Hi guys! We have Alex Beecroft popping in today with the tour for her new release Seeing Red, we have a great excerpt so check out the post and enjoy! ❤ ~Pixie~
Seeing Red
(Trowchester 05)
by
Alex Beecroft
Bad boys don’t tame easy.
Victor is a bad man. Is there anything he won’t do for power and money?
Destroy a local business so he can buy it cheap? Kick out its owners and turn it into a cash cow? He relishes the chance.
Idris is a good man in possession of a renowned tea-house. He’s put his heart and soul into the place. It’s everything he has and wants…
Except for Victor.
He wants Victor too.
Can the love of a compassionate man soften a predator’s heart before it’s too late? Or is Idris doomed to lose his life’s work, and his heart with it?
A contemporary mm romance, Seeing Red is a long-awaited new installment of the critically acclaimed Trowchester Series. Each book in the series is a standalone, and can be read in any order. Feel free to start here and work back!
Blurb:Cute hipster and interior designer Michael doesn’t do love – not after his ex screwed him over. Sex is a different story, though, and the gentle giant who’s painting the mural in the old mansion they’re restoring might be perfect hookup material. Gil is just Michael’s type with his solid mus-cle, wicked sense of humor, and the hazel eyes that seem to see into Michael’s soul.
Trouble is, Gil does do love. He wants romance and forever, and he’s set his sights firmly on Michael. Michael’s not going there again.
Yet when Michael is the victim of a vandal who’s been plaguing the men working for Delta Res-toration, Renovation, and Design, Gil is the first person he tells. No matter how he fights it, it’s becoming harder and harder to deny he’s crazy about the guy – even if that thought terrifies him. But the true fear sets in when the criminal behavior escalates, and Michael realizes he might have lost the chance to tell Gil how he feels – forever.
Review:Michael, Reinvented is the second book in Diana Copland’s Delta Restorations series. I accidently started listening to the audio of this book first, and then listened to the audio of the first book after, but that in no way took away from my enjoyment of the book. I love the characters, main and minor characters alike, and their depth, they are well developed without being outrageously complicated. On top of that, I love the chemistry between the main characters without being a case of insta-love or saturating the story with angst. Instead Michael and Gil’s story is a sweet romance between two strong men.
Michael and Gil appeared in book one, Gil’s interest in Michael was clear from the start. Michael is the best friend of David from book one, who is also his personal assistant at the job they worked at until the new restoration business takes off, which emphasises ties to the LBGTQI+ community and professionals. Gil is one of the workers, he’s a house painter with a hidden talent (at least to Michael) for creating beautiful works of art. Gil is a kind hearted man and is kindness and gentleness personified.
However, equally as clear was the fact that Michael is a soft-hearted romantic who firmly believes that love or a happily ever after is something that would never happen to him. Michael needs to get over his baggage and his reservations about relationships and when a sinister plot that leaves Gil severely injured emerges, Michael’s heart catches up to what his brain had already figured out.
Delta Restorations is a series that I sincerely hope that there are more stories (well, at least one other story because I would love to have a HEA for at least a couple of the guys on the restoration crew).
Blurb: For more than five thousand years, Prometheus has been chained in the underworld. Every day, an eagle tears out his liver. Every night, he heals. When Hermes releases him in a gambit to save himself from his father’s wrath, Prometheus must adjust to a world that’s forgotten him. Hunted by the twins, Artemis and Apollo, he finds help in an unexpected place.
Julian Bell is a vampire lost. He left his Louisiana home in 1936 and hasn’t settled since. Ten years ago he followed his best friend to New York, but the country they came to wasn’t the America he left. After losing his friend, he found himself unmoored in a strange land. As he nears his hundredth birthday, he’s realizing how truly alone he is.
When Prometheus and Julian’s paths cross one fateful night, they find in each other a safe path through the shadows.
PRISONER OF SHADOWS IS THE SECOND BOOK IN A SERIES, BUT CAN BE READ AS A STAND ALONE NOVEL.
Review: I enjoyed the mix of mythology and vampires plus the way the vampires were connected to the deities. That was ingenious. It was interesting to see how Prometheus deals with and adjusts to a world he has not been in a very long time. When Julian and Prometheus meet after Julian saves him the two hit it off.
I loved that Julian wanted to protect Prometheus from any harm. I always find it fascinating to see how a character is going to react when h suddenly is put in situations he has never been in before. It was a joy to see Prometheus come into his own as he traverses this new world with Julian by his side.
I loved reading about the different deities as the story progressed. Cerebus was a delight and not the frightful beast that is portrayed in movies.I simply loved everything about this story.
Vann was thrilled for his alpha, Dryden claiming his mate, and now expecting a pup. Thanks to the alpha-beta link between them, the only downside was how much Dryden’s happiness emphasized Vann’s own loneliness.
There was a wolf who caught Vann’s eye, possibly his fated mate, but Vann couldn’t claim a male. It was too engrained in him to seek out a female mate. An alpha female.
Then, the unimaginable happened. Once again, Arri was abducted, and held captive. Except this time, Vann was as much a prisoner as Arri. Day after day, Vann endured Kale’s cruel torture so that Arri would be as safe as possible.
But the pup was coming soon…
…and Vann’s vow as alpha guardian took on a whole new meaning.
Unable to bear the shame, and guilt of his actions, and unwilling to return to Woodlynn to face his alpha, Vann fled, abandoning Dryden now that the male had his mate back safe, and sound.
*~*~*~*
Dryden was beyond worried that his lead beta, his alpha guardian—his best friend—had disappeared without a trace. Knowing what drove the male to take off didn’t matter to Dryden. Vann had saved his mate, his family. He’d fulfilled his vow, and then some. Dryden was indebted to Vann, and missed the beta desperately, more than he thought possible.
But Vann’s disappearance was only the tip of the iceberg. There was no peace for his family, he was depending on Rovyn more, and more, and yet, couldn’t because the beta had claimed his mate, and needed time with Anrean.
Then there was Border pack, his brother Massey having stepped down, and gone home, leaving Dryden as alpha to both Woodlynn, and Border. Not something that was going over well with the Border wolves. Even Kasp, a psychotic wolf who once belonged to Woodlynn a few years ago was challenging his right to lead Border as the alpha who bested Sbrel.
And to top it all off, Truin, one of his beta-in-trainings, and Vann’s fated mate, had left in search of the missing alpha-guardian, without permission.
His life in chaos, Dryden wasn’t sure what was going to happen. Would he defeat the challengers bent on destroying him? Would he, and Arri ever have time to raise their pup without constant threats?
Review: The first thing I am going to say is, that the length of the blurb was crazy. After reading it, I pretty much knew what it was totally about. Then there is the problems that the book had with certain words misused and simple errors that should have been caught in beta read.
Vann saves his alpha mate and child, but feels the guilt of what he has done. He runs as fast as he can. His mate, a mate that he didn’t want follows him. Truin follows his mate, without permission and leaves his alpha wondering what the hell is going on.
This story just about drove me nuts. It has the same issues as the first book had. The editor and beta readers should have caught the mistakes, but did not. This story was jumping around so much that I am surprised I didn’t get whiplash. This book fell short on so many levels because it has the same drama as the first book. There were no surprises other than the fact that Vann runs away like a coward. Or I should say like a guilty coward. I am glad that the other beta got his mate, but it still follows the same weak little omega and a strong wolf.
This story had great potential but the author is just not following through. The blurb gave most of it away so I already knew most of what was going on. There was just lots of filler in this book that was not needed. I am sorry but so far I am not impressed with this book nor this series. Let us hope that book three has a bit more shock to it. Also I hope the next book is about the actual characters and there is no cliff hanger at the end. Very disappointed in this one.
Blurb: Decades of searching and fighting has taught Azakeen one thing. He’s done with fighting, and he’s found his two mates, Alkan, a fellow Jorzzon warrior, and the sultry Jeboo demon, Frey Dristral. After a decree by the formidable Jeboo empress, Firth, there’s hope for them, but Frey is terrified that his family will try to interfere. Despite the new law, they’re against any inter-species mingling. Added to which, they discover a plot to undermine the new alliance between Jorzzon and Jeboo, and need to take down a deadly enemy of Azakeen’s, his brutal successor to the Jorzzon 2nd Division, Chakron. All good fun. Azakeen and Alkan don their battle armor again, determined to bring Frey back to their arms, and defeat all those who seek to create chaos in the new peace of Planet Hydra. Jorzzon Invasion, anyone?
Review: Betrayal and evil plans are set to try an cause a war between Jeboo and Jorzzon. It is up to Frey, Alkan and Azakeen to stop it before it starts. There are many players involved from Jeboo to Jorzzon.
I loved everything about this fast paced, action packed story. It was tense and had me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
Blurb: Getting to know each other hasn’t been an easy journey for Scott Gregory and Robin “Red” Kennedy. Falling in love and exploring their kinkier sides revealed a perfect match, and Scott is a devoted sub to Red’s headstrong and often impulsive Dominant personality.
Scott, Robin, and their friend, Susie, open a new dental practice a short distance from the old office but miles away from Scott’s former boss and his Promise Keeper mentality. But the move doesn’t guarantee a happy ending. Robin’s mother is in a medical crisis. Scott’s grandfather makes an unexpected appearance. Ongoing interference from Jenna, Ron’s needy assistant, stirs up trouble. And Susie, having completed her training as a Dominatrix, is on a quest for the perfect male submissive.
Then there’s one more threat to their relationship: Robin’s desire for a public collaring, something the shy and formerly closeted Scott is having a really hard time accepting. Is a strong and binding love―albeit a kinky one―enough to keep Scott and Robin together?
Review: Bonds of Love is the second book in Mickie B Ashling’s Bay Area Professionals series. Being new to the author’s work, I feel that I am still exploring their writing style, although I really did enjoy the first book to the series. This novel is a direct continuation from Impacted! and so it is vital that you read the first book before moving onto this one.
The story picks up Robin and Scott’s lives as a D/s couple, but also as professionals as dental hygienist and dental surgeon, respectively. They are still dealing with much of the fall out that came with working the homophobe dentist that they used to work for – and surprisingly this has spread to encroach their personal lives/backgrounds. To be perfectly honest, although I liked the introduction of a new character (an elderly gent and all around nice fellow), I found this storyline dragging on a but of a turn off.
Scott and Robin continue to build their lives together. It’s tricky when they work with each other and are in love with each other. Then there is the whole exploration of the BDSM, which leads to Robin wanting to collar Scott in front of (mostly) his acquaintances at their preferred club. Also, on the topic of BDSM, we see Scott’s best friend, Susie, explore her needs as a dominatrix in her quest to find satisfaction and maybe even a sub of her own (again, another strangely complicated storyline).
While, over all, I found the story enjoyable and glad to see the guys are just as awesome together as they were in the first book, I was turned off a bit by the melodrama that seemed to pop around every corner.
I recommend this one for people that like BDSM romances and/or to those that love a good soap opera.
Hi peeps, we have Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes dropping by today with the tour for their new release Prisoner of Shadows, we have a brilliant giveaway and Shorty’s review so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
Prisoner of Shadows
(Lords of the Underworld 02)
by
Sam Burns & W.M. Fawkes
For more than five thousand years, Prometheus has been chained in the underworld. Every day, an eagle tears out his liver. Every night, he heals. When Hermes releases him in a gambit to save himself from his father’s wrath, Prometheus must adjust to a world that’s forgotten him. Hunted by the twins, Artemis and Apollo, he finds help in an unexpected place.
Julian Bell is a vampire lost. He left his Louisiana home in 1936 and hasn’t settled since. Ten years ago he followed his best friend to New York, but the country they came to wasn’t the America he left. After losing his friend, he found himself unmoored in a strange land. As he nears his hundredth birthday, he’s realizing how truly alone he is.
When Prometheus and Julian’s paths cross one fateful night, they find in each other a safe path through the shadows.
Hi guys! We have Ryan Loveless popping in today with her new release A Cordial Agreement, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
A Cordial Agreement
by
Ryan Loveless
Can a wealthy but frustrated CEO and a guilt-ridden stripper find what they need in a consensual, nonsexual whipping boy arrangement?
Billionaire mogul Grant Jessup, fifty-three, buries his sexual tastes and the reasons behind them—the stresses of his business empire and family. In contrast, Jim Sieber understands the regret that makes him seek pain and penance. As an asexual averse to erotic touch, Jim sets strict boundaries. But as the relationship evolves, Grant struggles to respect them, and both men realize for their association to continue and perhaps grow into real feelings, they’ll have to explore new ways to satisfy each other.
Hi guys! We have Sean Azinsalt popping in today with his new release It’s In My Blood, we have a brilliant giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
It’s In My Blood
(Criminal Delights 10: Obsession)
by
Sean Azinsalt
Death eventually comes for us all. But what if there’s a way for older people to regain their youth? To stay a step ahead of the grim reaper?
Turning 40 was the last straw for me. It’s practically 60 in gay years and I wasn’t ready for dentures yet, so I came to Youthology — a program that injects clients with blood transfusions from young, fit and healthy donors.
I chose Nick.
Handsome. Masculine. And more importantly, young.
I thought I hit the lottery, until my life started to change for the worst. Not even the top medical experts can explain what happened to me. From the moment Nick’s blood flooded into my veins, I stopped being me, and I became something new; something dangerous and deadly.
I became my donor.
His obsessions are mine now. His darkest desires, his dreams, his needs, and nightmares are all a part of me, and I don’t want to let them go.
I embrace them and the beautiful boy who haunts both of our dreams.
My blood pact was sealed the moment I entered Youthology.
I never thought I’d become a killer.
This book is part of CRIMINAL DELIGHTS. Each novel can be read as a standalone and contains a dark M/M romance.
Warning: These books are for adult readers who enjoy stories where lines between right and wrong get blurry. High heat, twisted and tantalizing, these are not for the fainthearted.
Blurb: When interior designer David Snyder buys a beautiful century-old house in eastern Washington, he is reeling with heartbreak and looking for somewhere to put down roots. Unfortunately his new home comes with a laundry list of problems: electrical, plumbing, heating…things David knows nothing about. When his mother offers him the business card of a local handyman, David pictures an overweight, balding man in his fifties. But Jackson Henry couldn’t be further from that stereotype.
Dark-haired, muscular, and handsome, Jackson left a large construction firm in Seattle to take care of his sick mother. However, his hometown still has an active “good old boy” network, and finding employment in construction is almost impossible for an openly gay man. Determined to persevere, Jackson takes odd jobs as a handyman. He’s exactly what David needs – in more ways than one.
David isn’t ready for his attraction to Jackson, not considering the way his last relationship end-ed. But as the two men get to know each other, it becomes clear that the heart often knows best, and it rewards those willing to listen.
Review: I was pleasantly surprised by just how awesome David, Renewed from Diana Copland’s Delta Restorations series. This is the first book in the series and the author is completely new to me, although I’ve seen the name pop up on Dreamspinner Press website.
Is it just me and I’m a complete weirdo, but sometimes I look at a book written by a new author (new to me anyway) and either the cover or authors name – which is in no way offensive – gives me warning vibes like I’ll probably not like the book? I know, I’m a strange sort of person. However, that was the vibe I got off this book, for no apparent reason because the blurb really appealed to me.
I will admit, I accidentally listened to this series out of order and by the time I realised it, I was too far in to bother. Doing so didn’t really ruin anything for me and it didn’t leave me confused when I listened to book 2 first. This was an awesome series. But specifically for this book, I loved the characters. Everyone, both MCs as well as the minor characters, were all brilliantly fleshed out and totally relatable. These are just ordinary guys living their own extraordinary life, living with their baggage and letting love happen. The chemistry between David and Jackson is both sweet and hot. Jackson is completely sexy and will definitely fulfil anyone’s need to read about sexy tradies.
The narration was also on point. Michael Pauley is not unknown to me as a narrator, his voice absolutely fitted the characters and he picked just the right tone for everyone involved. Really, it was something wonderful.
David has recently got out of a bad relationship and in his hurt and grief, he has impulsively brought a grand old home which he wants to bring back to its former glory. The only issue with that is, his buy was so impulsive he quickly finds out he needs to sink a lot more money into the project, which doesn’t help when his ex comes back trying to con money out of David. David is desperate for help and it is his mother that suggests a local handyman (construction worker?), who is the son of one of her friends, Jackson. David thinks Jackson is straight from the start but there is definite chemistry. The romance is slow to start between the men but once it ignites there is no stopping the fire caused by David and Jackson’s romance.
Jackson isn’t just a pretty face though. He had been forced to move back home when it became apparent that his mother, who has MS, needs someone close by but his brother and sister are too selfish to think of their mother. However, his mother is a sweetheart and when David and his mother get involved to help Jackson and his mother, the romance becomes something more and the mothers become this cute little cheer squad for the men.
In between all that is the issues surrounding Jackson and the contractors he uses to help restore David’s house – obviously they run against some homophobia. Which leads David, an interior designer, to come up with a mad cap idea which leads us directly into the next book.
For struggling film student Isamu Taylor, life’s refrain is about to change from boring documentary about a passionless delivery boy to a blazing and wildly erotic love story.
After spending weeks admiring handsome but older Manhattan executive Brian Gilles while delivering brioche to him in Bryant Park, the man of his lusty dreams has just expressed a desire to get to know Isamu better. A night on the town is just the beginning of a whirlwind romance that will span not only four seasons but countless years.
Amid the beauty and charm of Bryant Park, New York City, two men are about to discover that love knows no age or economic boundaries. This is a collection of four short stories starring these two amazing men, their one sublime love, and the park where it all started.
Review: Tales of Bryant is a very sweet collection of short stories by VL Locey. I really enjoy Locey’s stories, particularly her hockey romances, but honestly, I’m up for just about anything.
The story is quite simplistic. Due to the format there isn’t time for deep character or plot development, so it feels very much like an instalove type thing to me. Not that this is a bad thing, because it helps make this book a relaxing read.
It is about two men, Isamu Taylor and Brian Gillies, meeting in Bryant Park in NYC, where they fall in love. The four stories are just small captures in time of their lives, the reader looking in to find out more about the guys and find out what they are up to. They are very different men, Isamu is a film student struggling to make ends meet, while Brian is well-off executive. But a night on the town quickly becomes a lot more. One thing that I thought was funny that it was explained how to pronounce Gillies, which I was already familiar with, but Isamu wasn’t and I had to look up the pronunciation.
This is a no nonsense, very sweet and uncomplicated romance and if that is your type of read then you’ll enjoy this one. Although, if you’re not into instalove, I would steer clear.
There is another book coming out and I am looking forward to it.
Blurb:James Keith hasn’t had an easy life. He was saved by Clan Keith and his King Duncan Adair from his traumatic and abusive childhood, but they couldn’t save him from the fear that has taken hold of his soul. He’s a good and strong Dragon Warrior, but when it comes to trusting people and dealing with emotional situations James would rather take flight and escape the darkness he fears is inside him. When he comes face to face with his fated mate on the deck of the Dragon’s Blood Lodge he is struck by the beauty of his Master Vampire mate but the fear and trauma won’t let him go. He’s only good for one thing, running away. Can James let Augustin in and let him see the worst parts of his past or his he doomed to allow the past to swallow his present. Is he doomed to just be a runaway?
Augustin Chamberlin is the Master Vampire of the Chamberlin Coven and he exudes a level of power that has every paranormal taking notice. But that kind of power and authority never comes without a price. Augustin has had a dance or two with darkness and that leaves a wound on your soul that only true love can heal if we let it. When he first sees his Dragon Beloved, Augustin is floored by the strength and beauty of James Keith and he is ready to stake his claim. But this courtship doesn’t come without complications. James Keith is a damaged soul with one eye on the door and Augustin must walk a fine line if he wants to make James his forever. Secrets lurk in both of their paths that threatens to send this train straight off the tracks. James Keith may be a runaway, but can Augustin finally bring him home?
Review: Master Vampire Augustin finds his mate in James. James has a past history of abuse and neglect stemming from childhood. Augustin is warned that James runs when he’s scared and does just that when introduced to his mate as he feels unworthy.
I loved this story of two individuals who both have tragic past and help the other. I also loved the way James took up for and saved Augustan from a member his clan when Augustin’s past comes out and the wrong conclusions are reached.
Blurb: Dave Cunningham hates the rampant consumerism that’s come to dominate his family’s Hanukkah celebrations. But a chance to bring a bit of a holiday happiness to his long-time crush, Amit Cohen, helps put him in a more festive mood.
In the quest to craft the perfect gift, Dave tries to urge a few personal details out of stoic Amit. Unintentionally, he learns the Cohen family’s secret: Amit is a golem. But Amit has a problem that runs deeper than his magical origin, and a Hanukkah miracle might be the only thing that will keep the budding flame between him and Dave from going out.
Review: Dave pretty much hates the way Hanukkah has gone. He does not care for the gift giving that they do, a hand made gift is preferred. So he is kind of down around the holidays. He does like talking to Amit though. Although Amit doesn’t really talk back to him. That is until tonight. Amit has a secret, his whole family does, Amit is a golem.
I hate to admit that I have no clue what a golem is. I know he is made from clay and with magic is alive, but other than that not a clue. I can’t say I liked this book, other than the characters themselves. It just came off bizarre to me. Other than that it is a really cute little story.
Blurb: A young magic user who wants desperately to live. A jaded recluse who has forgotten what living means. They’re each other’s only chance.
Toby’s wild magic is killing him. The mage guilds have given up on him, and it’s only a matter of time before he dies in a spectacular, catastrophic bang. His only hope is an exiled wizard who lives in seclusion—and is rumored to have lost his mind.
The years alone on his hilltop estate have not been good for Darius Valstad. After the magical accident that disfigured him and nearly drowned Pittsburgh, he drifts through his days, a wraith trapped in memories and depression. Until a stricken young man collapses on his driveway, one who claims Darius is his last chance. For the first time in fifteen years, Darius must make a choice—leave this wild mage to his fate or take him in and try to teach him, which may kill them both. The old Darius, brash and commanding, wouldn’t have hesitated. Darius the exile isn’t sure he can find the energy to try.
Review: Toby is being killed slowly by the wild magic inside him that he can not control. Having gone to many guild’s for help has not helped. The last guild he goes to wants to in a sense put him down for good before the magic causes a catastrophe. Toby flees to find another like him that can help, Darius, who was outcast after he lost control while trying to help someone who had the same problem Toby does.
The two do everything in their power to control the magic flowing through Toby. Toby meets Darius’ other students like himself who had trouble with various magic’s that Darius had helped. All the while trying to stay out of the guild’s grasp. I loved this story and the way it was told.
Fascinating and intriguing it caught my attention from start to finish. The magic aspect was appealing and somewhat horrifying in what could happen if not controlled. The characters were unique in their abilities in that they struggled at times with their gifts.
Amazing beginning to a series I am looking forward to reading more of.
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc. (April 15, 2019)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts
Blurb: Inside Henry is a beautiful butterfly dying to burst free. Yes, that’s a euphemism for the repressed man desperate to lose his virginity. His brother is a controlling jerk who thinks he can tell Henry what to do just because he has money. So far that held true for Henry, until they check into Honey Haven and Henry spots a gorgeous man standing by the front counter. A man he’s determined to give his V card to.
Someone Morgan knew from high school shows up at Honey Haven and it’s obvious that Jude Keeler has done well for himself. Morgan doesn’t deny that he’s an uptight person, but Jude has Morgan’s primness beat hands down. But it’s Jude’s younger brother who piques Morgan’s interest. The little virgin is shy and represses his urges, but Morgan is determined to unleash Henry’s desires, even if he has to go through Jude to get to him.
Review:Each book in the Honey Haven collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.
Henry is a sweet bunny shifter whose life is about to be turned nutty. His older brother, who I might add is an ass, is a controlling, egotistical and selfish man is up to know good. He wants to rub it into people’s faces that he has more money than god. He has also sold his brother. Then they show up at a hotel ran by the sexiest of men. One has caught the little cuties eye and he might just loose his virgin status.
Morgan is a brother who has to keep control over certain things. The hotel is finally doing good but his heart is still torn. His little brother is still in a feral state and hardly ever comes out of his room. That is until it is night and he just runs around the hotel in bear form. Then in walks a cutie and his heart might just be his. However Henry’s brother is another matter. Trouble always seems to show up and Morgan is going to protect his mate.
These stories are sweet and funny as hell but it is also missing something. They come off rushed and a bit jumbled. The main thing I find wrong is the way the guys act. They are bear shifters but you couldn’t tell it. For one they can’t scent others as well they don’t know their mates till after sex. They don’t shift unless they are showing their mates and that is just comes off weird. Other than those issues the story is quite enjoyable and can keep you entertained for awhile.
I had a blast reading it and can’t wait to see what the next book has going with it. I will say that Gus is still my favorite and I hope his story is coming up. Although even with him there were questions that were not answered.
Blurb: Ryker is hockey royalty, Jacob is a poor country boy. Can two vastly different people find common ground and become the men they want to be?
Ryker comes from a long line of championship-winning hockey players. Playing college hockey to develop his game is his only focus, and nothing will stand in the way of him working to become the best player. He has no room for relationships, people who point out his flaws, or anyone who calls him on his dreams. He certainly has no place for love, and meeting Jacob is nothing but a useful distraction on the side. After all trying to get his Owatonna Eagles teammate into bed is less work and more play. When tragedy rocks his family, his charmed life crumbles, and the only person he can turn to is the same one who claims to hate him.
Jacob Benson has only known hard work and stifling conservative values his whole life. Born and raised in the small rural community of Eden Crossing, Minnesota, he’s the only son of a hard-working but struggling dairy farming family. Jacob is using his skills in hockey to finance his way to an agricultural science degree. These four years at Owatonna U. will probably be the only time he has to enjoy life, gain acceptance about his sexuality, and live openly before his inevitable return to the farm. Running into a pretty rich boy like Ryker Madsen is putting a damper on his enjoyment of life away from home. Ryker’s flip, conceited, carefree attitude grates on Jacob’s every nerve. So why, if Ryker is everything he dislikes, does he want nothing more than to explore the sinful dreams that his annoying teammate stars in every night?
Review: Ryker has been a long awaited book for me. I adore the authors, VL Locey and RJ Scott, and I especially adore their hockey romances that they write together. I could go on for a long time about how much I love their style of writing and how their characters develop and grow, both outside of their book and within the book where those characters become MCs.
The MCs of this book is, obviously, the titular Ryker Madsen who comes from NHL royalty with his father and maternal grandfather and it turns out she is something of a hockey player himself. Moving to Owatonna University brings him into orbit with fellow hockey player and team mate, Jacob Benson. Jacob is Ryker’s opposite in many ways, but most especially because he comes from a farming family who work hard to keep their legacy going, as well as pushing Jacob to pursue his dreams.
Ryker is the first book is the author’s ice-hockey centred series Owatonna U Hockey, which is a spin off from their Harrisburg Railers series (which is completely awesome and once more I could go on all day about how much I love that series). That being said, I would recommend to either read Harrisburg Railers series before going here, or at least read book 1 (Changing Lines), which is the story of Ryker’s dad, Jared, and soon to be stepdad Tennant and where we first meet Ryker. The event involving Ten which has Ryker worried for both his father and Ten, happens in book 7 (Neutral Zone). So if you’ve not read the series, I would recommend reading at least books 1 and 7 – but for the sports romance fans you are missing out if you don’t read the entire Harrisburg Railers series…
Oops! I better get back to Owatonna U!
Ryker and Jacob’s story is really wonderful. This is about two young men that know what they want to do with their lives (ice hockey and ultimately NHL) but things change and they grow up, so while their ultimate goal doesn’t change these guys grow up. They also grow up and as they become adults they learn about love and being together and support and sacrifice. Ryker manages to piss Jacob off and this is where Ryker begins to shed his identity as Jared Madsen’s son and becomes his own man as he navigates his feelings towards Jacob.
This is a good base for a new series. The romance between Ryker and Jacob is nice, they are both strong characters but they also live with some very relatable insecurities relating to their schoolwork, their family and their sexuality. The book starts with the world of the Railers, which it has to because Ryker needs to break away from that persona we gained of him earlier and become his own man, which is how we end up with this wonderful little spin off detached from Railers. I’ve learnt a lot about hockey and NHL and now college hockey from these books! We are also introduced to a number of players (including Scott and Benoit, aka Ben) which has me looking forward to the next books in the series.
Blurb: Stetson Major and Curtis Traynor are about as opposite as two cowboys can get. Stetson is a rancher, tied to the land he loves in Taos, New Mexico, while Curtis is a rodeo cowboy whose wanderlust never could be tamed.
But now Stetson’s momma is dying of Alzheimer’s, and she can’t remember that Curtis hasn’t been Stetson’s boyfriend for a long time. Curtis’s absence makes her cry, so Stetson swallows his pride and calls his ex-lover.
To Curtis, Stetson is the one who got away, the love of his life. And Momma is his friend, so he’s happy to help out. Yet returning to the ranch stirs up all sorts of feelings that, while buried, never really went away. Still, the rodeo nationals are coming up, and Curtis can’t stay… even if he’s starting to want to, especially to support Stetson when he needs it most.
Stetson and Curtis want to find a place where they both fit, to be there to catch each other when they fall. But family, money problems, and the call of the rodeo circuit might end their second-chance romance before it even gets started.
Review: Soft Place to Fall is a contemporary western romance by BA Tortuga, which means its just about everything that I expect from a Tortuga novel. BA Tortuga has very recently gone close to the top of my must read author list and I really, at the absolute minimum like, each and every one of them, especially the cowboy romances, because those are so freaking hot!
Soft Place to Fall is a story about second chance love, which I know will appeal to a lot of people, on top of the whole contemporary cowboy romance.
Stetson and Curtis were in love years ago and they were in a very serious relationship. However, their lives were not compatible and I suppose that they were too young to really compromise to fight for what they have together. And so for eight years they have been apart. All that changes when Stetson’s mother, who has Alzheimer’s and is in her last weeks of life, keeps asking to see Curtis. She loved Curtis and Stetson sometimes felt that his mother loved his boyfriend more than she did him. After all, Curtis is a free spirit and fierce rodeo rider like Stetson’s much beloved father had been, which is probably part of why she had approved of her son’s boyfriend back in the day. On the other hand, Stetson is a home body and prefers to pour his time and energy into the ranch, which is taking some hard hits as Stetson tries to pay for his mother’s medical treatment.
When Stetson calls and tells Curtis what has happened, he drops everything and runs to his ex and his mama. This is the first sign that these guys, although parting after a fight, had never lost their love for each other. Unfortunately, when they were younger, love wasn’t enough when their lives were taking them into two different directions.
I feel this is a story that shows that love and people mature and perhaps these guys had to wait before being at the right place, at the right time before they could be together with their HEA. I think that is the aspect of the book that I enjoyed the most, aside from the wonderful chemistry between Stetson and Curtis.
Hi guys, we have D.J. Jamison stopping by today with her new release Surprise Groom, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant $15 Amazon GC giveaway, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
Surprise Groom
(Marital Bliss 01)
by
D.J. Jamison
Can two men fake their way to marital bliss?
Caleb Taylor is shocked to learn his family could lose Bliss Island Resort — their home and livelihood — unless he makes use of a clause to marry the child of investor Louis Chastain. Sofia Chastain is more like a sister than a love interest, and Caleb isn’t ready to sign over his future. But Sofia has a brother, and Caleb has a plan …
Julien Chastain was disowned at fifteen and has made a life as a go-go dancer in Miami, but he lives paycheck to paycheck. When his childhood friend proposes an outlandish marriage contract, he thinks he’s crazy. But it’s a chance at a future that’s tough to pass up.
Caleb and Julien must present themselves as an authentic couple for the legal loophole to work, but the lines between “fake” and “real” keep shifting as they navigate intimacy, public scrutiny, and sabotage.
Love isn’t part of the plan, but plans change. If they can outsmart Julien’s father and prove their love is worth more than a transaction, they just might find a true happily-ever-after.
Hiya peeps! We have Angel Martinez stopping by today with the tour for her new release Mage On The Hill, we have a brilliant guest post from Angel, a great excerpt, a fantastic giveaway and we also have Shorty’s review, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
Mage on the Hill
(The Web of Arcana 01)
by
Angel Martinez
Toby’s wild magic is killing him. The mage guilds have given up on him, and it’s only a matter of time before he dies in a spectacular, catastrophic bang. His only hope is an exiled wizard who lives in seclusion—and is rumored to have lost his mind.
The years alone on his hilltop estate have not been good for Darius Valstad. After the magical accident that disfigured him and nearly drowned Pittsburgh, he drifts through his days, a wraith trapped in memories and depression. Until a stricken young man collapses on his driveway, one who claims Darius is his last chance.
For the first time in fifteen years, Darius must make a choice—leave this wild mage to his fate or take him in and try to teach him, which may kill them both. The old Darius, brash and commanding, wouldn’t have hesitated. Darius the exile isn’t sure he can find the energy to try.
Hi guys, we have V.L. Locey popping by today with the stunning cover for her upcoming release Nine Small Sips: A Tales of Bryant Wedding, we have a brilliant giveaway, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
Nine Small Sips
(A Tales of Bryant Wedding)
by
V.L. Locey
Life for Isamu Taylor is now a Cinderella story that includes a Manhattan loft, a new position in the hottest LGBT film production company in New York City, and an upcoming wedding in Bryant Park to his very own handsome prince.
He’s come a long way from that struggling film student with ratty sneakers and shaggy hair. Isamu is now living an urbanite’s fairy tale with that happily ever after just around a bustling city street corner.
But as all wedding planners know, even the best laid plans seem to go awry, and Isamu and Brian’s wedding is no exception. But love – both old and new – is in the air, so nothing can go too badly, right?
