Sky Full of Mysteries by Rick R. Reed (2nd Edition) *Dual Review*

Rick R. Reed - Sky Full of Mysteries Cover 734hcni sTitle: Sky Full of Mysteries

Author: Rick R. Reed

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (220pgs)

Publisher: NineStar Press (27th Jan 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts (combined)

Blurb: What if your first love was abducted and presumed dead—but returned twenty years later?

That’s the dilemma Cole Weston faces. Now happily married to Tommy D’Amico, he’s suddenly thrown into a surreal world when his first love, Rory Schneidmiller, unexpectedly reappears.

Where has Rory been all this time? Has he time-traveled? What happened to him two decades ago, when a strange mass appeared in the night sky and lifted him into outer space? Rory has no memory of those years. For him, it’s as though only a day or two has passed.

Rory still loves Cole with the passion unique to young first love. Cole has never forgotten Rory, yet Tommy has been his rock, by his side since Rory disappeared.

Cole is forced to choose between an idealized and passionate first love and the comfort of a long-term marriage. How can he decide? Who faces this kind of quandary, anyway? The answers might lie among the stars….

ISBN-13: 978-1-951880-28-6

Product Link: NineStar | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewers: Shorty & Lisa

Shorty’s Review 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts:

Twenty years ago Cole and Rory were young and in love. Then one night Rory mysteriously disappears never to be seen. Cole spent years looking for Rory. I felt his pain and despair of not knowing what happened. Then Cole meets Tommy. The two start a relationship and marry. Now twenty years later Rory is back and Cole has a decision to make.

I really felt for both Rory and Cole. So much had been taken from them when Rory was taken. But at the same time Cole finds someone new years later. I felt that Cole found Tommy comforting but at the same time never really gave Tommy his all because of what he felt for Rory. This was a deep story with plenty of drama and emotional aspects as well as what exactly happened to Rory.

I felt Cole’s decision in the end was the right one. What added to the story was the thoughts and feelings from Cole, Rory and Tommy. We got to see what each thought and their feelings on certain things as the story progressed. I don’t want to ruin the ending by giving anything else away but I will say it was a well written story with deep thoughts and heartfelt decisions to be made by Cole.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Lisa’s Review 💖💖💖 2 1/2 Hearts:

Cole and Rory were so in love and belonged together like no other. Then Rory disappeared one night after making love. Cole could hardly eat, hardly sleep and hated going to work. Then he accidentally runs into Tommy with his bike and things were changing for him. He just never forgot the man he loved.

Twenty years have past and his love has changed. He married Tommy and their lives were looking good. The problem was his past love was the one he always thought about. Then Rory showed back up.

Rory has been gone for twenty years but to him he was only gone for a night or two. He even still looked like he was in his twenties and his love for Cole was still strong as ever. He just had no clue what happened to him.

When I came across this book I actually figured the author was just going to turn it into a menage a trois story. That however was not the way he took it. I hate to admit that this book was twisted and not in the good way. There were no clues to where Rory had ended up for twenty years and you never get the answer. The book was down right creepy and I hated the ending.

I was glad that **** didn’t end up breaking ****’s heart, but what happened was ****’s heart was the one being broken. However I guess it was the only way that could have ended but I was disappointed in it either way. I would have loved it better if the three of them had gotten together in the end.

To be truthful I hated this story and it is going straight to the never read again list.

Overall the story is quite unique and is a very refreshing type of story. It just wasn’t for me…

Ricochet by Reese Knightley *Dual Review*

Reese Knightley - Ricochet Cover b54b78nTitle: Ricochet

Series: Out for Justice 01

Author: Reese Knightley

Genre: Contemporary, 

Publisher: (July 6, 2018)

Length: Novel (311 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4 1/2 – 5 Hearts

Blurb: WITSEC victim Noah Bradford knows secrets that could get him killed, and staying hidden seems like a good plan. What he didn’t plan on is losing his heart to a man who is sworn to protect him.

Battle scarred US Marshal Robert “Mac” Mackenzie has a job to do, and guaranteeing the safety of Noah Bradford is at the top of that list. Mac will do whatever it takes to keep Noah safe, even if it means walking away.

Mac and Noah, brought together during extreme circumstances, have been separated by evil. It’s been six years, give or take, and Noah is coming for vengeance against the men who killed his mother. He’s on a collision course with Mac, who has no idea of the man Noah has become. Sparks fly and the heat sizzles when these two powerful men are reunited, but will they survive the passion the past created?

ISBN: B07FBQBRLN

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewers: Lisa & Shorty

Lisa’s Review 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts:

Noah had the best mom and the worst life ever. He watched his mother being murdered by his step-father. He spent most of his life in a secret hell. His step-father was evil but the man he worked for was even worse. He was seventeen when he was taken away from that hell but it didn’t mean it would end. He was falling for the one man protecting him and hiding from the two men that wanted him dead.

Mac was to go end and catch those that the US Marshal’s wanted. They had finally found out where Stevenson and Manning were. They were to go in arrest them and save those who were innocent. He had not expected to find a teenager who just so happened to be Stevenson’s stepson. He knew he was going to loose his heart to this and had to put a stop to it.

Several years go by and damn if Noah had changed so much. He was the ghost who protected the innocent and killed the guilty. But the two evil from his past were showing up once more.

I liked how it started but the jumping around from time periods was a bit off to me. Also was the fact that the story jumped from one part to another without really giving you time to adjust. However it didn’t really bother me to much. I liked all of the characters quite a bit and wasn’t to surprised by who Noah’s real father was. It was an easy guess even though it is truly mentioned. This story was very action pack and danger filled. It did have some hot sexy times though.

I enjoyed reading this and can guarantee that it will be read many times over. In fact I sit down and read this story all in one sitting. It was that entertaining. I would definitely put this on my favorite shelf.

Shorty’s Review 💖💖💖💖💖4 1/2 Hearts:

This was an amazing story about Noah and Mac. I loved how their relationship was not instant and they meet up years later. There is a lot of sexual tension between the two at the beginning but given Noah’s age nothing happens until much later.

I was proud of Noah for making something of his life after all he had been through. Being one of the deadliest in a top secret organization was a plus for him in that he could protect himself when the two men that got away come after him.

Mac was fierce in his own right and as such the two made a great couple and worked well together. This story is action packed with lots of gunfights and taking perps down. I loved all the agencies working together and Noah’s team mates were just as deadly as him. I am looking forward to the rest of the series and getting more about the characters throughout this story.

Great read.

The Cub Club by Ardy Kelly *Dual Review*

Ardy Kelly - The Cub Club COVER b hc6hyTitle: The Cub Club

Series: Lone Wolves Ranch 01

Author: Ardy Kelly

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (235pgs)

Publisher: Ardy Kelly (October 8, 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts (Combined)

Blurb: What would you do if your adopted son shifted into a wolf cub before your eyes?

For single dad Steven the choice was simple – find the boy’s family and hope they had the answers.

As the alpha of Lone Wolves Ranch, Mack trusted in humans as much as he trusted in love. Not at all. But he had a soft spot for the brave human searching for his son’s relatives. When he discovers Steven is his fated mate, he’s stuck between a soft spot and a hard place.

The Cub Club is a gay wolf shifter romance containing Mpreg and knotting. A complete 65,000-word novel – no cliffhanger!

ISBN: B07J5Q8469

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa & Shorty

Lisa’s Review 💖💖💖 3 Hearts:

Steven’s husband had came across an infant and his dead mother, brought the child home, fought to keep him and raise him. They were a happy family until Steven’s husband passed away in an accident. Now thirteen years later Steven is in for one more big shock. His son has changed into a wolf cub. He needs to find his son’s birth family to find out what to do.

Humans have never been trusted nor allowed on the ranch. So when Steven showed up asking for help, Mack is tempted to run him off. That is until he realizes that the man is telling the truth. Then he realizes that Steven is also a wolf that can’t change, a recessive.

This story started off with what I had assumed would be an excellent story. However the alpha of the pack couldn’t stop lying to save his life, hid quite a bit and just made a mess of things. There was little to no heat between them both, however the author paired them up. The sex between them was suppose to be hot but it came off dull and dry. The knotting was the only thing exciting and even then it fell in delivery. It was hard to connect with any of them. Even the son’s reaction to his own father was wrong. There was little humor in it which to me makes a story pop out to me, but nope very little.

You don’t really get the recessive definition until a bit later in the story. However it is well written but didn’t stand out to me. The characters also fell a bit flat. Then there was Mack’s grandmother, she pretty much gave me the creeps through out. Also you get the title, Cub Club, but you don’t see it until almost the end of the story and even then you only see the guys for a few pages. Steven’s husband dies in an accident but you find a different solution later on, but just a mere mention of it. This story just left a lot of questions and very little answers. I did like Steven more than anyone else.

This is the first book by this author and while the story had a great promise, it failed to deliver. To much detail for a story when most could have been left out, mainly the ex. So I am sorry to say that this story was not for me.

Shorty’s Review 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts:

Steven gets the shock of his life one day when his adopted son Peter shifts into a wolf. Not one to back down from a challenge Seven goes to the Lone Wolves Ranch for help where he meets Mack. Mack the alpha of the Lone Wolves Ranch assumes Steven is there to unload Peter on them. He is proven wrong by Stevens fierce determination to be thee for his son.

I liked the story. I thought it was great Steven was no pushover. I did not understand Mack’s need to lie to Steven. He should have explained everything upfront. Mack’s ex was a piece of work who I was surprised the pack let back in for a short tie given all that happened in the past.

All in all it was an intriguing story with humor, some angst, action and a whole lot of twists and turns with enjoyable characters that made for an amazing start to the series. I am looking forward to getting to know the lone wolves ranch pack better with each book that comes out.
Fantastic read.

Ice Soul by Mary Rundle (Dual Review)

Title: Ice Soul

Series: Blackwood Pack 04

Author: Mary Rundle

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy, MPreg

Length: Novel (335 Pages)

Publisher: Dragonheart, LLC. (May 22, 2018)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 1/2 Hearts (Combined)

Blurb: Kieran was sold into slavery where he was forced to care for other prisoners held by a shifter trafficking ring. But that changed when a Blackwood brother freed him and the others. Now for the first time in his life, the world beckons and he can plan his future. That is, until he discovers why the Fates brought him to the Blackwood Pack.

Logan, one of the brothers, has become a virtual recluse, spending hours at his design table, unable to shake the horrible memories of his family’s massacre and an unhappy childhood under the fist of his father, a dictatorial and abusive Alpha.

When Kieran appears, Logan is smitten with this pink-loving twink who tries to use his sassy and irrepressible wit to win his heart. After Logan claims Kieran, he finds keeping him is not easy. When both realize Logan can’t give himself completely to his Fated Mate, Kieran takes off but tells no one where.

A frantic search, rejection, dark secrets revealed, ghosts exorcised- these are just some of the obstacles Kieran and Logan must overcome as they embark on a mission of discovery that will make their love for each other stronger. Only then, will these two unique wolves fulfill their destinies decreed by the Fates and gods and prove worthy of the powerful gifts bestowed on them.

ISBN: B07D3KQWJV

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa & Shorty

Lisa’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts, Heat Level: Low

This is one of those series that must be read in order. Trust me you will fall in love with these guys.

Logan wants Kieran more than he has wanted any man before. He just doesn’t smell like they are fated mates. His pack seems to be getting bigger as time goes by, but he is happy with the way things are going. However he doesn’t truly show it, growing up his and Jackson’s father was a piece of work. Always blaming everything that goes wrong on Logan. He slowly learned to turn his feelings to ice, never showing how he really felt. That is until Kieran.

Kieran had been sold as a slave to a nasty piece of work. He was a special wolf with a very unique gift. He can calm and help ones feelings with just a touch. He learned how to hide his scent similar to the w ay Logan and their pack does. Things get a bit twisted for these two but well lets just say the book rocks.

I had a blast reading this book even more than the last three. So much so that I can see myself reading this series more than once. Danger, excitement, surprises, adventure and some hot sexy times are just a few things you get in this book. The characters are a blast to read, and lets just say that Kieran and his friends are my favorite so far. Cute and sexy is an understatement. These guys just pull at your heart.

I enjoyed reading this and can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.

Shorty’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts, Heat Level: Moderate

This story was a very intense emotional one. Keiran and Logan are both struggling to deal with what happened to them in the past. My heart cried out for the both of them and what they endured. I felt the love between them as they helped one another the best they could.
Keiran and Logan were both strong yet damaged characters. The struggles they faced were unimaginable. Yet they found a way with each other. I love how this series is going so far.

The one thing I never understood was why the brothers kept their powers a secret from each other as well as their mates. It seems to me they would have a much stronger front if they knew what said powers each had and what exactly they could but that’s just me.

Great read. Looking forward to reading more.

Peace Maker by Mary Rundle (Dual Review)

Title: Peace Maker

Series: Blackwood Pack 03

Author: Mary Rundle

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy, MPreg

Length: Novel (349 Pages)

Publisher: Dragonheart, LLC. (February 23, 2018)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Enforcer Dylon Royd worked for the notorious Silver Point Pack until they accused him of disloyalty. Imprisoned and beaten to within an inch of his life, he’s dumped at the side of a road and left for dead. Waking up in the Blackwood Pack’s hospital, he’s shocked to discover his Fated Mate is one of the pack’s members he’d been ordered to kill.

Cody is a seer and has grappled with visions all his life, but after most of his family is massacred they have intensified so fiercely he begins to make plans to escape his pain and suffering. Thinking no one wants a freak for a Fated Mate, he tries to reject Dylon until he realizes his salvation depends on accepting him.

A life or death situation for Cody, a rare gift to both from the Fates, a dangerous mission, and an unexpected surprise are some of the challenges they face. Together they begin a journey to save Cody’s life while forging a partnership that requires absolute trust for both to survive.

ISBN: B079RWQC4T

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa & Shorty

Lisa’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts, Heat Level: Low

This is one of those series that must be read in order. Trust me you will fall in love with these guys.

Cody had part of his gift when he was a child. First it was like a feeling, then when their pack was killed he was getting visions left and right. He was also getting the pain from them just like he was the one that it was happening to. The thing was when he got a vision he left the place he was on and basically went somewhere else. He was afraid that one day he would not come back from it, somedays he wished it would happen. Then he realized the wolf that they found was his mate. A mate that could help him.

Dylon has known since he was a teenager that his mate would be a seer and that he would need him. He had been caught ratting out the pack he was out, the problem was he had no memory of it. Not that it helped him, it got him beaten almost to death. Then he comes to only to find out the ones who saved him were the ones that he was suppose to kill. And that the pack who ordered the hit, were the same ones that killed Cody’s family and pack.

This has some pretty good surprises in this book. I was pleased at how well this book turned out. Exciting with danger and lots of action are just a bit of what you get in this book. And trust me, you are going to love Dylon’s mom. She is a hoot. This story caught my attention from the start and kept it all the way to the end. It gave me everything I could want in a story and so much more.

I had a blast reading this and look forward to reading the next book.

Shorty’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 1/2 Hearts, Heat Level: Moderate

Cody is struggling with his seer gift as it has intensified. he is on the verge of giving up. Ex enforcer Dylon is badly beaten and on the verge of death when he comes to the Blackwood pack. I enjoyed the meeting between these two. The struggles they each have been through are a testiment to how strong they really are.

The series continues evolve in a great series with each brother being a focus and the gifts explained. I liked the details surrounding the brothers as the come in better focus. Cody and Dylon amazed me with their passion. I loved they helped each other when it was needed.

Love all the twists and turns that seem to just keep coming the further the series goes. I will not be pained in the least when the bad guys finally get whats coming to them. I will revel in the fact they will be no more. I despise them with a passion. The harm they have inflicted was so beyond bad that I have no words to describe it.

Great read.

Raphael’s Power by Mary Rundle (Dual Review)

Title: Raphael’s Power

Series: Blackwood Pack 02

Author: Mary Rundle

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy, MPreg

Length: Novel (523 Pages)

Publisher: Dragonheart, LLC. (December 11, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts – 4 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: Dr. Ian Wallace, a rare Scottish Wolf, has dedicated his life to saving and healing wolf shifters by joining Frontline Doctors. Determined never to take a mate, he avoids relationships and is content to live a nomadic life, taking assignments to wild and remote places. That is, until an old friend asks him for a favor which Ian’s wolf will not let him refuse. Now on his way to the Blackwood Pack compound, his wolf becomes frantic and Ian learns not only that he has a Fated Mate, but that his Fated Mate is in danger.

Colton was forced to give up his dreams of becoming a nurse and joining Frontline Doctors when tragedy befell his family. Instead, he healed sick animals around his home while hiding from a pack who wanted him dead. Given the chance to use his skills, Colton seizes it and embarks on a journey that will reveal just how special he is.

A kidnapping, slave auction, revelations of long-kept family secrets and a rare, powerful gift from the gods are some of the surprises in store for both of them until they finally find their way into each other’s hearts after discovering neither is who the other thought he was.

ISBN: B077R3WNY9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa & Shorty

Lisa’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts, Heat Level: Low

Colton and his brothers are the last remaining wolves from their pack. Murdered by an uncle for greed. They were alpha’s who were also omega’s. His brother was given the gift to have a child. Colton had finished over three years for his nursing degree before they had to run. It was the only thing he ever wanted to do, and now he might have the choice. A choice that is the most powerful of gifts to have, now all he had to do is to believe it.

Ian was a doctor and was pretty good at what he did. His whole life he believed that he was a gamma wolf, but it would seem there is some hidden truths in him. He has spent time talking to Colton on the phone but believes that they are mates. He never wanted to mate for fear that it would take away from what he wanted to do. Then Colton is kidnapped and being sold, he would do everything in his powers to save him.

This story was quite a bit better than the first book. It was exciting and danger filled all the way. It also was very unique in more than just one way. The characters just seemed to flow together perfectly, but damn Ian’s wolf is nutty. I love how they are so much closer to their wolves then many shifter stories are.

I found myself entranced with this book and can’t wait to get my hands on the next book to see if it is even better than this one.

I had a lot of fun reading it and would definitely recommend it.

Shorty’s Review:♥♥♥♥♥ 4 1/2 Hearts, Heat Level: Moderate

Loved this story about Colton and Ian. We are given more insight to the characters and details are revealed as to the why of things past. I loved that Ian wanted to ride to the rescue when Colton is kidnapped.

Colton struggles with his missed dream of being a nurse and settles for helping animals instead. When Dr, Ian comes in the sparks fly between the two then Colton is kidnapped.

I loved just about everything about this intriguing struggle of good and evil. Twists and turns take the reader on a journey of unimaginable power.

The only thing that confused me was why the dire warning in the first book if there were going to be no consequences? I would have thought kidnapping would be in the category of anything bad happening to the Blackwood pack members still living but that’s me.

Great read.

Dire Warning by Mary Rundle (Dual Review)

Title: Dire Warning

Series: Blackwood Pack 01

Author: Mary Rundle

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy

Length: Novel (434 Pages)

Publisher: Dragonheart, LLC. (October 23, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: Steel, one of the last Dire Wolves on earth, has searched more than 100 years for the special mate promised by the Fates. Discouraged after meeting his latest prospect, he sees a naked hitchhiker on his way home who’s everything he’d envisioned the man of his dreams would be. His wolf and body tell him he’s found his fated mate but why can’t he pick up his scent?

Robbed of his car, clothes and money, Jackson, Alpha of the Blackwood Pack has no choice but to thumb a lift, frantic to get home to his six brothers. He’s been protecting them from a rival pack who massacred most of his family and wants to finish off the rest. When Steel rolls down his window, Jackson knows he also has found his fated mate but it would be too dangerous to claim him with his pack under attack.

After the intervention of an Oracle and a Witch, Jackson discovers why the Fates made him unique-just for Steel. Navigating the mine field this revelation brings, Jackson and Steel must figure out how to make their relationship work while dealing with forces determined to kill the Blackwood pack – and them.

ISBN: B07636FVJH

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa & Shorty

Lisa’s Review: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts, Heat Level: Low

Jackson and his brothers were the only survivors of their pack. They were special wolves and really had no clue. Jackson was the oldest which made him the alpha but he sure didn’t act like one. Which explained how he ended up hitchhiking buttass naked. What he had not expected was the man who picked him up, his mate.

Steel was an alpha wolf but he was also one of the four last dire wolves. His mother was the voice of fate and had told him something no male wolf would ever believe. That his mate would be the one to have his child.

Too bad the ones who killed Steel’s pack, wanted the rest of them dead. It is going to take a miracle in more ways then one. Now with this pack it is very long winded and goes off on things that were not really needed. So much so that it was harder to get into the story and even harder to finish the book. The characters were somewhat weird and didn’t really connect at all with them. There is great potential in this story but for me it was just overblown with a lot of added in stuff that could have been left out.

The story is unique and fresh with the idea of white wolves that are not just alpha but also omega. I did enjoy the fact that they could get pregnant but wished that the story was not dropped right in the middle. I don’t care for books that don’t have closure with each book and cliff hangers are not my idea of fun. Most times it makes me leave the book and drop the series, but I will make my decision on the next book.

Over all the story is a good read.

Shorty’s Review: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts, Heat Level: Explicit

I really wanted to love this story of an Alpha whose pack and family were attacked and massacred while him and his brothers are away at college. This story start of well as we see Steele and Jackson meet to discover they are fated mates. The intensity between these two was off the charts.

The want and need to discover the culprits of the massacre and to get back what was theirs was interesting. The huge cast of characters was a lot to take in all at once but they were important to understand how everything began. However, the many POV’s, inner dialogue’s and the overabundance of sex scenes, not to mention talking about them made me seriously speed read the book.

I am not a fan of more sex in a book when there is no need for it.

The overall feel is more porn like to me as opposed to a well rounded story with a balance of things throughout. I hope Steel and Jackson’s story will continue in the next book as I didn’t feel as though it was completely finished. I did enjoy the revelations that came to light in this story and the fact the book was well written.

I feel it would have much better if some of the sex had been cut out and inner dialogue’s slimmed.

 

Genetic Snare by Laura Baumbach

Title: Genetic Snare

Series: Details of the Hunt 02

Author: Laura Baumbach

Genre: Sci-Fi, Historical, Futuristic

Length: Novella (167pgs)

Publisher: MLR Press (November 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: Betrayal, passion, adventure, primal sex, and a fight to the death. Mating a 26th century Oracan Bounty Hunter with a 18th century Earth pirate has its little glitches.

Bounty hunter Talos bows to pressure to bring his lifemate home for the completion of his strict warrior culture’s bonding ritual. Aidan, displaced 18th century Earth pirate — light- fingered, sly, charming, and understandably naive about the new world he’s been thrust into — can’t wait. Even if it turns out someone wants him dead. The 26th century looks different, but it turns out to be a lot like his old life!

ISBN: 978-2-641-220637

Product Link: MLR Press

Reviewer: Shorty & Pixie

Shorty’s Review ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts: Travelling to Talos’ home was a trial. Not because of the journey but the completion of the bonding ritual. I found that the tests seemed designed with the Oracans in mind but was pleased that Aidan took it all in stride and did what he needed to do.

This adventure was not without it’s dangers. So many hidden dangers were throughout this story but one was left unexplained. I assume it will be explored in another story. The trials along with the people intent on harm for their own gain made for an intense and interesting read.

Great read and addition to the story.

Pixie’s Review ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts: Oh I have waited many many years for this beauty and I can honestly say that I was not disappointed in the least. 

Talos and Aidan have to travel to Talos’ homeworld Oracan so they can finish the bonding ritual, but before they even set off trouble heads their way. Aidan has to prove himself worthy of Talos and it’s a difficult journey especially as someone is gunning for Aidan.

This is a brilliant addition to the Details series, Aidan and Talos are both as lovable as before and their relationship has grown in leaps and bounds. Aidan is really put through the wringer as he takes part in the Oracan ritual that would approve him of becoming Talos’ mate, it’s a real challenge for a human taking part in an event that has only been designed for Oracan’s but the sly pirate has a couple of tricks up his sleeve. 

This is a great story that has yet again brought to life a cheeky character that you can’t help but love, Aidan is such a fantastic character that you would believe it would be hard to find a match for him but Talos with his no nonsense attitude is the perfect foil. There is plenty of action and a dash of danger, a brilliant storyline and a love that knows no bounds *sigh* I loved this story!

I’d recommend this to those who love great science fiction, a relationship pushing the boundaries, a  dash of danger, action galore and a wonderful ending.

Details of the Hunt by Laura Baumbach (2nd Edition)

Title: Details of the Hunt (2nd edition)

Series: Details 01

Author: Laura Baumbach

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novel (372 pages)

Publisher: MLR Press (February 2007)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: A 26th century, time-traveling, bounty hunter snatchs a 18th century Earth pirate in a deal to enrich the archeoalogical knowledge of mankind, but as he develops an attraction for the likable, free-spirited prey, he attempts to alter the deal, threatening both his own personal code of honor and the strict rules of conduct of his race. Will the love of a wily, cock-sure, young pirate be enough for the stoic hunter to risk exile from his own people?

ISBN: 978-1-934531-92-1

Product Link: MLR Press

Reviewer: Shorty & Pixie

Shorty’s Review ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts: I was blown away by this story. I can not imagine living in the seventeen hundreds only to be transported seven hundred years in the future to find all is changed. I don’t know how Aidan never aged once he was transported.

Talos takes a hunt to acquire and transport pirate Aidan Maymon. The buyer was a oily little creep named Barlow whose intentions were not on the up and up. Along the way Talos’ mating instincts take him for a drive. One he fights.

Aidan for his part is not happy and tries to escape every chance he gets but ultimately has to rely on Talos in this strange new world he finds himself in.

Great read.

Pixie’s Review ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts: Details of the Hunt was one of the first stories that I ever read in the MM genre and it blew me away with it’s fun light hearted tone while keeping a slightly serious aspect on the morality of the Hunts. I’ve read it many times over the years and it’s always fresh and always kept me entertained.

Talos is just doing his duty when he goes to pick up a blackhearted pirate from Earth 1769. He doesn’t expect the pirate to be completely different than what he expects and he certainly didn’t expect to be drawn to the man. The Hunt details must be fulfilled though and Talos must weigh his duty against the life of his mate.

Aidan is on the verge of death when he is snatched from the jaws of a shark by his very own Ceme sea god, but discovering everything that he’d ever known is long gone and he’s expected to just accept that he’s been brought from the past to be handed over to a sleazy git as punishment for his crimes several centuries before… Ha he wasn’t a pirate for nothing.

This is an amazing story that drags you into the future with fascinating aliens and a wonderful Johnny Depp type pirate. The story has you laughing and it also has you contemplating the morality of Aidan’s situation. There’s action and danger, love and loss, cheekiness and seriousness, and some amazing sex between two males who discover love when neither of them expected it.

I’d recommend this to those who adore science fiction, pirates and exotic aliens, to those who love a bit of action and danger, to those who adore fantastic characters and a storyline that has many twists and turns.

Changing Jamie by Dakota Chase (2nd Edition)

Dakota Chase - Changing Jamie CoverTitle: Changing Jamie, (2nd Edition)

Author: Dakota Chase

Genre: Teen Fiction, Contemporary

Length: Novel (180 Pages)

Publisher: Harmony Ink Press (Dreamspinner Press) (January 24, 2017)

Heat Level: None

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts (Combined rating)

Blurb: Jamie’s pretty much an average gay teenager. He’s in the closet, has an unrequited secret crush on a fellow high school athlete, and an awful home life. It’s a good thing he has his friend Billy to distract him and to show him that being out has its benefits. Billy is everything Jamie isn’t: openly gay, wealthy enough to follow fashion trends, and with a social calendar full of dates with older men.

Then Jamie’s life spins into a downward spiral. Billy starts acting weird and hiding things from him. His stepfather’s abusive behavior escalates until Jamie dreads going home. His English teacher assigns him to tutor the object of his affection, gorgeous track star Dylan. Jamie’s not even sure he can talk to Dylan, let alone tutor him, and it’s impossible to talk to Billy about it. Billy’s too wrapped up in a dangerous game called bug chasing: trying to catch HIV. Billy’s risky behavior nearly shatters their friendship and forces Jamie to look at the world in a whole new way. Can Jamie keep Billy safe, stay on top of homework and a new boyfriend, and convince his mom to give his stepdad the heave-ho?

First edition published by Torquere Press in 2008.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-249-0

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press | Harmony Ink Press

Reviewer’s: Lisa & Pixie

Lisa’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts 

I have not read any stories by this author so I wasn’t really sure what to expect.  I do admit that if I was picking a story by the cover of a book, then I would not have picked it.  The cover just doesn’t make a hit with me.  Now normally I do not read any stories that have teens in them or where they are the main characters.  They just seem to be missing what I want in a story.  However for some reason I picked the story.  

Jamie’s best friend is Billy and his crush is Dylan.  Seventeen is such a hard age for anyone but especially for gay teens.  His mother’s new husband is a homophobic ass and was one of the reasons he was in the closet.  His best friend however is out and proud, but is a true idiot.  Then there is Dylan and to Jamie’s shock he is also gay.  

Billy has hooked up with someone older than he is and well let’s just say Billy is very young minded in away.  He thinks that if he catches AIDS then Robbie will want him permanently; well you know how predators are.  His step-dad is getting meaner and more abusive, but his mom has to wake up and see the smoke.  Then there is Dylan and well if you want to know more, you have to read the book.

It is a very good book, very touching and will bring you to tears.  However it is also very depressing and I can’t say that I found anything in it that I actually liked.  For some reason it just doesn’t work with me, however I can see that it could possibly be a big hit for teenagers as it is about them pretty much.  So for me it left me just depressed and I never want to read it again. It does talk about having AIDS, so be ready for it.  

Other than my issues with it, if you are into teen stories that has pain and angst then this will be a big hit for you.  If you know of any teenagers then you might want them to also read it.

Pixie’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 ½ Hearts

Jamie is 17yrs old and has a massive crush on Dylan.  His best friend Billy is acting a little strange and his step-dad is on this earth to make his life miserable.

Jamie has a lot on his plate as he struggles with his best friend’s actions; Dylan confessing to him and trying to get his mom to see what a waste of space his step-dad is. When Jamie hunts for Billy, Dylan offers to help him out.   When Jamie finds out the truth behind Billy’s actions and is devastated, Dylan is there to offer comfort and support. When Dylan confesses why he is there for him, Jamie is over the moon.  Jamie comes across as a young man who might not be the best at everything.  Who might struggle in some areas but he knows who he is and although he hides it a lot, he knows he does and he really doesn’t believe that he is something he isn’t.

Dylan is a dumb jock or rather that’s what he wants people to believe.  When he gets a chance to spend time with Jamie he grabs it with both hands.  It’s not easy as he works through what he wants but when he nearly loses Jamie he decides that he can face anything if he’s with Jamie. Dylan comes across as slightly privileged but not full of himself and he seems to be a genuine young man who does think of others, although he struggles with what to do he isn’t stupid in what he says or his actions.

Billy is one screwed up young man.   He thinks he’s in love and will do anything to be with that man; even if it means giving up his life. He hides what he is doing from Jamie and deserts Jamie when he realizes that Jamie just doesn’t understand that he is now truly happy… that is until reality sets in. Billy seems to be desperate to belong and completely screws up his life in the process.  But when he turns to Jamie, Jamie is there to help him and advise him no matter how badly Billy acted or treated Jamie. True best friends.

This is a really well written story about young men who are finding themselves and making mistakes, but it is also about facing up to their actions and realizing that that it isn’t only them who are allowed to make mistakes. Some parts of this book had me laughing; some nearly crying and some filled me with pure joy. There are two scenes that I really loved and both of them took place at the school.  They filled me with hope that somewhere, at some time, more people will act like this and it will become an everyday occurrence.

This is a perfect Y/A romance that I have to recommend you read if you already haven’t because it is wonderful.

Normal Enough by Marie Sexton (2nd Edition)

Marie Sexton - Normal Enough CoverTitle: Normal Enough (2nd Edition)

Series: Wrench Wars #2

Author: Marie Sexton

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short Story (54 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (3rd August)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3 ½ Hearts (Combined)

Blurb: When Brandon Kenner shows up at Kasey Ralston’s garage with a 1970 Chevelle SS 454, Kasey is smitten by both the man and his car. Between what Kasey considers a shameful fetish and his long estrangement from his family, Kasey finds it easiest to be alone, even distancing himself from his coworkers. But Brandon doesn’t think Kasey’s fetish is weird. In fact, he likes it.

Kasey doesn’t know how to resist a man as charming as Brandon, and he’s more than willing to be seduced. But what are Brandon’s long-term intentions? Kasey is afraid of hoping for too much, but equally afraid that when all is said and done, Brandon will leave, and Kasey will be left alone once again.

ISBN: 9781611245714

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/normal-enough-by-marie-sexton-7340-b

Reviewers: Aerin & Pixie

Aerin’s Review: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Kasey is a mechanic who specializes in old cars, and we’re told from the beginning that Kasey has a muscle car fetish. When Brandon brings his muscle car in for a timing belt adjustment, he quickly figures out Kasey’s fetish and doesn’t hesitate to bring it up.

Here’s the thing: the whole beginning of their story seemed creepy and farfetched. How exactly did Brandon figure out that Kasey got a hard-on for his car? A regular person would assume his boner would be for Brandon himself, but I’m no expert in undercover kink so my opinion doesn’t count.

I liked Kasey and his personal issues and realizations, but this book wasn’t long enough to understand Kasey and Brandon as a couple, and that’s mostly because of how little I got to know about Brandon. For a second edition, this was seriously uneventful, unimproved, and underwhelming. I expected more the second time around, maybe an epilogue or a few more chapters where Kasey and Brandon’s relationship was showcased. The way this book ended can’t even be called a HFN.

Normal Enough had the potential to be outstanding, but unfortunately there was nothing special about it.

Pixie’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

This is a second edition and other than some minor editing the story remains the same.

Kasey has an unusual kink that he keeps hidden, but when Brandon drives into the garage Kasey works, in a 1970 Chevelle SS 454, Kasey is quickly smitten, with the driver and the car. Brandon picks up on Kasey’s kink and finds himself intrigued with the cute sexy mechanic, but trying to get the shy man to believe he is interested is hard. Kasey begins to worry over his kink and whether he will ever be able to hold Brandon’s attention; can he put aside his fear and embrace what Brandon offers?

Ah there’s nothing like a cute mechanic who has a bit of a kink for classic cars and a sexy lawyer who just happens to have a classic car collection, oh you can just imagine the steamy times ahead! Kasey is really wary of putting himself out there, in his experience it usually leads to him being embarrassed; Kasey has no confidence so when Brandon shows an interest in him he thinks it will be a quick fling. Brandon seems to have a bit of a fetish of his own, he is attracted to men with fetishes and Kasey’s fetish is one that suits Brandon perfectly. Kasey finds himself amazed that he can open up so much to Brandon but the doubt lingers and Brandon puts Kasey’s fears to rest.

This is a great sexy little number that is amazingly hot and has two great characters. We get to know Kasey really well, the character development for him was wonderful and we watched as he began to gain confidence not just with Brandon but also his workmates as well. Brandon we don’t get to know quite as well, but well enough to know he is a perfect match for Kasey.

Together they are hot and their relationship moves along smoothly, and for me the best thing was that they are still in the early stages and haven’t declared their love after such a short amount of time, it’s a beginning of a relationship that could develop into something much more solid and wonderful.

I recommend this to those who love hot men finding common ground, sparks flying, erotic hot sex, great character development and two men at the beginning of a hot sexy relationship.

The Last Enemy by Christian Beck

Christian Beck - The Last Enemy CoverTitle: The Last Enemy

Series: Agents of Influence #1

Author: Christian Beck

Genre: Gay Erotic Romance, Contemporary, Suspense, Military

Length: Novel (200 Pages)

Publisher: DSP Publication (July 5, 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Highly decorated Delta Force operator and Iraq war hero Simon Monk loses everything when his romantic partner defects to Beijing after being caught selling US secrets to Chinese Intelligence. Monk is drummed out of the Army from the blowback but gets a second chance at a career when he is recruited into a covert group within the CIA.

Years later Monk’s latest assignment sends him to Cairo, where the head of station has disappeared amid a highly publicized sex scandal. But things are not what they seem. When the base chief turns up dead and the Egyptian government looks the other way, Monk and his team hunt down the assassin.

All roads lead to a ruthless and lethal cult from Egypt’s ancient past who discard every unwritten rule of espionage to win. Monk is forced to take to the shadows to find and destroy his most dangerous adversaries yet, as a chain of events threatens to ignite war in the Middle East.

ISBN: 978-1-63476-892-4

Product Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/the-last-enemy-by-christian-beck-272-b

Reviewer: Lisa & Pixie

Lisa’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

This is the first story by this author that I have read and I must say I am ecstatic about it. Although I have to tell you that I was thinking sexy man in a uniform, hot sex and so forth. That is not what this story is about; there is romance to it, but more action, suspense and danger then anything.

Simon Monk is ex-army, ex-delta force who was drummed out when his lover turned out to be a traitor to their country. He had finished five tours in Afghanistan and ended up working for the CIA in a way. He was sent to kill those who posed a danger to others. He is extremely lethal and hard to kill.

This story is an action packed one with espionage, assassinations and deadly men. Egypt is not known for allowing gays so when a known married couple are assassinated, it is time for Simon to step in. He is ordered to lead the investigation. However, in what would seem like a case of homophobic hate, the situation has turned into something more dangerous. Someone wants to take over Egypt and it is up to Simon and Ben to stop them.

If you like dangerous situations, espionage, politics, foreign relationship, traitors, spies and so forth then this is the book for you. This story turned out to be quite extensive in how long the author had to do research. The plot is so damn twisted and complex, but it works for this particular story. The details were fully developed and so damn well designed that it was jaw dropping. The pace is a little off to me though.

I had trouble concentrating on the story because it was a slow building story. If you’re looking for hot sex then you might want to read another story because this is more about the action, suspense, danger and assassinations. Although the author seemed to be really into details because I thought some of it was just not needed. It took away from the story itself for me. Also the fact that women were in it, not as sexual characters but as military and so forth was a bit strange to me, I just could not see the bad guys having a female assassin or spy or infiltrator or whatever she was.

I understand that this is a series, but I am afraid that as well written that this story is, it was not for me. If you are into military and war stories though, this will be for you, but it is not really a romance story.

Pixie’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

I agree with a lot of Lisa’s review, this story is action pack, with a lot of dangerous situations, espionage, political minefields, foreign relationship, traitors and spies. The story flows smoothly and it’s pretty fast paced for the type of storyline.

The story is really all about Simon Monk; nearly everything that happens happens around him with a couple of scenes with other characters highlighted to move the storyline along. Monk’s love interest is a man called Ben Namajunas, Special Forces, who is called in to help Monk with his mission. Ben and Monk have a long history and this time around Ben longs for something more from Monk rather than brief sexy times together. 

Whereas Lisa finds it strange that women are used as strong key characters whatever their role, I found it to be quite refreshing that women were fit into roles that many authors would have left to men. The only thing that irked me was that the women were all stunningly beautiful; I’d have liked it if at least one of them was a ‘plain Jane’.

The storyline is strong; it keeps you gripped as it drags you along after Monk, dodging bodies, bombs, gunfire and traitors. The relationship between Monk and Ben was low key throughout the story, hanging around in the background with just a hint every now and again to keep the interest piqued. I loved the way the story was built; layers were added with every chapter until you had a full picture of Monk and what his life entails. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

I recommend this to those who love mystery and suspense laced with action and danger, who adore in depth characters, who love a solid storyline that is laced with just a bit of budding relationships. 

Code Name Jack Rabbit by Elizabeth Noble

Elizabeth Noble - Code Name Jack Rabbit Final 12615 150 resTitle: Code Name Jack Rabbit

Series: The Vampire Guard #1

Author: Elizabeth Noble

Genre: Paranormal, Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (200 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (July 12, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Meet the newest members of the Vampire Guard, where legend and myth meet science and technology.

Jonas Forge, vampire. Once a spy and soldier, now a cop, Forge enjoys the life he’s built with his friends in Flint, Ohio.

Blair Turner, PhD. Blair, a vampire and computer hacker with exceptional skills, shares a powerful empathic bond with Forge, his soul mate.

Declan, vampire, ex-pirate, ex-fur trapper, thief, and con man. Declan is Forge’s former lover and soul mate to Lucas Coate.

Lucas Coate, MD, Flint’s medical examiner. A werewolf living among vampires, Lucas is also one of Forge’s best friends.

Their lives become complicated when an impending Presidential visit throws them headlong into a world of high-tech vampire spies and espionage. Recruited into the Vampire Guard by the secret society of the Akhkharu Nasaru, they uncover a werewolf terrorist organization known as the Qiguan.

Together they must thwart a murder attempt on the open waters of Lake Superior while tracking a previously unknown biological weapon controlled by the Qiquan—a weapon which may very well mean death for one of them..

ISBN-13: 978-1-63476-894-8

Product Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/code-name-jack-rabbit-by-elizabeth-noble-236-b

Reviewer: Shorty & Pixie

Shorty’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

This is the first book in The Vampire Guard series. I did not know how I’d feel about this book due to this is the first one I have read by this author but man was I surprised. It had everything I could want in a story and then some. Mystery, deception, hot paranormal men, action, suspense and adventure. This story wraps the reader in a world that is anything but ordinary.

I really enjoyed getting to know the MC’s of this book and their partners. Jonas is a vampire and a cop and stops at nothing to solve a crime. Blair, a vampire, technician and Jonas’ partner seemed unsure of himself except when it came to solving a crime, though I understood as he was still in the ‘newbie phase’ as I call it.

Declan, a vampire, was one of the most mysterious of the characters. That was due to his work before. It added a level of danger and anticipation that I enjoyed. He seemed nice but yet cold as ice when the situation was necessary. Lucas is a werewolf, medical examiner. Declan’s partner and Jack’s best friend. 

I loved the interactions between these men and was stunned as to how well they all worked together. I think that the group that wanted to recruit them could have just asked them rather than lie and kidnap them. The mystery of the book was well written and riveting. I enjoyed the folklore and legend involved and was astounded as to what actually happened. 

This book will captivate you from the start and have you reading until the very end to find out the end result. With brilliantly detailed scenes that leave you holding your breath to the actual details of the crimes this book was a winner to me if I could give it 10 stars I would. 

I am so glad I had the opportunity to read such an amazing story. I am looking forward to reading more of this series. Highly recommended.

Pixie’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

I fully concur with Shorty’s review; Elizabeth Noble has, yet again, written an amazing story that you can lose yourself in. The characters shine yet again (The Sleepless City series 2 & 4) and we see them as they embark on a new adventure as they take their unique skills and use them for the greater good.

The best thing for me though is catching up with Jonas, Blair, Lucas and Declan again and seeing how their relationships have continued to be strong and loving. I seriously can’t wait to see what Elizabeth and The Vampire Guard series has in store for us next!

I recommend this to those who love paranormal stories with added mystery, who adore characters that come alive before your eyes, who fangirl/boy over amazing storylines and for those who love it when myth and legend surprises even the most jaded of paranormals!

Safe in His Heart by Renae Kaye

SafeInHisHeartLGTitle: Safe in His Heart

Series: Safe #2

Author: Renae Kaye

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 270 pages

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (May 2nd 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Blurb: Andrew and Paul learned about God and Jesus in different churches and realize their views of spirituality are worlds apart.

Andrew was raised Catholic and was told his homosexuality was a sin. For his entire life, he hid the truth. He married and had children to present a façade to the world—that of a straight man. It’s not until he has an affair with Paul, who shows him a different side of Jesus, that Andrew realizes he can be gay and still believe in God. Paul’s Jesus is one of acceptance and love, and in Paul’s church, being gay is not a problem.

For Paul and Andrew, falling in love is the easy part of their journey. They must make it through the fires of cheating, being discovered, Andrew’s wife leaving, the necessities of childcare and family life, the demands of their jobs, and working on their commitment to each other.

Only then can they be safe in each other’s heart.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-227-3

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7683

Cat’s Review:  ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Andrew was brought up a strict Catholic. He deep down believes that his being gay is a sin, and he is doomed. To keep his family off his back, he married Kristy, a woman who had her own secrets. They fit each other fine, and their marriage is more like an agreement to cover for each other and make their family happy. It works. Kristy gave him two lovely children. She doesn’t have to work, just run the house, and take care of the children. Andrew is a big CEO and goes to the gym. This is where he gets his sexual fulfilment when he needs it.

Then he meets Paul and everything changes.

Paul is a nurse and gay. He doesn’t hide his sexuality. He too is religious, but his church doesn’t condemn people who are. It is an accepting atmosphere. He sees Andrew getting laid in the gym one day and find himself wanting him. They start just hooking up.

Paul isn’t into casual sex but he can’t help himself with Andrew. He knows he will never get anything but a broken heart from a closeted man; it’s worse with a married man and even worse with kids. But every time he makes up his mind to quit; he can’t. Then Andrews life takes a drastic change that affects them both.

 First off, I will warn you that there is cheating. Andrew is married. However, he and his wife do have an open marriage. I know some people will still call this cheating.

I bounced around with my rating for quite a while from a 3 to a 4 (I don’t do partials). The reason for this is the writing style. The flow was pretty off kilter. In each chapter, the story would switch character views and time frame with no warning, making the story a bit hard to follow. This was consistent throughout the story. You would be reading then suddenly it is days or even weeks past. It was quite jarring.

But I liked both Andrew and Paul. I felt there were realistic. I loved the slow growth of their relationship and how neither saw it coming. I liked the storyline. There were other characters in the book I would like to read, and this is book two.

Though it stands alone pretty well, I would recommend reading book one first  I am fixing to now)because it does talk about the other characters and at times you feel like something is missing. I think reading book one would have cleared that up.

I decided to rate the story and characters, so I give this a 4.

If you like CEO’s, nurses, coming out, and some very hot man-sex this is for you.

Aerin’s Review: ♥♥♥2.5 Hearts

As much as I love Renae Kaye and as nicely written as this book is, it was a bust. There are so many archaic ways of thinking, so many stereotypes that no matter how great the story flowed, no matter that the kids were adorable, no matter how much I liked Paul, and I simply ended the book in a rage. I usually review a book as soon as I can after reading it so that my feelings and thoughts are fresh in my head, but this time I had to wait until the next day, otherwise my review would’ve been a curse-fest.

I know a few reviewers mentioned how the cheating ruined the book for them, but I disagree on that note. Andrew is married, yes, but Andrew and his wife have a friendship more than a marriage and their agreement is that their marriage is simply for show (and for having kids) and they can both have sex outside of the marriage, as long as they don’t have to have sex together.

I’m not going to criticize their arrangement (much) because I hate to judge and in this case it worked perfectly for them both. Andrew’s many sexual hook-ups can’t exactly be considered cheating because they are encouraged by his wife. The only thing she doesn’t know is that Andrew’s partners are men.

When Paul and Andrew start hooking up it’s clear for them both that this isn’t a simply sexual relationship. Andrew is deeply closeted and doesn’t have any intention on coming out and ruining his life and his reputation. But the two of them form a close friendship and they end up falling for each other.

This is the one and only thing I liked about their relationship, the love I knew they felt for each other. Andrew was a bloody idiot, a religious catholic who believed that gay men are sinners and that gay sex is unnatural. Yet he has no problem bending over and taking it in the ass like a pro. Sometimes even giving other gym members a show. Double-Standard much???

I got so sick of hearing about Leviticus and all the bullshit that comes with that name! And speaking of religion. Did we really need a full sermon about the interpretation of the Bible and Jesus’s stand on homosexuality? I understand what was intended by Paul’s priest, but I truly wanted to see Andrew come to that conclusion himself. Maybe use his brain and think for himself instead of having the constant ‘Jesus hates me’ pity party. So yeah, the religion was over-used and it didn’t have the intended effects, at least not for me.

Maybe the religion and the other stereotypes (I’ll address those shortly) could’ve been forgiven if not overlooked, if only Andrew and Paul’s relationship would’ve progressed the way you’d expect it to. With the risk of dropping a small spoiler I’ll just say that if it wasn’t for Andrew’s wife leaving him and the kids in order to follow her dreams, Andrew NEVER EVER EVER would’ve acknowledged Paul as his boyfriend, never would’ve come out of the closet, and definitely never would’ve loved Paul like he deserves to be loved.

Andrew is a spineless wimp, an asshole who’s taken total advantage of Paul’s feelings for him and never had the intention of changing their status quo.

Fuck that! The least I expect from a situation like this is the intention of doing something to change things for the better, the fight for the one you love because they’re worth the sacrifice. It was just too convenient that Andrew’s wife left when she left! He never intended to separate from her, so that they could both be with the people they loved.

And speaking of Andrew’s wife… I sincerely hope Australia doesn’t still live in the 16th century when the only thing women were useful for was to bear babies and take care of the house. That was literally all Kristy did throughout her marriage with Andrew and it was one of the reasons she married him. And the fact that that’s the only thing Andrew expected from her was disappointing as hell.

There were nice things about this book as well. Like the hot sex between Andrew and Paul. The fact that we see Paul in total parenting mode while he takes care of Andrew’s kids better than Andrew ever did. Paul with the kids really warmed my heart. And there’s a HEA, a nice one, but as much as I liked seeing it, the journey to get there was not what I needed or expected.

I sincerely hope the next book will be better because I know Renae Kaye can write some bad-ass books. I think it’s Ash’s story so that should be good.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Black Dog Blues By Rhys Ford (2nd Edition), Guest Post, Reviews & Giveaway!

Rhys Ford  - Black Dog Blues _banner_DSPP

Hiya guys, today we have Rhys Ford stopping by with the re-release of Black Dog Blues, we are privileged to have a fantastic post from Rhys and a equally fantastic giveaway. We also have mine and Tams reviews of this brilliant story, so I hope you enjoy the post and leave a comment to enter our unique giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~  

Rhys Ford  - Black Dog Blues _Cover

 Black Dog Blues

 ((2nd Edition)
 (Kai Gracen 01)
 by

Rhys Ford

Ever since being part of the pot in a high-stakes poker game, elfin outcast Kai Gracen figures he used up his good karma when Dempsey, a human Stalker, won the hand and took him in. Following the violent merge of Earth and Underhill, the human and elfin races are left with a messy, monster-ridden world, and Stalkers are the only cavalry willing to ride to someone’s rescue when something shadowy appears.

It’s a hard life but one Kai likes—filled with bounty, a few friends, and most importantly, no other elfin around to remind him of his past. And killing monsters is easy. Especially since he’s one himself.

But when a sidhe lord named Ryder arrives in San Diego, Kai is conscripted to do a job for Ryder’s fledgling Dawn Court. It’s supposed to be a simple run up the coast during dragon-mating season to retrieve a pregnant human woman seeking sanctuary. Easy, quick, and best of all, profitable. But Kai ends up in the middle of a deadly bloodline feud he has no hope of escaping.

No one ever got rich being a Stalker. But then few of them got old either and it doesn’t look like Kai will be the exception.

Purchase Black Dog Blues at DSP Publications Black Dog Blues is also available on Amazon and other fine eTailers.

Continue reading “Black Dog Blues By Rhys Ford (2nd Edition), Guest Post, Reviews & Giveaway!”

The Bells of Times Square by Amy Lane Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt, Reviews & Giveaway!

Amy Lane - The Bells of Times Square Banner 2

Hi guys, we have Amy Lane stopping by with her newest release The Bells of Times Square. We have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and two reviews for you to check out, so enjoy the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

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 The Bells of Times Square

 by

Amy Lane

Every New Year’s Eve since 1946, Nate Meyer has ventured alone to Times Square to listen for the ghostly church bells he and his long-lost wartime lover vowed to hear together. This year, however, his grandson Blaine is pushing Nate through the Manhattan streets, revealing his secrets to his silent, stroke-stricken grandfather.

When Blaine introduces his boyfriend to his beloved grandfather, he has no idea that Nate holds a similar secret. As they endure the chilly death of the old year, Nate is drawn back in memory to a much earlier time . . . and to Walter.

Long before, in a peace carefully crafted in the heart of wartime tumult, Nate and Walter forged a loving home in the midst of violence and chaos. But nothing in war is permanent, and now all Nate has is memories of a man his family never knew existed. And a hope that he’ll finally hear the church bells that will unite everybody—including the lovers who hid the best and most sacred parts of their hearts.

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Player vs Player by Amelia C. Gormley Blog Tour, Excerpt, Reviews & Giveaway!

Amelia C. Gormley - Player Vs Player 2

Hi guys today we have Riptide Publishing’s Amelia C. Gormley with her newest release Player vs Player, we have Amelia telling us a little of what inspired the book, we have a great excerpt and Giveaway and we also have two reviews 😉 So enjoy the post and remember to leave a comment for a chance to win one of Amelia’s backlisted books <3 ~Pixie~

Amelia C. Gormley - Player vs Player_500x750

Player vs Player

by

Amelia C. Gormley

Video game writer Niles River loves the work he does at Third Wave Studios: creating games with mass appeal that feature women, people of color, and LGBTQ characters. To make his job even better, his best friend is his boss, and his twin brother works beside him. And they mostly agree that being on the forefront of social change is worth dealing with trollish vitriol—Niles is more worried about his clingy ex and their closeted intern’s crush on his brother than he is about internet harassment.

But now the bodies on the ground are no longer virtual, and someone’s started hand-delivering threats to Niles’s door. The vendetta against Third Wave has escalated, and to make matters worse, the investigating detective is an old flame who left Niles heartbroken for a life in the closet.

No change happens without pain, but can Niles justify continuing on with Third Wave when the cost is the blood of others? If he does, the last scene he writes may be his own death.

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Blue Moon 02: This is Reality By A.E. Via Blog Tour, Excerpt & Duel Review!

A.E. Via - Blue Moon 2 Blog tour banner
A.E. Via - Blue Moon 2 tour banner
Hey guys we have a treat for you now, we have A.E. Via stopping by with her latest release Blue Moon ll: This is Reality. Now this book has blown our minions away with both Cat and Tootsie falling in love with it, so I will leave you to enjoy the post with it’s excerpt and duel review <3 ~Pixie~
A.E. Via - Blue Moon 2 BLUEMOON2 MASTERCOPY

Blue Moon ll: This is Reality

by

A.E. Via

The Story of:  HAWK, PIERCE, SHOT & FOX ALONG WITH THE OTHER BEASTMASTERS

Pierce aka Strategic Intelligence Specialist, Backhander is back to flush out some of the DEA’s most notorious criminals, and he has one helluva’ team backing him up. The country’s most decorated Navy Seals…the Beastmasters. 

Pierce is more than capable of doing his job, but he has one insanely hot distraction that continuously causes him to second guess his hidden orientation– 

Dane Aramis, call-sign, Hawk. Hawk can see what most people can’t, and whether his sexy Pierce wants to admit it or not, he can see the brilliant man’s desire runs deep for him.

However, when Pierce and the Beastmasters are on their final assignment, the last person they expect to encounter with the opposition is rogue assassin…Omega. The man is unstoppable, and when he comes too close to what Hawk holds dear, the Beastmasters call on the only man that can control the lethal assassin. Omega’s faster, deadlier brother, Alpha.

Bringing Alpha back into society may be disastrous for everyone involved. But, Hawk is willing to take that risk to keep Pierce safe.

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Blue Moon: Too Good To Be True by A.E. Via

61AlH6ZPqHL._SL1000_Title: Blue Moon: Too Good To Be True

Series: Blue Moon, #1

Author: A.E. Via

Genre: Contemporary, BDSM, Suspense

Length: Novel (251 pages)

Publisher: A.E. Via

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 1/2 Hearts

Reviewer: Tootsie & Cat

Blurb: Angel DeLucca is one of the most sought after gay bachelors in Virginia Beach. He’s smart successful, lethal, and more than anything he’s drop dead gorgeous. Angel has his pick of the men that come to his popular Oceanfront nightclub, but lately the one night stands haven’t been enough…Angel craves something deeper. When a one-night hook-up goes terribly wrong, Angel comes into contact with the breathtaking Maximus (Max) Strong.

Max is a firefighter for the Virginia Beach Fire Department. Max is beautiful, charming, and also very straight. One meeting with the mysteriously, sexy Angel DeLucca and a whiff of that silky, jet black hair, Max finds himself questioning everything he’s known to be true about himself. Max tries desperately to understand the new feelings he has for another man and turns to his gay, older brother…Ryker.

Ryker has always been Max’s protector and his guide their entire lives, which has left him feeling uncared for and alone to handle his own life’s problems. Ryker craves to be taken care of. He craves the attention and praise of a Master. No one knows the dark desires within him until Angel’s Chief of Security, Sebastian ‘Bass’ Bagatelli, shatters that secret with their first intense encounter.

How will Angel win the heart of the straight firefighter that was tailor-made just for him? Will Max be able to continue denying his feelings for another man? Can Ryker and Bass get through their personal issues to take and receive what they both need from each other? Or will they each give up on a happiness that appears too good to be true?

These men’s stories will unravel in a whirlwind of romance, BDSM, revelations, lots of action and very hot sex, co-starring very entertaining supporting characters.

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Moon-Too-Good-True-ebook/dp/B00MCYTQ9I

Tootsie’s Review♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

The one consistent thing that keeps coming to mind is OH MY GOSH! This book has everything I could possibly want in a story. It is sectioned into three parts allowing you to meet each set of characters and focus on the situation at present. This set-up was new to me. However, it made the storyline flow smoothly from one to the next.

The first part was about Max, the gorgeous firefighter, and Angel, the club owner. They meet when the club has trouble and the fire department is called in. One look at each other from across the room causes sparks to fly. These two men are beautiful with their muscled bodies, six-packs, and tanned skin. They each have tattoos that represent something special in their life. Angel has hair down to his waist that he usually keeps braided, but it is thick and shiny and does something to Max when left down. Both, Angel and Max, want to find true love. They both are looking for happy ever after with a forever partner.

They find out quickly they both want the same things and it’s easy to see they are a perfect match. Their relationship takes off fast and I would consider it insta-love. So, if that is not your thing you have been warned, but I like this scenario in a story. They are very sincere and so passionate with each other.

Right from the beginning, Angel referred to Max as “his man,” and I fell in love with Angel myself. I really enjoy when an author shows the characters have passion and feelings and they are not afraid to express it. The reader is taken on a powerful journey where you really feel, at times, like an intruder. Their sex scenes and lovemaking are extremely hot and intense. The author is very good at putting you right there, in the scene, giving you a front row seat. You can see and feel what the characters are experiencing.

At times, I felt almost panicky, probably from holding my breath, as their sex scenes played out. They are so honest and open with their feelings for each other and even though it moved quickly, it didn’t take away from the story. I particularly enjoy a plot that allows the MC’s to own their feelings.

I’ve been known to get bored with a story that drags you along until close to the end for a resolution. I don’t like when the characters spend half the book in denial or running scared from each other. That is not the case here. They were beautiful together and I really enjoyed it.

The next section is about Max’s brother, Ryker, and his partner that he has a connection too. Sebastian/Bass works for Angel as his head security. So when Ryker comes to visit Max, he is also introduced to Bass. There is some BDSM in this section but it is very minor. It’s not really the focus of the story even though it is the focus of how their relationship will be. Bass is a Master Dom and Ryker has craved that type of connection and lifestyle for as long as he can remember. Bass has wanted a sub, someone who he could claim as his own, love forever, take care of and honour their relationship. They are perfect for each other, as they both want the same things.

The third part brings them all together living their lives and doing everyday things. This part has some angst and drama but it’s handled and resolved fairly quickly. Angel’s father is called in to help sort out the trouble, and he brings along his seal team for support and help.

A.E. Via has written a beautiful story, hitting on many details that I like to read. For me, it had every possible element I could want. It has humour and laughter. Tears of pain and tears of joy. We have beautiful people inside and out. There are fireman and navy seals. I mean, good grief, what else is better than that combination?

This is the first book the author has published, but since has added many more to her catalogue. IMO, being the first one, I think she done a wonderful job. There are a couple pretty amazing things that happen in the end that will have you smiling from ear to ear.

I recommend this to anyone who loves passion, great sex, laughter and every day, real life characters that will leave you breathless and wanting more.

Cat’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Angel DeLucca is a hot, sexy successful bar owner.  He is tired of one offs and hook-ups. He wants to meet his one and only. A disgruntled hook-up pulls the fire alarm as he is being escorted out on a busy holiday night.   The moment the hot firefighter walks in Angel knows he is the one. The trouble is Max is straight.

Max is ready to settle down and find his soul mate. He is tired of failed relationships and can’t figure out why he isn’t happy with any women he has been with. Then by chance he meets Angel and his entire world is changed with a false alarm.

This is a really good story with some awesome characters. A.E Via can really do hot, sexy, intriguing men well.  In this book, we sort of have a collage of stories. The first part of the book we meet Angel and Max. This section is basically their meeting and getting together and I warn you it’s hot, sexy and sensual.

Then we get a bonus in part two with Max’s bother Ryder and Angel’s head of security and best friend Sebastian. Bass is a master Dom but he too is tired of looking for the perfect sub. After having his heart broken and the sub he that was his cheat he has remained celibate and out of the clubs until he finds his perfect sub.

In walks Ryder with Max, and Bass knows Ryder is his. But, does Ryder, tough take charge protector of max, know he is a sub?

As if all this isn’t enough in part three we get all of these relationships wrapped up in an explosive plot twist.

I will say for me the book started of slow and I was a bit unsure of all these love at first sight romances going on.  But I loved the characters and the interaction and struggle of them trying to work through their issues.  I would have liked a bit more of the bdsm scenes with Ryker and Bass. I thought they were smokin hot together. I loved the plot action and Angels Dad and crew. I would have loved to have seen this earlier in the book with a little more action. There were so many great men introduced near the end I am excited to see whose story is next! I can’t wait.

If you like sexy bar owners, firefighters, Dom/Sub relationships, secret agents and a twist. Oh don’t forget some sizzling hot man-sex! Someone bring out the hot firefighter!

Yin and Yang by Edward Kendrick (2nd Edition)

91T9c3+YtfL._SL1500_Title: Yin and Yang, 2nd edition

Series: Yin and Yang, #1

Author: Edward Kendrick

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Length: Novel (142 pages)

ISBN: 9781784301361

Publisher: Totally Bound (August 8th 2014)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat & Pixie

Blurb: Two men—Kenyon a street cop, and Teo a social worker—come together as they try to help a seven-year-old boy abandoned by his mother.

Neal, a young boy abandoned on the streets by his mother, is found by policeman Kenyon Hagerty and instantly bonds with him. Social worker Teo Marino becomes involved when the boy is placed in the care of Human Services. Soon after, the body of Neal’s murdered mother is discovered then later Neal’s father tries to kidnap him from the kids’ home.

Kenyon is a man looking for real love, while Teo is the consummate playboy, going from one man to another as the spirit moves him. And yet these two men, truly yin and yang, are drawn together. It takes a misunderstanding to force them to face their feelings for each other.
When Neal runs away looking for Kenyon—who he believes will adopt him—the two men must make a decision regarding Neal’s life—and their own.

Publisher’s Note: This book was previously released by another publisher. It has been revised and re-edited for release with Totally Bound Publishing.

Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/yin-and-yang

Cat’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts:

Kenyon is a cop and Teo is a social worker. They meet when Kenyon and his partner Pat stumble upon a homeless 7-year-old boy. Kenyon is very drawn to both the boy and Teo. He soon finds out that Teo is a player and Kenyon is looking for something real.

I really liked this book, but I am a big Edward Kendrick fan. This book is full of charming interesting characters. The storyline is intriguing with some mystery and a bit of drama. The sexual tension between Teo and Kenyon was hot. There was a bit of hint at something paranormal in here that in my opinion was a bit much. In my opinion, the mystery of Neal and the romance between Kenyon and Teo was enough.

If you love a little mystery and suspense, hot cops, sexy social workers, adorable kids and a sexy romance with a happy ending this is for you.

Pixie’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 3 ½ – 4 Hearts

Kenyon discovers Neal, a young boy, on the streets. Neal tells the tale that his mom has been taken and they were on the run from his father. Kenyon has to hand the sweet little boy over to Human Services and the caring hands of Teo. Kenyon and Teo are drawn together although they are opposites when it comes to relationships and they somehow make it work. Neal has dreams of his own which include both Teo and Kenyon, now both Kenyon and Teo have decisions to make.

This is a very sweet story that has a bit of danger, a touch of angst, but a lot of hope and joy. Kenyon has an instant connection to Neal when he meets the little boy in a stinking alley where Neal is hiding, waiting for his mom. It isn’t long before the story is told and Neal is taken in by Human Services as the police hunt for his mother. Sadly, she is found murdered and Neal’s father is now hunting for him. Kenyon and Teo are unsure if a relationship between them will work, but decide to give it a go. After a slight misunderstanding they take the plunge, but it isn’t long before they have to make a new decision about their lives.

I enjoyed this story and really liked how it progressed. Kenyon and Teo are two very different men; with Kenyon wanting someone to settle down with, while Teo has been like a butterfly flitting from man to man. The connection between the two men seems strong and recovers well after a slight blip. The sex between them is hot, but their connection goes far beyond the physical. Neal is a very sweet young boy who has a slight physic ability which makes the story much more interesting, although the appearance of Neal’s father is expected it was far different than I had thought it would be.

I loved how Edward Kendrick gave us an ending many years into the future, it was wonderful to see Kenyon and Teo’s relationship and their relationship with Neal during pivotal moments of their lives and to see how they had all grown together into a true family.

I recommend this to those who love how opposites attract, sexy men, cute kids, happy families, hot sex, a touch of danger and a very happy ever after.