Covet Thy Neighbor by L.A. Witt (2nd Edition)

Title: Covet Thy Neighbor

Series: Tucker Springs 04

Author: L.A. Witt

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (185 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (3rd March 2019)

ISBN: 978-1-64080-905-5

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Welcome to Tucker Springs, Colorado, where sparks fly when opposites attract—but are some obstacles too great to overcome?

When tattoo artist Seth Wheeler meets his new neighbor, it’s like a revelation. Darren Romero is everything Seth wants in a man: hot, clever, single, and interested. For a minute he seems perfect. Then Darren drops the bomb: he moved to Tucker Springs to be a pastor at the New Light Church.

As a gay man whose parents threw him out, Seth has a strict policy of keeping believers at arm’s length for self-preservation. But Darren’s perseverance and the chemistry bubbling between them steadily wear down his defenses.

In a small town like Tucker Springs, Seth can’t avoid Darren—or how much he wants him. Which means he needs to decide what’s more important: protecting himself, or his feelings for his neighbor.

Product Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Tams

Review: LA Witt is an author whose work I will grab regardless. I have yet to read a book by this author that I did not like. Witt has a keen eye for details and possess the ability to transform the reader directly into her world. Likeable characters, realistic situations and some of the steamiest sex scenes I’ve ever read!

For those of you that read book 1 in this series, Where Nerves End, you will immediately recognize Seth. The openly gay, laid back tattoo artist hasn’t always had an easy life. Shunned by his fanatical family when he came out to them in college, he had to learn to make his own way in life quickly, when all communication and funding for college were abruptly cut off. He has a good life now with a good job, an apartment and a fantastic close-knit group of friends.

When sex on a stick Darren moves into the apartment across the hall, the animalistic attraction between the two is instantaneous. Darren wastes no time getting Seth into his bed. When Seth learns that Darren is minister, he immediately withdraws from him. The pain of his past hasn’t faded and he subconsciously groups Darren in the same class with his family. But, he can’t stop thinking about the minister with his dark hair and eyes and a dry, witty sense of humor that makes Seth laugh.

Seth tries very hard not to want Darren, but the fact that the two of them can’t be around each other for very long without ending up in bed doesn’t help his flimsy resistance. Unlike Seth, Darren knows exactly what he wants and what he wants is Seth. When Darren approaches the subject of taking their relationship beyond just the bedroom, Seth’s self preservation mode kicks in. Will the harsh words he says create a rift between the pair that can’t be undone? Or will Darren forgive the man he’s fallen in love with, the man that’s also fallen in love with him, but won’t admit it, not even to himself.

The story flows effortlessly and before I knew it I was at the end. The characters are both flawed and carry some pretty serious baggage, but this only makes them more believable and likeable in the end. The sex is sensual, steamy and well conveyed by the author. This is a must read for any M/M fans.

Coaches Challenge by Avon Gale ~ Audio Review

Title: Coach’s Challenge

Series: Scoring Chances 05

Author: Avon Gale

Narrator: Scott R Smith

Genre: Contemporary, Sports

Length: 6 hrs, 50 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: It’s been decades since blackmail forced Troy Callahan to retire from playing professional hockey, and he’s built a successful career behind the bench. When he’s offered the opportuni-ty to coach the Asheville Ravens—the most hated team in the ECHL—he’s convinced that his no-nonsense attitude is just what the team needs to put their focus back on hockey. But Troy is disheartened when he finds that the Ravens have signed Shane North, a player known for his aggression. And it only gets worse when Shane’s rough good looks give Troy inappro-priate thoughts about a member of his team, even if Shane’s set to retire at the end of the sea-son.

Shane’s career in the majors never quite took off. Wanting to quit on his own terms, Shane agrees to a one-year contract with the Ravens and finds himself playing for a coach who thinks he’s an aging goon and with a team that doesn’t trust him, the coach, or each other. Despite his determination to not get involved, Shane unwillingly becomes part of the team… and is just as unwillingly drawn to the gruff out-and-proud coach. As the Ravens struggle to build a new identity, Shane and Troy succumb to the passion that might cost them everything.

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

Review: Coach’s Challenge is the fifth book in Avon Gale’s Scoring Chances series. Not to be mixed up with, which is what I did, with VL Locey’s book of the same name from one of her excellent hockey romance series.

For me it’s been a couple years since I’ve read the Scoring Chances series, but I remember absolutely loving it and had been more than happy devouring them all at the time. This is a series that I recommend reading in order, even for those that just need to refresh what happened in the previous books of the series. This book is something that irons out a lot of the hurts of the previous books, as the team that had caused so much heartache undergo a change and become more tolerant and open under the support of a new coach. This is the story of the Raven’s redemption and you also really need to understand the hate and heartache directed at other teams that made the Asheville Raven’s the ECHL’s most hated team.

The MCs of this story are Troy Callahan and Shane North.

Troy Callahan is the coach. He didn’t have an easy time in his professional playing career (I won’t spoil anything!) but over the years has proved himself to be a damn good coach. Now, after replacing the unethical and all around horrible coach of the Asheville Ravens, it is his job to build the team up. (Think the Mighty Ducks if they had been made up of mostly brutish, homophobic a-holes). He has a plan for the team and the last thing the team needs is a player known for being aggressive.

Shane North has something to prove. He’s coming towards the end of his playing and feels like he needs to prove himself as a hockey player after a lackluster career in the majors. Shane is a lot different to what people assume of him, especially when they see him on the hockey rink. It’s really pleasing to see him open himself up to Troy.

Fans of the books will not be disappointed I think. It gives the Ravens a new lease on life after being totally vilified for four books. Sports romance fans will love this series too.

The narration by Scott R Smith is really quite wonderful. I would assume that it is difficult to capture the romance in between all the testosterone filled hockey plays, as well as dealing with the fall out as the Ravens seek their redemption. Smith gives the characters distinct voices and conveys their emotions, both on the rink and off. Listening to the audio has definitely enhanced my enjoyment of this book.

Bad Attitude by K.A. Mitchell ~ Audio Review

Title: Bad Attitude

Series: Bad in Baltimore 03

Author: K.A. Mitchell

Narrator: Chet Daniel

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hours, 37 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (21st December 2018)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Saving lives never used to be this complicated.

Gavin Montgomery does what’s expected of him by his wealthy and powerful family – look good in a tuxedo and don’t make waves. When a friend takes a leap off a bridge, Gavin tries to save him, only to fall in with him. At least at the bottom of the river he won’t feel like such a disap-pointment to his family. But he’s pulled from the water by a man with an iron grip, a sexy mouth, and a chip on his shoulder the size of the national deficit.

Jamie Donnigan likes his life the way it is – though he could have done without losing his father and giving up smoking. But at least he’s managed to avoid his own ball and chain as he’s watched all his friends pair off. When Montgomery fame turns a simple rescue into a media cir-cus, Jamie decides if he’s being punished for his good deed, he might as well treat himself to a hot and sweaty good time. It’s not like the elegant and charming Gavin is going to lure Jamie away from his bachelor lifestyle. Nobody’s that charming. Not even a Montgomery….

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

Review: Bad Attitude is the third book in KA Mitchell’s series Bad in Baltimore. This is only my third experience with both the author and the audio narrator, after recently listening to the audio of books one and two. Although there is reference to characters from the previous two books, this one will still work as a standalone book as there are not overarching plotlines.

I’ll start with the narration. And I really am repeating myself because the narration by Chet Daniel has been impressive and consistent throughout the series. He is a narrator that I will look forward to hearing more from in the future. I found myself easily getting lost in the narration and the characters and the voices given to the characters. Also, much like the first two books, the narration was easily the highlight of the book.

Alright, so comments on the story. Overall, I have to say that much like book two I enjoyed this third book quite a bit. Although both stories are very different and I cannot say which is better than the other. Once more, I found the MCs very likable in this story and of the three couples in this series, were the most relatable. Like the previous books, I will repeat myself in saying that the only thing that stopped me from enjoying this story to the maximum is the amount of sex scenes. I felt that there are a lot of drawn out sex scenes that tended to take away from the plot and slow things down quite a bit. But if you like the sex scenes, more power to you and you’ll probably find a lot of enjoyment in this book.

The story is about Jamie Donnigan and Gavin Montgomery. Jamie is an aquatic rescuer on the police force and the report of someone jumping off one of the city bridges has him meeting Gavin. Gavin is a rich boy and embodies all the stereotypes, although we quickly find out that he has hidden depths. Gavin has a horrible family who think he has jumped, and they don’t want the family name besmirched. The reality was that he jumped to save his friend who voluntarily went off the bridge on a madcap scheme. Gavin is actually a pretty good swimmer and is not just a rich party boy, he knows how to survive and that was why he was confident enough (sort of) to go after his friend instead of waiting for help. The case brings Jamie and Gavin together and the two men quickly give into the physical desire that sparks between them.

I recommend this book to people that like 1) lots of sex, and, 2) two guys who are complete opposites in social standings find out that they have a lot in common.

Tea and Consequences by K.C. Burn ~ Audio Review

Title: Tea or Consequences

Author: K.C. Burn

Narrator: Darcy Stark

Genre: Contemporary, Mystery, Suspense

Length: 7 hrs, 24 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (19th December 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Riley Parker: temp, twink, geek… sleuth?

Maybe Riley isn’t living up to his full potential, but being a temp executive assistant suits him. He’s never bored at work, he’s got friends who let him geek out, and he’s got a carefully crafted twink exterior… which might be getting constrictive now that he’s on the other side of 30. Life isn’t perfect, but it’s comfortable.

It all unravels when he takes a job working for a tea-obsessed cosmetics queen, the owner of Gautier Cosmetics. During the launch party for a new product, Riley finds his boss dead under suspicious circumstances, and the homicide detective is none other than Tadeo Martin, Riley’s high school obsession who never knew he was alive.

Tad drafts Riley to get the scoop on the inner workings of Gautier, and for Riley, it’s like a drug. His natural inquisitiveness is rewarded with more and more Tad. Unfortunately, his snooping puts him in the running for two other roles: suspect and victim. The killer doesn’t care which.

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

Review: Tea or Consequences is a mystery/suspense/romance by KC Burn. Burn is not a new author to me and although no on my list of automatic reads, I nonetheless am usually excited to give a new book by the author once I decide that I like the look of the blurb. I think it’s Burn’s way of writing feels so accessible to the read and flows easily, add on top of that generally relatable characters I’ve read in Burn’s books so far, it usually a pretty pleasing experience.

Darcy Stark is a relatively new narrator for me, the only other book I’ve heard him narrate is another KC Burn gem. I found his narration quite enjoyable. He makes the romance both cute and hot, but also has a great voice lending to the mystery and suspense aspect of the story. I especially loved the voice that he gave Riley.

In the book, Riley works as a temp PA for company executives, he enjoys the changes in work place as he takes on the job from PA’s that go on maternity leave, annual leave, etc. He knows that this isn’t the life for everyone, and he also knows that he is capable of doing a lot more, but for now he is happy in his current career choice and has worked hard to develop a reputation that many professionals would envy. Everything changes when he finds the boss of Gautier Cosmetics, his current assignment, dead in her office on the night of one of the most important party’s of the year. Think of The Devil Wear Prada but with a touch of a tea totalling, French Lady.

With the police and investigators investigating the suspicious death comes Tadeo Martin. He’s the homicide detective in charge the investigation and also the man that Riley had crushed over in high school. Back then it was the usual case of nerd crushing on jock and the jock not seeing the guy. And although Riley recognises the detective, he says nothing. Instead he is more than happy to jump on the band wagon and do a bit of poking around himself for Tadeo. The romance is sweet and happens quite naturally, however, the major part of this story is instead the investigation. I really liked how Burn seamlessly intertwined the romance into the ongoing mystery, without sacrificing the feel of danger as the guys close in on the murder.

This is good for someone who loves a murder mystery, it has an opulent setting and two ordinary guys caught in the middle. Awesome book in all and the narration just enhanced my enjoyment of the text.

Dog Days by T.A. Moore ~ Audio Review

Title: Dog Days

Series: Winter Wolf 01

Author: T.A. Moore

Narrator: Derrick McClain

Genre: Paranormal, Shape shifters, Post-Apocalypse Future

Length: 7 hrs, 34 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (9th February 2018)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: The world ends not with a bang, but with a downpour. Tornadoes spin through the heart of London, New York cooks in a heat wave that melts tarmac, and Russia freezes under an ever-thickening layer of permafrost. People rally at first—organizing aid drops and evacuating populations—but the weather is only getting worse.

In Durham, mild-mannered academic Danny Fennick has battened down to sit out the storm. He grew up in the Scottish Highlands, so he’s seen harsh winters before. Besides, he has an advantage. He’s a werewolf. Or, to be precise, a weredog. Less impressive, but still useful.

Except the other werewolves don’t believe this is any ordinary winter, and they’re coming down over the Wall to mark their new territory. Including Danny’s ex, Jack—the Crown Prince Pup of the Numitor’s pack—and the prince’s brother, who wants to kill him.
A wolf winter isn’t white. It’s red as blood.

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

Review: Dog Days is a paranormal, shape shifter book set in a dystopian post-apocalyptic future by TA Moore. Sounds like a mouthful, right?

So, I feel like I’ve had my own Mandela moment (bringing the conspiracy theories, I know probably not cool). I say this because I was absolutely convinced that I’ve read TA Moore before and even had another audio. but no, I haven’t. I see no trace of book, audio or even a review I’ve written for TA Moore. Therefore, I went into this one blind and with mixed feelings. This is because I find post-apocalyptic books hit and miss and my enjoyment very much depends on my mood, especially when it isn’t a rose-tinted end of humanity trope. The very nature of the genre also means that romance usually takes a back seat to the crazy shit happening as the world goes to hell. Fair warning, this is for people that like their dystopian futures and the characters dark, unsafe and gritty where survival instincts reign if you hope to survive the day. If you’re looking for something that is primarily romance, this probably isn’t your thing.

Moore has created an intricate world. The start is kind of like The Day After Tomorrow. When storms take over the world and so many millions die, especially the humans because the conditions are hostile and no amount of technology can prepare the populations for this scale of disaster. Danny Fennick, who lives and teaches in Durham, England, is a weredog and decides to go back to the Scottish Highlands where he had grown up as he prepares to live out the storm. However, being a dog when werewolves want to take over is just as dangerous and deadly to him as the storm that killing so many.

Jack, who happens to be Danny’s ex, is the crown prince of his pack. The biggest problem is that his own brother wants him dead and he has been banished from his pack for being gay. Jack is tough and rough, he has to be to not only survive the oncoming wolf winter, but to also survive being banished in this weather. Jack needs to be prepared to do anything to survive because that is what world requires for him.

This is a complex story where the characters come to life in this dark world, they are extremely well fleshed out making it much easier for me to understand their motivations and harshness of the world that they live in. Danny is the most relatable character, he is like the connection to humanity and he is reader’s bridge to understand Jack’s raw instinctive nature.

Derrick McClain did an awesome job of narrating this story. I love his narration and Dog Days is no exception. In the other audio I have narrated by him my collection is four contemporary romances, one light hearted shape shifter romance and this one. I hadn’t known what to expect, especially from a story that is very much in an English setting, but it was amazing. I really loved how he was able to do distinct voices for characters, especially with accents. He also managed to convey the emotions so well.

Bad Boyfriend by KA Mitchell ~ Audio Review

Title: Bad Boyfriend

Series: Bad in Baltimore 02

Author: K.A. Mitchell

Narrator: Chet Daniel

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hours, 34 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (3rd July 2018)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Causing trouble has never been more fun.

Eli Wright doesn’t follow anyone’s rules. When he was 17, his parents threw him out of the house for being gay. He’s been making his own way for the past five years and he’s not about to change himself for anyone’s expectations. For now, romance can wait. There are plenty of hot guys to keep him entertained until he finds someone special.

Quinn Maloney kept the peace and his closeted boyfriend’s secrets for 10 years. One morning he got a hell of a wake-up along with his coffee. Not only did the boyfriend cheat on him, but he’s marrying the girl he knocked up. Inviting Quinn to the baby’s baptism is the last straw. Quinn’s had enough of gritting his teeth to play nice. His former boyfriend is in for a rude awak-ening, because Quinn’s not going to sit quietly on the sidelines. In fact, he has the perfect scheme, and he just needs to convince the much younger, eyeliner-wearing guy who winks at him in a bar to help him out.

Eli’s deception is a little too good, and soon he has everyone believing they’re madly in love. In fact, he’s almost got Quinn believing it himself….

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

Review: Bad Boyfriend is the second book in KA Mitchell’s series Bad in Baltimore. This is only my second experience with both the author and the audio narrator, after recently listening to the audio of book one. Although this is the second book in the series I do not think that it is vital to read the previous book and works well as a standalone novel.

So firstly, the narration. Much like book one I was left very impressed by the narration by Chet Daniel. He is certainly a narrator that I will look forward to hearing more from. I found myself easily getting lost in the narration and the characters and the voices given to the characters. Also, much like book one, the narration was easily the highlight of the book.

I must admit, that I enjoyed this second book better than the first book. I think that the MCs were much more likable in this story and their outlandish scheme was much easier to swallow. The main thing that I didn’t gel with in this book was the amount of sex scenes. I felt that there were a number of random sex scenes that didn’t really help to bring the plot forward, when really in some instances a few paragraphs of conversation would have sufficed. But if you like the sex scenes, more power to you and you’ll probably find a lot more enjoyment in this book.

The story starts with Eli, who is a photographer for Nate from book one. Eli Wright has never been one to follow rules and he isn’t shy to be himself. He knows that there is nothing worth him not ever being his true self. He eventually wants love but for now he isn’t on the look out for Mr Right.

Quinn Maloney is quite the opposite. He lived in the closet for ten years to absolutely everyone, despite being best friends with his ex’s family. His ex was too scared of being himself. Quinn’s world is shattered when he is not only dumped, but he finds out that his cheating ex has got a woman pregnant and “is doing the right thing and marrying her”. That sucks, but what is more fucked up is how his ex manipulates Quinn and keeps him captive despite not being together any more. So when he is invited to be godfather to the ex’s kid, he proposes his hook-up, Eli, to join him and pretend to be his boyfriend. Not only that, Quinn wants Eli to go all out with his act. Eli figures that will be fun but goes in blind without a lot of the facts. This is the start of a roller coaster that ignites the spark of attraction between the guys.

I am aware that I am using the word outlandish a lot to explain the scenario concocted by the MCs in this story, but it the best I got at the moment. Quinn has a really strange and twisted relationship with his ex, while he considers the ex’s family to be his closest friends and allies. I understand that bit, I’ve seen in real life a couple instances where despite the couple separating they are still friends with the full disclosure of everyone else/new spouses. Strangely enough it works. In this case it was the whole thing of Quinn being dragged into the wedding party and being the godfather to his ex’s kid. That was just weird, but I went with it mostly because I really liked both Eli and Quinn and thought that they were well matched.

I recommend this book to people that like 1) lots of sex, and, 2) two guys pretending to be in love because they’ve concocted an outlandish scenario.

Love Conventions by Morgan James Guest Post & Excerpt!

Hi guys! We have Morgan James stopping by today with her upcoming release Love Conventions, we have a brilliant guest post fro Morgan and a great excerpt, so check out the post and enjoy! ❤ ~Pixie~

Love Conventions

(Dreamspun Desires 81)

Morgan James

A happy ending worthy of a TV fantasy… in real life?

Ashland Wells is an actor of sci-fi cult fame but with little direction for the future, when handsome grad student Remy Beaumont lands in his lap at a fan convention. Remy is everything Ash ever wanted and wished he could be—including out and proud. For twelve hours they’re the best of friends. But the convention ends, and saying goodbye to Remy might be the biggest mistake Ash has ever made.

A few months later, they’re reunited on a new production—Ash as an actor, Remy a writer—and though Ash doesn’t plan to let him go twice, being with Remy means going public about being gay. He’s not sure that’s a risk he—or his career—can handle, no matter how great the temptation.

If only they could write themselves the romantic happily ever after they both need.

Release date: 7th May 2019
Pre-order:
.•.•.**❣️ Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK❣️**.•.•.

Continue reading “Love Conventions by Morgan James Guest Post & Excerpt!” →

Bad Company by K.A. Mitchell ~ Audio Review

Title: Bad Company

Series: Bad in Baltimore 01

Author: K.A. Mitchell

Narrator: Chet Daniel

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hours, 50 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (9th April 2018)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Some things are sweeter than revenge.

“I need a boyfriend.”

Hearing those words from his very straight, very ex-best friend doesn’t put Nate in a helpful mood. Not only did Kellan Brooks’s father destroy Nate’s family in his quest for power, but Kel-lan broke Nate’s heart back in high school. Nate thought he could trust his best friend with the revelation that he might be gay, only to find out he was horribly wrong and become the laugh-ingstock of the whole school. Kellan must be truly desperate if he’s turning to Nate now.

Kellan’s through letting his father run his life, and he wants to make the man pay for cutting him off. What better way to stick it to the bigot than to come out as gay himself—especially with the son of the very man his father crushed on his quest for money and power. Kellan can’t blame Nate for wanting nothing to do with him, though. Kellan will have to convince him to play along, but it’s even harder to convince himself that the heat between them is only an act….

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

Review: Bad Company is the first book in KA Mitchell’s series Bad in Baltimore. I’ve not read anything in the past by Mitchell but I was nonetheless intrigued reading the blurb and I was happy to become invested in a new series. For that matter, Chet Daniels as the narrator of the audiobook was also a new experience for me, so I really went into this one blind.

So firstly, the narration. I was quite impressed by the narration. I found myself easily getting lost in the narration and the characters and the voices given to the characters. For me the narration was easily the highlight of the book. Daniels’ voice was entertaining and quite honestly kept me going because I have a suspicion that if I were to read this story it would be a reluctant finish at best, or a did not finish at worst.

I’m going to explain those comments before I go into discussing the story. Basically, there are a lot of sex scenes in this book that go on for long chapters. If that’s you’re thing, this is probably going to be one hot read. However, for me, it’s not really my thing, so while I enjoyed the story for the most part the sex scenes popping up (especially at points where I wanted the plot to move forward) were annoying at times.

As for the story itself, we follow the romance between Kellan and Nate. Kellan and Nate were best friends once upon a time when they were kids, but Kellan’s uber rich father destroyed Nate’s father’s livelihood and stole his idea/patent, which was compounded by the fact that Kellan never stood up for Nate in high school when he was bullied for being gay.

Now that they are adults, Kellan is a rich boy and more than a tad arrogant and selfish. His father is an arsehole and the two butt heads, ending in Kellan with no money, no car and no place to live. He is homeless. All Kellan wants is revenge on his father, who also does not approve of Kellan being gay. So Kellan throws himself at the mercy of his ex-best friend, who is now a successful newspaper editor and the two concoct a plan that will allow Nate to do an expose on Kellan’s father, and Kellan can get his revenge on his father.

I had trouble with the storyline, because it was hard to suspend my disbelief to believe that this hare-brained scheme would work in any world. Kellan was also a difficult character to warm up to, and in some respects so was Nate. They’re both contrary sort of blokes but they did have a chemistry that made their romance work. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the audio enough that I am willing to go on and give the rest of the series a go. It’s not uncommon that a narrator will allow me to enjoy a book that I normally wouldn’t be able to finish if I read it.

I recommend this book to people that like 1) lots of sex, and, 2) friends-to-enemies-to-lovers type scenario (which was honestly the draw for me).

A Home for the Holidays by Joe Cosentino ~ Audio Review

Title: A Home for the Holidays

Series: Bobby and Paolo’s Holiday Stories 01

Author: Joe Cosentino

Narrator: Joel Leslie

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 1 hr, 45 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (18th November 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Bobby McGrath’s Christmas trip to the beautiful Italian island of Capri to meet his eccentric extended family offers stunning views – none more stunning than his third cousin, Paolo Mascobello, a real stocking stuffer. As the two young men embark on a relationship, Bobby, a driven law student, learns to relax and bask under the Italian moon, and Paolo realizes there’s more to life than a frolic on the beach. For the two to find everlasting amore, Paulo must overcome his fear of commitment and learn to follow his dreams, and Bobby must get his wish for happily ever after.

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

Review: A Home for the Holidays is a short story by Joe Cosentino. While I love Joel Leslie and despite what I think of the book itself, I can’t really fault his narration. Meanwhile, Joe Cosentino is a new author for me. The audio is under two hours, so if you got a commute and want a story that you don’t really need to pay attention, this will probably work for you. For me, I started thinking about it too much and got annoyed. It wouldn’t have been so bad if I hadn’t started thinking too hard on the story.

The story is about Bobby McGrath, who is sent over to Italy for his Christmas present to spend the holidays with his mother’s Italian family. That’s where he meets his third cousin and immediately falls into lust. Paolo Mascobello, the hot Italian third cousin, shows interest but he is purposely holding himself back (but not because they are related). Paolo lives with the expectations of his well-off family and so his dreams are stifled until Bobby convinces him that perhaps it’s okay to dream.

I think some people would be bothered by the whole third cousin thing, but since the guys never met before this holiday, it doesn’t bother me so much. For me I was mostly put off by the bad Italian stereotypes, being that I got my crazy Italian family on my mother’s side I found some of it cringeworthy. The only other thing that annoyed me was how much Paolo brooded without communicating – it got on my nerves. However, one thing that the story has going for it is that the story is fast paced and I liked how Bobby carried himself and developed through the story. Being so short there isn’t a lot of room to move, so I think all good stuff was given to Bobby and that made him a sweet and relatable character.

Devouring Flame by E.J. Russell

Title: Devouring Flame

Series: Dreamspun Beyond 35 / Enchanted Occasions 02

Author: E.J. Russell

Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy

Length: Novel (220 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64080-873-7

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (8 Jan 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Reunited and reignited.

While cutting through the Interstices—the post-creation gap between realms—Smith, half-demon tech specialist for Enchanted Occasions Event Planning, spies the person he yearns for daily but dreads seeing again: the ifrit, Hashim of the Windrider clan.

On their one literally smoldering night together, Smith, stupidly besotted, revealed his true name—a demon’s greatest vulnerability. When Hashim didn’t return the favor, then split the next morning with no word? Message received, loud and clear: Thanks but no, thanks.

Although Hashim had burned to return Smith’s trust, it was impossible. The wizard who conjured him holds his true name in secret, and unless Hashim discovers it, he’ll never be free.

When their attraction sparks once more, the two unite to search for Hashim’s hidden name—which would be a hell of a lot easier if they didn’t have to contend with a convention full of food-crazed vampires on the one day out of the century they can consume something other than blood.

But if they fail, Hashim will be doomed to eternal slavery, and their reignited love will collapse in the ashes.

Luckily Smith is the guy who gets shit done. And Hashim is never afraid to heat things up.

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Devouring Flame is the second book in EJ Russell’s Enchanted Occasions series, which is also apart of the Dreamspun Beyond line. This works as a standalone book, as there is only a passing mention of one of the MCs from the previous book, but no mention of anything that had happened in Nudging Fate (Enchanted Occasions book 1).

Smith is half-demon, half-human (something that echoes from the first book with Anders). He is an event planner for Enchanted Occasions and while slipping between realms in Vegas (because of course the Sin City is basically the Hellmouth) he encounters the one being that he had dreamed of his happily ever after with. Hashim is an ifrit and despite knowing that Smith is the other half of his soul, he can’t give himself to the man that he felt such a strong connection to because he is a slave for a master that keeps Hashim’s true name from him. The catch is for demons, to be able to mate and bind their lives together, they need to exchange true names. While Smith is heartbroken because he has done so for Hashim, he does not realise the trouble that Hashim is in, and the evil wizard that is holding so many paranormals in their own personal hell.

Somehow, these guys have to conquer evil, find Hashim’s real name and somehow also work one of the major events of the century, where vampires hold a convention on the one day that they can consume real food. It’s a melting pot of drama, but Hashim will do anything to have Smith’s trust back, and Smith will do anything to help the man who holds his heart.

This is a good book for those that like a story where two people overcome a misunderstanding to finally find love again, because at the heart of it, that is the main theme of this book. It was fun and I found myself quickly invested in the lives of Smith and Hashim. The other workers of Enchanted Occasions are also quirky and I am hoping that we get to see some of those guys have their own HEA. I would also love to know more of the story of the cute minotaur Rion.

Familiar Demon by Amy lane

Title: Familiar Demon

Series: Familiar Love 02

Author: Amy Lane

Genre: Angels and Demons, Urban Fantasy, Werewolves, Shapeshifters

Length: Novel (241pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (February 12, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: For over a century, Edward Youngblood has been the logical one in a family of temperamental magical beings. But reason has not made him immune to passion, and Edward’s passion for Mullins, the family’s demon instructor, has only grown.

Mullins was lured into hell through desperation—and a fatal mistake. He’s done his best to hang onto his soul in the twisted realm of the underworld, and serving the Youngblood family when summoned has been his only joy. Edward concocts a plan to spring Mullins by collecting a series of items to perform an ancient ritual—an idea that terrifies Mullins. He can’t bear the thought of losing Edward and his brothers to a dangerous quest.

But every item in their collection is an adventure in brotherhood and magic, and as Mullins watches from the sidelines, he becomes more and more hopeful that they will succeed. When the time comes for Mullins to join the mission, can he find enough faith and hope to redeem himself and allow himself happiness in the arms of a man who would literally go to hell and back—and beyond—to have Mullins by his side?

ISBN-13: 978-1-64405-186-3

Product Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I loved this story about Mullins and Edward. The hunt for the items needed to set Mullins free was an adventure for me. I was rooting for Edward and Mullins even though Mullins had his doubts.

The different characters throughout added a colorful addition to the story as it progressed. Thoughts and feelings from the men gave the reader a deeper understanding of who they are. Overall this was a good addition to the series as we are taken further in by the series with new MC’s at the forefront.

Looking forward to seeing what happens next in the series.

Great read.

Lover Behind Enemy Lines by Liv Olteano

Title: Lover Behind Enemy Lines

Series: Dreamspun Beyond 33 / Dreamcatchers 03

Author: Liv Olteano

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (214 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64080-833-1

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (4th December 2018)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: True mates, together at last.

Claw—fearless leader of Seattle’s Team 32—has faced many dangers during more than a century and a half as a dreamcatcher. Yet nothing has ever scared him more than his obsession with Nathan Gallagher. Tormented by visions and dreams about the man ever since he first laid eyes on him, Claw now has to deal with living under the same roof with the object of his most ardent desires. And Nathan is so much more than a simple crush.

Brother of the caster who’s been plaguing Team 32’s area and less-than-willing houseguest of the team after a strange break-in attempt, Nathan may hold the key to finally apprehending his sister and putting a stop to the havoc she’s wreaking on Queen Anne…. Meanwhile, Nathan’s wreaking some havoc of his own on Claw’s heart.

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Lover Behind Enemy Lines is the third book in Liv Olteano’s Dreamcatchers series and is part of the house line Dreamspun Desires. My only experience in reading anything by the author is this series, but so far I like what I’ve read in terms of character development, romance, action and writing style.

The story focuses on the last single member of Seattle’s Team 32 of Dreamcatchers, who battle against the life draining spaga to keep the general populous safe. I highly recommend reading this series in order because there is an overarching storyline that is the entire basis for the backstory of the two MCs. Yet in saying that this book is definitely my favourite in the series, followed by book 1. I’m not sure if I just connected with the characters better, found their backstory a lot more intriguing or if it was just the result of two books of build up and I wanted to see the tough leader Claw get a HEA. Most likely it was a combination of all.

Aside from Claw, the other MC of this book is Nathan Gallagher. He pops up in book 2, where he is captured breaking into Team 32’s sanctuary and it was quickly realised that he is the brother to the team’s greatest enemy, a ley line witch with power to drain life from anyone, and she has been doing so at an alarming rate. Her evil needs to stop and the team need answers from Nathan.

However, Claw finds his feelings in turmoil, because something so primitive forms a connection between the two men. Claw is close to two hundred years old, he has seen a lot in his long life and he has loved in the past, as a very young man. Now Nathan is challenging his personal feelings while Nathan’s family are behind a situation that could kill many, including the team.

There is a lot of mistrust (understandably) but they work to form the trust so that the Team can stop the evil witch, which unfortunately for Nathan means that he finds out some horrifying truths about his family. Nathan has a really fascinating storyline, both his connection to Claw and his powers are really interesting and he is discovering a lot about himself while growing closer to Claw. The two have a wonderful chemistry, but there is enough mistrust and urgency in the current situation to be able to keep the instalove at bay.

This is a great end to the Dreamcatchers series and I really enjoyed every minute of it. If you’ve read previous books in the series, I don’t think you’d be disappointed, as per my opinion above. If you’re into the demon chasing, witch or spiritual side of paranormal romances this is good book (series) to get into.

Escape to Paradise by Caitlin Ricci

Title: Escape to Paradise

Series: A Planet called Wish 04

Author: Caitlin Ricci

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novella (87pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (February 1, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖 3 Hearts

Blurb: His attraction to men means Kalean is the black sheep of his wealthy and powerful family—but it won’t get him out of attending his brother’s pretentious wedding ceremony. Kalean doesn’t want to go, but if his parents insist, he has a stipulation: he’ll be there with a man on his arm.

On the pleasure planet, Wish, Kalean goes to a brothel to meet some potential escorts. But the man who captures his attention isn’t one of those on offer….

Descani is as surprised as anyone at Kalean’s attraction to him—and at his own interest in the young man. He’s even more perplexed as a bond begins forming between them.

But a murder rips apart Kalean’s family and redefines his role. He’ll be isolated on his cold and barren home world, far from the warm and colorful planet of Wish—and the arms of the man who’s coming to mean so much to him—unless he can find a way to escape the forces separating them.

ISBN-13: 978-1-64405-108-5

Product Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Even though his family is well to do Kalean has no say in his life what so ever. He is demanded to attend his brother wedding so he also demands he be allowed to bring a male partner. Here is where the pleasure brothel comes in at as Kalean goes there to find someone to take with him. He meets Descani and knows he’s the one.

The two have different lives and with family trying to interfere it causes chaos. But the two are determined to be with one another. This is not a monogamous relationship as Descani continues to work and enjoy it. Kalean for his part accepts Descani’s decision to remain working.

There are twists and turns that make for an added element to the story.

Dirty Laundry by Heidi Cullinan (2nd Edition)

Title: Dirty Laundry

Series: Tucker Springs 03 (Multi Author Series)

Author: Heidi Cullinan

Genre: Contemporary, Kink

Length: Novel (199pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (29^th March 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Sometimes you have to get dirty to come clean.

When muscle-bound Denver Rogers effortlessly dispatches the frat boys harassing grad student Adam Ellery at the Tucker Springs laundromat, Adam’s thank-you turns into impromptu sex over the laundry table. The problem comes when they exchange numbers. What if Adam wants to meet again and discovers Denver is a high-school dropout with a learning disability who works as a bouncer at a local gay bar? Or what if Denver calls Adam only to learn while he might be brilliant in the lab, outside of it he has crippling social anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Either way, neither of them can shake the memory of their laundromat encounter. Despite their fears of what the other might think, they can only remember how good the other one feels. The more they get together, the kinkier things become. They’re both a little bent, but in just the right ways.

Maybe the secret to staying together isn’t to keep things clean and proper. Maybe it’s best to keep their laundry just a little bit dirty.

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: This is the 2nd edition and while it has been tweaked and brushed up there’s no change to the story.

Adam is being harassed by frat boys when he does his laundry. Lucky for him, sexy cowboy, Denver, comes to his rescue and Adam ends up bent over the Laundromat table having the time of his life, after he thanks his savior. Denver can’t get Adam out of his head, even seeing all the other hot geeky twinks at work doesn’t stop him wanting Adam. Adam seemed to want the same kind of play as Denver enjoys, but Denver has to wait for Adam to make the first move.

This is a wonderful story of working past your limitations and embracing your quirks. Adam suffers from OCD, he has a lot of quirks that go with it and he has to work hard to keep his panic attacks at bay. When Adam first meets Denver he tries to hide his problems, believing that if Denver found out about his mental health, then he would want nothing to do with him. Denver has his own problem which holds him back, he works as a bouncer because the job he really wants means going back to school and he just can’t deal with books. dating Adam makes him want to try though and both men have to face their problems.

Denver and Adam are a couple that you wouldn’t think would work, but both their personalities are perfectly synced. they draw out the best in each other and are very encouraging when it comes to their individual problems. The one thing you could never doubt is how hot they are together, and we get the pleasure of seeing how hot they are together with their kinks, and although there are elements of BDSM, we really only see the kink side, with Adam reminiscing about the more mainstream BDSM.

I will admit that when I first started the book and for the first couple of chapters I thought it was going to be the typical BDSM Dom/sub story, but we get so much more than that. We get their everyday fears and the mental health problems they face, but we also see how their kinks work with the OCD. Adam and his OCD are written incredible well, with his fears being dealt with instead of being glossed over. Denver’s learning disability was covered and handled quite well, and his reaction to the knowledge was perfectly described. Both these characters’ worm their way into your affections because they are both so incredibly sweet with each other, they try to protect each other in their own way and they both dread the other finding out the truth about them.

I will recommend this to those who love geeks and cowboys, dealing with mental health problems head on, some hot kink and BDSM elements, gaining control of your life and finding your own flawed true love.

Impacted! by Mickie B Ashling (2nd Edition)

Title: Impacted!

Series: Bay Area Professionals 01

Author: Mickie B Ashling

Genre: Contemporary, BDSM

Length: Novel (191 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64405-307-2

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12 April 2019, 2nd edition)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: On his way home from vacation, Scott Gregory, a closeted sub, hooks up with the gorgeous Red, a flamboyant Dom, for a thrilling one-off at a BDSM bar. They part ways after a satisfying scene… but meet again when Robin Kennedy—Red—arrives at his new job as a dental hygienist and discovers one of his two bosses is Scott.

Robin and Scott embark on a journey of exploration into their kinkier sides and discover they’re more than compatible—they’re a perfect match. But keeping employer/employee and Dom/sub separate at the office presents difficulties, and to make matters even more complicated, the owner of the dental practice is an acknowledged homophobe.

They fall in love, but Robin chafes at all the secrecy, refusing to live in the shadows. Scott isn’t as brave; he’s desperate to protect his job and his future. Will they be able to find some middle ground… or will their entire relationship fall apart because of fear?

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Impacted! is the first book in Mickie B Ashling’s Bay Area Professionals series. I’m aware of the author, however, I can’t say I ever remembering reading Ashling’s work, so I went into this book blind about anything except the blurb. Being that there is already four books in the series I can see that this could become quite the saga, but I will park those thoughts for now until I get to the rest of the books.

The only thing that I was concerned about was that this is a BDSM novel, I find BDSM a little hit and miss. I’m not sure why, I suppose the easiest explanation is the some authors can write the emotions of the D/s couple really well, while others just write what feels like a soft porn. The latter is certainly not the case with this story. There is a lot of depth to the stories and the characters, even some of the minor characters have their little side stories going on at the same time. It very much reminds me of a soap opera in that respect. The BDSM side of things, while important and an essential part of the relationships in the book, is not the primary focus of the book.

The story is about Scott Gregory, he’s a closeted sub working for a homophobic jerk while at the same time being one of the best dental surgeons around. On vacation, he had an amazing night with a Dom called Red, who understood Scott’s needs as a submissive, but it was only a one night stand. However, everything changes when Scott is back at work and the new dental hygienist ends up being Red, real name Robin Kennedy.

I don’t want to go more into this because while the characters are complicated, much more on blurb and we’d be in major spoiler territory. Scott and Robin are an excellent couple, they have chemistry, baggage and will to make it as a couple, which makes for a compelling story. I found the side story where Scott’s best friend explores her kinks with the support of Scott and Red interesting too, despite the fact I’m not into reading women in sex scenes. So fair warning if you’re like me, but at the same time it is not a lot and everything is done tastefully.

I recommend this one for people looking for a bit of saga and are into BDSM romances.

Crossing The Touchline by Jay Hogan Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Jay Hogan - Crossing The Touchline RBBanner

Hi guys! We have Jay Hogan stopping by today with her new release Crossing The Touchline, we have a great new excerpt and a brilliant $20 Amazon GC giveaway so check out the excerpt and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~

Crossing the Touchline

(An Auckland Med. Story / Perchance to Dream 13)

Jay Hogan

What if you’ve worked your whole life for a dream, to play rugby for the most successful sports team on the planet, the New Zealand All Blacks?

What if that dream is so close you can smell it?

What if you meet someone?

What if you fall in love?

What if your dream will cost the man who’s stolen your heart?

And what if the dream changes?

Reuben Taylor has a choice to make.

Cameron Wano is that choice.

Part of the Auckland Medical series begun at Blackout Books.

.•.•.**❣️ Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK ❣️**.•.•.

Continue reading “Crossing The Touchline by Jay Hogan Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!” →

Love You So Madly by Tara Lain ~ Audio Review

Title: Love You So Madly

Series: Love You So 02

Author: Tara Lain

Narrator: Ry Forrest

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 4 hrs 36 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (14th September 2018)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Ben Shane has it all…and he’d like to give some of it back. While he loves his job heading a foundation that funds worthy causes around the world, his engagement to one of America’s wealthiest men leaves him feeling more like a trophy wife than a valued partner. The first warn-ing that his relationship might not be designed to last is his irresistible lust for Dusty Kincaid, the golden-haired, bright-eyed handyman for his company.

Though Dusty is odd for a 23-year-old – no liquor, no sugar, and he can’t even drive – the more Ben gets to know Dusty, the more he admires him. But is Ben going to give up a guy who drives a Ferrari for one who takes the bus?

He must be mad. Dusty knows he and Ben can never work. After all, Ben’s perfect…and Dusty isn’t. But Ben might surprise everyone with proof that he’s only mad in love.

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

Review: Love You So Madly is the second book in Tara Lain’s Love You So series. Tara Lain is an author that I now look forward to reading (or listening). Ry Forrest is a new narrator for me and I have to say that I quite enjoyed the performance. I don’t think that there was anything standout about the performance, I just simply enjoyed the tone and emotion present in Forrest’s voice and it certainly helped me enjoy the story.

As I just said this is the second book in the series, however, it does work as a standalone. I’ve not read (or don’t remember) the first book in the Love You So series, but I had no problem whatsoever with understanding the plot and I don’t even know if I bothered to figure out if we got to meet the couple from the first book.

The story starts with Ben Shane. He seems to have it all. The job of his dreams, heading the charitable foundation arm of big corporation, his job made him happy and he also had a man for himself, who also happens to be the big boss’s son. His new engagement is bringing him a lot of valuable business contacts, though his in laws and fiancé left a lot to be desired since they didn’t nurture the good and kind side of Ben. In short, we start the story knowing that Ben isn’t entirely happy, the man just must figure out what he needs to do to get his life back on track. And it just so happens that this book is just that journey.

Then there is Dusty. He is a sweet guy. He’s twenty-three and still lives with his overprotective mother because of his ongoing health issues associated with his epilepsy. Dusty has a completely different outlook on life and he seems so innocent. However, Dusty is very intelligent, he’s just shy and his health had meant that he had been left a little behind. Dusty is instantly attracted to Ben and Ben knows its wrong to be attracted to Dusty. The two of them seem to need different things in life but they get along well and they are well suited to each other.

The only thing that I struggled with throughout this is story is that I felt that Ben was stringing both douchey fiancé (and he was a selfish man, there is no denying) and kind, sweet Dusty along while he tried to get his shit together. Although, in the end, that is really the story I suppose.

Saving Crofton Hall by Rebecca Cohen Retro Review

Title: Saving Crofton Hall

Series: Stately Passions 01 (A Crofton Hall Novel)

Author: Rebecca Cohen

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (240pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-508-4

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (24^th November 2014)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Benjamin Redbourn, Earl of Crofton, has no intention of giving up his beloved ancestral home without a fight. Faced with his mother’s gambling debts, forgery, and the possibility of foreclosure by the bank, Ben vows to make Crofton Hall pay for herself. But opening an Elizabethan manor house to the public isn’t a one man job. With time running out, Ben needs help—and fast.

Ashley Niven has experience managing events, and he also loves history. Being in charge of opening Crofton Hall is a dream come true. As he works with Ben to prepare the house as a venue for lavish weddings and receptions, Ashley finds himself drawn not just to the charm of the house but to the dashing Earl of Crofton. Even if Ashley can look past Ben’s playboy reputation, he fears an affair could prove too much of a distraction.

But Crofton Hall has many secrets, and something hidden for over four hundred years is about to change all their lives.

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Although this is the first book in a new series, I’d advise that The Crofton Chronicles be read first as there are some revelations in this story that connect directly to The Crofton Chronicles.

Ben Redbourn is the 16^th Earl of Crofton something he is very proud of and uses to his advantage… in nightclubs. Ben finds himself in dire straits when his mother confesses her gambling debts has led to them facing foreclosure of Crofton Hall, and Ben swears that Croton Hall will have to start paying for herself as he has no intention of losing the old girl, and he needs help. Ashley is being laid off from his job at a castle when a plum opportunity falls into his lap, he adores Crofton Hall and its Earl and working there would be a dream. Ashley throws himself into getting Crofton Hall ready for the public but keeps his attraction to Ben close to his chest, Ben is known for being a playboy and Ashley prefers relationships but as secrets from long past are revealed Ashley will have to take a chance that Ben wants more than just a brief fling.

This is a fantastic addition to the Crofton Hall stories, we are brought into contemporary times and the struggles the current Earl faces because of his mother’s irresponsible actions. Ben is a superb character who has played the field since he got his heart broken, when he faces the loss of his beloved home he puts his private life on hold to try and pull off a miracle. Ashley is brilliant as the events manager who has some slightly shady connections, he is the perfect person to get Crofton Hall up and running and who sneaks his way into Ben’s heart. Ben’s family are wonderful as they each act their parts, Ben’s mother, Elena, as the tearful remorseful gambler, his sister, Caitlin, as the sneaky match maker and his brother Harry as the artistic dreamer.

Although there is a romance brewing between Ben and Ashley it doesn’t actually pick up till later in the story, first we are faced with the hoop jumping of getting Crofton Hall ready to open to the public, a startling discovery and secrets from the past revealed. When Ben and Ashley finally get together they are then faced with another secret Elena was keeping, one that puts them in danger. Their relationship moves fast but the build up to it has you knowing that they both know each other well and that their feelings aren’t fickle or fleeting.

I loved this story, seeing Crofton Hall brought up to date and the way that Sebastian (from The Crofton Chronicles) still managed to look after the Redbourn’s interests after so many years was amazing. The storyline was wonderful, the characters brilliant and the writing flowed smoothly with a couple of twists… I especially loved Ashley’s family’s immediate history and the way that his father’s influence helped Ben out. Rebecca Cohen delved into just what it takes to open a manor like Crofton Hall to the public, there was no glossing over the requirements and there was even a bit of dodgy dealing snuck in to keep it interesting, add in a sweet romance and you have a wonderful story.

I recommend this to those who love wonderful stories, great characters, two men who embark on a new romance, secrets and revelations, a touch of danger and a fantastic ending.

Reunited by Andrew Grey

Title: Reunited

Author: Andrew Grey

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short Story (32 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64080-982-6

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (22 Feb 2019)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Back in high school, nobody noticed quiet nerd Kevin Howard.

But everybody noticed handsome, athletic, and ultrapopular jock Clay Northrup.

They had nothing in common and lived in different worlds.

But a lot can change in fifteen years, and when they meet again at their high school reunion, Clay is no longer the big man on campus, and Kevin isn’t hiding in a corner anymore.

Can they put aside who they were? Can one night really lead to forever?

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Reunited is a quick and charming read by Andrew Grey. I love Andrew Grey and I’m a sucker for reading high school union or friends to lover stories, so reading this one was a no brainer.

What you see in the blurb is what you get, it’s that simple. Kevin Howard was the quiet nerd at school, and he has a massive crush on the popular jock, Clay Northrup. Fifteen years later at their high school reunion a lot has changed. Kevin is the quiet, sensitive, shy, out of the closet gay kid. Clay is also not the straight, popular jock he had tried to be and trying to find himself soon after high school changed his life drastically.

In one night the guys meet each other and renew their acquaintance, but could it be something more? I think that short stories are always a challenge because it is so hard to fit fully developed characters in a short space.

My only criticism is that I feel that these characters are worthy of a full story, because I feel that I was only teased by them and just as I became invested it was over. Then all I was left with was “I want more! I need more!”. I know, a little melodramatic but it was a fun story.

Forever Hold His Peace by Rebecca Cohen Retro Review

Title: Forever Hold His Peace

Series: The Crofton Chronicles 03

Author: Rebecca Cohen

Genre: Historical, Elizabethan Era (1599/1600)

Length: Novel (200pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-62798-771-4

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (16^th June 2014)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Despite the uncomfortable clothing and the gossip at court, Sebastian Hewel is still enjoying the role of Lady Crofton, wife of Earl Anthony Crofton. But when Queen Elizabeth asks a favor of Anthony, Sebastian’s world fractures and his heart threatens to break. The Queen wants Anthony to seduce Lady Marie Valois, the beautiful daughter of a French noble, to discover the whereabouts of her father, who is wanted by the King of France.

Sebastian knows Anthony can’t refuse the Queen, especially since he has something of a reputation at court. But the situation is further complicated when Marie meets Sebastian without his disguise—and starts flirting with him. Her brother, Lord Nicholas, arrives at Crofton Hall, not happy that his sister has been linked to a man like Anthony, only to find his own head turned by Lady Crofton and her acerbic wit. Contending with the attentions of both siblings—and a very jealous Anthony—would be bad enough. But then Sebastian’s uncle demands Sebastian and Anthony stage Bronwyn’s death to avoid discovery….

A Timeless Dreams Title

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Sebastian and Anthony are back and Sebastian must put on the performance of a lifetime. Sebastian and Anthony are happier than they have ever been, but everything is about to change. Someone wants Bronwyn gone and they have hatched a plot that will have Bronwyn accused of witchcraft, Anthony and Sebastian have to move quickly as the sheriff begins to investigate. Before Sebastian and Anthony can move forward with their plans for the future Anthony wants revenge on the person responsible and Sebastian is more than ready for the role he will have to play.

The conclusion to Anthony and Sebastian’s story in The Crofton Chronicles sees us saying farewell to Bronwyn’s role in Anthony’s life, but the person who brought about Bronwyn’s early demise will have to pay for their treachery. Sebastian has played the role of Bronwyn for two years after being manipulated into replacing his sister for her wedding, Sebastian easily flits between being himself and Bronwyn (although he still hates the restrictive dresses) and neither Anthony and Sebastian is ready to lay her to rest but when their hand is forced their revenge uncovers a dastardly secret and any guilt that lingered for Sebastian is wiped away. But, with no role longer to play Sebastian wonders what to do next and Anthony has the perfect solution.

I really enjoyed this addition to Anthony and Sebastian’s story as we see treacherous plans come to fruition and Anthony’s retaliation, we see Sebastian having to make decisions for his future and we see Sebastian’s and Anthony’s love staying true and strong. This is a beautifully written story where action must be taken quickly and surprising twists are unearthed, we are treated to the theaters of London as Sebastian returns to his first love and the Elizabethan court as Anthony exacts his revenge. The story falls into line perfectly and we encounter Sebastian and Anthony at their most amorous, of course it doesn’t run exactly smoothly as an old flame of Anthony’s tries to stir the pot.

I have to say that I have been impressed with the detail that has been given to this series, where fact and fiction have been blended quite well to give us a good look at Elizabethan England and the risks that many faced. Anthony and Sebastian are two of my favorite fictional historical characters and I was so happy to read the epilogue and discover that they enjoyed many years together.

I recommend this to those who adore historicals, men who chance everything for love, revenge at its sweetest, a wonderful plot, a passionate couple and a great ending.

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Love Conventions

Morgan James

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Crossing the Touchline

Jay Hogan

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