Category: DSP Publications

Rampant, Vol. 1 by Amy Lane (2nd edition)

Title: Rampant, Vol. 1 (2nd edition)

Series: Little Goddess|Book Four, Vol. 1

Author: Amy Lane

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novel (280 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (October 11, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Lady Cory has carved out a life for herself not just as a wife to three husbands but also as one of the rulers of the supernatural communities of Northern California—and a college student in search of that elusive degree. When a supernatural threat comes crashing into the hard-forged peace of Green’s Hill, she and Green determine that they’re the ones in charge of stopping the abomination that created it. To protect the people they love, Cory, Bracken, and Nicky travel to Redding to confront a tight-knit family of vampires guarding a terrible secret. It also leads them to a conflict of loyalties, as Nicky’s parents threaten to tear Nicky away from the family he’s come to love more than his own life.

Cory has to work hard to hold on to her temper and her life as she tries to prove that she and Green are not only leaders who will bind people to their hearts, but also protectors who will keep danger from running rampant.

First Edition published as Rampant: The Fourth Book of the Little Goddess Series by iUniverse, 2010.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63476-349-3

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: A lot happens in this continuing series of Little Goddess. Cory and Green come together to battle unseen forces. Nicky, Cory and Bracken struggle with their lives as they face difficult decisions. I thought the story was interesting except for female parts as I’m an m/m reader but decided to read these since they had been on the list a while.

Thoughtful yet provoking each character added their elements to a well written story that draws the reader into a fantasy world of paranormals and conflicts. I loved the added mix in the story.

I do not want to give anything away in this review so the reader will be able to experience the story for themselves. This is a good story if your looking for a mix in genres. Yes there is a cliffhanger that continues in the next book that is already out.

Great read.

Southernmost Murder by C.S. Poe

Title: Southernmost Murder

Author: C.S. Poe

Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (200 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (January 9, 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.75 Hearts

Blurb: Aubrey Grant lives in the tropical paradise of Old Town, Key West, has a cute cottage, a sweet moped, and a great job managing the historical property of a former sea captain. With his soon-to-be-boyfriend, hotshot FBI agent Jun Tanaka, visiting for a little R&R, not even Aubrey’s narcolepsy can put a damper on their vacation plans.

But a skeleton in a closet of the Smith Family Historical Home throws a wrench into the works. Despite Aubrey and Jun’s attempts to enjoy some time together, the skeleton’s identity drags them into a mystery with origins over a century in the past. They uncover a tale of long-lost treasure, the pirate king it belonged to, and a modern-day murderer who will stop at nothing to find the hidden riches. If a killer on the loose isn’t enough to keep Aubrey out of the mess, it seems even the restless spirit of Captain Smith is warning him away.

The unlikely partnership of a special agent and historian may be exactly what it takes to crack this mystery wide-open and finally put an old Key West tragedy to rest. But while Aubrey tracks down the X that marks the spot, one wrong move could be his last.

ISBN-13: 978-1-64080-077-9

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Aubrey and FBI agent Jun have plans to start their relationship off with two weeks of sightseeing and enjoying each other to the fullest. What they do not expect is finding a skeleton in the closet and investigating a murder.

I loved the perfect blend of the MC’s romance and the mystery throughout the story. The mystery itself was fascinating. I loved all the details surrounding the investigation.

Murder, mystery, romance, treasure and a great cast of characters made for an amazing story. I found I could not stop reading from beginning to the end.

Fantastic read.

Welcome to Crash by Lina Langley

Title: Welcome to Crash

Author: Lina Langley

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novel (214 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (September 12, 2017)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: At first, Damien feels lucky to land a job at an influential art studio, but it soon becomes obvious that something’s not right. His gorgeous boss, John, is interested, and he’d be the perfect man for Damien—if Damien wasn’t already in a relationship. It isn’t long before Damien is at the center of a love triangle, forced to choose between hot, punk John and his secret affair with his professor, Levi. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg, because something impossible is happening to Damien—and it’s having a drastic effect on his health as well as his perception of reality.

Each time Damien goes to work, things grow more bizarre, starting with Sam—an artist who has been dead for years and now somehow… isn’t. Damien’s unusual circumstances also free him from the restrictions of monogamy—or so he thinks. Levi, who cannot believe Damien’s claims, fears for his sanity. John also has strong doubts when Damien reveals knowledge of a catastrophic event looming in John’s future. Whether the men he loves believe his wild claims or not, neither can deny Damien is languishing, and if they cannot save him, he’ll be lost. More importantly, they must convince Damien to save himself.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-758-7

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: While I enjoyed this story with it’s twists and turns and trying to figure certain things out I felt the relationship aspect a little out there for me. Damian is a young man in a relationship with his former professor. Now, I do not have a problem with older and younger in a relationship. What I had the problem with was Damian acted like he could not speak up about things bothering him. Um why Not? He’s twenty. I’m sorry but I did not get it. At twenty I certainly let my feelings known when I felt something was not right.

I liked John’s character as well as Levi’s. As they both seemed a lot more stable than Damian’s. I was confused by the fact that Damian never seemed to grow up in his character. I thought he would have learned a bit more about relationships as well as himself by the end but it did not feel that way to me.

So overall I liked the plot but not the relationship in it. That was a huge disappointment to me.
It was an o.k. read.

Raise the Red Flag by Eric Del Carlo

Title: Raise the Red Flag

Author: Eric Del Carlo

Genre: Science Fiction, Alternative History

Length: Novel (200 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (January 23, 2018)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: In an 1867 that never was, the American colonies are finally gearing up to revolt against oppressive British rule enforced by advanced technology. British airship captain Hamilton Arkwright is captured by the rebels when his vessel is commandeered. The insurgents are also aided—reluctantly—by young Jonny Callahan, a thief and ne’er-do-well who would rather carouse on the streets of New Orleans than fight for independence. When the two seemingly opposite men are thrown together on a harrowing journey across the war-torn colonies, they must grudgingly rely on each other for survival. Despite their efforts to resist, the attraction between them threatens to throw a wrench in their plans to remain enemies.

They battle their way through American guerillas and a demolition-derby-type highway to reach the decimated streets of Chicago, where British forces are preparing to commit a war crime of enormous magnitude. Though affection has grown between them during their mission, they are still on conflicting sides, and they may have to choose between loyalty to their causes and their love.

ISBN-13: 978-1-64080-079-3

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: An interesting turn for the time period. Hamilton and Johnny are engaging characters with a love interest. But things are from easy for the two. There is a mystery of sorts, a plan to capture Captain Hamilton that has Johnny in it’s midst.

Though I did like the story I found some things difficult to understand. Aside from that the plot was different yet intriguing for this time period. I loved reading about the colonies revolt, how they went about things in this alternate view.

Amazing details about the history and each character throughout. The science fiction element was a nice touch that added to the story rather than detract from it. All in all it was a good read with a great cast of characters that added depth to the story.

Good read.

Hound by Caleb James

Title: Hound

Series: The Haffling 03

Author: Caleb James

Genre: Fantasy

Length: Novel (200 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (November 28, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: The human and fey worlds plummet toward an ancient war. Enter two unlikely lovers, a myth, and a mad queen hell-bent on conquest and revenge. Fire Marshal Finn Hulain, tormented by the death of his best friend and an unrequited love, is tossed from the world he knows into the upside-down realm of the fey. Dr. Redmond Fall, psychiatrist to the deadliest criminals in the Unsee, awakes to find the brutal Queen May deposited within the walls of his hospital for a bit of therapy. While May would like to get over her daddy issues, it’s sometimes easier to bite off heads.

Hound, the epic finale to the Haffling trilogy, delves into the darkest reaches of the addictions we all carry. To save the worlds and themselves, Finn, Redmond, and even May must confront the ghosts of their past and the demons of their present. The clock is ticking. There are no second chances. Everything is on the line.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-922-2

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I would advise reading this series in order as each book picks up where the last leaves off. In this installment May is back again but in two pieces. What’s scary is that she needs even more magical creatures to sustain her. Very gruesome in the way she obtains that energy.

I was a little leery of new characters being introduced but those feeling changed as the story progressed as each character had a role to play. Action, drama and mystery all play a part of this epic story of good versus evil.

Finn and Redmond fall in love amidst the battle plans and preparations. I love this series and am sad to see it end. I was entranced from beginning to end by the whole series and this story was no exception. Though things start out slow it picks up quickly and delivers a punch.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Quickening, Vol. 2 by Amy Lane

Title: Quickening, Vol. 2

Series: Little Goddess Book Five, Vol. 2

Author: Amy Lane

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novel (284 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (June 13, 2017)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥  4 Hearts

Blurb: The elf queen who infected the werewolf population isn’t going away—and neither are the two heartbeats that will soon be the children in Cory’s arms.

Cory’s used to throwing herself physically into the fray, but as their enemy gets closer and more dangerous, she’s forced to choose between her safety and the people sworn to protect her. Her guardians are tired of worrying about Cory and her unborn children, and Cory is getting plain tired.

The preternatural world isn’t her only worry—basic human birthing rituals are going to be a pain in the ass for a woman whose children will be sidhe. Cory’s mother is still fuzzy on the concept of a polyamorous multispecies marriage and sets her up with an OBGYN obsessed with the inhuman silhouettes of her babies.

Cory doesn’t want her children born in the middle of a turf war, but the people she and Green have nurtured and fought for aren’t about to let her face this enemy alone. This battle is for queen and home, and the babies quickening in Cory’s body are a symbol of hope. Cory’s going to have to give up the idea of being a weapon and embrace the idea of being a mother, or she’ll let down those depending on her most.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-441-8

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I have no words for how I feel about Nimuetia except she is a delusional elf queen with visions of grandeur at any cost. I was disgusted at what she did to the werewolves for her own gain.

There is a lot going on in this installment as battles rage and Cory is pregnant with her mates in full protective mode. The action scenes were quite jaw dropping as was the overall plot with the elf queen. I loved the characters good and bad as they each added their own elements to the book to make for an interesting read.

Though I myself am not a huge fan of this series due to a female being the MC I still liked it. Well written and drama infused this story grabs hold and does not let go until the very end.

Great read.

Exile by Caleb James

Title: Exile

Series: The Haffling 02

Author: Caleb James

Genre: Fantasy

Length: Novel (236 pages)

Publisher: DsP Publications (January 24, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Liam Summer, with the face of an angel and the body of an underwear model, has done bad things. Raised as the whore and cat’s paw of a murderous fairy queen, his beauty has ruined many. When Queen May’s plot to unite and rule the fairy and human realms fails, Liam wakes naked and alone in a Manhattan building on fire. Unaware the blaze is arson, and he’s its intended victim, he prepares to die.

Enter ax-wielding FDNY firefighter Charlie Fitzgerald, who Liam mistakes for an ogre assassin. As Charlie rescues Liam, he realizes the handsome blond has nowhere to go. So he does what he, and his family, have always done—he helps.

As for Queen May, trapped in the body of a flame-throwing salamander, she may be down, but she’s not out. Yes, she failed the last time, but Liam, and others, will pay. She knows what must be done: possess a haffling, cross into the human world engorged with magic, and become queen and Goddess over all.

As Liam realizes the danger they all face, he discovers unexpected truths. That even the most wicked are not beyond redemption, and that love—true love—is a gift even he can receive.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-261-2

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Liam has a lot to atone for. He is not the same as he was before meeting Charlie. He has a fight on his hands regarding Queen May and must stop her at all costs.

Intriguing story that takes place both in the human realm and the fey realm. I loved the adventurous nature of the story. Danger, action, mystery and love surround this wonderfully written book.

Liam thinks very little of himself given what he was to May. But people change when confronted with what could happen to those you love. I loved Liam determination despite his fear. 

May seemed truly insane and disgusting. I hated the way she gained her power. It was truly horrifying. I felt so bad for all those creatures she took from just to achieve her mad scheme. 
Charlie was interesting. I loved his Gran and they way things unfolded into different families bloodlines in the present. It was fascinating to read who was related to whom and how all resembled others or had some kind of small power as a result of their bloodlines.

Since this story ended on a cliffhanger of sorts I assume there will be another book in the future for the end result. Great read.

Vice City by S.A. Stovall

Title: Vice City

Series: Vice City 01

Author: S.A. Stovall

Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (234 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (June 20, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: After twenty years as an enforcer for the Vice family mob, Nicholas Pierce shouldn’t bat an eye at seeing a guy get worked over and tossed in the river. But there’s something about the suspected police mole, Miles, that has Pierce second-guessing himself. The kid is just trying to look out for his brother any way he knows how, and the altruistic motive sparks an uncharacteristic act of mercy that involves Pierce taking Miles under his wing.

Miles wants to repay Pierce for saving his life. Pierce shouldn’t see him as anything but a convenient hookup… and he sure as hell shouldn’t get involved in Miles’s doomed quest to get his brother out of a rival street gang. He shouldn’t do a lot of things, but life on the streets isn’t about following the rules. Besides, he’s sick of being abused by the Vice family, especially Mr. Vice and his power-hungry goon of a son, who treats his underlings like playthings.

So Pierce does the absolute last thing he should do if he wants to keep breathing—he leaves the Vice family in the middle of a turf war.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-664-1

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Nicholas is a mob enforcer. He’s seen and done a lot for the Vice family. But, one night he feels something when a young man is getting worked over. He takes him home and patches him up. Miles only wants to save his brother from the Cobra’s. He gets himself into trouble time and again.

This a gritty story about life lessons on the streets and when to simply walk away while you can. The journey is not without it’s dangers to both men. I loved ho the story was told and how you could feel the emotions.

I liked that Miles wanted to save his brother but at the same time realized Miles should have asked him whether he wanted to be saved or not. Miles puts himself in dangerous situations until he finally gets it.

Great read.

Beloved Son by Carole Cummings (2nd edition)

Title: Beloved Son (2nd Edition)

Series: Aisling Trilogy 03

Author: Carole Cummings

Genre: Fantasy

Length: Novel (306 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (December 19, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: When a man’s identity is built on lies, can he find the true self buried beneath? For Wil and Dallin, newfound love might not be enough. To heal themselves and their world, they must learn to see things as they truly are and break free of what they have been tricked into believing.

Wil and Dallin stand at the center of an approaching convergence they’re not sure they’re strong enough to face. The power of the land and the Mother waits for Wil in the bowels of Lind, but it comes at a price: he must defeat the soul-eater and save the Father, Her Beloved, and manage to keep his soul in the process. He can’t do it alone. But where can he turn for aid when friends are not necessarily friends, trusted mentors are not necessarily to be trusted, and good intentions are sometimes the most dangerous kind?

Dallin and Wil must accept their roles as the Guardian and the Aisling and stand together against a ruthless god in a cataclysmic battle of dreams and wills, the fates of both of their souls and those of all mortals hanging in the balance. Trust, if they can finally embrace it, holds both the promise of salvation and the risk of damnation.

First Edition published by Torquere/Prizm Press, 2011.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-804-1

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: In this installment Wil and Dallin’s story goes deeper. Wil feels the mother abandoned him for centuries and as a result he does not trust her. For his part Dallin has sacrificed much to help Wil grow along with everything else on Dallin’s plate.

Yes Wil grows stronger and his knowledge expands. I liked that Wil grew up with Dallin’s guidance. This leaves them to the mission of rescuing the father. I enjoyed how this book ties everything up nicely in this trilogy.

The entire series was a journey of growing, understanding, sacrifice and love. Well written and intriguing this story draws you in and does not let go until the end.

Great read.

Quickening, Vol. 1 by Amy Lane

Title: Quickening, Vol. 1

Series: Little Goddess | Book Five, Vol. 1

Author: Amy Lane

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novel (316 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (May 2, 2017)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Cory thought she’d found balance on Green’s Hill—sorceress, student, queen of the vampires, wife to three men—she had it down! But establishing her right to risk herself with Green and Bracken had more than one consequence, and now she’s facing the world’s scariest job title: mother.

But getting the news that she’s knocked up takes a back seat when a half-elf hunts them down for help. Her arrival brings news that the werewolf threat, which has been haunting them for over a year, has finally arrived on their doorstep—and it’s bigger and more frightening than they’d ever imagined.

Cory throws herself into this new battle with everything she’s got—and her men let her do it. Because they all know that whether they defeat this enemy now or later, the thing she’s most afraid of is arriving on a set schedule, and not even Cory can avoid it. The trick is getting her to acknowledge she’s pregnant before she gives birth—or kills herself in denial.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-439-5

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: As with all the books in this series there is a lot going on. Cory finds herself pregnant and is not overly happy about it. At the same time she starts school. Then there is the part elf girl wanting their help to rescue a boy in jail that is part of the werewolf issue.

I found myself at times a little bogged down but never the less it was a truly well written, well balanced story with all the usual happenings in this series. A little of this and that drew the reader into the ongoing series like a fish swimming through water with the occasional danger from others.

Intriguing and fascinating this story certainly delivers.

Great read.

Semblance by Chris E. Saros

Title: Semblance

Author: Chris E. Saros

Genre: Mystery & Suspense

Length: Novel (230 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (February 27, 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Drake isn’t looking for justice. He’s not interested in doing what’s right. He’s after one thing and one thing only: revenge. That means taking down the Boredega drug cartel—and the shadowy, seemingly invincible man who heads it—even if he goes down with them.

Drake plans to destroy the cartel from within, and he uses his nightclub, Semblance, as a front for money laundering and drug trafficking. He’s sacrificed almost everything to complete his mission, and just as he’s getting close, he’s derailed by flirtatious bartender Scotty, who offers Drake a glimpse of the happiness he’s missed by pursuing a personal vendetta. Scotty might be irresistible, but Drake has come too far to turn back now. He’ll have to find a way to keep Scotty safe, fend off persistent prostitute Natasha, feed tips to the authorities, and edge his way closer to the upper echelon of the cartel, where he can finally strike. He’ll need to do it all while keeping his intentions covert—and he’s not the only one at Semblance with secrets.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-120-2

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Drake has dedicated his life to one thing and one thing only: Revenge. The reason for wanting this revenge is heartbreaking. I really felt for Drake and the loss he still feels years after. I found him to be brave and resilient when faced with danger at every turn.

The Bordega Cartel is responsible for a lot of deaths throughout the years. Their leader who no one knows is ruthless in his business. He takes out any threats to his organisation. The manner of interrogations were horrifying.

Scotty is the easygoing bartender at Semblance, the club Drake owns. He is sweet yet tough when he needs to be. I found the love interest between Scotty and Drake to be endearing yet terrifying at the same time.

This is a fast paced story with all amounts of twists that lead to a dangerous path for the lovebirds. Danger is all around and at every turn throughout this riveting story. I read it in one sitting as I could not put it down. My favorite part was what happens at the end. It made me smile with tears in my eyes.

Highly recommended.

The City of Rocks by Don Travis

Title: The City of Rocks

Series: A BJ Vinson Mystery 03

Author: Don Travis

Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (280 Pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (July 18, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Confidential Investigator B.J. Vinson thinks it’s a bad joke when Del asks him to look into the theft of a duck… a duck insured for $250,000. It ceases to be a funny when the young thief dies in a suspicious truck wreck. The search leads BJ and his lover, Paul Barton, to the sprawling Lazy M Ranch in the Boot Heel country of southwestern New Mexico bordering the Mexican state of Chihuahua.

A deadly game unfolds when BJ and Paul are trapped in a weird rock formation known as The City of Rocks—an eerie array of frozen magma that is somehow at the center of the entire scheme. But does the theft of Quacky involve a quarter million dollar duck-racing bet between the ranch’s owner and a Miami real estate developer, or someone attempting to force the sale of the Lazy M because of its proximity to an unfenced portion of the Mexican border? BJ and Paul go from the City of Rocks to the neon lights of Miami and back again in pursuit of the answer… death and danger tracking their every step.

ISBN: 978-1-93707-030-4

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This series involves our sexy P.I. and quite a bit of crazy charactes. Now this can be read as a standalone, but I would suggest reading in order. It gives you an insight into Private Investigator B.J..

Quacky Quack the second has been ducknapped. She is worth a quarter of a million dollars, well that is what the insurance is at. I think the old bird is in for it, but then again her owner wants answers. She wants her prize duck back, so she wants B.J. to find her. The thing is the insurance agent got to him first, so we will see. Did Lizard lips get murdered for the bird or for something more drastic.

B.J. is on the trail of the ducknapper’s killer. However it could be anyone on either side of the fence. Is it the duck-racing, drugs, guns or something even more sinister, one could only guess. It leads our sexy investigator and his lover on a danger pursuit.

Now who names a duck Quacky Quack, well a woman with the name Mud. She is old bat herself, and prides her downfeathers and if a little racing is done, who is to know. It would seem almost the whole state knows, except for the insurance company. At first I was like B.J., laughing my ass off about a duck being ducknapped. But it got real serious with the murder, attempted murder and well your going to have to read the book on this one.

This has many twists and turns to it, that you will definitely be entertained from it. It was like being right there to witness it all. Is the duck pate now or is she still alive, hmmm never had duck before. It has a very tight mystery going on. I do love the little wisp of romance between B.J. and Paul that you get hints of. There is no real romance going on in the story, just hints and behind the sheets. It caught my attention from the start and kept it all the way to the end.

Fascinating tale with just a bit of humor to it. I never knew one could get insurance on a duck, but I guess anything is possible. I had a lot of fun with it and can not wait to get my hands on the next book.

The Bisti Business by Don Travis (2nd Edition)

Title: The Bisti Business

Series: A BJ Vinson Mystery 02

Author: Don Travis

Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (322 Pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (21st March 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Although repulsed by his client, an overbearing, homophobic California wine mogul, confidential investigator B. J. Vinson agrees to search for Anthony Alfano’s missing son, Lando, and his traveling companion—strictly for the benefit of the young men. As BJ chases an orange Porsche Boxster all over New Mexico, he soon becomes aware he is not the only one looking for the distinctive car. Every time BJ finds a clue, someone has been there before him. He arrives in Taos just in time to see the car plunge into the 650-foot-deep Rio Grande Gorge. Has he failed in his mission?

Lando’s brother, Aggie, arrives to help with BJ’s investigation, but BJ isn’t sure he trusts Aggie’s motives. He seems to hold power in his father’s business and has a personal stake in his brother’s fate that goes beyond familial bonds. Together they follow the clues scattered across the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness area and learn the bloodshed didn’t end with the car crash. As they get closer to solving the mystery, BJ must decide whether finding Lando will rescue the young man or place him directly in the path of those who want to harm him.

First Edition published by Martin Brown Publishers, LLC, 2013.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-113-4

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This series involves our sexy P.I. and quite a bit of crazy charactes. Now this can be read as a standalone, but I would suggest reading in order. It gives you an insight into Private Investigator B.J.

This author was one of the first mystery authors that I came across that I truly enjoyed. He goes into a world that is full of deceit, lust, danger and even murder. It caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end. I don’t normally read novels this long, but this one kept me on the edge of me seat. I just needed to know the answer to my many questions. And let me tell you the twist was never expected.

B.J. has taken on some creepy clients, but the latest one takes the tip. Alfano is a very wealthy wine mogul and has a missing son. He is also a homophobic asshat and swears that his son is just going through a stage. He want’s B.J. to locate him and bring him home. It sends him into quite a bit of New Mexico. Here he is looking for a gay kid with a boyfriend and a brigh orange porsche. With that kind of car one would stand out. To bad it was stolen and B.J. watches it crash and burn. Leads send him into some shady locations.

With shady locations, you find the perfect people to help you. To top it off, Lando’s brother wants to help. With killers a foot, two men dead, a missing young man, and a rich asshat, well B.J. is in for a long ride.

Now normally I go for romance stories, however this is a true and true murder mystery story. You get a little loving from our sexy character and the man he loves. But the story is based on the murder and mystery, which is a plus. This story was perfect in my eyes. Not to many authors get every bit and piece put together, this author does just that. It was fast flowing and had a tight story line.

Our main character, B.J., is a professional with an attitude of don’t mess with me. He hung up on the old fart when he called the first time, and then took the case. I never guessed who the killer was, or what he had done before that. I was also kind of glad to find out who did it, because that was one sick, well you can guess my next word. Now for the downside, there was much more details about locations and settings that was a bit of a headache to me. Other than that, this was a top rated story.

I had a blast reading it and can not wait to get my hands on the next book.

The Deadly Lies by David C. Dawson

Title: The Deadly Lies

Series: The Delingpole Mysteries 02

Author: David C. Dawson

Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (210pgs)

Publisher: DSP Publications (December 5, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Dominic and Jonathan are on their romantic Spanish honeymoon, and things are perfect… except Dominic has kept a secret from his husband. He’s failed to tell Jonathan that he plans to meet his former lover, Bernhardt, who is speeding on his way from Germany to present Dominic with a mysterious gift.

But Bernhardt is killed in a suspicious car accident. Shortly before he dies, he sends Dominic a bizarre text message that will take the newlyweds on a hair-raising adventure.Lies upon lies plunge Dominic and Jonathan into an internet crime that could destroy the lives of millions of people. What is the mysterious Charter Ninety-Nine group? And will their planned internet assault force Dominic to choose between the fate of the world and the life of his lover?

ISBN: 978-1-63533-892-8

Product Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: These stories always follows Dominic and Jonathan. The first thing I am going to say is I can’t stand books that involve cheating and open relationships. I gave it a higher rating then I normally would do to the fact that it was a very interesting mystery.

Dominic was not having an affair but he was meeting an old lover for some mysterious reason. To bad his old lover is dead, and someone was after them. On their honeymoon that might end if it all goes bad. To bad Jonathan gets a bit over melodramtic when he finds out. Throws a hissy fit, when he is the one who likes to play around.

There are so many characters in this book, that it gave me a headache trying to figure them all out. I was glad to see Steve again, but really way to many characters and to much detail in certain spots. I like Dominic just fine, but Jonathan is a bit of a bitch to me. Wants his cake and to eat it also, but his husband cannot, just doesn’t sit with me. Although like I said above, can not stand cheating nor open relationships in any story.

So many different points of view is great, except for this part, it just gave me a headache. The mystery is top rated though, and quite a bit of secrets to hold. Secret societies, political corruption, murder, suspense and surprises are just a bit of what you get with this story. It is a very entertaining story that can keep you on the edge of your seat. Now the story does progress slow, but it turned out pretty good. It is a twisted game that is played.

Now the story does end in a cliff-hanger which is another reason the story did not rate so well with me. So for me, this story has great potential, but in some aspects of it failed. The mystery was top rated, but the rest could have been left to the side. Get rid of the open relationship, cheating, pissy moods and Jonathan could be a hit, but for now he is a drag. Dominic is a good guy but he also has just a few problems as well. So other than my issues with the story, it is a good strong read.

I did enjoy parts of it, and will keep my final decision for the next story.

Braving the Storm by Xenia Melzer

Title: Braving the Storm 

Series: Gods of War 04

Author: Xenia Melzer

Genre: Fantasy

Length: Novel (300 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (November 21, 2017)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Though some struggles have ended in victory, ease and contentment are not the fate of the gods of war. Instead they must contemplate the sometimes terrible and frightening nature of their powers—and the effect those powers have on the people they love.

After their campaign in Ummana, the gods of war return to the Valley with their ranks finally complete. Sic is the eighth Emeris to join Renaldo and Canubis in their war against the Good Mother. Even so, they must wait for their powers to manifest, and trials lay ahead.

It is only when a tragedy befalls Aegid, Kalad, and Daran that Sic learns the extent of his abilities as a Luksari. What he achieves will change Daran forever—and set him up for trauma that leaves him doubting his relationship with Aegid and Kalad. After surviving battle, torture, and rape, Daran must affirm his commitment to his lovers and his new status among them through even more blood and violence.

Even though Renaldo and Casto’s relationship has improved, they’re still struggling, which could prove to be more dangerous than they think—because the Good Mother is already plotting her next move.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-676-4

Product Link: DSP Publications

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: An engaging story about the struggles of several men. Renaldo, Casto, Canubis, Aeid, Kalad, Daran and Sic must find a way to defeat the good mother character in this book. I was appalled at the treatment Sic suffered through other books. But things are different this time.

Daran suffers through his own hell and afterwards has to deal with the things that happened to him.There are quite a few characters throughout that add an element of surprise by their actions and/or thoughts. Twists and turns are all throughout.

I like this series even though at times I feel overwhelmed by certain events that take place. An interesting addition to the series to say the least.

Great read.

Tap-Dancing the Minefields by Lyn Gala

Title: Tap-Dancing the Minefields

Author: Lyn Gala

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novel (334 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (November 14, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Sometimes the fiercest battle a man faces is against himself.

In the hidden alleyways of New York City, George “Tank” Tankersley defeated what he believed were demons. But the victory cost too much. Tank joined the Army in the hope of outrunning the guilt haunting him—only to stumble into a vast and deadly conspiracy, the enemies he’d hoped to never encounter again, and the arms of the brilliant, eccentric scientist tasked with saving humanity.

In a world where the line between dark magic and alien science is thin, Dr. Lev Underwood must reverse engineer recovered alien technology to give humans a fighting chance against the extraterrestrial beings who consider Earth nothing more than a petri dish. His old friend, Colonel Clyde Aldrich, wants to protect Lev from entanglement with the scarred and emotionally volatile young soldier, but Lev cannot help the pull he feels toward Tank. Still, his first loyalty is to the secret government program, and love might have to take a back seat to protecting the world. But if he can find a way, Lev wants both.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-762-4

Product Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/tap-dancing-the-minefields-by-lyn-gala-422-b

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Tanks life takes a turn when he is thrust into a secret alien base. Not one who is new to the strange Tank learns that everything he thought he knew was wrong. I liked the story. It has all sorts of twists and turns that delve further into the aliens and what they are up to.

The aliens themselves are not that different from humans. You have your good ones and bad ones. The slave ships were horrifying for the humans they had captured. These things were mentioned but not in deep detail.

Overall I found the characters in the story complex at times yet intriguing. They all added to the story in some way or another. The biggest shock was about Tank himself. But, I won’t spoil what all happens for the readers. Needless to say it was an adventurous, action packed, and mysterious story that captures your imagination and attention from the start.

Good read.

The Stark Divide by J. Scott Coatsworth

Title: The Stark Divide

Series: Liminal Sky 01

Author: J. Scott Coatsworth

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novel (284pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-63533-833-1

Publisher: DSP Publications (10th October 2017)

Heat Level: Nil

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Some stories are epic.

The Earth is in a state of collapse, with wars breaking out over resources and an environment pushed to the edge by human greed.

Three living generation ships have been built with a combination of genetic mastery, artificial intelligence, technology, and raw materials harvested from the asteroid belt. This is the story of one of them—43 Ariadne, or Forever, as her inhabitants call her—a living world that carries the remaining hopes of humanity, and the three generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers working to colonize her.

From her humble beginnings as a seedling saved from disaster to the start of her journey across the void of space toward a new home for the human race, The Stark Divide tells the tales of the world, the people who made her, and the few who will become something altogether beyond human.

Humankind has just taken its first step toward the stars.

Purchase Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/the-stark-divide-by-j-scott-coatsworth-415-b

Review: The Stark Divide throws you into the stars as Earth races towards extinction. Humanity takes one last grasping chance to save themselves even as the world dies around them because of their stupidity, and even in the dying last breaths they continue throwing nuclear missiles at each other and condemning the entire species.   

J. Scott Coatsworth has written an amazing science fiction novel that sends shivers down your spine because of the ring of truth to it.

The setting of the story is a living world/ship that’s an amazing combination of organic/technology with an artificial intelligence that is more than it seems.

The story starts from the very beginning of Forever’s life when she’s still a seedling and the amazing crew who first ‘plant’ her. The Dressler’s crew, Captain Colin McAvery, Anastasia Anatov scientist and creator of the seedlings (Forever) and Jackson Hammond ship’s engineer, have the important task of ensuring that the seedling is planted on an asteroid so it can begin growing so it can save a portion of humanity. The problem is something’s wrong with the Dressler and it’s a race against time.

The story then jumps in time with Colin, Anastasia and Jackson’s son Aaron meeting as Forever is being colonised for human habitation. It’s a fraught time as truths come out and Forever doesn’t forget grudges.

The final segment in the story is 30 years on from Forever’s birth, while Forever still isn’t quite big enough or ready for mass human habitation the Earth is failing, and refugees are flocking to Forever.  

This really is an amazing story and while it has gay, lesbian and Trans characters I would actually say that this is a more mainstream story. There’s no romance and no one character to focus on, the story is about Forever’s journey with the stories of some of the humans who are important to her survival coming through.

The world building is absolutely amazing; we get to see a new world emerging through determination and survival instincts, we get to picture through the authors words exactly what a new world for humans might be like, living inside that world… it’s just amazing.

The characters each come to life, their hopes, dreams, fear, anger, desperation and shame comes through brilliantly, we are left in no doubt as to what the characters are going through.

This isn’t your usual science fiction story, there’s no danger other than that brought on by humans stupid actions, there’s no aliens racing to help humanity, there’s no devastating natural world event, there’s no nicely timed rescue of Earth. It’s a story of amazing ingenuity, characters connected by the beginning and shear survival instincts.

I recommend this to those who love deep science fiction stories, who adore a storyline that pulls you along in its wake, who love interesting characters, and an ending that is also a brand new beginning.

The Stark Divide by J. Scott Coatsworth Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Review!

Hi peeps! We have J. Scott Coatsworth visiting today with his brand new release The Stark Divide, we have a fantastic interview with J. Scott, a great excerpt and my review, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

The Stark Divide

(Liminal Sky 01)
by

J. Scott Coatsworth

Some stories are epic.

The Earth is in a state of collapse, with wars breaking out over resources and an environment pushed to the edge by human greed.

Three living generation ships have been built with a combination of genetic mastery, artificial intelligence, technology, and raw materials harvested from the asteroid belt. This is the story of one of them—43 Ariadne, or Forever, as her inhabitants call her—a living world that carries the remaining hopes of humanity, and the three generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers working to colonize her.

From her humble beginnings as a seedling saved from disaster to the start of her journey across the void of space toward a new home for the human race, The Stark Divide tells the tales of the world, the people who made her, and the few who will become something altogether beyond human.

Humankind has just taken its first step toward the stars.

DSP Publications paperback | DSP Publications ebook | Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iTunes | QueeRomance Ink

Continue reading “The Stark Divide by J. Scott Coatsworth Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Review!” →

The Last Grand Master by Andrew Q. Gordon

Andrew Q. Gordon - The Last Grand Master CoverTitle: The Last Grand Master

Series: Champion of The Gods 01

Author: Andrew Q. Gordon

Genre: High Fantasy

Length: Super Novel (346pgs)

Publisher: DSP Publications (30th March 2015)

ISBN: 978-1-63476-441-4

Heat: Low

Heart: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: In a war that shook the earth, the Six gods of Nendor defeated their brother Neldin, god of evil. For the three thousand years since, Nendor and the Seven Kingdoms have known peace and prosperity.

But then a new wizard unleashes the power of Neldin. Meglar, wizard king of Zargon, uses dark magic to create an army of creatures to carry out his master’s will.

One by one, the sovereign realms fall. Soon the only wizard who can stop Meglar is Grand Master Farrell, the Prince of Haven, the hidden home of refugees. An untried wizard, Farrell carries a secret that could hold the key to defeating Meglar—or it could destroy the world.

While helping Nerti, queen of the unicorns, Farrell saves Miceral, an immortal muchari warrior the Six have chosen to be Farrell’s mate. But Farrell approaches love with caution, and before he can decide how to proceed, Meglar invades a neighboring kingdom. Farrell and Miceral find themselves in the middle of the battle. Farrell pushes himself to the limit as he and Miceral fight not only to stop Meglar but for their very survival.

Purchase Link: DSP Publications | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: The Seven Kingdoms are being systematically conquered by the dark wizard king, Meglar.  he won’t stop until he has them all under his rule and there is nobody powerful enough to stop him. Farrell is a young Grand Master wizard and he knows that the Gods have plans for him.  he will one day have to face Meglar, but first he has to help some of the Gods’ followers.

This story is absolutely brilliant, an action-packed high fantasy that drags your imagination along on an epic journey. Farrell is the Gods’ Chosen, he knows that one day he will have to face the dark Grand Master, Melgar and is preparing for that day. When he is asked by the Gods to help a neighboring Kingdom and informed that he will meet his mate, he is determined to do as the Gods ask. Meeting Miceral in the midst of battle surprises him, but the safety of a nation comes first. This is the beginning of an adventure filled with magic, danger, negotiation and love.

I really don’t think that I am able to really do justice to this story. I have to admit that I am floundering as to get my thoughts into words…this book dragged me in and didn’t let go until the last page and even then I wanted more. The storyline is fantastic, the characters are brilliant and the action is incredible.  I loved every magic filled minute. Farrell is a character that is secure in his position as a wizard and a prince, but when it comes to love is unsure and scared. Miceral knows that Farrell is the one for him and has no doubts.  he has to ease Farrell’s doubts and convince him that Farrell is more than enough for him. For some people it will seem that they connected very quickly, but when it has been ordained by the Gods, well, how can you complain?

There are lots of incredible details in this story, even during the battles. they give you enough so you can picture in your mind exactly what it must look like. With some stories we can become bogged down with details, but with this story there is always just enough to fuel the imagination. Farrell and Miceral’s relationship is great.  they are well-suited and are a great support for each other.  when they have the joining ceremony it is a beautiful moment in the book. The interaction between all the characters is brilliant and each one is drawn into the story in their own right and they fit perfectly. There is so much I want to say about this story, but to be honest; I would ruin it because this is just one of those books that you have to read for yourself.

I have to recommend that everyone gives this book a shot, because this story is filled with everything that you could ever want from a high fantasy; magic, magical creatures, great battles, rescues, escapes, and an assortment of great characters, a brilliant storyline and an ending that leaves you wanting more.