Category: MM Romance Book Review

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.

Royal Symbionts by Jo Tannah

Jo Tannah - Royal Symbionts CoverTitle: Royal Symbionts

Series:  Rise of the Symbionts # 3

Author: Jo Tannah

Genre: Erotic Romance, Science Fiction

Length: Novella (99 pages)

Publisher: eXtasy Books (May 26, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Betrayal threatens Kallen’s nuptials, his coronation, and the very survival of his people.

Things are not going according to Kallen’s plans. After rescuing the symbiont hatching ground from the dead planet of Nigul, Kallen and his Royal Consort, Lando Garr, thought they would finally gain the answers to unlock the mystery of their symbionts, Bobik and Dobik. Instead, they are faced with more questions and not a single answer.

Plans for their coming nuptials and coronation are pushed to the side when two technomage families disappear. What should have been a simple search and rescue mission reveals a betrayal so deep it threatens not only Kallen’s kingdom, but their entire galaxy. With a technomage war looming, it is incumbent upon Kallen, Lando, and their symbionts to defend the people of Oryon and ensure the survival of their kind.

ISBN: 978-1-4874-1263-0

Product Link: eXtasy Books | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Amazon DE

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Kallen and Lando’s plans are put on hold when revelations are made that could be the start of war. A technomage of great power is hellbent on destroying lives and gaining power. The symbionts are still mysterious with one yet to appear.

I absolutely love this series. Mystery, adventure, danger, romance and everything in between. I love the relationship between the symbiont and its host. I hope to learn more about them in the coming books.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Royal Consort by Jo Tannah

Jo Tannah - Royal Consort CoverTitle: Royal Consort

Series:  Rise of the Symbionts # 2 

Author: Jo Tannah

Genre: Erotic Romance, Science Fiction

Length: Novella (85 pages)

Publisher: eXtasy Books (April 28, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Kallen seeks answers to ensure the survival of the symbionts and his world.

Royal Guardian Lando Garr was weakened by his extensive injuries in the service of his prince and faces boredom from a medically enforced bed rest. When the unexpected happens, Lando is forced to act to keep the royal family safe, but at great personal cost.

Prince Kallen proves once more that his symbiotic relationship with the dragon Bobik is not only to his benefit but to his world’s. Faced with a difficult decision, Kallen realizes that he either accepts the inevitable or faces a lifetime without the man he loves by his side.

ISBN: 978-1-4874-1207-4

Product Link: eXtasy Books | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Amazon DE

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Another exciting addition to the series as more explanations are given in regards to the dragon race. Someone attacks the royals. Some characters are lost and Lando is gravely injured. 

The mystery deepens as to who ordered the attack as most evidence is non-existent. Kallen still searches for answers as revelations come to the forefront. I love this series. I am always on the edge of my seat as I read each book. 

I read all three books one after another. It’s a fascinating series filled with danger, deception, romance, action and mystery.

I highly recommend this series.

Royal Guardian by Jo Tannah

Jo Tannah - Royal Guardian CoverTitle: Royal Guardian

Series:  Rise of the Symbionts # 1

Author: Jo Tannah

Genre: Erotic Romance, Science Fiction

Length: Short (76 pages)

Publisher: eXtasy Books (March 31, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Man and dragon seek those who dared harm their prince.

Kallen has been away for two years to further his education. En route to his home planet, Oryon, his starship is attacked by unknown brigands. All fear the death of the heir to the kingdom, as well as those of his accompanying loyal guardians.

With Bobik’s assistance, Lando Garr is the one man who can find and rescue Kallen. Not because he’s bound by duty as a Royal Guardian, but because the prince’s symbiont responds to no other but him. Both will stop at nothing to find Kallen. Losing him would mean Bobik’s death and Lando’s heartache.

ISBN: 978-1-4874-1202-9

Product Link: eXtasy Books | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Amazon DE

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Lando is faced with finding his prince a cure for whatever is slowly killing him. He brings him an egg he found on a dead planet. What happens next blows everyone’s mind when a dragon hatches and merges with the prince healing him.

This story is riveting, amazing, spellbinding and outstanding. I loved this book. I was blown away by how well this story entranced me with its complex explanations as to who the dragons were. The symbionts fascinated me to no end. 

I’m looking forward to learning more about everything.

Highy recommeded.

Divergence by Lyn Gala

Lyn Gala - Divergence CoverTitle: Divergence

Series: Aberrant Magic # 3

Author: Lyn Gala

Genre: Multicultural, Urban Fantasy

Length: Novel (231pgs)

Publisher: Loose ID (August 30, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Kavon and Darren believe they finally have the life they want—a lead on O’Brien, a better understanding of the failures that have plagued the team, and time to nurture the bond between them as shamans and lovers. However they’ve gotten involved in magical politics, and that has consequences that neither of them could foresee. Magic is changing, and Kavon and Darren are in the center of a coming storm. 

In the past, Kavon’s only fear was that he might inadvertently damage Darren, and he is painfully aware that he has hurt his lover before. He’s vowed to never make that mistake again, but new forces threaten their relationship and pose a special threat to Darren. With the danger growing more intense, Kavon struggles to find a way to protect the ones he loves and Darren realizes that the magic that gave him his heart’s desire could take everything away just as quickly. Magic is a two-edged sword and the two lovers have to find a way to wield the weapon before it becomes the instrument of their death.

ISBN: 978-1-68252-209-7

Product Link: Loose Id | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Amazon DE

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Kavon and Darren are adjusting to their new lives as a couple with all that entails. They are not without their struggles as is with all pairs. Amid this is their continuing investigations of cases that are not closed yet. 

There was a lot going on in this story. I liked the explanations regarding the magical world as it gave me a better understanding. Some answers from the first two books are given as well. 

Yet I felt like the book was incomplete at the end. There were still questions left unanswered as well as some new characters thrown into the mix that left me feeling like maybe there will be another book in the future. 

Aside from this it was still a great read with plenty of mystery for all. Great read.

Derivation by Lyn Gala

Lyn Gala - Derivation CoverTitle: Derivation

Series: Aberrant Magic # 2

Author: Lyn Gala

Genre: Multicultural, Fantasy & Paranormal, Urban Fantasy

Length: Novel (224pgs)

Publisher: Loose ID (July 26, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Darren and Kavon have committed to each other, but magical rules are changing and that tests the strength of their bond. The death of a prominent Egyptian shaman and the shadowy remains of O’Brien’s conspiracy to kill adepts and steal their magic also pressure the new couple. Kavon is determined to protect his partner through these storms, but he is also painfully aware of his own tendency to hover. And as Darren is quick to point out, he is an armed federal agent who won’t allow Kavon to keep him off the front lines.

Making the relationship even more difficult, the spirit guides who offered their loyalty have their own hopes and needs. The world is changing, and Darren’s spirit guide pushes them to find the right path to navigate. However, Kavon has never enjoyed being pressured, and he is particularly uncomfortable walking into a situation he doesn’t understand. Worse, the longer he knows Darren and his guide, the more confused Kavon becomes about how magic even works. The two men must pull together or the forces moving in the shadows threaten to destroy them before they have any chance at happiness.

ISBN: 978-1-68252-177-9

Product Link: Loose Id | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Amazon DE

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: While I enjoyed the deepening relationship between Darren and Kavon my main focus was on the spirit guides. I found them fascinating and intriguing.

At times the ifrits seem to turn the story dark with their unique abilities. The change in dynamics for Kavon was amazing. I loved how he tried to understand what was going on and go with the flow. Darren seemed to grow as he grew accustomed to his new powers.

The overall feel of the book was a great story with magical and dramatic elements that made for a nice addition to the series. Looking forward to reading the third book and what happens next.

Great read.

Deductions by Lyn Gala

Lyn Gala - Deductions CoverTitle: Deductions

Series: Aberrant Magic # 1

Author: Lyn Gala

Genre: Multicultural, Fantasy & Paranormal, Urban Fantasy

Length: Novel (225pgs)

Publisher: Loose ID (June 21, 2016)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Darren is proud of his work on the FBI’s magical Talent unit. However, his own lack of magic means he can never be with Supervisory Special Agent and Shaman Kavon Boucher. The shamanic magic poses a real danger to any mundane who gets too close, so Darren tries to hide his attraction and keep a professional relationship at work. That resolve begins to crumble when a new man sets his sights on Kavon and Darren can’t control his resentment.

Now they have a brutal new case of a suspect targeting magical adepts. Darren tries to keep focused on that crime, but when he starts to show signs of his own magic, he hopes that maybe he can not only be a more effective part of the team but also a real partner to Kavon. He might have a second chance at love if only Kavon can learn to trust his new and unpredictable magic that has changed the rules of the magical game. 

ISBN: 978-1-68252-159-5

Product Link: Loose Id | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Amazon DE

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Darren is a mundane with no magical capabilities, until they start manifesting, that serves as a go between for his unit. Kavon, Darrens boss, shoots down Darrens advances because of the shamans ability to drain the life from humans. There is a lot of drama when a new guy is entered into the mix.

I loved all the explanations of the magical sense. Although at times I felt bogged down by it I still felt grateful. It was a magical story about cops, animal spirits and the beginning of a relationship though the relationship aspect really does not go far until the end.

The mystery was intriguing and the investigation in depth. I was enthralled in the case and the way it unfolded. I am looking forward to seeing what else happens in the next book.

Great read.

Rush In The Dark by Lynn Lorenz (2nd Edition)

Lynn Lorenz - Rush in the Dark CoverTitle: Rush in the Dark (2nd edition)

Series:  Common Powers 02

Author: Lynn Lorenz

Genre: Contemporary, Cowboys and Western, Erotic Romance, Paranormal

Length: Novel (189 pages)

Publisher: Pride Publishing (July 11, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.75 Hearts

Blurb: Rush is so deep in the closet he can’t find the door, but meeting Brian might give him the courage to step out of it.

When Brian and Rush meet in a dark alley, sparks fly. The attraction is fast and hard, but Rush is a rancher with a reputation to uphold and Brian is out and open.

Both men have secrets, including the small powers they each have, and a relationship means they might have to share. It would require Rush coming out of his closet and putting his ranch and his friendships with the people around him at risk.

For Brian, it means putting his heart on the line for a man who’s afraid of being himself. He’s been down that road before and Brian won’t go back in the closet, not even for Rush.

Each time they’re together, Rush and Brian set the air around them on fire. As they move closer, both are still holding back, still unsure of each other. One of them will have to take the first step or this thing between them will flounder.

For Rush, it’ll take a huge step and a lot of trust to risk his entire life in the small Texas town of Spring Lake. And once he’s out, there’s no going back.

For Brian, his heart isn’t the only thing at risk. If he keeps seeing Rush, he knows he might just lose his life.

Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes of murder and references to rape, abuse, stalking and murder.  

Publisher’s Note: This book has previously been released elsewhere. It has been revised and re-edited for re-release with Pride Publishing.

ISBN: 978-1-78651-584-1

Product Link: Pride Publishing | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Amazon DE

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Brian is a Pi and while on a stake out meets sexy Rush in alley. Instant sparks fly. There are repeated phone sex conversations which I did not care for. Rush is in the closet and it shows throughout the book. If he was that worried why did he not just stay in it. 

I felt sorry for Brian having feelings for someone who was not sure yet whether or not he could be with another man out in the open. I say tell him when you make up your mind call me then. 

While I expected this book to be better than the first it was not in my opinion. Sammi and Mitchell are in it and I liked that Brian was determined to figure out who Sammi is. I also got really irritated with all the sex scenes and the back and forth of one character making repeated mistakes and the other forgiving him. Seriously? I would have said enough was enough.

It was an o.k. read.

Smitty's Sheriff by Cardeno C.

Cardeno C. - Smitty's Sheriff CoverTitle: Smitty’s Sherriff

Series: Hope #3

Author:  Cardeno C.

Genre: Contemporary, May-December

Length: Novella (33K words)

Publisher: The Romance Authors LLC (17 July 2017)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: Todd is too flakey. Richard is too stubborn. Together, they’re perfect. A May-December couple get a second chance at love. 

Retired soldier Richard Davis wants a stable life in a quiet town with a forever man. Becoming the sheriff of Hope, Arizona, accomplishes two of his three goals, but instead of finding a serious partner, he falls for too-young-to-be-committed and too-flakey-to-be-serious Todd Smitty. Richard won’t find the right man if he’s obsessed with the wrong one, so he walks away from Todd. 

It’s lust at first sight when Todd meets his sister’s army friend. He sets his sights on the worldly, strong, stable older man, and the more time he spends with Richard, the harder he falls. But after three years together, Richard cuts off all contact with no explanation. 

When a mutual obligation requires Todd to move into Richard’s house, he’s thrilled at the opportunity to earn a second chance. Ignoring Todd from across town was hard enough. Can Richard resist temptation under his own roof?

ASIN: B073W51Q8Y

Product Link: Cardeno C. | Amazon UK | Amazon US

Reviewer:  Prime

Review: Cardeno C’s Hope series is for those of us who don’t mind reading a sweet May-December romance. I’ve read Cardeno C in the past, but is still one of those authors I judge by the books as they come. However, in saying that, I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed the previous books in the Hope Series. Although I have read the series out of order, I recommend reading the series in its proper order to get a full feel on the characters. Between each book we get to meet our upcoming heroes as well as catch up with our old friends. Being that I actually read the third book last, it was nice that everything fell into place nicely.

The story is about Todd Smitty and Sheriff Richard Davis, who also happens to be a retired soldier. For three years Todd and Richard had a secret relationship. Richard thought that Todd was just there for fun, which was why he didn’t want their relationship revealed. But when Todd’s sister, also Richard’s best friend, needs their help, the two are thrown back together and they need to do something they had not done before: communicate.

OK, so two things. 1) This is one of those books that seem to be based around the fact the guys didn’t communicate the first time around. It’s now up to them to get it right the second time. This kind of trope usually pisses me off, but I have to admit that I kinda just went with the flow for this book. 2) There is an element of BDSM in their relationship, I personally liked it and suited them very well. The only thing is that I thought that others, who may not like BDSM (the Dom is too controlling) or were not expecting it, may be turned from the book.