Wake by Brigham Vaughn & K. Evan Coles Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

K.Evan Coles & Brigham Vaughn - Wake RT Banner

Hi peeps, we have Brigham Vaughn and K. Evan Coles stopping by today with the tour for their new release Wake, we have a great new excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and my review, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~

K. Evan Coles & Brigham Vaughn - Wake Cover

Wake

(Tidal 01)
by

Brigham Vaughn & K. Evan Coles

Carter Hamilton and Riley Porter-Wright room together as Harvard undergraduates. An immediate friendship forms, but as the years pass it deepens into something neither man understands. As attraction simmers under the surface, lines begin to blur. When they move back to Manhattan, they gradually slip into the lives their families have envisioned for them.

Both men marry, but in time, Riley realizes he’s ended up in a passionless relationship like his parents’ while his career takes center stage. Although he loves his wife, Carter misses the emotional and physical connection he shared with Riley.

The weight of Riley’s feelings and his growing discontentment with his life eventually push him to tell Carter the truth about how he feels. Shocked and unable to face his own feelings, Carter rejects Riley.

As each man comes to terms with the lies they’ve told themselves, each other and the people around them, they find their lives changing in ways they never imagined. They soon discover that the truths they’ve been longing to tell shake the foundations of their friendship.

30th May 2017: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Continue reading “Wake by Brigham Vaughn & K. Evan Coles Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!”

Fangs With A Heart by Tempeste O'Riley

Tempeste O'Riley - Fangs With A Heart CoverTitle: Fangs with a Heart

Series: Chain of Fate: Book 2

Author: Tempeste O’Riley

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (236 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (May 22 2017)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Lynx shifter Trace Wilson’s fun-loving exterior hides a heart scarred by severe domestic violence—a heart that might not ever trust another male, fated mate or not. When Trace moves to Seattle to take his place as trainer and council representative to the Glacier Rim Tribe, he discovers his mate is the vampire prince Sasha Tolstoi, leader of the Konstantin Coven. It’s not something Trace is ready to accept. Not now, maybe not ever. But if there’s one thing Sasha knows how to do, it’s how to be patient, especially when his fated heart is also his perfect sub.

When an outside force threatens the fragile bond slowly forming between them—and nearly kills Trace—Trace’s instincts shift into high gear. Sasha is powerful, and that means he has enemies, among them several rival covens and an uncle determined to force Sasha into a marriage with a vampire princess. But why involve the lynx Trace in their maneuvering? Finding the culprit won’t be easy, and it will mean building trust—a slow and difficult prospect for someone who’s suffered as much as Trace. Finding a way to move beyond the past, and to love, before those out to finish Sasha can destroy either, is a race the two fated hearts have to win.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-501-9

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/fangs-with-a-heart-by-tempeste-oriley-8488-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Fangs with a Heart is the second book in Tempeste O’Riley’s series Chain of Fate, the sequel to Whiskers of a Chance. I was so excited to read this one because this was the story that I wanted to read. I absolutely adored Vampire Prince Sasha in book 1, where he was best friend to the human MC, and I really did like Lynx shifter Trace, who was friend and valued pride member to the alpha shifter MC in book 1. You don’t need to have read the first book to understand all the components of this story, although we do get to see couple of the previous book.

This one’s a little angsty and sometimes I felt like I was running pointlessly in circles because of the reticence of Trace to be with his fated mate due to his past abuse. Sasha is the vampire prince, the leader of his coven. He’s used to having things done to his liking and is hurting badly because he cannot be with his fated mate. However, being a vampire Prince means that he has enemies, enemies that could be a danger to his mate that refuses to be with him. It’s a complex situation but this is a story that is so easy to read.

For me, I hated seeing the boisterous, happiness of Sasha be so severely deflated because of his hurt from Trace’s rejection. For me it was so much easier to connect with Sasha than it was to Trace, yet still loved the chemistry when the guys got together and started to battle their physical and mental demons.

For new comers to the series, if you’re a fan of paranormal romance, this is definitely a book to try out. 

Michael, Reinvented by Diana Copland

Diana Copland - Michael, Reinvented CoverTitle: Michael, Reinvented

Series: Delta Restorations #2

Author: Diana Copland

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (May 19, 2017)

Length: Novel (220 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Cute hipster and interior designer Michael doesn’t do love—not after his ex screwed him over. Sex is a different story, though, and the gentle giant who’s painting the mural in the old mansion they’re restoring might be perfect hookup material. Gil is just Michael’s type with his solid muscle, wicked sense of humor, and the hazel eyes that seem to see into Michael’s soul.

Trouble is, Gil does do love. He wants romance and forever, and he’s set his sights firmly on Michael. Michael’s not going there again.

Yet when Michael is the victim of a vandal who’s been plaguing the men working for Delta Restoration, Renovation, and Design, Gil is the first person he tells. No matter how he fights it, it’s becoming harder and harder to deny he’s crazy about the guy—even if that thought terrifies him. But the true fear sets in when the criminal behavior escalates, and Michael realizes he might have lost the chance to tell Gil how he feels—forever.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-641-2

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/michael-reinvented-by-diana-copland-8484-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Delta Restorations collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

I had forgotten how much I enjoyed Diana’s stories, so I am sending her great big thanks for this book.  It caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end.  There is so much to this story, that it felt like you were right there with them.  I loved the characters, even though I still wanted to dropkick Michael in the beginning.

Michael had been a happy young man, till he picked the wrong boyfriend.  After it ended, he basically told himself that he will never believe in love again.  He stood strong on it, that is until Gil.  

Gil was big man who had a heart of gold.  He believed in love and marriage, and he was looking at Michael.  The problem was the man was just down right snarky as hell.  It would take time, but damn he knew he could get the man to be his.  Then trouble started with a vandal, and Gil was the first person Michael called.  Then the vandal gets a bit more dangerous and it almost cost Michael everything.  

I can understand cutting yourself off from love, after some asshat tears you down.  I was glad that this story had such a wonderful happy ending.  These characters were a hoot.  I especially loved Pixie and Scooter.  I loved how this is a romance with a bit of mystery and suspense added in for the danger factor.  This book was a blast to read and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.

Lochlann by Andrea Speed

Andrea Speed - Lochlann CoverTitle: Lochlann

Series: Order of the Black Knights 06 

Author: Andrea Speed

Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Urban Fantasy

Length: Novel (200 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (May 22, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Violence has been Lochlann O’Connor’s companion since he was born into a family of old-school Irish terrorists. From there he is recruited into Alpha, a secret government agency dedicated to fighting terrorism—with extreme prejudice. Lochlann’s bravery, efficiency, ruthlessness, and the natural deadeye aim that lets him hit anything that moves, quickly make him one of the shadowy organization’s most valued operatives.

Cas Vega joins Alpha because it’s marginally better than a prison sentence. He’s a former drug cartel assassin—or at least that’s his story. But Lochlann is suspicious. Despite an irrational and overwhelming attraction to Cas, Lochlann has questions, and they soon lead to a deeper and deadlier mystery. What is Alpha’s true purpose, and why does it seem they want to eliminate Lochlann?

Lochlann and Cas must work together to get to the bottom of Alpha’s scheme and escape it—and all while Cas keeps secrets that could cost him his life if they’re revealed. But it’s not an alliance that can last. Duty turns the men into enemies, even while fate compels them into each other’s arms. Before they can contemplate which will prevail, they must figure out how to survive.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-395-4

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/lochlann-by-andrea-speed-8493-b

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: I loved this addition to the series however it was slightly different as Lochlann’s character never acknowledged the rage until the end which is different from the other books. This book focused on the present and glanced over the past. Lochlann is in a secret group called Alpha. He believes he on the good side.

Things become strange when he starts having doubts about the group. New recruits are brought in and Lochlann finds himself attracted to one named Cas. Cas was in with the drug cartel. But there is much more to this man that most see. Danger is all around and one misstep could mean both their lives when they decide to work together.

Mysterious, tense and at times has a menacing air about the story. I loved how the story was told and flowed. It felt as though I was actually there witnessing what was taking place. Both characters had secrets that were eventually revealed that added an element of mystery that I wanted to solve. 

However, I feel as though the story is incomplete. The questions about who is Alpha remained unanswered as well as who is “cleaning up” afterwards. I felt disappointed in this regard but overall it was a great read.

Two for Trust by Elle Brownlee

Elle Brownlee - Two for Trust CoverTitle: Two for Trust

Series: Dreamspun Desires 34

Author: Elle Brownlee

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (252 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15 May 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: A fairy-tale vacation—if he can get the ending right.

American nurse Finch Mason steps beyond the comfort of his orderly life and takes a dream trip to England, complete with a National Trust Pass so he can visit numerous historical sites. At the first one on his list, he’s warmly welcomed—and told he bought a pass good for two.

Finch doesn’t hesitate to offer the pass to Benedict, a handsome Brit also there on an outing. They spend a magical week touring the countryside, and while it’s too soon to get attached, Finch wishes their time together would never end.

Then Finch finds himself stuck abroad with no money, and he has no one to turn to but Benedict. Benedict is happy to help, but he also owes Finch some answers—such as who he really is and why he was at the estate where they first met.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-153-0

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/two-for-trust-by-elle-brownlee-8405-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I’m racking my brain to figure out if I’ve read anything by Elle Brownlee before. Suffice to say I still can’t remember and so I went into this one with a completely open mind. The only thing I was expecting was the OTT drama and romance – though for some stories it is more difficult to suspend your disbelief than others – is what I’ve come to expect with the Dreamspun Desires series.

Sweet guy with a tragic past, Finch, is on his dream holiday of a life time in England. A mix up in ticketing leaves him with a double pass for one week instead of one pass for two weeks. Handsome Englishman, Benedict, happens to be at the National Trust Site Finch is visiting when he finds out this information and Finch happily invites Benedict to take on the second pass. However, this being a romance fiction, it is all too obvious that there is more to Benedict than meets the eye. After the week finishes Finch feels he is ready to part ways, though there is a definite spark between the guys. But when all his belongings are stolen, Finch has no one but Benedict to turn to – which is where he learns the truth.

OK, I really did enjoy reading this book, I truly did, but I didn’t fully connect with the characters. I think the one thing that irritated me and took away my enjoyment was that I was trying to figure out who leaves their valuables in a hostel – why not keep them on you? Seriously, that was one thing that I couldn’t suspend my disbelief for. There isn’t a lot of hot and heavy romance (in fact there was no sex), which I would expect from a love at first sight sort of trope, but it was nice to see the guys get to know each other for a week before getting all angsty. For this reason I think that while there was a connection between Benedict and Finch, it wasn’t really strong and needed more development.

If you’re into sweet, old fashioned and very English types of stories, this might be your type thing. For those that hate insta-love (and I know there are lots of you), you’d probably do best to stay away from this one, particularly since there is no actual sex going on as well (I personally find insta-tolerable in even the worst cases if there is hot sex).

Bones by Garrett Leigh Release Blast, Review & Giveaway!

Garrett Leigh - Bones RB Banner

Hi guys! We have Garrett Leigh stopping by today with her new re-release Bones, we have a fantastic giveaway and Prime’s review, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~

Garrett Leigh - Bones Cover

Bones

(Blue Boy Studio 02)
by

Garrett Leigh

Cam is a veteran porn star at Blue Boy Studios. Known as Mr. Nice Guy, he’s the top every newbie bottom wants to be paired with.

But in recent months his beloved hardcore scenes have dried up. Instead, he finds himself stuck with a string of monotonous foreplay scenes. He takes his frustration to his boss, and warped kind of lover, Jon Kellar, but Jon won’t bend. Cam is a commodity and will do as he’s told…in every way.

Cam’s frustration builds, but a chance meeting with a hot BMXer distracts him. Sasha Tate is gorgeous, warm and wonderful; everything Cam has ever wanted. They bond over shared interests and a sizzling mutual attraction. Cam is exhilarated and thrilled, until his chosen profession gets in the way.

Sasha pulls back, and before Cam can fix it, life comes at him from all fronts. A crisis threatens much more than his relationship with Sasha, and as his world implodes he begins to realize that life will never be the same again.

Continue reading “Bones by Garrett Leigh Release Blast, Review & Giveaway!”

Ellery Mountain 1, 2 & 3 by R.J. Scott Blog Tour, Excerpt, Reviews & Giveaway!

R.J. Scott - Ellery Mountain 1,2,3 RT Banner

Hi guys, we have R.J. Scott popping in today with the tour for her new re-releases The Fireman & the CopThe Teacher & the Soldier and The Carpenter and the Actor, we have excerpts from each book, a brilliant giveaway and my reviews, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~

R.J. Scott - The Fireman and the Cop Cover

The Fireman and the Cop

(Ellery Mountain 01)
by

R.J. Scott

Rescuing cop Finn Ryan from a burning precinct was easy; it’s keeping him alive Max Harrison finds difficult.

Firefighter, Max Harrison, is running from the city and finds peace in the sleepy Smoky Mountains town of Ellery. Finn Ryan is one of only three cops in Ellery, and someone is out to hurt him. Can Max find the arsonist, and keep Finn alive?

 Kobo

R.J. Scott - The Teacher and the Soldier Cover

The Teacher and the Soldier

Ellery Mountain 02

How can Daniel convince the man he loves, to stay with him in Ellery?

Luke Fitzgerald left Ellery Mountain for college and vowed never to return, but with his father murdered, he has no choice but to return. Luke only goes home to sell off his share of the Ellery Mountain Cabins, but everything changes when he meets the son of the other owner. 

Daniel Skylar is an ex-soldier who lives every day to the limit and sees a future in Luke. It doesn’t matter what Daniel says, or how much he needs Luke; Luke isn’t staying once everything is sold off. Surely Daniel can understand that?

Kobo

R.J. Scott - The Carpenter and the Actor Cover

The Carpenter and the Actor

Ellery Mountain 03

 Jason McInnery, hounded by the paparazzi after his brother’s death, runs to the one place where he hopes people will not sell him out. The place where he was born.

Hiding in the tourist cabins at Ellery Mountain Resort out of season he thinks he finally has room to breathe. 

If only Kieran Dexter, a man ten years his junior, would stop fixing stuff and causing ripples in Jason’s peaceful space.

Kobo

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Darkest Hour Before Dawn by Charlie Cochet

Charlie Cochet - Darkest Hour Before Dawn CoverTitle: Darkest Hour Before Dawn

Series: THIRDS #9

Author: Charlie Cochet

Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (April 25, 2017)

Length: Novel (224 Pages)  

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: THIRDS Team Leader Sebastian Hobbs and Chief Medical Examiner Hudson Colbourn are as much in love now as they were nearly seven years ago when a tragic event on the job destroyed their relationship. The two drift together only to be pulled apart time and time again. When Hudson draws the interest of dangerous enemies, both within and outside the organization, Seb wants nothing more than to protect the man who still means everything to him.

As life and death events, an uncertain future, and startling truths draw Hudson and Seb to each other yet again, they must make a choice: trust their love and take strength from what they share, or lose what matters most for good this time. 

ISBN: 978-1-63533-609-2

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/darkest-hour-before-dawn-by-charlie-cochet-8399-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: One day I was out looking for a new audible book when I came across the very first book in this series and from then on I have been caught.  I will admit that I actually listened to the first 7 books before even buying the ebooks.  With this series you must start with book one, otherwise you can get pretty lost on who the characters are and what they are about.  

Seb and Hudson have been mates for several years, but a tragic accident sent them into different directions.  A child was killed when Seb ran to protect Hudson instead of the public.  From that time on there was so much friction that you would get burned just bringing it up.  You can see that both men still love each other but there is so much going between them that it would take a miracle to help.

That miracle might just happen when the ones targeting Dex, puts their sights on Hudson.  Now with this there are many twists and turns, but there is one major shock still in store for our sexy little doctor.  I can guarantee that it will shock you also.

I will admit that this is the only series that I have read by this author and more than once.  I can tell you that it is not only entertaining but will keep you on the edge of your seat just waiting for the next shoe to drop.  It has a serious tone to it but there is quite a bit of humor mixed in.  Well what do you expect when Dex is around.  

I had a blast reading this and cannot wait to see what happens next.  It is one of the most fascinating tales I have read in a long time.  There is so much action, mixed in with danger that you will not want to miss a bit of it.  I can admit that this author has moved up the ranks in my library quite fast with her stories.  I need to go read her other books, if they are like this one I will be in a happy place.  So over all this is a major win with me, and I would definitely recommend it to all.

Fishy Riot by Lindsey Black

Lindsey Black - Fishy Riot CoverTitle: Fishy Riot

Series: Perchance to Dream 08

Author: Lindsey Black

Genre: Contemporary, Humor

Length: Novel (236pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-63533-449-4

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (24th April 2017)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Most people think riot squad officer Taylor Jameson is an asshole. Little do they know his apparent indifference stems from having a meddlesome family always butting into his business. And little does Taylor know he’s about to stumble into a situation that’ll make indifference impossible.

When everything goes horribly wrong at a political rally on a harbour ferry, Taylor encounters Sietta Salisbury. The son of a wealthy politician, Sietta is a revered—but presumed dead—musician, and an enigma who is so strange, Taylor is compelled to look into his background. What he discovers draws him into a bizarre mess of prisoners, politics, and attempted murder that makes him realise what he’s been missing.

Falling in love isn’t hard. Trying to convince someone else you’re worth loving despite your crazy family and the people trying to kill you? That’s a whole other can of worms.

Purchase Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/fishy-riot-by-lindsey-black-8298-b

Review: Taylor is a riot squad officer, he’s a hardass and most people say an asshole but he doesn’t care, he’s got a crazy family, his work is dangerous and he hasn’t got time for the niceties in life but the second he lays eyes on Sietta he knows he’s found the one for him… if only people would stop shooting at him.

Sietta has had a shitty life, the only person he cares about is his younger brother and he’s willing to put his life on the line to protect him, meeting Taylor is a turning point in his life and he plans on grabbing hold and never letting go, and as for Taylor’s crazy family well Sietta fits in just fine.

This is a fantastic story that I had an absolute blast reading, the storyline is a little outlandish but it’s a fantastic read. Both Taylor and Sietta are fabulous characters, Taylor’s grown up in a loving close knit family even though he feels a little stifled at times he loves them all to death, Sietta is someone we want to coddle and protect Sietta’s family is best left not talked about other than his little brother Micah (because I’m not giving anything away about the storyline), Sietta adores Micah and goes through hell to protect him, Sietta isn’t the type of person you want to cross his revenge is thought out, well planned and perfectly executed.

The one thing I will tell you is that this is an action packed, humor filled story, I laughed my ass off reading it. I have to caution you as well, there are some touchy subjects touched on with Sietta but Lindsey Black has done an amazing job of redirecting our attention with humor and crazy characters. The author doesn’t make light of the situation but she does lift it up so there’s a light-heartedness to the story.

Did you know this is Lindsey Black’s debut story? Well it shocked the hell out of me that she wrote something this fantastic the first time out, this is a brilliant story that is well written, fully fleshed out, interesting and grabs your attention from the first page.

I recommend this to those who love stories that are funny and humor filled, that adores action and danger, who love an interesting storyline and a fabulous love story that makes you giggle in glee.

Wake Up Call by J.L. Merrow Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

J.L. Merrow - Wake Up Call Tour Banner

Hi guys, we have J.L. Merrow popping in today with her new release Wake Up Call, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and Aerin’s review, so check out the post and leave a comment to enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~

J.L. Merrow - Wake Up Call Cover

Wake Up Call

(Porthkennack 01)
by

J.L. Merrow

South London mechanic Devan Thompson has gone to Porthkennack to track down someone he’s been waiting all his life to know. But Dev’s distracted from his quest by Kyle, a broodingly handsome local of only a few months, who’s already got a reputation as an alcoholic because of his strange behaviour—including a habit of collapsing in the street.

Kyle Anthony fled to Porthkennack to escape from the ruins of his life. Still raging against his diagnosis of narcolepsy—a condition that’s cost him his job as a barrister, his lover, and all chance of normality—the last thing he wants is another relationship that’s doomed to fail. But Dev’s easy-going acceptance and adaptability, not to mention his good looks, have Kyle breaking all his self-imposed rules.

When disaster strikes Dev’s adored little sister, Kyle steps up to the plate, and Dev sees a side of his lover he wasn’t prepared for: competent, professional—and way out of Dev’s league. With one man determined that they don’t have a future, and the other fearing it, life after Porthkennack is starting to look bleak for both of them.

Continue reading “Wake Up Call by J.L. Merrow Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!”

New Lease by B.G. Thomas (2nd Edition)

B.G. Thomas - New Lease CoverTitle: New Lease

Author: B.G. Thomas

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short (39pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12th April 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Wade Porter spent his whole life in the shadow of a lover who doled out snippets of love and time as he saw fit—and who insisted that love stay deep in the closet. But now that man is gone, and Wade finds the oceanside cottage where they spent so many weekends together in the Florida Keys cold and empty. He has come one last time, not even sure he wants to keep living.

To his surprise, the house next door is occupied by another bereaved and lonely man. Kent Walker is an artist of romantic gay paintings who is open to the future—and determinedly interested in Wade. Kent wants to show Wade the beauty in being an openly gay man and the possibilities for a real relationship.

Maybe Kent can help Wade let go of the past and discover a better way to live—and love.

First Edition published in Two Tickets to Paradise by Dreamspinner Press, 2012.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-428-9

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/new-lease-by-bg-thomas-8357-b

Reviewer: Veronica

Review: In Wade’s younger life, he had never encountered any other gay men, and when he was on vacation, he met this guy that completely rocked his world, both in and out of the bedroom, but also kept him as a dirty little secret, and I mean dirty, because, it was as if he was locked in and living in a dungeon. As per his ex’s orders, he couldn’t have any friends, he was told where to go, and who he couldn’t talk to, and worst of all, where he should live.

Now, Wade is back in the same cottage, where he met his ex, and he’s contemplating suicide, because he can’t live without his lover. Even though, he found out that his ex was married and to a woman.  The cottage next door is now occupied by Kent, who is also mourning the loss of his lover. He’s also interested in Wade, and wants to draw him out of his depression, and to show him that there’s a lot more in life to live for. Like a relationship with him. Will Wade allow Kent into his life, and despite the age difference, allow his to show him what the world, and him have to offer?

A first for me reading from this author, and he did a good job on this story. However, if I was there, I would’ve given Wade a slap on the side of his face and tell him to “snap the heck out of this funk” and start living your life.

This is a well written story, and I would recommend to anyone that is interested in reading it.

At Attention by Annabeth Albert Release Blast, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Annabeth Albert - At Attention RB Banner

Hi peeps, we have Annabeth Albert stopping by today with her new release At Attention, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and Aerin’s review, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~

Annabeth Albert - At Attention Cover

At Attention

(Off Base 02)
by

Annabeth Albert

Lieutenant Apollo Floros can ace tactical training missions, but being a single dad to his twin daughters is more than he can handle. He needs live-in help, and he’s lucky a friend’s younger brother needs a place to stay. He’s surprised to see Dylan all grown up with a college degree…and a college athlete’s body. Apollo’s widowed heart may still be broken, but Dylan has his blood heating up.

It’s been eight years since the teenage Dylan followed Apollo around like a lovesick puppy, and it’s time he showed Lieutenant Hard-to-Please that he’s all man now—an adult who’s fully capable of choosing responsibility over lust. He can handle Apollo’s muscular sex appeal, but Apollo the caring father? Dylan can’t afford to fall for that guy. He’s determined to hold out for someone who’s able to love him back, not someone who only sees him as a kid brother.

Apollo is shocked by the intensity of his attraction to Dylan. Maybe some no-strings summer fun will bring this former SEAL back to life. But the combination of scorching desire and warm affection is more than he’d expected, and the emotion between them scares him senseless. No fling lasts forever, and Apollo will need to decide what’s more important—his past or his future—if he wants to keep Dylan in his life.

Continue reading “At Attention by Annabeth Albert Release Blast, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!”

Micah Johnson Goes West by Sean Kennedy

Sean Kennedy - Micah Johnson Goes West CoverTitle:  Micah Johnson Goes West

Series: Get Out 02

Author: Sean Kennedy

Genre: Contemporary, Young adult, Sports

Length: Novel (186 pages)

Publisher: Harmony Ink Press (Dreamspinner Press) (4 April 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Micah Johnson is living two separate lives. On the field he’s making a name for himself as a rookie with the AFL football team the Fremantle Dockers—at just eighteen. But when he steps off the field, Micah is a mess: confused, away from home for the first time, and feeling isolated from family and friends three thousand kilometres away. The foster family he’s staying with is nice, but Micah isn’t ready to open up to them about what he’s going through. Distracting himself with hookups and partying seems like a good idea until a friend’s life is changed by misfortune and Micah’s own health is threatened by his behavior. Micah knows he has to make a change, that he can’t do it alone, and that maybe there’s no shame in reaching out to others. 

ISBN: 978-1-63533-364-0

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/micah-johnson-goes-west-by-sean-kennedy-8209-b

Reviewer:  Prime

Review: I’m just putting it out there – I love reading anything by Sean Kennedy and I especially love reading anything in the Tigers and Devils, and the related series Get Out (which this title is part of). However, something important to note is that the Get Out series needs to be read in order, starting with The Ongoing Reformation of Micah Johnson. I will admit that I have a particular soft spot for this series because I love reading sports books with sportsmen who are out of the closet. The fact that this series, like Tigers and Devils, is set in Australia and as an Aussie this is just way too many levels of awesome.

Micah Johnson Goes West picks at where we left off. Micah was a troubled teen who was helped by a program run by an ex-football (AFL) player who was outed towards the end of his playing career (See Tigers and Devils, though not necessary to read to understand). He is mostly reformed but since being drafted into the AFL and having to move from Melbourne to Perth is difficult for him to cope. He tries not to depend on his now ex boyfriend as an anchor to sanity, but that only leads him down a path of self destruction once more until he gets to know his roommate/team foster family Sam and Dane. Micah is struggling as the first openly gay footy player but he is still on the path of “growing up” and becoming the football player he wants to be.

This book strikes me on a number of levels. 1) As I said, I’m Aussie and I love the fact there is stories being written about gay men in football, it’s something that we need in real life. 2) I totally relate to Micah’s difficulty in moving from Melbourne to Perth since I made the move in the opposite direction between Adelaide and Sydney for work. And 3) It reminds me of something cool that hasn’t been overly talked about (I wonder if it’s because it’s about 2 women and not 2 men, whatever). Ok, so a bit of back story, in Australia this year was the first year that the women’s AFL was played at a professional level. The Co-captain of the Adelaide Crows – who won the grand final just the other week – is a woman who started her professional career playing state and national level basketball. She also happens to have a wife, who she married in the States, and adorable twins who were pictured seated in the AFLW grand final trophy with their sporty mama.

One other thing I love about this book – it almost has a soundtrack, with the song by the Village People, Go West – although to me it is was the version by Pet Shop Boys which was popular during my childhood. The themes of the song, as stated by Micah’s ex, perfectly sum up the themes surrounding Micah’s life. I love the concept of books having soundtracks, although I often construct my own playlists and often use Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Pete Murray songs for romances.

So in short – this is one fantastically written and totally down to earth, coming of age in professional sport in the world of the Australian Football League. I love Sean Kennedy’s wit and humor and the development of the characters so far have me looking forward to more.

Leap of Faith by Jackie Keswick

Jackie Keswick - Leap of Faith CoverTitle: Leap of Faith

Series:  FireWorks Security 01

Author:  Jackie Keswick

Genre: Contemporary, Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novella (125 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (April 5, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb:  Close friends and partners at FireWorks Security, Joel Weston and Kieran Ross know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. They have each other’s backs, make a formidable team, and carefully ignore their volatile chemistry.

When Kieran struggles with the aftermath of an assignment gone wrong, Joel is there to help. When Joel is caught in an explosion, Kieran jumps into a burning marina to rescue the man who means so much to him. But they never discuss what’s closest to their hearts, not prepared to risk their friendship for the mere possibility of something more.

Faced with bombs, assassins and old ghosts, Joel and Kieran must find out why they’re targets, who is after them and—most of all—how each would feel if he lost the other. Can they continue as best friends, or is it time to take a leap of faith?

ISBN: 978-1-63533-409-8

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/leap-of-faith-by-jackie-keswick-8348-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  Jackie Keswick is a new author for me, and I usually don’t pick new authors for the reason of having no clue what their writing is going to be like.  Over the years I have come to have many authors that I have loved and have been known to be pretty picky on what I read.  Now I will say that if I was just choosing a book by its cover, then this would have been the last book I picked up.  The cover is just down right creepy to me, however that is just me.  The title didn’t really do it for me either, but I will tell you that the name of the series was what caught me enough to take a look at the blurb.  It was the attraction of danger that really made me want to give it a look.

Now here you have to very sexy men who so have the hots for each other, and avoid the temptation of giving in.  However there are several factors that prove to be these two sexy men’s undoing.  Explosions, fires, bombs, danger, and hot lust well you get the picture.  Now I have never really been a fan of friends to lover’s romance, but this one makes it a bit hard to ignore.  The chemistry these two have is off the charts.  To top it off it is a mystery and suspense that has me taking a major look at it.  

Joel and Kieran have been friends from the first day he started working.  Now these guys go in and save the day for many, such as rescuing those who are being held hostage or have been kidnapped.  For them they just hit it off, but had not given in to the fire burning inside of them for each other.  Now if you really want to know the juicy details of these two, well pick up this book.

Now I do admit that the characters were hot, but really didn’t catch me as they should have though.  It is more of a telling type of story and not a lot of showing, which did suck for me.  I couldn’t see them in my head to really get a good feel for them though. The sex was minimal in the story, and the first book is more about the details of what this company is about and so forth.  It also felt like the author did throw in certain parts to keep the attention of the reader, and that is not always a good thing.  Such as the fact that for a small story it has way to much going on and the actual romance was slow building.  What is with the mirrors, well if you read you will see why I asked the question, just a different type of kink.  Parts of the story go at a pretty good pace, and then there are others where it slows down too much for me. 

The ending also needed some work to it, let’s just say it just stops and leaves you with questions.  Other than my issues with the story, I still enjoyed it quite a bit.  Just needs a bit of extra tender care to make it a higher rocking book for me.

Tall, Dark, and Deported by Bru Baker

Bru Baker - Tall, Dark, and Deported CoverTitle:  Tall, Dark and Deported

Series: Dreamspun Desires 31

Author: Bru Baker

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novel (236 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (1 April 2017)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Crossing the border into love.

Snap decisions and misguided ideas bring Portuguese national Mateus Fontes and businessman Crawford Hargrave together at the Canadian border crossing.

Mateus is caught in a catch-22. With his almost-expired tourist visa, entrance to Canada is denied, but the US won’t let him back in either. Crawford thinks he’s solved things when he tells the border agent they’re engaged, and it works—except now they have to actually get married before either of them can get back into the United States. But Crawford has been burned by marriage once, and he’s determined not to make that mistake again.

Neither of them expects real feelings to bloom out of their fake marriage, but they do. And the two of them have to learn how to be honest with each other to make things work, which is especially hard when their entire marriage is based on lies.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-684-4

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/tall-dark-and-deported-by-bru-baker-8257-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Get ready to suspend your disbelief for Bru Baker’s contribution to Dreamspinner Press’s Dreamspun Desires series. The title of the book, Tall, Dark and Deported, gives you most of the information that you need to know about the type of story you’re about to read – so if you keep on going despite being deterred by the title then it’s your own fault! 😉

What you see is definitely what you get with the blurb. We got one hot South American (sorry, can’t think of his country of origin from the top of my head) side-eyes Prime *cough* Portugal, so European ~Pixie~), Mateus. He’s done something rather silly and used the internet to get answers about how to “reset” his visa. He wants to stay with his brother and sister in law longer now that they are setting up their own orchard and his sister in law is about to have a baby. He’s excited about being an uncle and wants to be there. That’s why, at the airport, he meets Crawfard. Crawford is a businessman and after meeting Mateus, he is willing to help the guy, which of course means marriage!

Despite being a predictable plot, this is totally enjoyable as way as to just lose yourself. As I said in the opening sentence, you will need to suspend your disbelief but that don’t let that deter you from the sweet romance (well, insta-love romance) that unfolds between the two men.

Patience by Helena Stone

Helena Stone - Patience CoverTitle: Patience

Series: Dublin Virtues 01

Author: Helena Stone

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (170pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-78651-536-0

Publisher: Pride Publishing (28th March 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Patience is a virtue. But what if you wait too long?

While Xander Ekman’s dream of becoming a successful artist has come true, his love life has gone from bad to worse. Sick of the endless string of one-night stands, he accepts the challenge when his best friend, Erik, bets him that he can’t be celibate for a month. Now all he needs is a reminder to keep his distance in the heat of the moment.

Troy Moriarty doesn’t have time for love. He’s too busy trying to keep his recently opened tattoo parlor afloat. Besides, ever since the man who was supposed to be his business partner abandoned him to run the shop on his own, he has a hard time trusting others.

When Xander turns to Troy for a tattoo that will remind him to be patient, the attraction is instant. But faced with Xander’s month of celibacy, Troy’s trust issues, and a nemesis lurking in the background, their relationship may be doomed before it has a chance to begin.

Purchase Link: https://www.pride-publishing.com/book/patience

Review: Xander’s life as an artist is working out for him but his love life is abysmal, the men he meets only want one night stands and Xander yearns for something more. Xander’s best friend is concerned about him and challenges him to swear off sex for a month and Xander accepts the challenge. On impulse Xander walks into a tattoo shop to get a tattoo to remind him to think things through and take his time but he meets a man who makes him wish he’d rejected the bet.

Troy is busy establishing his new tattoo parlor when a customer walks into his shop and brings back memories of Troy’s fractured trust, but Troy puts aside the memories of the man who left him high and dry to help the man out. The two reconnect at an artist showcase and over the course of a month become close, until the man who hurt both of them blazes back into their lives.

This is a great story of two men who have both been hurt in different ways finding each other and beginning to build something good between them. First we have Xander who is a talented artist but lacks confidence in finding a man who truly wants him, he’s a nice guy who has been worn down by rejection and sometimes Troy’s reactions have him confused but he’s determined to cling to his hope that Troy is different from the other guys he’s met.

Troy is a lovely man who has had his trust broken by Shane, a man who he thought was a good friend and his secret crush, meeting Xander has him torn at first because he’s seen the man before and he can’t help but wonder if Xander is of the same mindset as his ex-friend.

In this story we follow along as Xander’s and Troy’s friendship develops into something more, we get to see the perspective of both men so we get to enjoy the developing relationship from both sides and we know exactly what’s going through both men’s minds as they traverse their new relationship.

The characters in this story are well written and we get to know them pretty well, not only do we get to enjoy Xander and Troy but also their best friends Eric and Lorcan, I’m hoping we’ll see more of Eric and Lorcan in the future because there’s certainly some chemistry there.

I enjoyed this story, I found the characters to be engaging and entertaining, I enjoyed that their relationship is taken at a slow pace and that trust is built between them. Shane is an ideal bad guy with his selfish attitude, I just hope we’ve seen the last of him because Xander and Troy weren’t the only ones wanting to punch him 😉 . I love Eric and Lorcan because they were perfect supportive friends; they’re the type of guys that you’d love for your own friends so you can turn to them for advice and a night at the pub.

I recommend this story who love everyday contemporary romances, taking a slow paced relationship and adding a bit of tension to spice it up, great characters, a dash of hot sex and a very happy ending.

Patience by Helena Stone Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Helena Stone - Patience RT Banner

Hi guys, we have Helena Stone popping in today with her new release Patience, we have a great excerpt, a fantastic giveaway and my review, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~

Helena Stone - Patience Cover

Patience

(Dublin Virtues 01)
by

Helena Stone

Patience is a virtue. But what if you wait too long?

While Xander Ekman’s dream of becoming a successful artist has come true, his love life has gone from bad to worse. Sick of the endless string of one-night stands, he accepts the challenge when his best friend, Erik, bets him that he can’t be celibate for a month. Now all he needs is a reminder to keep his distance in the heat of the moment.

Troy Moriarty doesn’t have time for love. He’s too busy trying to keep his recently opened tattoo parlor afloat. Besides, ever since the man who was supposed to be his business partner abandoned him to run the shop on his own, he has a hard time trusting others.

When Xander turns to Troy for a tattoo that will remind him to be patient, the attraction is instant. But faced with Xander’s month of celibacy, Troy’s trust issues, and a nemesis lurking in the background, their relationship may be doomed before it has a chance to begin.

Continue reading “Patience by Helena Stone Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!”

Running With the Moon by Kiernan Kelly (2nd Edition)

Kiernan Kelly - Running With the Moon CoverTitle: Running With the Moon (2nd Edition)

Author: Kiernan Kelley

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novella (140 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (March 15, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb:  Heart of the Wolf

What happens when a veterinarian ends up a patient in his own animal clinic?

Dr. Dae Anderson needs to lose the deadbeat boyfriend who is holding him back, but Jack is determined to hang on to Dae—even if he has to resort to violence.

Dae has worked hard to fit in among humans, and if his secret gets out, he’ll lose everything. His veterinary assistant, Sean, might be just the man to stand with Dae… against Jack and the world.

Courage of the Wolf

The most painful changes don’t involve the shape of the body, but of the heart….

Just as Dae and Sean are settling in to life as a couple, Dae is contacted by his brother, who still lives with his former pack and who exiled him for being gay.

If he refuses to return to Wyoming, a sociopathic alpha will slaughter Dae’s family one member at a time. And deep down, Dae knows he must confront his past before he can truly have a loving future with Sean. First, they have to stay alive.   

First Edition of Heart of the Wolf was published as Change of Heart by Torquere Press in 2007.  The first edition of Courage of the Wolf was published as Change in Attitude by Torquere Press 2011.  Now you get both books all in one nice package.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-343-5

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/running-with-the-moon-by-kiernan-kelly-8259-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Now normally I would separate each story and give you a rating for each, but let’s face it they are both going to be the same. 

In Heart of the Wolf, our sexy vet has finally decided to end it with his loser boyfriend, whose only real job was to screw around on the doc.  The last time about got the man his ass kicked, which he deserved.  But our doc goes out running and well if you want to know more than you’re going to have to read it.  But his sexy assistant has been in love with the doc for over four years.  So now it is his turn to turn the tables, but he is in for one big surprise, our sexy doc is a werewolf.

Now in Courage of the Wolf, our sexy duo is going home.  It had a home coming that was not as happy as one would think do to the threat in Dae’s old pack, danger, suspense and murder.  He got a letter that was 3 months old from one of his brothers telling him they need his help.  The old alpha has definitely lost his mind.  Things are going to get a bit more interesting to say the least, but if you really want to know the juicy details go pick up this book.

Usually I am one for a full size story that isn’t split up like this book.  However it has some surprises that was a hit for me.  I loved the connection that Dae and Sean had as well.  I wasn’t as pleased with the second half, but only because it was not a lot of it I suppose.  It is a well written book that will have you on the edge of your seat or laughing your ass off on Sean.  He is a definite plus for any alpha. 

I enjoyed this book and think you will also. 

Two Cowboys and A Baby by B.A. Tortuga

B.A. Tortuga - Two Cowboys and A Baby CoverTitle:  Two Cowboys and a Baby

Series: Dreamspun Desires 30

Author: BA Tortuga

Genre: Contemporary, Cowboys

Length: Novel (220 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15 March 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: A little bundle of joy means big changes.

Hoss McMasters has a working ranch, a bull riding career, a nosy momma, and a best friend he’s been in love with since he can remember. He’s a busy, happy cowboy, living the good life.

Then one morning he discovers a baby on his doorstep.

Well, Hoss does what any reasonable man would do—he calls his momma and his buddy, Sheriff Pooter, and they head to the clinic to see if Doc knows of any suddenly not-so-pregnant girls.

In the meantime, Hoss and his best friend, Bradley, have their hands full trying to care for an infant, run a ranch, and deal with the sudden confession that Bradley doesn’t hate Hoss for coming out to him in high school. In fact, Bradley’s been trying to catch Hoss’s attention for damn near a decade.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-385-5

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/two-cowboys-and-a-baby-by-ba-tortuga-8174-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: For me this book was a war between absolute love and being rather annoyed.

I know the reason for it and that is, quite simply, that the writing style of BA Tortuga has always been something that I have trouble connecting with. But still I keep on going back because the type of stories Tortuga writes are what I like. However, the actual idea of the story and the whole “cowboys looking after a baby and finally reveal their feelings for each other” plot device – absolutely perfect. I also loved the touch of soap opera type of drama introduced when it comes to said baby’s paternity.

The story is about Hoss (seriously, this name, totally rubbed me the wrong way for reasons unknown) and his best friend since childhood, Bradley. They are both cowboys and have been secretly in love with each other years. One day, Hoss finds a baby randomly left on his door step and through some convoluted reasoning; he ends up looking after the baby girl with the help of his friend.

The story works in two parts, 1) Hoss and Bradley getting together, where one is out and the other is in the closet still, and, 2) looking after the baby and the mystery of where she came from. There was a twist at the end that came from nowhere, it’s a bit unbelievable, so people that like things to be more relatable may need to enter with an open mind. Seriously, when I say this is something you would see on Days of Our Lives /Neighbours/Coronation Street, believe it.

Regardless of my feelings of the author’s writing style, this was nevertheless an enjoyable read. I loved the plot, I loved the characters and I loved the setting.

Dinner at the Blue Moon Cafe by Rick R. Reed (2nd Edition)

Rick R. Reed - Dinner at the Blue Moon Cafe CoverTitle: Dinner At The Blue Moon Cafe (2nd Edition)

Author: Rick R. Reed

Genre: Paranormal, Mystery, Suspense 

Length: Novel (200 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (March 13, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: A monster moves through the night, hidden by the darkness, taking men, one by one, from Seattle’s gay gathering areas.

Amid an atmosphere of crippling fear, Thad Matthews finds his first true love working in an Italian restaurant called the Blue Moon Café. Sam Lupino is everything Thad has ever hoped for in a man: virile, sexy as hell, kind, and… he can cook!

As their romance heats up, the questions pile up. Who is the killer preying on Seattle’s gay men? What secrets is Sam’s Sicilian family hiding? And more importantly, why do Sam’s unexplained disappearances always coincide with the full moon?

The strength of Thad and Sam’s love will face the ultimate test when horrific revelations come to light beneath the full moon.  

ISBN: 978-1-63533-296-6

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/dinner-at-the-blue-moon-cafe-by-rick-r-reed-8283-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I chose this book because I definitely thought it was a mystery, and it was however I wasn’t really paying attention to the werewolf part to much.  So you can imagine my surprise when I started reading it.  I have read a couple of books by this author, and have to say that he has a top notch imagination, and wonderful for us because that imagination gives us a good book. Although I do admit, this one leaves me on the edge. I can’t decide if I liked it or if I hated it.

Thad is a sweet young man who gives him time getting things together for ones who have AIDS.  He has a gentle soul and a big heart.  When Thad walks into the Blue Moon Cafe, his heart starts beating and his hands start sweating.  He has found the man of his dreams.  That man of his dreams has a secret that is deadly though.

Sam is one hell of a sexy Sicilian.  He can cook like no man can.  One night with Thad, and he wants more but his family is a very difficult family.  Then the murders of gay men start happening, and Thad’s best friend found the answer.  Now Sam’s disappearance around the full moon just so happens to be the same time as the murders.  Thad is going to find out what is going on, and if you want to know more then read the book.

Now I have to admit that I am more romance and paranormal, then creepy paranormal.  Also I am stuck with the werewolf in the city idea, which for most would be odd.  Werewolves and the city just don’t mix.  One would think that they would pick more Montana, Wyoming and even Alaska, then a city in Washington.  So it seemed to stick with me throughout the book.  Then there was the way they are together, and sudden love just doesn’t work for me.  I don’t know, the whole book just felt rushed and didn’t come together like I wanted it to.  Now, even though those are my feelings on the book, it is well written with some juicy parts in it. 

The action pack, suspenseful story mixed in with a romance is just a part of what is in this book.