Tag: Amber Allure

The Ghost in Number 9 by Rick R. Reed

7174D3hUgGL._SL1500_Title: The Ghost in Number 9

Series:  No Tell Motel

Author: Rick R. Reed

Genre: Ghost/Interracial

Length: Short Story (40 pages)

Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill Press (December 10th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Blurb: For Tony and Carter, room number 9 in the Galaxy Gold motel on Seattle’s seedy Aurora Avenue is a refuge. There, the two young lovers have found a place to hide away from a world that would condemn them for their love. Within the darkened, summer-hot confines of room number 9, Carter and Tony can explore their love and lust for one another, free of the burdens of the outside world.

But room number 9 holds a terrible and tragic secret, one that dates back to the Galaxy Gold’s opening back in 1962, when Seattle was hosting its World’s Fair. There’s a ghost in room number 9, and he has a message for Tony and Carter, a message about the consequences of shame and hiding love behind a closed motel room door.

Will Tony and Carter listen to the ghost’s message and have the courage to bring their love out into the open? Or will this long-ago story, one eerily similar to Tony and Carter’s, be ignored?

The answer waits in room number 9.

Product Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18812767-the-ghost-in-number-9

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: I do appreciate that there is a moral to this story…gay is not wrong, cheating on a spouse is wrong. And these two fellows know it and need to come to terms with it. Either be honest, come out and face the consequences, or end it. If they don’t it may end very much the way of the ghost in number 9! This is almost a Dickens classic, with cruising, elicit affairs and steamy gay sexual content. The sex to love thing seems to happen too quick for me and maybe I am just a cheesy romantic but it seems hard to build that “love” without some real out of bed experience with another person.

But this story exposed a real honest and dark truth, you can’t hide from yourself, you can’t hope the very core of your being will just change because you or your loved ones want it to. Sometimes decisions in life are extremely difficult, but not facing up to them is irresponsible. That’s a powerful message for a little story!

Crouching Vegan, Hidden Werewolf by Sean Michael

71Dxd1GJ7qL._SL1500_Title: Crouching Vegan, Hidden Werewolf

 

Series: N/A

 

Author: Sean Michael

 

Genre: Dark Fantasy/ Werewolf/ Shapeshifter

 

Length: Novella (56 Pages)

 

ISBN: 978-1-61124-542-4

 

Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill Press (January 19th, 2014)

 

Heat Level: Explicit

 

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

 

Reviewer: Lisa

 

Blurb: New to town, werewolf Dark can’t believe there’s a restaurant called The Vegan Werewolf. Even harder to swallow is the fact that the place smells amazing. The food, however, is easy going down, it’s some of the best he’s ever had. And that’s saying a lot as it’s, unbelievably, vegan. What’s also not hard to swallow is Erik, the restaurant’s sweet chef, and Dark picks him up after the place closes.

Erik’s got a secret, though, one he keeps hidden deep down inside, and Dark threatens to bring all the things Erik has buried to the surface.

Can Dark convince Erik that there’s more to life than being a vegan? And that, just maybe, wolves mate for life?

 

This title is part of the Growl AmberPax™ Collection. To purchase this title individually, use the shopping cart below. To purchase this title as part of the entire AmberPax™ and receive a 25% discount off our normal price, use the shopping cart on this page.

Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/CrouchingVegan.html

Review: This book was definitely a surprise and I fell in love with it. Sean has such a way with words.

 

Dark is walking in town and comes across something that made him laugh his ass off. A restaurant named The Vegan Werewolf. Seeing as how he is a werewolf and everyone knows that wolves eat meat, he just couldn’t wrap his head around it. What was even more shocking was the owner was a werewolf.

Erik had not turned into a wolf in over ten years and never ate meat after realizing he had killed a bunny. He is a very funny character, one you will fall in love with and maybe smack him upside the head at the same time. He is just so quirky and just can’t figure out what to do with Dark. They are mates, but Erik doesn’t want to be a werewolf, however he is falling for his mate surprisingly fast.

 

I would definitely recommend this story to anyone who loves sexy men, hot sex, and the paranormal. I have found another amazing author who has made it to my favorite list. The only thing I really didn’t care for was the fact that it was too short of a story. I want to know where Dark came from, to learn more about Erik, and to see how they became werewolves. I want to know more about their future also.

 

I hope that there are going to be more books like this one.

Between Love and Hate by T.A. Chase

20654757Title:Between Love and Hate

 

Series:  Brand Me Collection

 

Author: T.A Chase

 

Genre: Contemporary

 

Length: Novella (60 pages)

 

ISBN: B00IA6Q6ZO

 

Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill Press (Feb 6th, 2014)

 

Heat Level: Moderate

 

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

 

Reviewer: Cat

 

Blurb: Si Helms is rebuilding his life after spending more years than he can count high. But after getting out of jail and attending NA meetings, Si finds a way to become a man of which he can be proud. He receives help from his sponsor, Kip, but when the man disappears without warning, Si worries Kip might have slipped back into old habits.

 

Then he spies Kip’s handsome face on a movie poster, and is shocked to discover his NA sponsor is none other than Kipper James, former child star trying to make a comeback.

 

Kip doesn’t plan to backslide into the drugs that almost ruined his life. He fought hard to be able to star in movies again. But, while he’s in Chicago for the premiere of his first film in years, he plans to locate Si.

 

There’s a connection between the two men that has nothing to do with drugs, and Kip yearns to see if their relationship can become more than just friendship.

 

Note: This book is part of the Brand Me collection.

 

Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/BetweenLoveHate.html

Review: This is a good story about drug addiction and rehab. I think it proves a point that addiction can be battled and how hard it Si. I applaud both Si and Kip for fighting their demons.

The story is very poignant. The only problem I had was it felt so narrated. The author seemed to just tell the story as to showing any real action.  Once I got into the story, however, I really liked the story line and characters.

 

So sounded very sweet though he had been through a lot.  I would have liked to have more information about his past and the Uncle that was mentioned a lot.  Kip seemed to be a charming man and dull of determination. I like that in a character.  He set his mind on staying clean in the world of show business where drugs run rampant.

 

All in all this is a very good story of addiction and love.  If you like, a story of two men battling drug addiction, fleeing bad pasts to make their dreams come true, friends to lovers, and tattoos, this is for you.

By a Thread by L.A. Witt

16070273Title: By A Thread

 

Author: L.A. Witt

 

Genre: Fantasy, Magic, Slight D/s

 

Length: Novella (85 pages)

 

Publisher: Amber Allure (21st October 2012)

 

Heat Level: Explicit

 

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2 ½Hearts

 

Reviewer: Pixie

 

Blurb: Leon’s never felt as strongly about any man as he does Andrew, but when Andrew asks to meet him for dinner, Leon’s sure things are over before they’ve even started. Except Andrew isn’t coming to dinner to call things off. He’s coming to drop an entirely different bomb.

 

Andrew’s a sorcerer. He can manipulate fire, he can manipulate lightning, but like most of his kind, what he can’t do is maintain absolute control of his power when he’s sexually aroused, which is dangerous to non-magics like Leon. No matter how much the two men want each other, there’s no way around it—they’re literally playing with fire, which means someone’s bound to get burned.

 

At first, they’re both willing to back off, but as their feelings for each other deepen, their mutual desire only grows stronger, and Andrew and Leon are hanging by a thread trying to resist each other. But can they surrender to their passion without getting injured?

 

Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/ByAThread.html

 

Review: Leon and Andrew have been dating for a short time after meeting and corresponding on the internet, now Andrew says he needs to talk and Leon fears the worst, but the conversation takes a turn he never saw coming and now he has to decide what he really wants. Andrew has a confession to make and it is one that has lost him many potential boyfriends, but Leon is different and wants to stick around, but can Andrew and Leon make it work when every kiss could lead to danger?

 

           This is an interesting story of finding love, but it is also about trying to overcome the obstacles that try to keep them apart. Andrew is a sorcerer, while Leon is a non-magic human, the two can live peacefully together, but sexual contact can be dangerous. Having sex with a sorcerer is dangerous because as they lose themselves in passion they lose control of their powers, but Leon is willing to take the chance if it means he can be with Andrew, Andrew is terrified of what could happen though and Leon thinks he has found a solution.

 

          Andrew and Leon are a very unusual couple, they seem to be perfect for each other but Andrew’s powers interfere whenever they try to be intimate, so what we see in this book is a lot of experimenting and also a relationship that is strong because it is built solely on emotions and the pure desire for more. The book is from Leon’s point of view and his desperation to find a solution to their problem comes through very clearly, but what is even clearer is that he isn’t going anywhere even if they never manage to have sex.

 

       I will recommend this to those who love men who find love even without the physical love, men who have a strength and determination to seek impossible answers and men who find their own happy ever afters any way they can.     

 

Awaking the Alpha by Carolina Valdez

med_AwakingAlphaTitle: Awaking the Alpha

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Series: N/A

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Author: Carolina Valdez

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Genre: Dark Fantasy/Interracial

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Length: Novella (127 Pages)

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ISBN: 978-1-61124-540-0

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Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill

Press (January 19th, 2014)

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Heat Level: Low

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Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts

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Reviewer: Lisa

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Blurb: Can Men who each bridge two worlds make a life together?

Blaze Canis is doing what he loves best. As a shooting range instructor just outside Yellowstone National Park, the former Navy SEAL sniper is still handling firearms. When Shoshoni native Logan Rider walks into his class one morning, the attraction each man feels for the other is sudden, almost mystical. Since Blaze’s teammates never knew he was gay, let alone a werewolf, he’s confident in hiding his wolf nature from Logan, too.

But will keeping his secret work, or will it blow up in Blaze’s face as his relationship with the American native deepens?

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This title is part of the Growl AmberPax™ Collection. To purchase this title individually, use the shopping cart below. To purchase this title as part of the entire AmberPax™ and receive a 25% discount off our normal price, use the shopping cart on this page.

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Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/AwakingAlpha.html

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Review: This is part of the Growl AmberPax Collection but can be read separately. Carolina has a wonderful way with words, and can spin a tell that will bring you into a world that will help you disappear. This story is truly a work of art. I love the way the words just flow with such tender feelings. It almost made me cry in certain parts of it. Blaze is an alpha werewolf, sniper, retired SEAL and you can see the loving side of him. He teaches how to handle firearms at the shooting range and usually loves it. When Logan walks in, he is just loving it a lot more. He wants this man.

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Logan is a very gorgeous Shoshoni Indian, very gifted artist, and comes home to visit his grandfather. He wanted a refresher course on handling his gun, but when he meets his instructor, he is fascinated. It would seem they both want each other, but Blaze is still hiding his true self. There is danger in the forest, and Blaze realizes it is another werewolf.

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Logan finds out Blaze’s secret when Blaze saves him from the black wolf, fears that he is a skinwalker and runs. Blaze knew he should have told him, but he just hadn’t known the true feeling of what it really meant. When Logan comes back, he needs to trust this man with all of his secrets.

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I would recommend this story for anyone who loves the paranormal, shapeshifters, two very sexy men, hot sex, and dangers. They come together hot and fast, but when the times comes with trouble it leaves them hanging with concerns. However, they will learn to overcome their challenges and grow to love each other even stronger. I loved this story and cannot wait to read more by Carolina.

The Groom Wore Nothing At All by Hunter Raines

6f45c9ec22ef1e27d8234ea1dd6364aeTitle: The Groom Wore Nothing At All

Series:  Brand Me

Author: Hunter Raines

Genre: Contemporary/Exhibitionism

Length: Novella (18k words)

ISBN: 978-1-61124-538-7

Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill Press (January 10th, 2014)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Eric

Blurb: Hotshot lawyer Matthew Owens has it all: a great job, a supportive family, and a fiancée who’s as professional and well-respected as he is. Or at least, that’s what he’d like everyone to think. The truth is that Joe Khalousi may be an accountant, but he does the books for a strip club. It’s not exactly the kind of job Matt’s family had in mind for their future son-in-law.

Worse, Joe is covered in tattoos. They run up one arm and down the other, blanket his back, while some even mark other, more private, places. Matt loves to run his tongue along every one of those inky markings, but he’d be mortified if his friends and family ever found out what Joe hides beneath his pinstriped suits.

Yet when Joe’s desperate employer recruits him to provide the night’s entertainment at the Purple Pecker Club during their monthly Tattoo Madness event, all his secrets are revealed. Joe doesn’t know Matt’s friends have brought him to the club for his bachelor party, and Matt certainly has no idea Joe is going to be the main attraction.

When the stage lights come on, will Joe and Matt’s relationship vanish as quickly as Joe’s clothes? Or will this be the red-hot wake-up call Matt needs to decide whether his attraction to Joe is only skin deep?

Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/GroomWoreNothing.html

Review:  I found this book to be mediocre at best. The storyline jumped around a little bit which was frustrating and then some. The characters were strong though. Honestly, this novella was confusing to me at first.

The characters were somewhat strong and quite realistic. I found them to be very interesting people. But when they entered into the kinky part of the story, I found myself shocked by them. The characters were into some dark stuff but they remained strong.

The storyline was troublesome for me. It went from one thing to the next with no transition at all. And that frustrated me like crazy. The more I read the more confused and upset I became. It was very hard to follow and confusing. I had so much trouble with this story.

I wouldn’t recommend it to those that want a solid storyline with transitions.

 

It's Complicated by Christiane France

ItsComplicatedTitle: It’s Complicated

Series: Peninsula Heights Series

Author: Christiane France

Genre: Contemporary,

Length: Novella (68 Pages)

ISBN: 978-1-61124-556-1

Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill Press (February 16th, 2014)

Heat Level: Mild

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: This is part of the Tasty Treats AmberPax Collection. However, it can be read alone. Pete Letouche and Mitch Ravello lusted over one another in high school. Then on prom night, a couple of drinks gave them the courage to put their thoughts into action and share their first sexual experience. With Pete’s father chief of police and Mitch’s reputed to be the local crime boss, however Pete knew there could never be anything more between them than that one night. Shortly thereafter, Pete left town to train as a master chef, which led to him working at different hotels across the country. But during that time, he never forgot Mitch, and he also never lost sight of his childhood dream to own a gourmet food shop like his grandmother’s family once owned.

Now, ten years later, Pete has returned to town, and his shop is both a reality and a success. He’s on top of the world, until Mitch walks into the shop and announces he’s taken over the note Pete signed for the down payment on the building.

Pete knows Mitch’s father suffered a heart attack and is in a coma, but did Mitch take over the family business of loan sharking and shaking down local business owners? Mitch says not, but Pete has no way of knowing if Mitch is telling the truth. And to make matters worse, the lustful feelings they once shared seem alive and well. Pete can’t help but wonder whether his feelings for Mitch are real or just warmed-over old memories.

When Mitch invites him to dinner at his place, Pete decides to go. A private, face-to-face meeting could be the perfect opportunity to sort out the present and put the past to rest.

This title is part of the Tasty Treats AmberPax™ Collection. To purchase this title individually, use the shopping cart below. To purchase this title as part of the entire AmberPax™ and receive a 25% discount off our normal price, use the shopping cart on this page.

Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/ItsComplicated.html

Review: It’s Complicated is a very cute little story. You get caught with the first paragraph and you can’t stop reading it to the end. However, it ended to short and now I want more of it. I was surprised by it, because at first with the way they acted I wasn’t too sure, how it would turn out. Pete has always like Mitch when they were in school, and then on prom night they spent the night together. Knowing the fact that his father was chief of police and Mitch’s was supposed to have been a crime boss, he didn’t think they should make anything of it. So Pete left town, went to college, and became a chef for many hotels throughout the country. However, he never forgot Mitch.

Finally owning his own place he thought he had it all, till Mitch walks in and tells him he now owns the note to the store. Pete said some hateful things thinking maybe Mitch had taken over the family business. Pete comes off as a jaded man and really doesn’t want to take any chances. Then Mitch invites him to dinner and he accepts.

These are two characters that you would fall in love with or want to smack them upside the head. They are both stubborn males who feel more about each other than they are saying, or at least Pete isn’t saying. Mitch is trying to show him how he feels, and soon Pete caves. The sex is amazing and hot, kind of like setting the sheets on fire. I wished that there had been more. It was to short of a story for my loving it.

I would recommend this story to those who love short stories with a little bit of anger, frustration, two sexy men, the hint of danger or illegal activities, and a very hot sex scene. It was told with such the perfect tone that you can’t help but get caught up into. Christiane has a gift for storytelling and I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.

Threshold by Vivien Dean

71TfuQC4atL._SL1500_Title: Threshold

Author: Vivien Dean

Genre: Paranormal /Vampires

ISBN: 978-1-61124-519-6

Length: Extended Novella (115 pages)

Publisher: Amber Allure (November 17th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Sutter is a vampire on the run. After barely escaping the hunter his sire sent after him, he makes it all the way to the middle of nowhere, Oregon, before the approaching sunrise forces him to stop. He intends only to rest, and then hit the road again as soon as night falls, but that plan falls apart when the motel’s maintenance man discovers him passed out on the bathroom floor.

Ex-Marine Max Rowell hasn’t had a purpose in life ever since coming home from the Gulf. Though he works at his father’s motel, drifting through days that bleed endlessly into each other, it takes discovering an unconscious guy who looks like an angel but has clearly been through hell to give him new purpose.

Max isn’t letting Sutter go anywhere until he’s healed, but Sutter needs more than a warm bedside manner to get stronger. Though they strike a deal, the clock keeps ticking, and sooner or later Sutter will need to run again, or risk putting Max’s life on the line when Sutter’s past catches up to him… 

Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/Threshold.html

Review: So this story started very interesting giving me a speedy little heartbeat with its intensity and anticipation. A vampire on the threshold of death gets saved by a living breathing man. Sutter has never been valued before, never once anyone cast his eyes twice on him. Even his sire didn’t really care much, beside the fact that Sutter’s actions deflected on him. Most importantly though, no one, no one ever has done something nice for Sutter just because… So, when Max comes along and saves his life because it wouldn’t be right not to, Sutter suffers a cultural shock shall we say it? A shock definitely it is because no human has ever seen Sutter and wanted to give him blood, on the contrary screams were usually the norm.

So this right here is where I start having my issues with the read. No matter how much of a good-doer Max is, his behavior when he learns that Sutter is a vampire is completely reckless at least and makes no sense. He understands that Sutter is a vampire, but he doesn’t want Sutter to kill people when hunting… He understands Sutter can’t ever have a “normal” job, but he doesn’t want him illegal either… Max as a character is a huge pile of controversies and the biggest one of them was the I want you to screw my brains out but not until you’re healed (Sutter has this huge hole in his body) but wait, once Sutter is healed oops, something happens and Max doesn’t want to have sex anymore…

Really, I understand he was supposed to be this good guy falling in love with the vamp and changing the vamp’s twenty undead years and making him “good” again… but for it didn’t work. It has been said and done before and this work simply didn’t distinguish itself for the rest of the rack.

The intimate scenes and romance were a bit weird. See the entire read was one big anticipation, for Sutter to heal and have he and Max finally got down to fireworks because yeah, the chemistry was exquisite between them two, only to have waited for nothing in the end. I really felt cheated there, I would so much rather not have that threesome that was not threesome and that was a bit of a pain to read, than not have the final sex scene between Max and Sutter. That was so the wrong call the way I see it. A huge disappointment if there ever was any.

As for the badies and the end itself… yep, the WTF ever did cross my mind once or twice. I don’t want to spoil it for those who are going to read it, but let’s just say the end brought up more questions and no closure so…

Overall, though I must admit that for half a read or more, I had a nice time reading this book and a silly grin on my face, and while it could be much, much better, it definitely wasn’t bad and fans of the genre might want to give it a go.

The Little Crow by Caitlin Ricci

71gczTWX1VL._SL1500_Title: The Little Crow, 2nd edition

Series: N/A

Author: Caitlin Ricci

Length: Novel (334 Pages)

Genre:  Paranormal

Publisher: Amber Allure (December 1st, 2013)

Heat Level: Very Mild

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: Detective Jamison Landry knew his job was never going to be easy. He’s dealt with the worst criminals imaginable and believes in his work and the community he serves. But he’s never met someone quite like Mal before.

The mysterious man, rescued from a basement in which he was chained by cultists, keeps Jamison guessing, both confuses and excites him, and Jamison isn’t sure how he feels about that. Plus, things turn from unusual to downright strange when people start insisting Mal isn’t quite human. And Jamison’s creepy dreams of crows and graveyards don’t make things any better for him.

Will Mal stay around long enough for Jamison to figure out his secrets, even learn his full name, or will this stranger leave him aching for more?

Product Link:http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/LittleCrow.html

Review: Usually I can find the words for anything there is that needs to be said, but this book just takes that away from me. Sort of that is. This story is about one sexy demon named Mal and a human named Jamison. It is told with such humor that most of the time I was laughing and the rest of the time, I was bewildered. It has the perfect amount of danger, excitement, adventure, and humor that it was absolutely perfect.

Jamison is a human with a good soul. He however feels like he is losing his mind. He saves Mal from a group of the craziest cult members he has ever seen, saying that Mal is a demon and should be held prisoner. The only glitch is the fact that they were right. Mal is a powerful demon from hell, who decides the punishment for those who have committed the worst sins. He decides who goes to hell and who goes to heaven. He is quite old, however when he is around Jamison he acts like a child. He confuses the hell out of Jamison, to the point that Jamison can’t decide whether to let him stay or leave. Mal protects Jamison with every bit of power in him, to the point hell no longer wants him. Jamison is a loving, caring, loyal police officer set to protect those who needed protection. Mal on the other hand is kind of crazy, bloodthirsty. However, he is falling in love with a human. There is a lot of talk about sex, with just a bit of passion and fire added in.

This story was a surprise to say the least. I wasn’t sure at first whether it would make it in my list of best stories ever, but it actually ranked up there in the top ten. You have two very sexy men wanting each other to the point of losing their minds, excitement going on all around you, words of passion and anger in this story. Jamison has the ability to overcome the fear of the unknown and see something good in a demon. Caitlin has such a gift in the way she tells a story, the worlds she creates, and such wonderful characters that she has made my top ten favorite authors. I absolutely loved this story and really can’t wait to read more of Caitlin’s books. If you love sexy men, great plots, story line, and action you really need to check this book out. It is hot.

A Night on the Town by Parker Linn

19558759Title: A Night on the Town

Series: The Escort, #4

Author: Parker Linn

Genre: Contemporary / Rent-Boys

Length: Novelette (10K)

ISBN: 9781611245271

Publisher: Amber Allure (December 8th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥2Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb:The sequel to Amber Allure’s best-selling The Escort: On the Menu…

As a professional escort, Ryan James’ job is to service his clients, be it simply to accompany them somewhere socially or to provide more intimate services.

Ryan is accustomed to having control of every situation. Smart, sexy, and intuitive, he gives his clients what they want before they know they want it. When he meets Trevor Hilquist, however, Ryan is thrown off-stride. Trevor’s a puzzle, the complete opposite of what Ryan expected. The man likely spelled his name T-R-O-U-B-L-E, and Ryan doesn’t know exactly where to start.

Trevor’s smitten. Not only has his uncle arranged for an evening’s entertainment, but also his escort is just too scrumptious for words. He sizes up Ryan as a man who likes to lead, then formulates a plan. And before the night is over, he’ll have Ryan giving him exactly what he wants—hard, fast, and repeatedly. 

Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/Escort4_NightOnTown.html

Review: What did just happen? I started reading, I kept reading, I even finished reading, yet that question still remains along with her close friend “I don’t get it”.

Picking up another instalment of this series I seriously hoped that Ryan’s adventures would be getting better, because let’s just face it; I’m a sucker for rent-boys. Everything starts nicely, our high-class escort gets a job turning a favour for one of his friends and agreeing to escort a rich young man for the weekend. So enter Trevor. This kid is a surprise, a nine-inch one, and he’s a bit energetic, full of life, and fun. So, he’s getting an escort and can’t wait to get his hands on him…

And here lies the crux of the matter. Ryan, for some reason I still can’t get, went from paid whore to hard-to-get damsel and if he could have worn, a chastity belt I’m pretty sure he would’ve. And I don’t get it! Why on earth did he protest so much? What did Trevor do exactly that wasn’t proper…? How did Trevor get to be trouble…? He was being paid nicely for showing Trevor a nice time. What the heck did he have in mind for crying out loud?

I just didn’t get the plot, at all. I sat there, I read it, I even re-read it to be sure, and I still don’t get it. I’d like to say that the carnal part was so mind-blowing that I forgot all about the plot and lost myself in the smut, but I can’t do that either. A public interaction on a dark park might have triggered the pervert in me, but it was all so hollow that it failed terribly to evoke any reaction.

Overall, I was hoping for more, for at least the plot – if there must be one – to make sense. Because damn, I liked Trevor, I didn’t get why Ryan would turn his nose the other way at him. I’m still wondering…

 

Love Me Tonight by Adriana Dane

18867956Title: Love Me Tonight

Author: Adriana Dane

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (56 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-61124-517-2

Publisher: Amber Quill Press (November 17th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Eli

Blurb: At Hotel Draysden, management fraternizing with staff is a no-no. Casper Rosabella knows the rules, but he also believes that sometimes rules were meant to be broken. Sometimes it was worth taking a risk, especially when the man Casper craves is as hot as Lando Madrid.

Eye contact leads to a need to experience more, and through phone calls and texting, the men start to learn about each other. But then the lines blur when Casper and Lando make arrangements to meet for one night of unfettered sex in a seedy motel room, when taboo passions will culminate between two men who work at the same place, but certainly shouldn’t play together.

With secrets shared and desires revealed, the men are drawn deeper into a burning need to know more about each other. But considering their situation, could the relationship become something other than just a one-night stand?

Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/LoveMeTonight.html

Review: Take a mild-mannered man who realizes that having someone control your life when you don’t want it is not the same as surrendering control and add a spicy Latino to the mix and it will prove to be an intoxicating cocktail. Casper takes a chance on flirting with Lando and starting an illicit and potentially risky affair. Both men are searching for something and unbeknownst to them they will find what they need in each other.

All they need is a month of illicit courtship followed by a night of erotic passion – what will result is two men who finally have what they need and a love that can blossom into something more.  Lando will be the masterful Dom and Casper his willing sub.  They are both well matched and suited. Lando needs a man who will see beyond his lowly position in the company and appreciate all that he is and desires to be. Casper needs someone to show him that while he is buttoned up all day, he can let go and allow someone else to be in control of his passion.

The story is hot and sexy and drips with passion. This is a story that will have you looking around your workplace to see if there are any sexy vibes you may be missing.

Wedded Bliss by A.J. Llewellyn

81EXhh5HVbL._SL1500_Title: Wedded Bliss

Series:   N/A

Author:A. J. Llewellyn

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novella (84 pages)

Publisher: Amber Quill Press (December 10th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb:  Jack Callahan is in a financial bind, so when Australian novelist Bruce Logan offers him a small fortune to marry him so Bruce can get his green card, Jack agrees. The two men know enough about each other to pull off the immigration interview at Homeland Security, and they can happily share an apartment in Los Angeles until Bruce establishes legal residency.

The problem, though, begins when Jack develops feelings for Bruce and becomes torn when his new husband starts dating another man. Not only that, but Bruce’s expected book royalties fall way short of expectations. Now, not only can Bruce not pay Jack the promised “marital fee,” but also it seems that he’s in love with his new man. And with Jack’s lengthy solitude broken, his feelings for Bruce only deepen.

Can the two married men actually find wedded bliss with each other?

Purchase Link:   http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/WeddedBliss.html

Review: Okay, let’s just start with the fact that I loved how real this book was – Real from the point that marrying someone for a green card is illegal and will create HUGE legal issues for both parties.  However, this occurs all the time in this country. The notion of this now occurring with two men is an interesting twist and can be sure to become a very regular occurrence when marriage equality is achieved across the nation. So the author takes this premise and then layers it with some Hollywood drama complete with two slightly insecure men, and then two females who’ll help to save them from themselves. 

Jack Callahan is a perfectly nice man and when the reader first meets Bruce, he seems nice enough.  However, mid-way through the book, his charm tarnishes and it doesn’t really return until close to the end of the book.  Jack is a very likable character, Bruce less so; BUT he does redeem himself in the end and one can only relate this to the flaws that anybody would have. Real life enters when finances are not as they seem, libidos get in the way, exes make themselves apparent and feelings get hurt.  The book does a good job of encapsulating a lot of activity taking place in short time frame, and the romance between the men feels very real and true to life rather than seeming like the usual formulaic love story that is usually seen. The story is well paced, well-written with well-developed characters; and, the plot is believable.  Additionally, despite Bruce’s slightly douchy moments, you do want to see him and Jack end up together.  A good read.

Isherwood by Missy Welsh

18746558Title: Isherwood

Series:   N/A

Author: Missy Welsh

Genre: Paranormal

Length:  Novel (212 pages)

Publisher: Amber Allure (November 3rd, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb:  Two years ago, the small Southern Ohio town of Isherwood seemed to change overnight. Businesses were abandoned or sold and townsfolk just up and moved away. Now, those who were left behind are trying to keep their lives afloat on the hope that things will improve someday.

Finn Webb is one of those people. His construction and remodeling company he runs with his sister is one of the largest employers left in town. He’s felt his world teetering on the edge of failure for so long, that saving an injured dog is a bright spark of life he’s happy to hold onto.

Cas Maine has come to Isherwood because that’s where the road led. He’s tired, hungry, and desperate for the acceptance and safety he once had in his birth pack. But crossing into town sees him shifting into his wolf form and unable to shift back. Then he’s hit by a car only to be rescued by his one true mate.

What follows is a series of events where a job outside of town lets Cas and Finn grow closer while also leading to the uncovering of numerous secrets held by several inhabitants of Isherwood. Everyone has a stake in this. And the stakes are high…

Purchase Link:   http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/Isherwood.html

Review: Many m/m paranormal stories focus so heavily on the “mate/insta-love/attraction” that they often forget the meat of a good story to go along with the heat.  This story effectively blends several themes including a good love story with heat, while also employing good storytelling.  The author does a superb job of weaving the various mysteries together while not forgoing the heat of a paranormal romance. There are several plotlines interwoven that the reader can suss out, involving the politics of weres and some non-traditional were elements are added that make the story stand out among the multitude of paranormal romances out there.  The suspense element of the mystery in the book is paced steadily throughout the story allowing the reader to go on the ride to see if what they ‘think’ will happen is actually what happens.  The reader will not be surprised or shocked by the turn of events, since the author gives enough hints and cues along the way.  But the reader does enjoy the ride that the author takes them on until the inevitable unfolding story’s climax.

The characters of Cas and Finn are three-dimensional and clearly defined. The addition of seeing Cas as a fully developed character in both forms (human and were) was a nice addition to the story.  Additionally, the secondary characters create an ensemble cast who do the work of moving the story forward thus keeping the reader engaged as all the various stories begin to intertwine and then eventually unravel until the reader is satisfied with the outcome as the Cas and Finn’s find their HEA.

For anyone who enjoys a good paranormal romance, this will definitely be a good addition to the reading roster.

 

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Nobody's Home by Dev Bentham

8197EPm1-sL._SL1500_Title: Nobody’s Home

Series:   N/A

Author: Dev Bentham

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novel (160 pages)

Publisher: Amber Quill Press (December 10th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 (Tender, Loving, Wonderful) Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb:  You can’t go home again—that was Nick’s motto for the past twenty years. He was a teenager when he and his mom left his mentally ill and abusive father back in Lacland, a small town in the north woods of Wisconsin. Since those horrible days, Nick’s made a life for himself as an artist in New York, and has a new show scheduled in nine months. He should be in a painting frenzy, but so far, he’s hanging empty canvas. Then comes the call—his estranged father has killed himself. Nick flies to Lacland, to a house crumbling from years of neglect and one very fat bulldog.

Jonas doesn’t love his job as a research lab veterinarian, although he enjoys volunteering on his boyfriend’s canine behavioral studies. But when he discovers his so-called life partner is messing around, Jonas leaps at a job offer in a small town miles away.

Despite the grief swirling around Nick and Jonas, their first meeting is electric. But Nick’s in town for only a short time, while Jonas is still stinging from the recent betrayal. The men try to keep their distance, but that’s easier said than done, especially in a small town where misery and hope share the same address…

Purchase Link:   http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/NobodysHome.html

Review: The m/m genre is littered with many books about hot men and fluff, and I love those as much as anyone else does.  BUT, every now and again, there is a book that simply stands out from the rest. Nobody’s Home is one of those books.  It’s not just a story, it’s a novel.  Everything that is right about a story is achieved in this book.  The author spends the first quarter of the book simply exploring the lives and characters of Nick and Jonas.  We get to know these men before they ever meet. By the time they meet, the reader is now thoroughly invested in these two men finding each other, because we know, like and understand these men.

The relationship between the two men is so much more than simply hot sex, which let’s be honest, they do have.  For Nick who’s lost his father and is feeling professionally adrift, the friendship he develops with Jonas provides him with an anchor and the realization that his life is rife with possibilities, if he’s willing to be open to them.  There is a subtle strength to Nick that is not first apparent because he’s struggling with his grief and personal angst.  For Jonas who’s questioning his worth as a man and a life partner, Nick provides him with much-needed honesty, validation of his worth and proof that he is a valuable person who is worthy of both love and friendship.

The story is beautifully written and elegantly told. What starts out as a character sketch of two imperfect men then becomes a dance of friendship and then the slow trek towards love. There is a slow build, which is sexy and seductive in its own way. The reader is moved seamlessly along the journey and because they are so intimately knowledgeable about these men, the reader shares in their joy, sadness, disappointment and even their fear. The reader has a bird’s eye view of the very real struggle both men must go through with their own personal demons if they are to create a life together. 

Readers will fall in love with Nick.  Like a good artist, he is willing to lay his feelings bare and it is this vulnerability that will win him the love of Jonas, a man who fears any further pain and rejection in his life.

The end of the book is sublime and I’m sure many readers may find themselves wiping away a tear. It was sweet and very tender.  Every page of this story is a revelation and it’s one of those stories that the reader will revisit time and time again.

EXCELLENT READ.

Indefinite Stay by Heidi Champa

71B3M3MgD6L._SL1500_Title: Indefinite Stay

Series:   N/A

Author: Heidi Champa

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novella (123 pages)

Publisher: Amber Allure (December 10th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb:  Rory Driskell had never seen the inside of a prison until his boyfriend Joel started serving a seven-year sentence for dealing drugs. Now, Rory spends his weekends visiting Joel at the state prison nearly four hours away from home. To make matters worse, Rory and Joel can’t even touch during their visits for fear of what might happen if the other inmates learn Joel is gay. While Joel maintains his innocence, that doesn’t stop Rory from preparing himself for the worst and for a long stretch of time alone.

During the weekends, Rory resides at the Broken Feather Motel, the only cheap place within thirty miles of the prison, wondering how he got into this mess. Then one weekend, the motel owner’s son, Stuart, is behind the counter when Rory checks in. Stuart, with his gorgeous smile and piercing blue eyes, offers Rory something he hasn’t had in a long time: a shoulder to cry on and a hand to hold. But Stuart is in town only for a short time and isn’t looking for a real relationship.

Will Rory stick with the life he’s chosen, no matter how troubled, or will his feelings for Stuart push him to take a chance and finally unlock his heart?

Purchase Link:   http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/IndefiniteStay.html

Review: The premise of this story is very intriguing.  It’s not one I’ve seen explored before and that made it all the more interesting to read. The whole idea of being on the “DL” or having to remain closeted is always a compelling theme in a novel, but when coupled with the idea of prison (already an environment rife with homosexual activity), it makes for a very worthwhile read. The story did not disappoint as it explored the relationship between the closeted, since he’s in prison, Joel and his long-suffering boyfriend, Rory.

Rory is a man torn between duty and his true feelings.  He’s a man willing to forgo his own happiness for what he feels to be the bigger picture and the principled action to take, even if it means he will be the financial and emotional loser in the end.  Enter Stuart – Rory’s solution to his current not going anywhere, emotionally exhausting and financially draining relationship. His relationship with Stuart allows him to experience a small measure of happiness, yet for some reason he doesn’t think that he’s worthy of the happiness that Stuart could offer him. So Rory does what all long-suffering people do, he walks away until life tells him unequivocally that there are other options he can take.

This is the story of Rory’s journey to the realization that sometimes it’s important to take a chance and to put yourself first because when you do, you might just win in the long and short run.  Nice characters, interesting plot – all in all a very good read.  Two enthusiastic thumbs up.

Making It Count by Kim Dare

18780421Title: Making It Count

Series: Kinky Quickies #3

Author: Kim Dare

Genre: BDSM (Kinks & Fetishes)

ISBN: 9781611245134

Length: Novella (54 pages)

Publisher: Amber Allure (November 10th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5~4 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Duncan’s wanted to do a scene with Toby ever since he met him in their first study group of the year, but when Toby failed to flirt back, or pick up on a single kinky hint, Duncan knew he had no choice but to back off. He always thought that Toby would be interesting if he ever came out of the kinky closet—but it never even occurred to Duncan that he’d suddenly find the boy standing on the doorstep of the club he runs.

Toby’s been fascinated and intimidated by Duncan in equal measure for months. When his flat-mate bails out on a kinky play-date with Duncan at the last moment, Toby’s need overtakes his nervousness. Before he has time to think twice, he’s there, offering himself up as a replacement sub for the night.

This might be the only chance Toby has to fulfill all his fantasies surrounding Duncan—and he’s determined to make it count.

NOTE: This book is part of the Kinky Quickies series. 

Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/KQ_MakingItCount.html

Review: For some reason this little novella made it at my most favorite Kim Dare reads. I’m going to try and pinpoint why exactly, though I might even fail.

So let’s see; there’s a kinky scene play coming out of thin air. Surprise is an element I adore in any story, but when it throws a Dom off of his balance, well let’s just say the story has my attention 100%. The sub in this occasion (and yes it’s a bit of a pattern for the series) is inexperienced and secretly pinning for this particular Dom, who by the way plays with his flat-mate. And that is the reason Toby is standing in front of Duncan’s door in the first place. His flat-mate can’t make their play-date and Toby offers himself. And therein you have reason #2 that had my attention. Toby has no freaking idea what on earth he’s getting himself into.

Now normally I don’t like this type of subs, but there is something about this character that simply draws me to him. He’s so freaking alluring I couldn’t resist him as a reader. The way the author molded him, his reaction, his questions, and his naiveté. Somehow all those little things make Toby so very sexy, and Duncan, hmmm I kind of liked his amusement to all Toby did, I like the fact that he was pinning for Toby too in secret. It was such a nice game played by circumstances and fate perhaps.

Once the scene started, I think I was lost to it. Hell I was lost to it the moment Duncan closed the door to Toby after a specific order. While nothing over the top – after all it’s just a spanking scene – this entire read was very intense and (God I hate repeating this word) sexy. There was some sort of sensuality slowly taking over every single word I read, and in the end, I felt as if I’d been enchanted with a spell.

The difference of this read from the rest of Kim Dare’s work I’ve read was that this one was done. There was nothing more and nothing less needed. That was it! Somehow it surprised me, I’m used to reads that leave questions or have a sequel following.

So did I like it? Oh yeah! I most definitely enjoyed this book and most of all this was not only erotic, but also so very fun. Strongly recommended for fans of the genre.

Merry Christmas, Utah by Erin O'Quinn

MerryChristmasUtahTitle: Merry Christmas Utah

Series:  N/A

Author: Erin O’Quinn

Genre: Contemporary/Holiday

Length: Short Story  (6K)

Publisher: Amber Quill Press (November 24th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2.5 Hearts

Blurb: Utah is a solitary Native American man who lives on the verge of nowhere, a huddle of tiny trailers in the foothills of Nevada’s highest peak. He is a medicine singer, a Paiute truth-seeker who thinks he’s happy. Mostly. He also knows he’s gay. So true happiness lies just beyond the reach of his Spirit Song.

One day, injured, he is rescued by a stranger who soon begins to teach him the nature of healing and of physical joy. The stranger, who calls himself Kris, is a throwback to the 70s’ hippie culture Utah has only heard about. And he begins to heal Kris in ways the young man has never even dreamed of.

Utah awakens on Christmas Eve to find his mysterious new friend missing. The man has only a thumbnail of a trailer, and no pickup, so his disappearance is alarming. What will happen when Utah sets out to find Kris in the dark, in a snowstorm, while the children of the world wait for Santa?

Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/MerryChristmasUtah.html

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: An interesting attempt at intertwining Native American spiritual beliefs with Christian Kris Kringle mythology, but doesn’t quite pull it off. I enjoyed the fact that I totally didn’t realize who Kris was at first! I didn’t add up the hippy, lovin’ Blondie with Kris Kringle, the merry Santa that delivers presents.

A promising start, the ending is sudden

Santa-San by A.J. Llewellyn

SantaSanTitle: Santa-San, A Japanese Christmas in Hawaii

Series: N/A

Author: A.J. Llewellyn

Genre: Contemporary/Holiday

Length: Novella (18K)

Publisher: Amber Quill Press/Amber Allure (December 15th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Blurb: Koh Timura returns home to Honolulu for the holidays. It’s the first time he’s celebrated Christmas since his mother’s death years earlier. But unemployment and dealing with his stubborn dad and his extremely young stepmother doesn’t make Kohn feel especially merry and bright. His Japanese-born father is a traditionalist who likes to celebrate with the old country ways of doing things—fried chicken on the table and Santa-San bringing gifts to all.

But Koh soon learns that everybody deals with pain and loss in different ways. As he adjusts to being back in the islands, he encounters Adam Takagawa, the guy he loved all through high school. Will their passion flare again? Can some things broken really be fixed? Is sad and lonely Koh due a Christmas miracle after all?

Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/SantaSan.html

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: Yes, you can go home again.

It’s good to know that big things, the important things don’t change when Koh returns to his island home. His favorite restaurant, the beauty of the island, and the beauty of his high school crush. The two reunite and explore forbidden nature preserves and their reignited feelings together. Is there a reason for Koh to stay? Will he be able to mend the wound between him and his father and mother in law? After a tough time of it back in California, will Santa-san reward Koh for his patience and good behavior with a boyfriend for Christmas?

I found this to be a sweet and enjoyable read, with lots of interesting details about Hawaiian and Japanese culture as it pertains to the holidays.

The Wild Hunt by Skylar Jaye

WildHuntTitle: The Wild Hunt

Series: N/A

Author: Skylar Jaye

Length: Novella (47 Pages)

Publisher: Amber Quill Press, LLC. (December 15th, 2013)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3 Hearts

Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: There once was a valley that was home to a powerful wolfshifter pack. Surrounding the valley was a mountain range where fae clans made their home. Most days, the two beings spared each other little thought, but the day before Yule was a special time. On that day, the fae rushed down from their mountains and hunted through the valley. It was a friendly tradition, though designed to remind the wolfshifters what it felt like to be prey.

Eadric, the son of the alpha chief of the Eoforwine pack, had recently turned of-age and so it was to be his first year to run during the Wild Hunt. Eadric was a beta, therefore a dominant wolfshifter, but the ranking had never sat completely at ease with him. He knew he was a leader among his pack, but he also felt the urge to submit to a mate. Those feelings came to a head when the purple-eyed fae, Cadeyrn, hunted him and, liking what he saw, challenged Eadric for the right to court him.

Now, Eadric has to live with the fae clan in a culture so different from his own. He has to decide if leaving his pack, the only home he’s ever known, for the love and dominance that Cadeyrn offers him is worth the risk…

Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/WildHunt.html

Review: I have always loved paranormal love stories and this one is one of them.

It was told in such a way that it was easy to see it happening in front of me. You feel the excitement, the pain, and sorrow of separation from a family, the fear of mating with someone not of your species and the love of two men. Eadric never really understood what kind of wolf he was, told to be a dominate but he was also a submissive. He was kind, gentle, and scared out of his mind for a life that is so much different from the one he had. Cadeyrn knew with one look that he wanted Eadric. He was dominating, but gentle. Alpha, but caring for those who were not. You feel with each word the feelings that each man feels for the other, although you mainly hear it from Eadric’s point of view.

It is told in such a serious manner but you can read just a hint of humor. The sex, once they do have it, is full of passion and fire. This was such a different story that I have ever read, and I must say that Skylar Jaye just might have a hit on her hands. I wish for more on the ending, to see where they go from there, but it was still a wonderful story.

I actually want to read it once more for the jolt that it gave me.

A Happy Christmas Ending by Christiane France

19083023Title: A Happy Christmas Ending

Series: London Calling Series #1.5

Author: Christiane France

Genre: Contemporary/Holiday

Length: Novella (14K)

Publisher: Amber Quill Press/Amber Allure (December 1st, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

Blurb: The sequel to the Amber Allure best-seller Raindrops and Roses…
When Drew and Michael first met, they spent every minute of their free time together, making love, dreaming, planning, and generally behaving like they lived on their own private planet. Now, almost three months later, they’re still together, but only just. Michael’s been gradually distancing himself from Drew and he’s not returning Drew’s calls. They’re supposed to be spending Christmas with Michael’s family, so Drew forces a meeting. If Michael has met someone else, he wants to know, and he wants to know now.
Will the holiday turn into a disaster, or will the men have a happy Christmas ending?
NOTE: This story is part of the London Calling series.

Product Link: http://www.arecafe.com/cafe-news/christiane-france-christmas-memories/

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: When stubborn pride gets in the way of true romance…I just get irritated.

Not only does Michael start this nonsense once, be reverts to it after Drew takes steps to help make them a more permanent couple, and reduce some financial stress by finding an apartment that he hopes both can share. Pride gets in the way, but I understand that when to very independent men are trying to adapt to what it means to be in a partnership with each other.

Relationships involve give and take, compromise, but will each be able to make a compromise? I think it’s very important to read the first book in this series, Raindrops and Roses, otherwise you won’t’ get much out of it.

I was entertained enough to want to read the rest of the series, and can’t wait to find out some more about the supporting characters!