It’s all noble intentions and I’m a complete sucker for it.

The Athlete and the Aristocrat introduces us to retired professional footballer Simon Wood and billionaire of the highly influential Morel family and their corporation, Lucien Morel. The little bit of cuteness in their background is that Lucien secretly had a crush on Simon while Simon was playing soccer and in fact convinced his father that Simon’s proposal for a charity had just as much merit as a charity for education and food for kids from struggling families. However, these guys have a bumpy road to their HEA, which is what kept me intrigued with this story. There is no doubting the attraction between Simon and Lucien, however, they did need to take time to get to know each other before taking the risk of mixing business with pleasure.

I think this story has a series of popular themes which will satisfy anyone who is attracted to these types of romances that include the whole fairy-tale ending for the brooding rich guy and the kind-hearted guy that steps into his life.

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