Reverse the Tide by Jools Louise

Title: Reverse the Tide

Series: Spirit of Sage 17

Author: Jools Louise

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Short (62pgs)

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand (17th September 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Boomer is ecstatic to find his mate, Goran, a former circus tiger shifter. Opening a new bistro with his brother, Brodie, Boomer is determined to stop anyone ruining his happiness.

An old feud brings an old enemy to their door, and a new battle commences. Ge finds himself in the middle of a deadly battle to protect the life he’s found in Sage, and end the feud once and for all. Easier said than done with the aggressive propaganda campaign initiated by Flashpoint. Now it’s Sage’s turn to fight back by showing people they’re not just savage beasts, but are loving, caring shifters who just want to live in peace. Flashpoint up the stakes and target a nearby town, Forest Glade, sending a mob to frighten the residents, unknowingly strengthening support for the shifters of Sage.

Boomer’s hopes and dreams of happiness with his mate are in the balance…they have to succeed and reverse the tide of hatred. Failure is not an option.

ISBN: 978-1-64243-986-1

Product Link: Siren-BookStrand | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Boomer meets Goran and the sparks fly. But there is trouble ahead as Flashpoint try to sway public opinion to their side by attacking the town next to sage. Mean while a hitman is after Dino and Brodie. So much happens with a support group, plans are made to help those in need and a spy of sorts is caught.

Secrets are revealed and Brodie meets his mate but pushes him away due to his past. I loved the installment. Just the right amount of action, drama, romance and mystery. This series gets better and better with each book. This series must be read in order with other series connected to it to enjoy the full story line.

Amazing as always.

Highly recommend it.

Risking It All by Reese Knightley

Title: Risking It All

Series: Code of Honor 02

Author: Reese Knightley

Genre: Contemporary, Suspense

Publisher: Reese Knightley (December 1, 2019)

Length: Novel (191 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Heart

Blurb: A Crumpet Christmas is the perfect time to fall in love.

When a mission goes south, Elijah Cobalt is forced to take medical leave. What could be better than relaxing in a small town and keeping an eye on his little sister at the same time? Nothing, until he gets his first look at his sister’s boss. Elijah has always felt bulky and big around the smaller type of men he prefers and around Justin Bailey, it’s the same damned thing.
Justin gave up dating big, muscled men after his breakup with his abusive boyfriend, but he just might make an exception when his café manager’s older brother takes over his spare bedroom. The instant attraction has sparks flying and, after a few days, Justin doesn’t want to fight it any longer.

Christmas is a magical time of year.
The power of love takes over.
Possibilities are endless.

Until Justin’s ex-boyfriend suddenly shows up out of the blue determined to cause as much trouble for him as possible. Only Justin has a support system now, in the form of a Special Forces Unit, and things are going to get really damned intense in a very short amount of time.

Mess with one and you mess with them all.

ISBN: B08282L56R

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Justin had once thought he was truly happy but then his ex went ballistic on him. Now he happily lived in the best place, owned his own company and had the best employees and friends. He took in strays that were hurt or abused. When he saw the big man standing besides his ex, well he lost it a bit. Then come to find out that it had all been innocent well his eyes might have gotten bigger, because damn if the man wasn’t sex on a stick.

Elijah was not only a captain in the army but special forces. Several months ago his little sister had been bleeding and broken and it pained him. He held on to it until one day on a mission he just froze. He was ordered to take three months off and he decided to visit his sister, and possibly check out her boss. What he had not expected was to find the one man his heart wanted forever. To bad Justin’s ex was up to something bad.

I had made the mistake of reading this first instead of book one. I spent twenty minutes trying to see if I had the first book because damn this one rocked. It was very action packed with danger mixed in, not to mention cutie pie puppies, grumpy cats, and some hot sexy times. It was a very fast pace story and always kept me on my toes. I enjoyed the guys quite a bit and their friends were all pretty sweet. It was a nice Christmas story that will be read many times over.

I had a blast reading this and can’t wait to go back and finally read the first book. I also can’t wait till I can get my hands on the next story. I can guarantee that this will be on my favorites shelf for sometime.

Dinner at Fiorello’s by Rick R. Reed (2nd Edition)

Title: Dinner at Fiorello’s

Series: A Romance With Recipes 02

Author: Rick R. Reed

Genre: Contemporary, New Adult

Length: Novel (214pgs)

ISBN: 9781646562183

Publisher: JMS Books LLC (8th December 2019)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Henry Appleby has an appetite for life. As a recent high school graduate and the son of a wealthy family in one of Chicago’s affluent North Shore suburbs, his life is laid out for him. Unfortunately, though, he’s being forced to follow in the footsteps of his successful attorney father instead of living his dream of being a chef. When an opportunity comes his way to work in a real kitchen the summer after graduation, at a little Italian joint called Fiorello’s, Henry jumps at the chance, putting his future in jeopardy.

Years ago, life was a plentiful buffet for Vito Carelli. But a tragic turn of events now keeps the young chef at Fiorello’s quiet and secretive, preferring to let his amazing Italian peasant cuisine do his talking.

When the two cooks meet over an open flame, sparks fly. Both need a taste of something more — something real, something true — to separate the good from the bad and find the love — and the hope — that just might be their salvation.

Purchase Link: JMS Books | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: This story is part of a series but can be read as a stand-alone. Henry knows what he wants to do with his life now that he’s graduated from school and it isn’t what his wealthy father has planned for him, but he doesn’t know if he will be brave enough to go after what he wants until he spots a help wanted ad for a little Italian restaurant called Fiorella’s. Vito was blessed with a good life until a tragic turn of events took what he loved most, now he lives quietly, keeping to himself and working as the chef at Fiorella’s. For over a year nothing has breached the shell he lives in until a blond ‘bubble dancer’ begins to crack his shell, but Vito doesn’t want his safe shell shattered and Henry’s life is falling apart around him. Will either man take a chance on something more or will they retreat to the safety or the world that they know.

Fiorella’s is another wonderful story from Rick R. Reed that touches our hearts. Henry is the typical rich kid who has had everything offered to him on a platter except the love of his parents, his mother is cold and distant and his father is a powerful attorney who has Henry’s life mapped out for him. Henry wants to take a chance of grabbing his dream though, a dream that would have him cooking for other people, a dream that his father would look down on but with only the summer free before he starts collage he decides to grab the chance he is offered. Vito is perfectly with his lonely life working as the chef at Fiorella’s, at least that’s what he wants everyone to believe, the loss of those he loved the most still weighs him down and he never wants to open is heart to that kind of hurt again. Having Henry come into his life has Vito tempted to live again. As Henry’s life begins to fall apart and he turns to Vito, but cracking Vito’s secretive shell isn’t easy.

Henry is a young man who doesn’t want to be caged into a life he won’t enjoy, but going against his father’s wishes isn’t easy especially when he gets no support from his mother. As Henry moves into the world of adulthood he learns that life isn’t easy or going to fit into what he wants, it’s a hard world with realities he might not like and he has to grow up. Vito knows that life is far from easy; he now keeps himself to himself with no interest in love. We don’t get an easy romance, in fact Vito seems to barely tolerate Henry, what we get is a young man on the verge of making his own adult decisions and a jaded man who has turned his back on life.

This is a beautifully written story, we are made to feel both men’s pain in this story, Henry’s pain as his life changes and his solid family base is shaken and Vito’s bleeding pain as he tries to let go of the past. There are some poignant moments as Vito loses himself in his dreams and memories and as he begins to open up to Henry but we also have his anger as he feels that he’s being forced to let go of the past. With Henry we get his excitement of beginning his life, the fear of going against his father, the devastation of his family not being what he thought and the twisting feelings he has for Vito. These two men need each other and it takes a large part of the book to get to that stage, but it fits as we get to know both Vito and Henry, it’s the pace that suits both of them.

I recommend this to those who love stories of embarking on your own path in life, of being poked back to life and the living, of a tentative new love blooming, of grabbing life with both hands and facing the fall out, and of two men who embark on a new stage in their lives.

Risk Assessment by Parker St. John

Title: Risk Assessment

Series: Cabrini Law 01

Author: Parker St. John

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Parker St. John (November 10, 2019)

Length: Novel (197 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖 3 Heart

Blurb: All they have left is their pride.

Elliot Smith was once a hotshot attorney, but those days are long gone. A midlife crisis of conscience has left him with shattered confidence, abandoned by his former friends and scraping by at a legal aid clinic. When a smoking hot bad boy rescues him from the side of the road, Elliot is sure he doesn’t stand a chance.

After a misspent youth boosting cars, Lucas Kelly runs his own garage and is finally getting his life back on track. He isn’t about to risk everything by daring to hope for something more, especially not with a man so far above his pay-grade.

The heat between them is enough to have them questioning everything they thought they knew about themselves. But is explosive chemistry enough to keep them together when Elliot’s career threatens to drive them apart?

ISBN: B081B89K8J

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Elliot at one time had been a damn good attorney who made loads of money, drove a nice car but he had thrown it all away. He had a soul which most lawyers do not. He gave it all up to live in a small town and help those who needed it. When his car breaks down a sexy man comes to help him.

Lucas had been an angry young man who ended up in prison. Now he was trying to make it all good. He owned his own shop and things were starting to look good. That all ended when he met a sexy man and that man turned out to be a lawyer. His past seems to be in his way of finding love.

This story started out pretty good, but it all ended in one sentence. Here was a guy asking another for a favor and the man turns it into a get on your knees deal. It made Lucas turn into a douche and that was the downside to the whole deal. The rest of the story went a bit better but not by much. It just lacked something to make it stand out for me.

It had potential but it went into the opposite direction. You get a story but you also end up with more sexual times which made it seem more like a smut book then a true romance story for me.

Overall it is a good story but just didn’t really do anything for me. I am sorry to say but this book was not for me.

Snow of the White Hills by Wendy Rathbone

Title: Snow of the White Hills: A Gay Fairytale

Author: Wendy Rathbone

Genre: Fantasy

Length: Novel (222pgs)

Publisher: Eye Scry (April 19, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: Once upon a time an imprisoned prince was rescued by seven beautiful men.

For two years, Prince Snow has been locked away in the palace tower. On the night Queen Serena decides to do away with him for good, seven beautiful men with equally tragic pasts appear out of nowhere to rescue him.

Starved for affection, hurt, and in fear for his life, Snow is shown attention and care he has never known. The seven men teach him what real loyalty and love can be.

Doc, their leader, will heal him.

Sleepy, the most devoted, offers to become his love until the end of days.

All yearn to fight to gain Snow his rightful throne.

But Snow cannot justify his new friends putting their lives on the line for him. His heart will break forever if anything happens to Sleepy. Maybe it would be better for all if he just left…

You will love Prince Snow, but you will fall in love with Sleepy!

M/M romance, non-magical fantasy, abduction, imprisonment, rescue, hurt/comfort, and a sweet love story with a happy ending!

ISBN: B07R1LTZV2

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Imprisoned on his eighteenth birthday and used for the queen’s pleasure Snow is alone and isolated in a tower. One day the queen decides to do away with him and gets her huntsman to take him away and bring back his heart. Seven men save him from death.

I loved getting to know these men and what happened to them. Snow and Sleepy forma a tight bond and become a couple. I loved the camaraderie and companionship of the story between the men and Snow.

There are heartfelt moments as well as intense ones. A great re-telling of snow white and the seven dwarfs with a few changes.

Great read.

Slow Dating the Detective by Sue Brown

Title: Slow Dating the Detective

Series: Cowboys and Angels 03

Author: Sue Brown

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (189 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64080-653-5

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (29 Oct 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: A gentle bartender might have what it takes to mend a relationship-phobic detective’s broken heart… but first they have to admit they’re dating.

Keenan Day could kick himself for letting the hot, dark-haired stranger he met outside a strip club get away. Instead of a phone number, he gets a punch in the face—from the boyfriend of his prospective employer at the Cowboys and Angels bar. When two cops come to check up on him, one is the sexy stranger, Detective Nate Gordon.

The initial attraction hasn’t cooled, and though Nate is leery of commitment, one hookup turns into another until they’re seeing each other in everything but name. After a recent nasty breakup, Nate balks at being part of a couple, and Keenan agrees, even though that’s all he’s ever wanted.

Just as they reach a standstill, a crisis shows them what their friends have known all along—they’ve already moved way past hookups. Now they just have to decide how to move forward.

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Slow Dating the Detective is the third book in Sue Brown’s series, Cowboys and Angels. I’ve become quite a fan of Brown’s writing, particularly after her Island Medics series and her contributions to Dreamspun Desires. I find the characters so relatable and easy to sympathise with, I also love the romance, which isn’t insta-love and is sometimes a slow burn.

The world of the Cowboys and Angels series is based around the world of a city bar called Cowboys and Angels, which is owned by Gideon, whose story kicked off the first book in the series. Even though both MCs of this book are completely new to the series, I still recommend that this series be read in order. The four men who were the MCs of the previous books, plus a couple we sort of met in the second book but never saw their romance properly, are very strong secondary characters. Also, how both the present MCs, Keenan and Nate, are brought into the Cowboys and Angels family has strong ties to these characters. I’m sure it would make sense as a standalone, but I feel that reading this without reading the first two books will do all the characters an injustice.

Keenan is dragged to a strip club by his sister. He’s having a tough time. An attack and resulting brain injury means that Keenan doesn’t have many career options open, but enjoys his job with a family run construction company. Now, the company was folding and has been brought out by a much larger corporation and has resulted in Keenan, as well as other employees, losing their jobs.
This is why Keenan’s sister has taken to a club to enjoy some talented male exotic dancers. The club itself had been brought out by the owner of the Cowboys and Angels bar by the end of book 2 in the series, and the club manager is a stripper who goes by the stage name Lionman, aka Cris. That night happens to be Lionman’s last hurrah on the stage as he takes over the day to operations of the club. But Keenan doesn’t know any of this yet, instead he sees a man he likes but is too shy to get the man’s number.

However, at the club he gets a lead on a possible job, even if it is bar tending at a local red neck bar, Cowboys and Angels, which has ties to the same guy who now owns the strip club. Keenan doesn’t have much choice and takes the dive. When he goes for his job interview he is greeted by a fist to his face from the bar’s ex-owner (Gideon, because he gifted the bar to his partner), and an offer for a trial period by the bar owner (Dan). And if the situation doesn’t just keep getting worse, two cops step in. One of them being Detective Nate Gordon.

Nate is a commitment-phobe. He comes by it honestly after having his heartbroken and struggling with the idea of putting his heart on the line again. Nate is a nice change from many cop storylines in MM romance where homophobia in the workplace is the least of his issues. After all, one of the other detectives is dating a guy (Mikey, who features in both books 1 and 2). He’s not ready for a relationship and after being honest with Keenan about not dating, Keenan is willing. These guys have a lot of complex emotions to come to terms with before they can think beyond to labelling whatever it is they are having. But there is no doubt that of the two men it is Nate whose baggage is the heaviest.

This was an excellent addition to the world of Cowboys and Angels. I love how closely connected all the characters are (I suppose Gideon’s millions of dollars and given so many business interests help this fact along). I love how there is a friendly, family feel to this series. The characters are relatable, and I love the spark between Nate and Keenan. They are both pretty lost when we first meet them, but they have so much potential together and the possibility of many new friends to add to their circle.

Interpretive Hearts by Amanda Meuwissen

Title: Interpretive Hearts

Series: Dreamspun Desires 94

Author: Amanda Meuwissen

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (197 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64405-740-7

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (19 Nov 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Love is easy once you learn the steps.

In the competitive world of dance, Teddy was a flawless performer and hardass choreographer who students feared and admired in equal measure. But hip surgery ended the glamour and drama, and now Teddy is recovering at his beach house, lost and listless.

Until he meets Finn, his neighbor, who is too perfect, gorgeous, and kind to exist—but very ill timed. In a seaside town as small as theirs, they can’t avoid each other, especially since Finn is also Teddy’s new physical therapist. But Teddy isn’t the man he used to be, and though Finn flirts shamelessly with him, Teddy can’t believe a has-been dancer is worthy of someone so young and full of life.
Finn’s sunny smile is also hiding heartache. Pursuing Teddy challenges both his professionalism and his self-preservation, but if he can convince Teddy to trust him, maybe they both can heal.

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Interpretive Hearts is a standalone romance by Amanda Meuwissen for the house line Dreamspun Desires. I didn’t really know what to expect, to be perfectly honest. I’ve read only one other book by the author in the past and I really couldn’t remember it from the top of my head. However, the blurb grabbed and add in that Dreamspun Desires is something of a guilty pleasure for me, then I was ready to give it a go.

The first character we are introduced to is Teddy. He’s a professional dancer – a skilled performer and as he got older he stepped with ease into the role of an equally skilled choreographer. He has the admiration of various members of the dancing community, as well as his very own enemy that seems to delight in rubbing in the fact that he now had Teddy’s job after surgery has changed Teddy’s whole life. Teddy, as with every other dancer, knew that that the performing part of his career was limited, and unfortunately the same is true for choreography. Vital hip surgery has left Teddy confused and is happy to keep to himself in his beachside condo. The physical part of recovery is difficult, but he had never realised that the mental side of recovery was just as difficult.

Things begin to change when Teddy bumps into one of his neighbours, Finn. Teddy feels an instant spark of attraction but because of the surgery he holds himself back. Especially when he feels humiliated when Finn needs to help him inside to his home after a minor setback. The complications continue when it turns out that Finn is also Teddy’s physical therapist, helping him with his rehab. Because now Finn, who also felt the attraction, is torn because Teddy is now his patient and therefore off limits for any personal relationships.

There is angst as Teddy works through his recovery and Finn comes to terms with his attraction to a patient. Overall, it is really enjoyable and the characters took on a really nice depth that made their romance feel realistic. Fans of romances that involve professional in the arts will like this one. This is the a sweet story of one character on his journey to recovery and the man that becomes important to him for multiple reasons.

Cutting It Close by Reese Knightley

Title: Cutting It Close

Series: Code of Honor 01

Author: Reese Knightley

Genre: Contemporary, Suspense

Publisher: Reese Knightley (August 21, 2019)

Length: Novel (201 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Heart

Blurb: When the only thing you’re good at is running or fighting, is a second chance at love even possible?

Captain Maddox Stone is ready to put the men who messed with his family on a fast train to hell. Eliminating the enemy is the only thing he’s good at anyway. He sure as hell isn’t good at connecting. Of course, on the heels of that thought, his past comes walking through the door. Will he finally have the guts to explain what really happened that night so long ago?

Nothing on earth could bring Lieutenant River Seeger back to the ranch until his grandfather calls for help. With no other recourse, he returns to the Triple R, but makes it clear it’s for a limited time. He’s left the past behind and with it, his youthful dreams. But, since he’s here, shouldn’t he at least get some answers?

Two soldiers faced with the past. One man struggles with a tragic secret while the other one demands answers. What’s even worse? When Maddox deploys on a mission and River takes on the kidnappers, time is running out for one of them. The only thing for certain is they’re definitely cutting it close for any chance at a happy ending.

ISBN: B07WW7VMYP

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Maddox loved River but he had to hurt him to keep him alive. His father is one nasty evil who loved to abuse Maddox. That is until his grandfather stepped in. That didn’t stop the emotional abuse though. However when he found out that River was someone important well that put him on his radar. So he had to throw away their love to keep his love alive.

River loved Maddox more than anything. But the man didn’t love him. Now sometime has gone past and Maddox was in trouble.

They were young and in love, broke up and now they needed to learn how to communicate. The romance is not the focus of the story since they had already had that. They were apart for many years but trouble brought them back together. I was surprised by the name the group was called but it seem perfect.

I read this story after I read the second book to see about some of the characters and was pretty amazed by it. It is an action packed story with quite a bit of danger in it. There is some sexy times in it as well. I liked how the guys were with each other. They can be a funny group it looks like.

I had a blast reading this and can guarantee that it will be read many times over. It kept my attention from the start and that is hard to do with some stories. I can’t wait to read more from this series.

A Calling Bird by Jo Tannah

Title: A Calling Bird

Series: The Twelve Days of Christmas 04

Author: Jo Tannah

Genre: Holiday, Paranormal, M-Preg, The Twelve Days of Christmas

Length: Short (78pgs)

Publisher: eXtasy Books (December 6, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3.75 Hearts

Blurb: Would serenading be enough to convince a mate they were meant to be?

Cole Burns doesn’t suffer the cold or feeling the holiday spirit, but dreams of having a family by thirty, preferably with two or three children, are slowly fading into the fog of winter. It’s a sad, sad situation he cannot seem to escape.

For John Michael Diamond, being CEO of Diamond Corporation equates to never finding the perfect mate to share his nest. In fact, it’s next to impossible. Through a twist of fate, he discovers his mate not only lives nearby but is on his family’s estate.

Cole never thought he’d fall for such a crazy, insanely gorgeous rich guy, and yet here he is, wrapped in shifter eagle who serenades him with love songs. This is going to be an interesting Christmas.

ISBN: 978-1-4874-2576-0

Product Link: eXtasy Books | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: CEO Michael gets a call about a hacker on his way home for the holidays. His assistant Giles tells him that Cole Burns, who works from his home is perfect the job and living close by. As fate would have it Michael and Cole are mates.

There is some uncertainty between the two after Michael explains things and Cole for his part tries to process everything. I liked the story.

Good read.

Back Door Into Purgatory by Rory Ni Coileain

Title: Back Door to Purgatory

Series: SoulShares 09

Author: Rory Ni Coileain

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Length: Novel (221 pgs)

ISBN: 978-1626015227

Publisher: Riverdale Ave Books (1^st October 2019)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Sometimes Fae love stories aren’t what you expect.

The Marfach—devourer of magick, long-imprisoned mortal enemy of the Fae race—is free of its Antarctic prison.

The Demesne of Purgatory—Fae, humans, a Fade-hound puppy, a Gille Dubh, and a darag—is all that stands between the monster and the power it needs to destroy both the Fae Realm and the human world.

The only clue they have as to how to kill the unkillable is a cryptic note from the Loremasters:
“Osclór, Nartú; Tobar, Soladán; Nidantór, Breathea; Glanadorh, Coromór, Farthor; Scian-omprór, Nachangalte; Crangaol, Síofra; Gastiór, Laoc, Caomhnór; Fánadh, Ngarradh.”
Opener, Strength; Wellspring, Channel; Unmaker, Judge; Cleanser, Equalizer, Sentry; Blade-bearer, Unbound; Tree-kin, Changeling; Binder, Warrior, Guardian; Wanderer, Sundered.

As they rebuild Purgatory from the rubble the Marfach left behind, they have to stand together, using everything they know—everything they are to their partners, lovers, husbands. Everything SoulSharing has made them.

And not everyone who enters the final battle will leave it.

Warnings: Flatulent puppy

Purchase Link: Riverdale Ave Books | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: This story is part of a series and must be read in order.

The Fae and their SoulShares know that they have a huge challenge ahead; they have to finally kill the Marfach and destroy the Pattern if they want to save the Fae realm and Earth. Which considering they have no idea how to do either, the Marfach is unkillable and the Pattern has been sealed by the Loremasters from their side.

This is a fantastic conclusion to the SoulShares series; it’s got love, danger, action, mystery and a huge twist. I was gripped by this story and the way it played out.

We rejoin the guys as they try to figure out how they are going to move forward in their plans, and as typical Fae are wont to be their planning is more of a bragging of their skills and how they will all single handedly tear the Marfach to pieces. The SoulsShares all know the risks they are facing, and when a cryptic message arrives from the Loremasters they know the only way forward is for them to all work together.

Kevin is terrified though, he is haunted by a dream and when the dream comes true his world is shattered.

We get to enjoy brief snatches of each of the couples & throuple from the first eight books, but this books focuses on the final battle with the Marfach and the aftermath. I really don’t want to give anything away so that’s all I can say about the storyline.

Rory Ni Coileain has wrapped this series up nicely; the writing is superb and grips you from the start. The entire storyline is wrapped up perfectly although I was hoping for a glimpse of reunion between all eight couples at the very end (you’ll understand when you read it 😉 )

I have to say that I was extremely satisfied with how the series ended, there was nothing left hanging or left open. This series truly has ended and while I am sad to say goodbye to the guys, I’m pleased with how it all finished.

I recommend this to those who Fae, danger, a long reaching plot, hope, great characters, an interesting storyline, and a great ending.

Snow Falling by Davidson King

Title: Snow Falling

Series: Haven Hart 01

Author: Davidson King

Genre: Contemporary, Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (247pgs)

Publisher: Davidson King (November 27, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: After running from a past destined to kill him, Snow has been hiding on the streets.

Tell nobody your name.
Tell nobody your secrets.
Trust nobody!
These are the rules of the streets.

His entire life changes when he saves an eight-year-old boy from a violent end. Christopher Manos is one of the most powerful crime bosses in the country.

Don’t ask anyone to do something you aren’t willing to do yourself.
Secrets can get you killed.
Trust nobody!
These are the rules he lives by.

When his eight-year-old nephew disappears, he never expects the boy’s savior to end up being his own. A man with a dangerous past and a man with a dangerous future find love amidst murder and mayhem. But with Snow’s life being threatened at every turn, will Christopher’s best be enough to prevent Snow Falling?

ISBN: B077SRNMTZ

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: What an epic beginning to a series. I can already tell this series will be in my all time favorite top five list. Snow has spent a long time on the streets surviving and keeping to himself. Saving an eight year old boy from the clutches of a guy with evil intentions was a no brainer. Eight, the boy, was a delight. I loved him.

When Snow delivers Eight home he gets the shock of his life when learns eight’s Uncle is Christopher Manos, a feared crime boss. But Chris is not as terrifying as Snow thought and the two grow closer. Snows past rears it’s ugly head and with Eight’s urging Chris protects Snow the only way he knows how.

I loved this story. Chris and Snow were perfect for one another. I am looking forward to reading more about the other characters introduced in this action packed, intense, drama filled book.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

The Carpenter’s Tale by Chris Quinton

Title: The Carpenter’s Tale

Series: The Renfrew Files 01

Author: Chris Quinton

Genre: Paranormal, Mystery, Fantasy

Length: Short Story (22 Pages)

Publisher: Kouros Books (September 2, 2013)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖 3 Hearts

Blurb: It should have been a bit of a break for Mark Renfrew, attending an archaeological conference with his lover, Jack Faulkner. No ghosts, no drama beyond the academic. But it didn’t work out that way. The modern Five Star hotel held a dark secret, and Mark knew he had to uncover it before more people were hurt.

ISBN: 9781301000401

Purchase Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Connected to The Psychic’s Tale

Mark and Jack are at some fancy hotel that was not suppose to be haunted, well guess what it is. Mark is a psychic whereas Jack is the archaeologist.

It is a very short story that is cute and the characters were charming. However all it gives is a taste and nothing after that. It was a bit disappointing but it was still good.

It is too bad that I am not into short stories that just give you a sample of what it would have been like.

Secretly Dating the Lionman by Sue Brown

Title: Secretly Dating the Lionman

Series: Cowboys and Angels 02

Author: Sue Brown

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (200 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64080-651-1

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (27 Nov 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Can a man burdened with family drama find his way into the arms of a happy-go-lucky stripper called Lionman?

Cris likes a drink at Cowboys and Angels bar after his shift at the strip club—until one night when a trashed young guy named Mikey tries to kiss him. He’s not Cris’s type, but Cris is good enough to see the kid home safely. There he meets Mikey’s handsome older brother, Bennett, and there’s an immediate spark between them.

But Bennett might not be in a position to start a relationship, let alone with the carefree Cris. He’s trying desperately to hold his family together, with a younger brother who’s running off the rails and hostile parents who will never accept not just one, but two gay sons.

When Cris is unexpectedly fired and Bennett’s family drama escalates, they turn to each other for support. But can a shoulder to lean on develop into something much closer, something they both deserve?

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Secretly Dating the Lionman is the second book in Sue Brown’s series, Cowboys and Angels. I’ve become quite a fan of Brown’s writing, particularly after her Island Medics series and her contributions to Dreamspun Desires. I find the characters so relatable and easy to sympathise with, I also love the romance, which isn’t insta-love and is sometimes a slow burn.

The world of the Cowboys and Angels series is based around the world of a city bar called Cowboys and Angels, which is owned by Gideon, whose story kicked off the first book in the series. While the second book starts the story of a new couple, there is some subtle background information which we are given back in book 1 which would make it easier to understand both MCs.

The Lionman in the title of the story is the stage name of a popular male stripper, whose real name is Cris. He first went to the red neck bar Cowboys and Angels for a gay speed dating event, which had seen bar manager Dan and the bar owner Gideon get together. Though Cris didn’t end up with a boyfriend he got a good friend in Dan after the speed dating event. In the months since that meeting, Cris now frequents the bar to relax after he performs on stage at a local strip. He is wildly popular with the audience, but his shifts are being less and less frequent. One night at Cowboys, another man who is 1) deeply closeted and 2) another attendee of the speeding dating night, Mikey, kisses Cris. But Cris is a good guy and not interested in Mikey. So instead helps the drunk guy home.
This is how Cris meets Bennett.

Bennett’s brother, Mikey, is a dominant second character throughout the book, as it is his antics/influence that seem to be bringing Bennett and Cris together. Mikey is troubled and this book is just as much his story of his struggles as much as it is Cris and Bennett’s romance. I like that we get to see Mikey’s story resolve but I have to say I am interested in Mikey’s own dive into the world of dating and love.

Bennett means well, he only wants what is best for his little brother and is very protective of him. His intentions are good, but he is aggressive and rather rude when dealing with Cris. Bennett is under pressure to keep his family and their business going – his parents are very traditional and so Bennett has accepted that he cannot be himself as an out gay man, free to date whom he pleases. At the same time he knows his brother is gay too, and wants to protect him at all costs. However, Mikey’s behaviour is spiralling out of control – making him seem more childlike than adult, or perhaps that is how Bennett sees his brother. Despite his attraction to Cris, who is the complete opposite to Bennett, he believes that Cris is one of the people that he needs to shield Mikey from.

This was a totally enjoyable book, one that I enjoyed more than I did the first book in this series. Though Cris is a stripper, this is no Pretty Woman or some such thing. Cris is realistic, smart as hell and is true to himself. And while Bennett is smart as hell in his own right, he has a lot of learning to do while being the over protective older brother that he is. Both MCs are strong, but they have a lot to learn and they just might find out that they are even stronger together.

Though I just need to end, OMG, I think I had Mumford and Sons playing on repeat in my head at every reference of Cris’s stage name, Lionman.

Back Door Into Purgatory by Rory Ni Coileain Blog Tour, Exclusive Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Hi peeps! We have Rory Ni Coilenin popping in today with her new release Back Door Into Purgatory, we have a great exclusive excerpt, a fantastic $20 Amazon GC giveaway and my review so check out the post and enter the giveaway, so check out he post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~

Back Door Into Purgatory

(SoulShares 09)

Rory Ni Coilenin

Sometimes Fae love stories aren’t what you expect.

The Marfach—devourer of magick, long-imprisoned mortal enemy of the Fae race—is free of its Antarctic prison.

And not everyone who enters the final battle will leave it.

Warnings: Flatulent puppy

Continue reading “Back Door Into Purgatory by Rory Ni Coileain Blog Tour, Exclusive Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!” →

Truth Will Out by K.C. Wells

Title: Truth Will Out

Series: Merrychurch Mysteries 01

Author: K.C. Wells

Genre: Contemporary, Mystery

Length: Novel (192 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64080-629-0

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (30 Oct 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Jonathon de Mountford’s visit to Merrychurch village to stay with his uncle Dominic gets off to a bad start when Dominic fails to appear at the railway station. But when Jonathon finds him dead in his study, apparently as the result of a fall, everything changes. For one thing, Jonathon is the next in line to inherit the manor house. For another, he’s not so sure it was an accident, and with the help of Mike Tattersall, the owner of the village pub, Jonathon sets out to prove his theory—if he can concentrate long enough without getting distracted by the handsome Mike.

They discover an increasingly long list of people who had reason to want Dominic dead. And when events take an unexpected turn, the amateur sleuths are left bewildered. It doesn’t help that the police inspector brought in to solve the case is the last person Mike wants to see, especially when they are told to keep their noses out of police business.

In Jonathon’s case, that’s like a red rag to a bull….

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Truth Will Out is the first book in the Merrychurch Mysteries by KC Wells. Wells is an author that I’ve read a number of books in the past and have found them on the whole enjoyable and well written. I’ve actually heard the audio of this book some months ago – I don’t remember when – but at the time I wasn’t aware that it was part of the series. I remembering really getting into the story and it was great to actually read it for myself.

Overall, this was a really cool story and I think was greatly enhanced by listening to the audio. I feel that this is a book that I’ve got more out of it by listening to the audio – and the fabulous performances that brought the characters to life – than I would have reading the book.

There is a definite “British Mystery” feel to it, as in that there’s a murder in the small village but surely “it was nothing but an accident, I’m sure”. I probably have watched too many of said British Mysteries on television, and I’m not ashamed to say that Hot Fuzz is one of my favourite comedy movies. And not to mention that I figured out the plot of the story, mostly because I was thinking, “this reminds of the Doctor Who episode The Unicorn and the Wasp”. Yeah, I’m a nerd and I barely had to think to remember the name of the episode, whatever.

The story starts with Jonathon de Mountford. He goes to visit his uncle, the present Lord de Mountford at the family’s country seat/property. He has a lot of guilt for not seeing his uncle, whom he had been so close to as a kid. But the years and his career as a famous photographer sent him on a whirlwind journey that he has loved. Of course, his father, who heads the family law firm, is disappointed in Jonathon not only because he’s gay but also because he didn’t go into law and sees photography as nothing but a hobby. So clearly the guy has baggage and his life is about to get a whole lot more complicated, first when he meets local bar owner Mike Tattersall, and then goes to find his uncle and ends up finding him dead in his study.

Mike Tattersall moved to the quiet village of Merrychurch in the English countryside after losing his foot ended his career as a police officer in London. Now he owns the village pub (and oh my god! This just makes me think of watching Heartbeat with my mum when I was home sick from school). He moved to be closer to his recently divorced sister and has made something of a life for himself, even if he is lonely. Mike isn’t in the closet, though he doesn’t advertise his sexuality. He was also very much out when he was a policeman, and got his own set of baggage from that as well as dealing with his sister.

Jonathon and Mike have an instant connection. Their chemistry has been written perfectly. The sparks start to fly instantly, but they have a lot of learning to do together before anything can get too serious. On top of that, Jonathon and Mike can’t resist getting involved in the local to mystery, trying to piece together all the clues to solve what happened to Jonathon’s uncle.

I recommend this to anyone that wants a light-hearted romance with a good dose of adventure and mystery. I’m really looking forward to reading the second book in this series really soon!

The Witch’s Blood by Michele Notaro

Title: The Witch’s Blood

Series: The Ellwood Chronicles 03

Author: Michele Notaro

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Witches & Wizards

Length: Novel (294)

Publisher: Michele Notaro (September 30, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: I’ve been living with this burden for years, but my secret has finally been revealed and I feel like I can breathe again. I’ve wanted to ask—to beg—for help, but the spell that’s held me captive wouldn’t allow it. With it out in the open, I’m more determined than ever to break the seal from my chest so I can truly be free.

But what if my seal has something to do with one of the most feared prophecies of the millennium?

“A broken seal breaks the fragile hold…”

What does that mean? How am I connected? And why do I find myself so deeply drawn to Julius when I know my viramore, my soulmate, is out there somewhere? It’s not fair to either of us for me to lead Jules on, but it seems that my vampire companion is fierce in his determination to help me.

The Witch’s Blood is the third book in The Ellwood Chronicles and is a continuation of the overall story as we follow Emrys, Julius, Sebastian, and Ailin on their journey. It contains explicit material and is intended for mature adults 18 years of age and older.

ISBN: B07Y7Q145L

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Both Emrys and Julius’ backgrounds about what happened to them before they met were heart wrenching and horrifying. Julius was fierce in his protection of Emrys, which I thought was sweet and endearing.

I loved everything about this story. Emrys journey has not been easy. I so wanted to hug both him and Julius and tell them it would be o.k. I enjoyed the banter throughout this story. But the highlights were the secrets that were revealed and the intense battles. They were my favorite.

All in all it was a fantastic addition to the series

Street Rat by Stormy Glenn

Title: Street Rat

Series: Hot Mess: Friends & Family 02

Author: Stormy Glenn

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Siren Publishing (November 28, 2019)

Length: Novella (134 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Patty

I was the head of the Irish mob in Chicago. That got me very few friends and even more enemies. With the DEA breathing down my neck, figuring out who’s hijacking my shipments of merchandise is made all that much harder. It’s not until Danny was kidnapped that I learned I had more friends than I thought I did. I just didn’t know if we could rescue Danny before he became a victim to someone’s plot to get to me.

Danny

Patty Flannigan has been my hero since he rescued me from the streets when I was a teenager. Over the years, that hero worship turned into something stronger. I’ve watched a string of boy toys move through Patty’s life at an alarming rate and I didn’t want to become just another notch on his bedpost. I wanted something more meaningful but proving to Patty I could be an asset to him became harder than I was prepared for when I was kidnapped in a plot to get to Patty.

ISBN: 978-1-64637-051-1

Product Link: Siren-BookStrand

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Hot Mess: Friends & Family collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc I would suggest reading them in sequential order. I would suggest you start with the Hot Mess collection as it will give you a idea on some of the characters you will meet in this series.

The fourth horseman of the apocalypse has finally appeared. Danny’s father passed away, his mother was a hard core drug addict and his foster family were evil. He ran away and was living on the streets at the age of fifteen. He had been rescued and brought in by a man he adored. The man was also the head of the Irish Mob.

Patty has seen some crazy things in his life although I would say Lany was the craziest. He was the head of the Irish Mob and had many rules to follow. He never dealt in drugs or girls. He wasn’t clean cut but it would be hard to prove anything. He rescued a young boy from the streets and pretty much protected him. Now here he was trying to keep him safe and falling in love.

I will admit that out of all the contemporary romance stories I have read, this series and the one it is connect to are probably my favorites. There is a serious tone to them but they have so much humor in them that parts of the story will have you laughing your ass off. They are told with such a flare that you are not wanting to put the story down. I loved the characters and everything about them. I was glad that Patty got his head out of his ass though.

I am so glad that Lany’s friends are meeting the ones they will love forever. I do hope that I will see more of them in the future stories. I can’t wait for Vinnie to get his happy ever after though.

I can guarantee that this is one of those stories that will be read many times over.

Letters to Aleksanta by Jessamyn Kingley

Title: Letters to Aleksanta

Series: D’Vaire 14.5

Author: Jessamyn Kingley

Genre: Fantasy. Paranormal, Urban Fantasy

Length: Novella (112pgs)

Publisher: Jessamyn Kingley (December 5, 2019)

Heat Level: Nil

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: There are presents to wrap, cookies to decorate, and a tree to trim! The Draconis High Court of D’Vaire is about to have their largest holiday celebration, and as they prepare for their first-ever Secret Santa, much to Aleksander’s surprise, he’s given the role of Santa himself.

Tasked with this new responsibility, Aleksander is the recipient of multiple letters with suggestions for anonymous gift-givers while he puzzles over what to get the person whose name he plucked out of a hat crafted from his own dragonskin.

With plenty of festive spirit, the gang is ready for the big day and all its fanfare. However, an unexpected arrival takes the D’Vaires by surprise, serving as a beautiful reminder that the most important part of the season is their incredible family, including and especially their beloved Aleksanta.

ISBN: B08267TG2S

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: The holiday spirit is in full force with the D’Vaire clan as plans and decisions are set in motion to bring all cheer and joy for Christmas.

Alekander is voted Aleksanta and I enjoyed the heartfelt and warmth in the letters he received. There were hilarious moments as well that brought joy to my heart with all the bantering between the D’Vaire’ and their extended family.

A truly magnificent story of the true meaning of Christmas. I found myself immersed in so many wonderful feelings at the end of the story that I did not want it to end. So many got their Christmas wishes and one realized that he meant more to them than he thought.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Broken Halo by Lynn Hagen

Title: Broken Halo

Series: Maple Grove 12

Author: Lynn Hagen

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc. (November 25, 2019)

Length: Novella (116 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: Dr. Ari Bjord uprooted his life, leaving behind a broken heart as he moved to Maple Grove to become the new town doctor. His work was fulfilling, but he missed having someone special in his life. Ari just never expected that special someone to be an actual angel with a chip on his shoulder and perpetual whiskey bottle in his hand. Ari definitely had his work cut out for him.

Tortured and punished for thousands of years, Gavril was nothing short of bitter and broken. He wouldn’t know love if it walked up and slugged him on the jaw. That was until a sweet little doctor risked his life to help Gavril. Now Ari was all Gavril thought about, all he craved. With overzealous angels out to kill him, Gavril knew it was time to stop running and fight. But his biggest fight of all was learning how to love the most important person in the world to him. His mate.

ISBN: 978-1-64637-030-6

Product Link: Siren-BookStrand

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Maple Grove collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc I would suggest reading them in sequential order. This series is connected to the Brac Pack, the Brac Pack Next Gen, Brac Village, Zeus’s Pack, Christian’s Coven, Demon Warriors and a few others. For a better understanding of this amazing world I would suggest start with the first book in the Brac Pack collection.

Ari loved what he did and the help he could give. He loved traveling and enjoying his patients. Then he lost a bit when his ex turned out to be worse then evil. He left his life behind to start a new one in Maple Grove. He was still a damn good doctor but he had lost a bit of himself. Now here he was helping a very grumpy and drunk man who didn’t seem to want his help.

Gavril is an angel and has lost his way, so to speak. He loved the humans he looked over but many angels saw it as wrong. Angels are not the good that they stand for but can be worse then humans when it came to bigotry. They held him prisoner for thousands of year and tortured him every second of every day. His escape led him to the one man that might give him hope, his mate.

I liked these guys quite a bit. I was hoping that this author would throw in angels after awhile. So it was a nice surprise and I truly enjoyed their story. Like most of this authors work there is quite a bit of action and danger mixed in with a bit of humor to make it flow better. I always did like a story that had quite a bit of humor in it and this one had it. I enjoyed seeing some of the old gang back from previous stories.

I had a blast reading it and can guarantee that it is one of those stories that will be read many times over.

Mending Noel by Charlie Cochet (2nd Edition)

Title: Mending Noel

Series: North Pole City Tales 01

Author: Charlie Cochet

Genre: Fantasy, Christmas

Length: Short (60pgs)

Publisher: Charlie Cochet (November 18, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: All is not sparkly snowflakes and sweet candy canes in North Pole City. Office workers Tim and Noel do nothing all day but antagonize each other—petty fighting that might be based on hatred… or a heated mutual attraction. It’s up to Jack Frost and his elf-friend Rudy to broach the hostilities and introduce some Christmas kisses, but is the Frost Prince up to the challenge of launching a new romance when someone’s trying to break his holiday spirit?

ISBN: B081C7SQSV

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Wonderful story about Tim and Noel who have problems at work only to overhear a plot against Frost and have Rudy save them.

I loved that Jack and Rudy decide that things need to change for the better and set about doing just that while at the same time helping Noel and Tim with their feelings for one another.

It was an entertaining read that had much more than I thought it would. Drama, action, and romance are all in abundance in this stunning story with a great cast of characters that I am looking forward to getting to know.

Fantastic read.

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Back Door Into Purgatory

Rory Ni Coilenin

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