Category: MM Book Review
Three Player Game by Jaime Samms Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway!
Fool of Main Beach by Tara Lain Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!
Peepshow by Clare London (2nd Edition)
Title: Peepshow, (2nd Edition)
Series: London Lads 04
Author: Clare London
Genre: Contemporary
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (July 26, 2017)
Length: Short Story (63 Pages)
Heat Level: High
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts
Blurb: Ever wanted to spy secretly on other people’s lives?
Ken doesn’t have a choice: his student summer job is manning the CCTV screens for the new central London shopping mall. But instead of spotting criminals or vandals, he becomes fascinated by a cute waiter from the local bistro who sneaks out to the backyard for his break—and plays sexy to the camera.
Is he an old friend, or just an anonymous exhibitionist? Should Ken be excited by this naughty peepshow, or will people think he’s a voyeuristic pervert? Poor Ken’s confused and thrilled in turn. It’s like living in one of the movies he’s studying at university. He knows the man can’t see him, yet Ken feels a connection of some kind. It all encourages Ken to continue with his guilt-ridden Waiter Watch.
Ken bears the suspense as long as he can, until a chance meeting and an abortive blind date provide the explanation to the secret assignations. But will this guide Ken to a real-life chance of romance?
This was first published in 2013 by Amber Quill Press/Amber Allure.
ISBN: 978-1-63533-413-5
Product Link: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Reviewer: Lisa
Review: Ken sits back and watches the camera wishing for some action. Something to help him get through each day at work. Well he gets more then he bargains for, when a sexy waiter keeps putting on a show for him.
This is a cute little story that makes for a nice hot read. However for me, it is just a very short story that gives just a taste of what could be. In a way it is a slow telling story, but for this story it could also be said to be fast paced. I am afraid that for me, it just seemed to be too slow. The name of the book is actually right on and makes it funny as hell. I enjoyed reading it, but wished it was a longer book with a bit more to it. Other than my issues it is well told, pretty detailed and is a pretty good story.
I would recommend it to those who love a long time love story that neither party knew they had. I will let you figure that one out on your own.
Gabriel by R.J. Scott
Title: Gabriel
Series: Legacy 02
Author: R.J. Scott
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novel (207pgs)
ISBN: 978-1-78564-081-0
Publisher: Love Lane Books (2nd August 2017)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 ½ Hearts
Reviewer: Pixie
Blurb: Trapped in darkness, can an escort find a man to help him into the light?
Gabriel Reyes never gave in. He fought and was hurt, was abused but escaped with his life. He made his way in the world using the one thing he was good at: sex. He earned a place with a man who controls everything but Gabriel is safe; he’s made it.
Cameron Stafford hires Gabriel for a night, needing nothing more than a pretend boyfriend to get his dysfunctional family off his back. With the money he has in the bank and his own hotel, why won’t they just leave him alone? It doesn’t matter that a degenerative disease has stolen his vision, or that his last boyfriend was a bastard who tried to steal from him; for now he has purpose.
When Gabriel and Cam fall for each other, can they find real happiness and, maybe, a forever that will save them both?
A new story set in the world of Jack and Riley Campbell-Hayes and the Double D Ranch, Texas.
Please be aware: emotional and physical abuse are depicted on the page in this book
Purchase Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Review: Cameron is nearly blind and while he can manage his life just fine, his family have a different opinion and are forever plaguing him with their thoughtless comments and trying to manage his life. When he decides he needs a date to his half-brother and half-sister’s engagement party he decides to hire an escort to help him out.
Gabriel accepts the life he has as the best that he can get and thinks that being controlled and beaten is all he can get. With his past still haunting him he can’t accept the help that he’s offered from Legacy Ranch turning his back on it and staying with an abusive, controlling asshole. When he’s approached by a man in a life with an escort offer he begrudgingly accepts and it leads him to finding acceptance and hope for the future.
This story is an amazing addition to the Legacy series. We are introduced to Gabriel who was one of the poor men who were systematically abused at Bar Five Ranch; Gabriel is now living as an escort under the thumb of the thoroughly controlling and nasty Stefan. His situation is much more dire than he leads himself to believe, but you can understand why he’s terrified of rocking the boat.
Cameron is such a lovely character; he’s losing his sight but is determined to live his life his way without interference from his family. When he resorts to hiring Gabriel he discovers a young man who he feels a connection to and he’s determined not to let Gabriel push him away.
Both Gabriel and Cam are excellent characters, we watch as they get to know each other and both become more to each other as their strange relationship progresses. Gabriel opens Cam’s eyes to something going on within his own family and Cam supports Gabriel as Gabriel finally accepts the help he desperately needs.
I really enjoyed this story, we are given a treat as we follow Gabriel and Cam’s story because not only do we get their building love but we also see into some troubles in Cam’s life which adds to the overall story. R.J. Scott has yet again created a wonderful love story that emerges from tragic circumstances. There are some harrowing moments for Gabriel that can cause triggers to readers affected by sexual and physical abuse but those moments are important to the story.
I recommend this to those who love damaged characters who emerge from the ashes to rebuild their lives, who love men who are determined to hold onto love, who love a dash of trouble that is firmly smoothed over, and who love having their hearts filled with love as they read the last pages.
The Millionaire Upstairs by M.J. O'Shea
Title: The Millionaire Upstairs
Series: Dreamspun Desires 01
Author: M.J. O’Shea
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novel (198pgs)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (January 1, 2016)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Blurb: He might be hard to work for, but he’s impossible to resist.
Sasha Sobieski has the perfect job working at legendary American fashion house Harrison Kingsley—or at least he used to. He just never thought he’d have to work for Harrison Kingsley himself. Harrison is exacting, difficult, cold, and hands-down the sexiest man Sasha has ever seen.
After years at the top, Harrison Kingsley knows what he wants, when he wants it, and exactly how he’d like it to be delivered to him. What he wants most right now? His new assistant. Sasha is mouthy, opinionated, and he drives Harrison mad. Problem is, Harrison can never tell if it’s with anger… or desire.
ISBN: 978-1-63476-794-1
Product Link: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Reviewer: Lisa
Review: I was given a chance to not only read this story but to listen to the audio of it. I have to say it is a slow paced romance that will have you wanting to smack the guys before the end of it.
Sasha is a quirky young man who dreams to work for the best. Given a chance at it, he comes to the conclusion that his boss is the best. However after a run in with her brother Harrison, he decides he would rather work for Joanne. Harrison is just an ass, who is actually hiding who he really is. I loved the pull that these two had, but Harrison was a total ass to him through most of it. Degrading, calling him names and just being down right hateful to the man. He was hiding the fact that he was falling in love with Sasha.
Forced to work together brings them closer, only to have Harrison say something horrible once more and wham we go back to the beginning. Joanne’s part in this makes me realize why I don’t care for idiot females in books. She is a manipulative little bitch who is just down right selfish, although she is just trying to get the guys together.
The story didn’t flow right for me and I found that the characters just didn’t stand out to me. Sasha is weak, whereas Harrison had no real meaning in his actions. Mateo was a hit with me though.
I did like the direction the story was heading just not the story itself. I found it to be a bit over used and dull. Even though I didn’t much care for this story I look forward to what other books this author has out.
First Comes Marriage by Shira Anthony ~ Audiobook
Title: First Comes Marriage
Series: Dreamspun Desires 02
Author: Shira Anthony
Genre: Contemporary
Length: 6 Hours and 20 Minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (February 9, 2016)
Narrator: John Solo
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Lisa
Blurb: When struggling novelist Chris Valentine meets Jesse Donovan, he’s interested in a book contract, or possibly a date. The last thing Chris expects is a marriage proposal from New York City’s most eligible bachelor!
Jesse’s in a pinch. To keep control of his company, he has to marry. So he has valid reasons for offering Chris this business deal: in exchange for living in a gorgeous mansion for a year, playing the doting husband, Chris gets all the writing time he wants and walks away with a million-dollar payoff. Surely Chris can handle that. He can handle living with the most handsome and endearing man he’s ever met, a man he immediately knows he wants in the worst way and can’t have. Or can he?
Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK
Review: John Solo has become one of my favorite narrators and I was so glad to have to gotten to hear him tell this story. The way he can give each character a distinctive voice is what makes it even better. I love the way he paces everything and makes the book more enjoyable.
The way that these two meet was quite delicious. Chris is a novelist who has a chance at giving some great stories. He just needs to be given a chance. He is writing on the side as he works as a barista in New York, which let’s just say it, it is one expensive place to be. He knew there was someone in the crowd from the publishing company but he had not expected Jesse.
Jesse is a billionaire who had just lost his father. His father had this quirky idea to see Jesse happy so one of the clauses in his will was for Jesse to marry. Find one that he loves and makes a happy marriage. However Jesse just chooses Chris and decides that is fine. He just had not expected to slowly start falling in love. Now he just needs to convince Chris. The problem is Chris doesn’t want marriage.
Shira has given a completely new look at being Cinderella that is for sure. I enjoyed this story and look forward to seeing what other stories she has out there. She gave us a very believable story with a touch of magic in it. I loved the little twist that was included and I hate to say it I absolutely loved the stepmother. The secrets could have been done different but other than that it rocked. I loved it and would definitely recommend it.
Hidden Gem by Lissa Kasey ~ Audiobook
Title: Hidden Gem
Series: Hidden Gem 01
Author: Lissa Kasey
Genre: Science Fiction
Narrator: Adam McLaughlin
Length: 9 hrs 36 min
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (16th December 2016)
Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Narration: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Blurb: Misaki “Aki” Itou is a psi – a person with mutated DNA granting him psychic abilities. He’s also a contracted companion – a whore. It may not be the perfect profession, but having a roof over his head, food to eat, and not being subjected to torture is a dream come true. He is the top companion at the Hidden Gem, and it makes him enough money to buy the prettiest, most sparkly shoes he can find.
Shane McNaughton is an Irishman who survived the Third World War and works as a cop. As head of Missing Persons, he’s good at finding people, but after the plague mutated his DNA, he has a hard time letting anyone see the monster inside. He’s been paying for Aki’s services for two years, both the psi and the sexual kind, but he wants more from the companion.
Shane needs Aki’s ability to see into another person’s past to track down a serial killer murdering the children of rich and powerful men, but the more they work together, the clearer it becomes that they are linked through a darker past than either of them realizes.
Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK
Reviewer: Gigi
Review: An alternative reality, where society has gone through World War II and the US is divided into North and South, with scientists experimenting on human DNA to create clones, and super soldiers, concentration camps, and many societal horrors are the backdrop for an unusual romance.
Each character is fascinating in a way only sci-fi can make them. Aki feels safe in his home, The Hidden Gem, working as a high end prostitute/companion. Sure beats living on the streets, starving, abused and rejected without much of a glimmer in his memory of his true past. Not only does he now live a plush, protected life, as a companion Aki is limited to oral sex and hand jobs because he can’t touch or be touched without a barrier due to his sci ability. But that’s also something he desperately craves, the companionable touch of a lover, Shane in particular.
There are so many characters, and each one piques my curiosity, especially Paris, but I think that’s a whole new book. Candy is one of my favorites, because each MC needs a bestie. The different characters including the owners of the Hidden Gem, and the investigators, and people from Aki’s past all have so much more to mine…lots of back story and so much possibility. I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface of the support characters.
On top of Aki’s drive to control his mutant abilities, he has to confront and understand his past, so that he no longer needs to live in fear of the future….one he hopes can involve a certain strong, sexy Irish detective.
The narration is really good, sometimes the distinctions feel over the top, but it makes each character very clear and I love that. The sexual content is hot, right up until…..well. I’ll save that surprise. I can’t really tell a lot more about this book without dropping so many spoilers.
If you love a little mystery, action, and science fiction with your MM romance, you’ll love Hidden Gem!
Power Bottom? by Rowan McAllister ~ Audiobook
Title: Power Bottom?
Author: Rowan McAllister
Genre: Contemporary
Narrator: Nick J. Russo
Length: 7 hrs 38 min
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (17th April 2017)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Narration: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Blurb: Can a pickup line from a stranger completely change the way an ordinary man sees himself?
Adrian wouldn’t have thought so, but after an ugly breakup where his self-esteem took a serious beating, he’s willing to try just about anything to repair the damage…even return to a secluded bar in rural Maryland and the intriguing stranger whose words have been on his mind since they met.
Biker, bouncer, bartender, and tattoo artist, Wyatt is a rolling stone. After 15 years, he is tired of a life on the run, but he isn’t sure he knows how to do anything else or if he has anything besides a physical relationship to offer.
What’s supposed to be a one-off turns into another and another, and the relationship looks promising until the mob and the FBI come knocking on Adrian’s door.
Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK
Reviewer: Gigi
Review: A fun ride, a terrible ex, and a man searching for what went wrong. I love that Adrian was willing to take a chance after his whiny ex trampled all over him! A fun read, full of steamy scenes, action and even a bit of mystery. Fun twists and turns throughout!
At first I thought Power Bottom was going to be about kink, but really it’s about soul searching with a bit of comedy and adventure thrown in to the steamy scenes. This story has so much going on you don’t expect the curves and plot twists until they hit and throw you!
Adrian and Wyatt have great chemistry, and their story develops in quirky and interesting ways. I really enjoyed the action scenes, and when you get to it you’ll understand, but the dog lover in me was shouting at my speakers when I thought tragedy struck out one of my favorite furry characters. The somewhat predictable mystery and action combine to keep this story moving swiftly, not a moment of down time which I like.
The narration is great, keeps you on your toes, very distinct character voices, and the steamy scenes are very well done.
A great entertaining read!
A Matchless Man by Ariel Tachna ~ Audiobook
Title: A Matchless Man
Series: Dreamspun Desires 19
Author: Ariel Tachna
Genre: Contemporary
Narrator: John Solo
Length: 5 hrs 22 mins
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (6th October 2016)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Narration: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts
Blurb: Lexington Lovers – None of the matches caught his eye as much as the matchmaker himself.
Growing up poorer than poor didn’t leave Navashen Bhattathiri many options for life outside of school. All of his concentration was on keeping his scholarships. Sixteen years later, he’s fulfilled his dream and become a doctor. Now he’s returning home to Lexington and is ready to prove himself to the world. In doing so, he reconnects with Brent Carpenter – high school classmate, real estate agent, all-around great guy, and closet matchmaker.
Brent makes it his mission to help Navashen develop a social life and meet available, interesting men. Unfortunately Navashen’s schedule is unpredictable, and few of those available, interesting men value his dedication like Brent does. Brent’s unfailing friendship and support convince Navashen he’s the one, but can he capture Brent’s heart when the matchmaker is focused on finding Navashen another man?
Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK
Reviewer: Gigi
Review: Slow and sweet! Filled with moments that stress how very important family, career and friendship is. A Matchless Man takes a nice slow stroll with Navashen through the transition from wrapping up a long medical education to relocating back home to the family and community of his youth to settle into his career, rejoin his family, help his brother bloom, and hopefully start lasting relationship of his own.
There is a lengthy bit about what it’s like to buy a house, and the whole real estate bit gets long even though Navi has his eye on Brent, his realtor, long-time friend, match-maker and crush. Maybe I’m alone in this, but there is nothing sexy about moving and finding a house, it’s actually very stressful, but Brent makes the move as smooth as possible.
There is a significant amount of time spent on family, what it’s like to be the son of immigrant parents, and what it’s like to raise and live with a brother with disabilities. IT’s very heart-warming and sweet, a kind, mellow read.
A long slow burn from realtor, to friend, to matchmaker and finally can romance blossom here???? If a spark does unite can it last? You’ll have to listen and find out!
The narrator does a good job making the story flow smoothly, though he makes Brent sound a lot like a slick salesman…it’s odd.
Changing Tides by Alex Standish Blog Tour, Guest Post & Excerpt!
The Storm Lords by Ravon Silvius
Title: The Storm Lords
Author: Ravon Silvius
Genre: Fantasy
Length: Novel (254 pages)
Publisher: DSP Publications (August 8, 2017)
Heat Level: Low – Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.75 Hearts
Blurb: The heat took everything from Rowen: his parents, his voice when the local cure for heatstroke poisoned him, and the trust of his fellow villagers, who branded him a water thief. It would have claimed his life when he was deemed unworthy of precious resources and left in the sun to die, had not a strange man named Kristoff ridden in on the wind and told Rowen he had power.
Rowen works hard to become a Storm Lord, one of a secret magical group that brings storms to break the heat waves overtaking their world. But Rowen is starting his training at a disadvantage since he cannot speak and is much older than the other novices. The desire to please Kristoff inspires him to persevere even more than the threat of being sent back to his village to die should he fail. Still, he cannot gather rain, and when his abilities manifest, they are unlike anything known to the Storm Lords. Unless Kristoff can help him control his deadly powers, the entire world will be in danger.
Kristoff might be among the mightiest of the Storm Lords, but he’s never been a mentor before. For a chance to be with Rowen, he’s willing to risk everything.
ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-668-9
Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Reviewer: Shorty
Review: Rowen is a sweet man that has had a hard life. The village he lives in a tiny villaged plagued by severe heat spells that kill. One day he is to be sacrificed as a way to end the spell. Kristoff is a Storm Lord with the ability to disperse heat spells. He comes upon Rowan badly burned and on the brink of death. He senses something within the young man and so takes him with him.
I am not even going to pretend that I understood the explanations on certain things pertaining the lords. Though the story was good I felt it was to drawn out. At times I felt as though I was back in school learning.
I hated the way people treated Rowan because he could speak. It seemed people in this story were barbaric to a degree that I did not approve of. I was glad Kristoff stood up for Rowan against those that would do him harm because they felt threatened by what he could do.
It was an o.k. read.
Ummana by Xenia Melzer
Title: Ummana
Series: Gods of War # 3
Author: Xenia Melzer
Genre: Fantasy
Length: Novel (294 pages)
Publisher: DSP Publications (July 4, 2017)
Heat Level: Low – Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.75 Hearts
Blurb: In war, loss is the price of victory, and the cost of love is sometimes pain.
After Renaldo and Casto finally celebrate their marriage, the time has come for revenge against the followers of the Good Mother who tried to kill Casto—though this time, the gods of war won’t use bloodshed to take Medelina.
As a member of the Confederation of the Plains, Medelina answers to Ummana, the head of the alliance… and Casto is heir to the throne of Ummana. Accompanied by their most capable mercenaries, Canubis and Renaldo travel to Ummana to make Casto king.
They’ll face the Council of Elders; Lord Aran, Casto’s father; and Princess Anesha, Casto’s sister—none of whom are happy about the king’s return. For Casto, the city is a reminder of a terrible childhood, and Renaldo can only helplessly watch his beloved fight a seemingly hopeless battle.
Through trickery and political scheming, vengeance against the Good Mother is finally within their grasp—but their success might be bittersweet. Not everyone will return to the Valley with Casto and Renaldo..
ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-362-6
Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Reviewer: Shorty
Review: Book three in the series has a different feel than the previous two books. There is still an interesting cast of characters throughout that add an element as well as political, plots, and some background info. I just could not put my finger on what was different with the overall feel of the story.
I love Casto but would like to see more of other characters as the main MC sometimes. Sic’s past and what he has been through broke my heart. I was happy that the person responsible for his pain finally got his.
Though I enjoyed the series so far I did not care for this one as much. It’s a complex story that had me confused at times with explanations as to certain things. Never the less it’s a good read for the series.
It was an o.k. read.
Roaring Waters by C.J. Baty
Title: Roaring Waters
Series: The Warfield Hotel Mysteries 03
Author: C.J. Baty
Genre: Contemporary, Mystery
Length: Novel (275pgs)
ISBN: B073ZFHBDQ
Publisher: C.J. Baty (24th July 2017)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 ½ Hearts
Reviewer: Pixie
Blurb: Damien Fitzgerald has lived through hell and is determined to never let anyone get close to him again. A fervent reporter, he throws his life into his work and doesn’t care whose toes he steps on. But someone else does. He’s got a stalker, and the messages are growing increasingly threatening. He turns to his best friend, Justin Warfield and his lover, Private Investigator Marcus Drummond. Seems like a good idea until Robert Wyler becomes part of the package.
Robert Wyler, the manager of the bar at the Warfield Inn, has always been misunderstood. Sure he takes care of his body, wears his hair long and likes tatts, but that doesn’t mean he’s domineering. A cold exterior hides the more passionate man inside. Men like Damien Fitzgerald get on his nerves. Too good looking. Too arrogant. But when Justin and Marcus needed his help to guard the man from a stalker, Robert couldn’t say no.
Damien and Robert have a history. Whenever they are near each other sparks fly. Can Damien and Robert get past their prejudices to find the real men hiding underneath. Will they find love before the stalker gets to Damien and their chance at happiness is destroyed forever…
Purchase Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Review: This story is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Damien has a problem, someone seems to be stalking him and he’s not sure who it is. In Damien’s line of work he’s made a lot of enemies and a personal one he daren’t even think of, but as the messages get more threatening he turns to Marcus for help. As Marcus investigates who is after Damien he insists that Damien stay at the Warfield Hotel where Damien meets bar manager Robert a man who Damien can’t help but provoke.
Robert might be big, strong and covered in tattoo’s but he’s not interested in dominating anyone, tired of being mistaken for a Dom he stays clear of relationships but Marcus and Justin’s friend sneaks under his skin, especially when Robert has to talk Damien down from a panic attack. Asked to help keep Damien safe Robert can’t refuse but Damien doesn’t make it easy.
I have to admit to not having read either Drifting Sands or Crashing Waves and while there are mentions of what has happened in previous books it doesn’t have an impact on reading this book as a standalone… although it has made me extra curious about the previous stories which I’ll be reading very soon.
Damien comes across as a bit of a control freak at first until you learn his backstory and then you understand his need to be in control of everything he does. Robert seems to be a gentle man for all his size and strength; he has a heart of gold and will help any of his friends if he can. When these two are together sparks fly with both of them needling the other without them at first recognising their attraction to each other. The relationship between them is a slow progress throughout the story with the danger to Damien taking precedent and damn it’s a dozy of a danger.
This is a great story that has you hooked from the first pages, Damien’s fear jumps out at you from the pages and his bewilderment and then denial of the situation speaks clearly of a man hoping the truth is something very different than what it is. Robert’s patience and understanding is amazing to see, these two guys need each other desperately they just need to get to the same page.
The mystery and danger that stalks Damien is slightly chilling and if you’ve ever had a stalker you’ll know what I mean. C.J. Baty has woven the danger perfectly and while you have a clue as to who is involved it’s a bit of a shock to find out the extent of one person in particular’s involvement. I will give a warning to those who have been victims of domestic violence and abuse that there are some flash backs that may cause distress.
I have to recommend this to those who love mystery and danger, a brilliant storyline, two men finding love during a tense and difficult time and a wonderful happy ending.
Trust With A Chaser by Annabeth Albert
Title: Trust with a Chaser
Series: Rainbow Cove #1
Author: Annabeth Albert
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novel (255 pages)
Publisher: Annabeth Albert (August 1 2017)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Blurb: One hot cop. One bar owner out for redemption. One smoking-hot summer fling destined to leave scorch marks…
Mason Hanks has returned to Rainbow Cove, Oregon with one goal in mind: turn the struggling coastal community into a thriving LGBTQ tourism destination. Step one is transforming an old bar and grill into a gay-friendly eatery. Step two? Don’t piss off Nash Flint, the very hot, very stern chief of police who’s not so sure he’s on board with Mason’s big plans.
Nash Flint just wants to keep his community safe and enjoy the occasional burger in peace. He’s not big on change nor is he a fan of Mason’s troublemaking family, especially his rowdy older brothers. But Mason slowly wins him over with fantastic cooking and the sort of friendship Nash has been starving for.
When their unlikely friendship takes a turn for the sexy, both men try to steer clear of trouble. Nash believes he’s too set in his ways for Mason, and Mason worries that his family’s reputation will ruin any future with Nash. Burning up the sheets in secret is a surefire way to crash and burn, and discovery forces a heart-wrenching decision—is love worth the risk of losing everything?
Trust with a Chaser is a 75,000 word stand-alone gay romance with a May/December theme, a hot law-enforcement hero, opposites attract, plenty of sexy times, and one hard-fought, guaranteed happy ending with no cliffhangers.
ISBN: B073VPJX56
Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Reviewer: Aerin
Review: This new series from Annabeth Albert is going to be great judging by this first book, which I liked A LOT! In fact, if it wasn’t for some little niggling sore spots that bothered me at times, I might’ve loved this book!
Nash Flint, aka ‘Sherriff Sexy’, is the 40 year old town sheriff who followed in his late father’s footsteps to become the lawman in their little town. Everyone respects Nash, but that’s because they don’t know Nash’s closet is deeper than anyone else’s, and he loves hiding his true self in there. Nash is so afraid of discovery that he’s paranoid and constantly on guard about hiding his sexuality. Aside from his two closest friends and his mother, nobody knows the true Nash.
Mason Hanks has returned to his little town of Rainbow Cove and opened a LGBT-friendly eatery with the hopes of making the little town more progressive and turn the community into a coveted LGBT destination. Rainbow Cove is in desperate need of a boost in tourism, but the citizens are not know to be very progressive in thinking, so Mason knows the road ahead is a bumpy one.
I loved Mason so much because he’s such a hardworking man who’s trying to show everyone that being a Hanks does not mean he’s just like his family. The Hanks are trouble and have a long and rich history of getting in trouble with the law, and Mason’s deadbeat brother makes things very complicated for Mason.
I loved the romance and chemistry between Mason and Nash, I thought the age difference was done well, and their relationship was sweet and CUTE! But Nash’s constant paranoia about being found out and his total refusal to come out of the closet was ridiculous. I understand people have reasons to not come out and this whole process is very personal, so I was trying not be too judgy. I think I failed a little bit at the judgy part.
The other thing that bothered me is the stigma that is attached to the Hanks name; I get that Mason’s father and his brothers have done nothing but get in trouble with the law their whole lives, but Mason has NEVER gotten in any trouble at all, so shouldn’t he get the benefit of the doubt? I hated how people refused to see his true potential and didn’t appreciate this hardworking young man just because of his last name. But even old dogs can learn new tricks, so I loved how they all came together at the end to support Mason when he needed it most.
Aside from those two sore points, I liked everything about this book and I’m looking forward to the next one. I can’t wait!
Keeping Him Safe by Elizabeth Coldwell
Title: Keeping Him Safe
Author: Elizabeth Coldwell
Genre: Contemporary
Publisher: Pride Publishing (April 25, 2017)
Length: Short Story (61 Pages)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Blurb: Jon is the man of his dreams, but can he prevent those dreams becoming a nightmare?
Every night, Xander Craig has the same dream. He’s in the shower with a gorgeous stranger, who is shot by a mystery assassin and dies in Xander’s arms. Xander believes this dream is tied to his guilt over failing to prevent the death of his husband, Gary, but his latest assignment as a top-level bodyguard causes him to reassess that belief. He’s charged with looking after wealthy and successful entrepreneur, Jon Kovacs, who’s being stalked by an obsessive, dangerous ex-boyfriend. As soon as Xander sees Jon’s photo, he knows this is the man in his dream.
Xander escorts Jon to a remote safe house on the cliffs, as a police manhunt for Jon’s ex, Cody, takes place. He and Jon start to fall for each other. Xander knows he’s crossing a line, but he can’t help acting on that attraction. While he and Jon are sharing intimate moments, is Xander’s dream about to become violent reality?
ISBN: 978-1-78651-558-2
Product Link: Pride Publishing | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Reviewer: Lisa
Review: Xander has had the same dream for some time. He figured it was from when his husband had died, but there was also the feeling of something else mixed in. He is a bodyguard and loves his work. So when he finds out that the man he is about to protect, is the same man from his dream, well things just got interesting. Now he just needs to make sure the dream never comes true.
Jon has had the worst luck in boyfriends. The last one wants him dead and he needs help real fast. He just hadn’t expected Xander.
This is a short story, but there is so much to it that it doesn’t feel that way. In fact when I looked up the details for this review, I had to double check the page count. I am not a fan of writing reviews for short stories because of the fear that you give something away. However in this case, the blurb gave out more. It is a very straight forward type of story with no real twists and turns to it. It is entertaining as hell, but I can say the ending of the book really sucked. It felt like a cliff-hanger for later, but who knows if there is going to be another book or not.
Other than the ending, I quite enjoyed it and can see myself reading it more than once. I had a lot of fun and would recommend it.
Behind the Mask by Elizabeth Coldwell
Title: Behind The Mask
Author: Elizabeth Coldwell
Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy
Publisher: Pride Publishing (July 18, 2017)
Length: Short Story (36 Pages)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts
Blurb: He keeps his true identity hidden, even from the man he loves…
Twenty years ago, superheroes were outlawed by the mayor of Mokum City. Christopher Chase has grown up knowing that he has all the strength and speed of Sprint, his superhero father, who died attempting to save the mayor’s niece from being kidnapped. But, unlike his father, he is unable to fulfill his destiny and become a masked crimefighter. Even Christopher’s boyfriend, bar owner Johnny Brennan, doesn’t know Christopher’s true identity.
A chance encounter with a purse snatcher in the city cemetery gives Christopher a taste of what it’s like to use his powers for good. And when Johnny becomes caught up in a hostage situation, Christopher can no longer stand by. Even if it means losing his own life, he must pull on the costume of Sprint to save the man he loves.
ISBN: 978-1-78651-587-2
Product Link: Pride Publishing | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Reviewer: Lisa
Review: Christopher father was a super hero that lost his life. Then the mayor decided all superhero’s needed to be outlawed. The problem was Christopher had inherited his father’s abilities. Then the test came when the man he loved was in danger.
This story had a lot of potential that was not used. It is way too short and just gives you a taste of what it could be like. Unanswered questions were all that was left for me. It is an enjoyable story but felt rushed to me. Also I noticed in the blurb that his boyfriends name is Johnny, but in the story it is Jimmy so I am guessing some editorial needs to be done just a bit. Other than my issues with the story, I will admit that it is a fun little read. I can’t see myself reading it more than once though, which is a shame.
I hope this author turns this book into a novel or novella with more to it.
Stone and Shell by Lloyd A. Meeker
Title: Stone and Shell
Author: Lloyd A. Meeker
Genre: Contemporary
Publisher: NineStar Press (November 28, 2016)
Length: Short Story (39 Pages)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Blurb: Eight-year-old Howie Evinger is convinced that his dad would be happier if he found a new husband. Howie would be happier, too. And somewhere out there in the city of Vancouver, there’s the right man for his dad to love. But how to find him? That’s a problem, especially if you’re just a kid and your dad says he doesn’t want another husband.
With the help of his quirky aunt, Shanna, who calls herself a Buddhist Wiccan, Howie builds his very own solstice altar with cool symbols to support his search. It has a candle, a feather, and a twisty stick, plus an agate for his dad, and a scallop shell for his new husband. Share Howie’s solstice adventure as he learns how real magic requires courage and patience as well as symbols.
ISBN: 978-1-945952-21-0
Product Link: NineStar Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon DE
Reviewer: Lisa
Review: Howie wants his father happy. With the help of his aunt, he has set up a little table with some symbols and he makes a big wish. His father needs a new husband, and with Howie making the wish, it just might come true.
This is a very cute little story told in Howie’s voice. It is way too small and just gives you a taste of what it could truly be, but it is still fun to read. It is one of those true love stories with no real action or drama, but then again Howie is only eight years old. He is so freaking cute and made the story even better. I can’t say I would read this more than once but I did have fun with it.