Hi guys! We have the charity Anthology Heart2Heart Vol 03, we have some great excerpts so check out the post and enjoy! ❤️ ~Pixie~
Heart2Heart Vol 03
by
Aimee Nicole Walker, Annabeth Albert, Charlie Cochet, Damon Suede, Eden Finley, Hailey Turner, K.M. Neuhold, Layla Reyne, Lily Morton, Lucy Lennox, Mary Calmes, May Archer, Nora Phoenix, Piper Scott (writing as Emma Alcott), Sloane Kennedy, Susan Hawke
Once upon a time, a group of authors wondered… What if the Heart2Heart app — the dating app with a glitch that matched up the oddest, most perfect couples, and sponsored the charity date raffles that helped dozens of people find love — offered a classifieds section, too?
Need a handyman who knows how to wear a tool belt? Have a closet of drag costumes that needs a new home? How about finally tracking down that guy who made the perfect drink, or who’s just the right height to reach the top shelf?
Join some of your favorite authors of gay romance as they bring you sixteen brand-new stories inspired by reader suggestions!
Once again, all proceeds from this collection will go to the authors’ favorite LGBTQ charities, to ensure that love in all its forms will be celebrated and protected every single day of the year!
Available October 1 – December 30, 2019 only. This collection will be available for only 90 days before it’s gone forever.
.•.•.**❣️ Amazon US | Amazon UK ❣️**.•.•.
Hi guys! We have Annabeth Albert popping in today with the tour for her new release Artic Heat, we have a brilliant Q&A, a great excerpt and a fantastic giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~p.s. keep an eye out for our review coming soon!
Artic Heat
(Frozen Hearts 03)
by
Annabeth Albert
A lasting connection needs more than simply surviving a winter together—they’ll have to outsmart danger, let down their defenses and open their hearts.
Owen Han has a fresh lease on life—he’s kicked cancer’s ass and is roaring through his bucket list. The former investment banker hopes to find his next challenge in Alaska, volunteering alongside park rangers and fulfilling his childhood dreams of snowy winters and rustic life. Of course, those dreams did tend to feature big strapping mountain men in vivid detail…
Ranger Quilleran Ramsey would like to be anywhere other than dealing with newbie volunteers. And really, the only thing he needs less than a green volunteer “partner” is the flirty attentions of a buff city boy who doesn’t look ready to last a week, let alone an Alaskan winter. They’re all wrong for each other, even if Quill’s traitorous body enjoys the flirting more than it should.
As the weeks pass, the two snowbound men give in to temptation. But can their seasonal romance last until spring? For them to have a future together, each will have to trust the other…while hoping that the harsh elements and omnipresent dangers don’t destroy what happiness they’ve found in the moment.
Is it a recipe for disaster? Or a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for holiday romance?
Teddy MacNally loves Christmas and everything that goes along with it. When he plays an elf for his charity’s events, he never expects to be paired with a Scrooge masquerading as Santa Claus. His new mission: make the holiday-hating soldier believe he was born to say ho-ho-ho.
Sergeant Major Nicholas Nowicki doesn’t do Santa, but he’s army to his blood. When his CO asks an unusual favor, Nick of course obliges. The elf to his Kris Kringle? Tempting. Too tempting—Nick’s only in town for another month, and Teddy’s too young, too cheerful and too nice for a one-night stand.
The slow, sexy make-out sessions while Teddy and Nick are alone and snowbound, though, feel like anything but a quick hookup. As a stress-free holiday fling turns into Christmas all year round, Teddy can’t imagine his life without Nick. And Nick’s days on the base may be coming to a close, but he doesn’t plan on leaving anything, or anyone, behind.
Review: Nick was all for doing his job, but did his job have to have him dressed up as Santa for a whole month? His commander’s husband who usually played the part had had a heart attack and was not able to do it. So it was his job to find someone who could, however he was the only one available. It wasn’t like he hated the holiday but his home life growing up didn’t give into the cheer of a holiday with no family. His sister was married with kids but had been one of those teenage girls who ran wild, his mother was a drunk, his dad ran off and then died. Leaving him alone for most of his life. He joined the military after graduation and was now going to retire in one month. A month left and then it was Florida all the way. To bad it wasn’t for him. Then he comes across a cute elf that just might have his mind changed and his heart.
Teddy was all for giving. When he was a child his older brother had passed away in an accident and he just felt that he couldn’t leave home. It was his safety net, and lets face it he loved it. Then he is working with a very grumpy Santa who made his mouth water. One month that was all he had, plans need to be figured out.
It definitely gave you that Christmas feeling and the setting rocked. I loved the characters and the family surrounding them. I will admit that I didn’t care for Nick at all, well until the final end. I did love the grumpy Santa scenes and the highly suggestive and bossy elf who had a big heart. Now for the downside, yes the guys had chemistry but the passion and heat were missing somewhat. They just didn’t connect like they should have and quite frankly I think it was Nick. The story was cute and gave you a sense of cheer, but it also was a bit dull to me. It was just missing something and I couldn’t really see what I wanted to see.
Overall it is a really cute story that was entertaining. I enjoyed most of it but for me I need more zest. However it is a good book and I would recommend it.
Hi guys! We have Annabeth Albert popping in today with the tour for her new release Better Not Pout, we have a great excerpt so check out the post and enjoy! ❤ ~Pixie~ p.s. keep an eye out for our review coming soon!
Better Not Pout
by
Annabeth Albert
One hard-nosed military police officer.
One overly enthusiastic elf.
One poorly timed snowstorm.
Is it a recipe for disaster? Or a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for holiday romance?
Teddy MacNally loves Christmas and everything that goes along with it. When he plays an elf for his charity’s events, he never expects to be paired with a Scrooge masquerading as Santa Claus. His new mission: make the holiday-hating soldier believe he was born to say ho-ho-ho.
Sergeant Major Nicholas Nowicki doesn’t do Santa, but he’s army to his blood. When his CO asks an unusual favor, Nick of course obliges. The elf to his Kris Kringle? Tempting. Too tempting—Nick’s only in town for another month, and Teddy’s too young, too cheerful and too nice for a one-night stand.
The slow, sexy make-out sessions while Teddy and Nick are alone and snowbound, though, feel like anything but a quick hookup. As a stress-free holiday fling turns into Christmas all year round, Teddy can’t imagine his life without Nick. And Nick’s days on the base may be coming to a close, but he doesn’t plan on leaving anything, or anyone, behind.
Hi guys, we have Annabeth Albert popping in today with her new release Level Up, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant $20 Amazon GC giveaway, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
Level Up
by
Annabeth Albert
Landon can’t believe he’s let himself get roped into participating in a charity calendar, let alone one that features tastefully photographed nudes. The genius physicist is hardly model material and he’s dreading the nude part of the photoshoot. Amid his reluctance, the one bright spot is his emails back and forth with the photographer.
However, Bailey ends up being not quite what Landon expects, and their first meeting is decidedly awkward. Bailey’s persistent though, and gradually Landon warms to the burly photographer, and they discover they have a shared love of gamer culture.
A tentative friendship is born, but the road from friends to lovers isn’t easy. Landon’s battling past trauma and must decide how much of a risk he’s willing to take. A sexy connection may not be enough to keep them together unless both are willing to put their hearts on the line.
Approximately 40,000 words. Previously released as part of the EXPOSED anthology, and loosely linked to the #Gaymers universe, this friends-to-lovers, hurt/comfort story stands alone with a guaranteed happy ending. Contains a brief mention of a prior assault, but no on-screen violence or flashbacks.
Blurb:Their love is forbidden, but their hearts aren’t listening to rules and regulations…
Lieutenant Dustin Strauss is a reformed man. No longer a twentysomething hell-raiser, he’s his SEAL team’s new XO—and a man with a secret. Or seven. He’s kept his bisexual identity under wraps for years, along with his kinky side and a fondness for the military-themed semianonymous hookup website Joe4Joe. His latest chat buddy is more than a sexy online distraction—they’re taking their very not-safe-for-work relationship into real time.
Petty Officer Wes Lowe has a smart mouth, a take-charge attitude and an uncanny ability for making things go boom. The life of an enlisted man isn’t always enough to satisfy him, but one wild, no-questions-asked weekend with his online love comes close. When a transfer order comes in, Wes feels ready and centered. He’ll make a good impression on his new SEAL team and keep his growing feelings for Dustin on the down low.
But as they log more time online and some very real emotions surface, Dustin and Wes struggle to pretend they’re just a harmless fling. And when his commander introduces Dustin to his team’s newest member, they’re in for the shock of a lifetime…and a crushing disappointment: their difference in ranks means even a friendship without sexual contact could end their navy careers for good.
With their hearts on the line, Dustin and Wes may not survive their next mission, let alone find a way toward a future together.
Review: What a deliciously, delightfully dirty book!!! I was dying to read Dustin’s story and while it didn’t disappoint, I have to admit it wasn’t what I was expecting either.
Dustin is Dylan’s brother, a closeted bisexual who is not ready for the world to know the truth about him. While coming to terms with his bisexuality, Dustin has been spending his free time having virtual sex with Wes, an East Coast man who’s far enough from Dustin that he doesn’t have to worry about being found out. A work trip to Washington DC and Wes’s proposal they meet in person sounds too good to pass on, despite Dustin’s hesitation.
Wes is enlisted as a SEAL in the military , and he knows Dustin is in the military as well, but can’t imagine how that would be a problem. Dustin is perfect for Wes and he check every one of his boxes: hot, sexy, submissive, loves to take orders and play innocent little mind games! Meeting Dustin in person would be a great opportunity to figure out if their chemistry is as strong in person as it is on the web. It is! Sweet baby Jesus but these men will have sex hot enough to melt your panties/boxer briefs or whatever the hell you’re wearing! Whew! Dustin loves to be told what to do and Wes loves giving orders… perfect match!
When Wes is given orders to move to the West Coast and join a different SEAL team as an explosions specialist, he comes to the shocking realization that any form of relationship/fraternization with Dustin is totally forbidden. There’s a lot of sorrow and angst both Dustin and Wes had to face because the heart wants what it wants and there’s nothing they could do about that. They try to stay away from each other as much as they can, but they still end up risking their careers for a few stolen moments. What I wasn’t thrilled with was the CONSTANT reminder that ‘we can’t do this’ or ‘this will never happen again’, followed by ‘this is goodbye’. I mean once they realized they need to be with each other, couldn’t they accept they’re going to illegally screw each other’s brains?
This was a very good book that I couldn’t put down! I loved many things about it, including Wes’s close relationship with his family, especially his younger sister. And Apollo and Dylan hot hitched, so all’s good in my world. I can’t wait for the next book!!!!
Hi guys, we have Annabeth Albert popping in today with her new release Tender With A Twist, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~
Tender With A Twist
(Rainbow Cove 02)
by
Annabeth Albert
One kinky wood carver. One younger chef looking to try new things. A series of lessons that bring both men more than they bargained for…
Curtis Hunt has made a name for himself as a chainsaw wood carver, winning national competitions and operating a small business in Rainbow Cove, Oregon. As winter whittles away his tourist traffic, his goal is just to survive the season and try to not get lost in grief for his dead lover. It’s been two years, but he’s sure he’ll never be over the love of a lifetime. However, his body has a certain restlessness that he doesn’t quite know how to calm.
Logan Rosner knows a thing or two about restlessness. It’s what drove him to Rainbow Cove to be a chef at a bar and grill run by his friends. And it’s what drives him to a single sizzling encounter with the local legendary lumberjack. Both men get far more than they expected and learn that first impressions aren’t always accurate…
But when Logan proposes a series of sexy lessons, Curtis must decide how much he’s willing to risk. He knows he can’t afford to get attached to Logan’s good cooking, his easy smiles, or his caretaking, but he keeps going back for more, even as deeper emotions become involved. Soon, Curtis must decide whether to risk his heart again or risk losing Logan for good.
Tender with a Twist is a 75,000 word stand-alone gay romance with a May/December theme, featuring a second chance at love, opposites attract, loads of sexy times with mild BDSM elements, and one emotionally-charged, guaranteed happy ending with no cliffhangers.
Blurb: One hot cop. One bar owner out for redemption. One smoking-hot summer fling destined to leave scorch marks…
Mason Hanks has returned to Rainbow Cove, Oregon with one goal in mind: turn the struggling coastal community into a thriving LGBTQ tourism destination. Step one is transforming an old bar and grill into a gay-friendly eatery. Step two? Don’t piss off Nash Flint, the very hot, very stern chief of police who’s not so sure he’s on board with Mason’s big plans.
Nash Flint just wants to keep his community safe and enjoy the occasional burger in peace. He’s not big on change nor is he a fan of Mason’s troublemaking family, especially his rowdy older brothers. But Mason slowly wins him over with fantastic cooking and the sort of friendship Nash has been starving for.
When their unlikely friendship takes a turn for the sexy, both men try to steer clear of trouble. Nash believes he’s too set in his ways for Mason, and Mason worries that his family’s reputation will ruin any future with Nash. Burning up the sheets in secret is a surefire way to crash and burn, and discovery forces a heart-wrenching decision—is love worth the risk of losing everything?
Trust with a Chaser is a 75,000 word stand-alone gay romance with a May/December theme, a hot law-enforcement hero, opposites attract, plenty of sexy times, and one hard-fought, guaranteed happy ending with no cliffhangers.
Review: This new series from Annabeth Albert is going to be great judging by this first book, which I liked A LOT! In fact, if it wasn’t for some little niggling sore spots that bothered me at times, I might’ve loved this book!
Nash Flint, aka ‘Sherriff Sexy’, is the 40 year old town sheriff who followed in his late father’s footsteps to become the lawman in their little town. Everyone respects Nash, but that’s because they don’t know Nash’s closet is deeper than anyone else’s, and he loves hiding his true self in there. Nash is so afraid of discovery that he’s paranoid and constantly on guard about hiding his sexuality. Aside from his two closest friends and his mother, nobody knows the true Nash.
Mason Hanks has returned to his little town of Rainbow Cove and opened a LGBT-friendly eatery with the hopes of making the little town more progressive and turn the community into a coveted LGBT destination. Rainbow Cove is in desperate need of a boost in tourism, but the citizens are not know to be very progressive in thinking, so Mason knows the road ahead is a bumpy one.
I loved Mason so much because he’s such a hardworking man who’s trying to show everyone that being a Hanks does not mean he’s just like his family. The Hanks are trouble and have a long and rich history of getting in trouble with the law, and Mason’s deadbeat brother makes things very complicated for Mason.
I loved the romance and chemistry between Mason and Nash, I thought the age difference was done well, and their relationship was sweet and CUTE! But Nash’s constant paranoia about being found out and his total refusal to come out of the closet was ridiculous. I understand people have reasons to not come out and this whole process is very personal, so I was trying not be too judgy. I think I failed a little bit at the judgy part.
The other thing that bothered me is the stigma that is attached to the Hanks name; I get that Mason’s father and his brothers have done nothing but get in trouble with the law their whole lives, but Mason has NEVER gotten in any trouble at all, so shouldn’t he get the benefit of the doubt? I hated how people refused to see his true potential and didn’t appreciate this hardworking young man just because of his last name. But even old dogs can learn new tricks, so I loved how they all came together at the end to support Mason when he needed it most.
Aside from those two sore points, I liked everything about this book and I’m looking forward to the next one. I can’t wait!
Hi guys, we have Annabeth Albert popping in today with the tour for her new release Trust With A Chaser, we have a fantastic guest post from Annabeth, a great excerpt, Aerin’s review and a brilliant giveaway, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
Trust With A Chaser
(Rainbow Cove 01)
by
Annabeth Albert
One hot cop. One bar owner out for redemption. One smoking-hot summer fling destined to leave scorch marks…
Mason Hanks has returned to Rainbow Cove, Oregon with one goal in mind: turn the struggling coastal community into a thriving LGBTQ tourism destination. Step one is transforming an old bar and grill into a gay-friendly eatery. Step two? Don’t piss off Nash Flint, the very hot, very stern chief of police who’s not so sure he’s on board with Mason’s big plans.
Nash Flint just wants to keep his community safe and enjoy the occasional burger in peace. He’s not big on change nor is he a fan of Mason’s troublemaking family, especially his rowdy older brothers. But Mason slowly wins him over with fantastic cooking and the sort of friendship Nash has been starving for.
When their unlikely friendship takes a turn for the sexy, both men try to steer clear of trouble. Nash believes he’s too set in his ways for Mason, and Mason worries that his family’s reputation will ruin any future with Nash. Burning up the sheets in secret is a surefire way to crash and burn, and discovery forces a heart-wrenching decision—is love worth the risk of losing everything?
Trust with a Chaser is a 75,000 word stand-alone gay romance with a May/December theme, a hot law-enforcement hero, opposites attract, plenty of sexy times, and one hard-fought, guaranteed happy ending with no cliffhangers.
Hi guys, we have Annabeth Albert stopping by today with her new release Trust With A Chaser, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
Trust With A Chaser
(Rainbow Cove 01)
by
Annabeth Albert
One hot cop. One bar owner out for redemption. One smoking-hot summer fling destined to leave scorch marks…
Mason Hanks has returned to Rainbow Cove, Oregon with one goal in mind: turn the struggling coastal community into a thriving LGBTQ tourism destination. Step one is transforming an old bar and grill into a gay-friendly eatery. Step two? Don’t piss off Nash Flint, the very hot, very stern chief of police who’s not so sure he’s on board with Mason’s big plans.
Nash Flint just wants to keep his community safe and enjoy the occasional burger in peace. He’s not big on change nor is he a fan of Mason’s troublemaking family, especially his rowdy older brothers. But Mason slowly wins him over with fantastic cooking and the sort of friendship Nash has been starving for.
When their unlikely friendship takes a turn for the sexy, both men try to steer clear of trouble. Nash believes he’s too set in his ways for Mason, and Mason worries that his family’s reputation will ruin any future with Nash. Burning up the sheets in secret is a surefire way to crash and burn, and discovery forces a heart-wrenching decision—is love worth the risk of losing everything?
Trust with a Chaser is a 75,000 word stand-alone gay romance with a May/December theme, a hot law-enforcement hero, opposites attract, plenty of sexy times, and one hard-fought, guaranteed happy ending with no cliffhangers.
Pushing thirty, with his reenlistment looming, decorated navy sniper Maddox Horvat is taking a long look at what he really wants in life. And what he wants is Ben Tovey. It isn’t smart, falling for his best friend and fellow SEAL, but ten years with Ben has forged a bond so intimate Maddox can’t ignore it. He needs Ben by his side forever—heart and soul.
Ben admits he likes what he’s seen—his friend’s full lower lip and the perfect muscles of his ass have proved distracting more than once. But Ben’s still reeling from a relationship gone to hell, and he’s not about to screw up his friendship with Maddox, too.
Until their next mission throws Ben and Maddox closer together than ever before, with only each other to depend on.
Now, in the lonely, desperate hours awaiting rescue, the real challenge—confronting themselves, their future and their desires—begins. Man to man, friend to friend, lover to lover.
Review: On Point is the story of the infamous duo Maddox and Ben. We’ve heard about Maddox and Ben in Apollo’s book and we know all about Maddox’s quiet pining for his best friend and all about Ben’s whorish ways. On Point lets us learn the WHY of Ben’s behavior, which I greatly appreciated, even though I wanted to whack the bastard across the head a few times.
Ben and Maddox are SEALS who have served together and have been best friends since the beginning of their careers. Their friendship and a constant significant other in their lives prevented the two from acknowledging the attraction and chemistry between them, but that all changes after Ben moves in with Maddox following his divorce. The two are so different from each other, I still can’t wrap my head around them as a couple (but I’m slowly getting there).
Ben’s career as a SEAL is the thing he’s most passionate about in life, and he lives for the adrenaline he gets when on missions. Ben’s father and his stepmother both support Ben unconditionally and I loved them as secondary characters; Ben has many mommy issues however, and we learn that his mother leaving has Ben questioning anyone’s commitment. Ben is a player and a manwhore who spends his free time in clubs chasing new men he can fuck.
Maddox is a soft-hearted man who’s career as a SEAL doesn’t match his dreams and hopes in life. His family cut ties with Maddox the day they found him kissing his boyfriend when Maddox was just 17 years old. In a desperate attempt to make his father proud, he joined the Navy, but he soon learned that his family’s love is conditional. Maddox doesn’t hate his job, and he definitely loves being at Ben’s side, but Maddox is not happy and yearns for a change. Maddox dreams about opening a bakery, dreams about Ben as more than a friend, he just dreams ….until the last mission they go on goes wrong, and Maddox realizes that life is too short and decides to make his dreams a reality.
Being trapped together when their mission goes wrong, both Maddox and Ben are hurt, but Maddox is by far worse. Cracked ribs and a dislocated shoulder doesn’t stop Ben from carrying his best friend to safety, and the following weeks of recovery make Ben realize he doesn’t even want to imagine a life where Maddox is not by his side. What follows is an awkward courtship dance that was painful to watch in how out of character it was for Ben (but sweet and entertaining just the same).
On point is a great friends-to-lovers story that’s going to delight the readers who love that trope. This book is angsty and gritty for the most part, but Maddox and Ben get their HEA, so hang in there. I can’t wait for the next book in this wonderful series!
Hi peeps, we have Annabeth Albert stopping by today with her new release At Attention, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and Aerin’s review, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
At Attention
(Off Base 02)
by
Annabeth Albert
Lieutenant Apollo Floros can ace tactical training missions, but being a single dad to his twin daughters is more than he can handle. He needs live-in help, and he’s lucky a friend’s younger brother needs a place to stay. He’s surprised to see Dylan all grown up with a college degree…and a college athlete’s body. Apollo’s widowed heart may still be broken, but Dylan has his blood heating up.
It’s been eight years since the teenage Dylan followed Apollo around like a lovesick puppy, and it’s time he showed Lieutenant Hard-to-Please that he’s all man now—an adult who’s fully capable of choosing responsibility over lust. He can handle Apollo’s muscular sex appeal, but Apollo the caring father? Dylan can’t afford to fall for that guy. He’s determined to hold out for someone who’s able to love him back, not someone who only sees him as a kid brother.
Apollo is shocked by the intensity of his attraction to Dylan. Maybe some no-strings summer fun will bring this former SEAL back to life. But the combination of scorching desire and warm affection is more than he’d expected, and the emotion between them scares him senseless. No fling lasts forever, and Apollo will need to decide what’s more important—his past or his future—if he wants to keep Dylan in his life.
Blurb: After trading the barracks for a fixer-upper rental, navy SEAL Zack Nelson wants peace, not a roommate—especially not Pike, who sees things about Zack he most wants to hide. Pike’s flirting puts virgin Zack on edge. And the questions Pike’s arrival would spark from Zack’s teammates about his own sexuality? Nope. Not going there. But Zack can’t refuse.
Pike Reynolds knows there won’t be a warm welcome in his new home. What can he say? He’s an acquired taste. But he needs this chance to get his life together. Also, teasing the uptight SEAL will be hella fun. Still, Pike has to tread carefully; he’s had his fill of tourists in the past, and he can’t risk his heart on another, not even one as hot, as built—and, okay, yeah, as adorable—as Zack.
Living with Pike crumbles Zack’s restraint and fuels his curiosity. He discovers how well they fit together in bed…in the shower…in the hallway… He needs Pike more than he could have imagined, yet he doesn’t know how to be the man Pike deserves.
Review: A spin-off of the gaymers series with military men? Yes please!!!
So I’m going to go as far as saying this is probably one of the best books Albert has written so far. It has a ton of intensity and chemistry, the writing is beautiful, the characters are young, inexperienced and sometimes overwhelmed by adulting, but they’re not immature.
I would’ve given it 5 stars in a heartbeat, if it wasn’t for the soul-sucking homophobia present throughout this whole book. We know from the blurb that Zack is a SEAL and we know from day-to-day life that while DADT has been repelled, not all military personnel embrace LGBT people. But the sheer amount of homophobia and homophobic slurs was overwhelming to me. The people that Zack works with every day, the ones that are supposed to have his back in a life or death situation are verbally abusing him any chance they get. Zack’s parents, the people that are supposed to love him for who he is are religious nuts that can’t even accept the fact that Zack has gay friends, never mind accepting their gay son.
Zack felt like a lonely person and my heart broke for him; at times I hated his internalized homophobia and his fight to deny who he really is: a gay man. But I couldn’t help feel pity for him and for his fear and unwillingness to accept himself.
Pike on the other hand is out and proud, a love them and leave them type. Pike sees Zack for who he is and he knows better than getting involved with a man who can’t even accept he’s gay. Been there, done that, with nothing to show for it but a broken heart. So Pike contends himself with flirting shamelessly with Zack every chance he gets because he loves to see the man blush and loves to get a rise out of him.
When circumstances and fate work against them and Pike and Zack find themselves alone in a club, the chemistry between them proves too much to ignore. This is the start of a one-sided relationship that kinda broke my heart as much as I enjoyed seeing it become more. I hurt for Pike and I hated that he chose to accept a relationship on Zack’s terms, but knowing this will lead to a HEA made it easier to keep going. I lived for the moments when Zack’s feelings for Pike came through, when despite his unwillingness to accept Pike as a boyfriend, Zack made Pike feel like he matters, like what was happening between them meant EVERYTHING to him.
Of course my favorite subject in this whole book is Zack’s sexual education. A virgin SEAL? Good lord dump ice water on me now! A red-head, experienced flirt to educate the innocent SEAL? HELL YES!!! Zack’s sexual education was so fucking hot! It was dirty and flirty and intense! It was enthusiastic blow jobs, and filthy rimming and passionate sex! I admit Pike is a wonderful professor and Zack is an accelerated student! Whew! The only thing missing out of Zack’s education is bottoming, and I was dying to see that! Dying I tell you! *pouts*
So you see, this book has both bad and good parts to balance each other out, but what I loved the most are the FEELS! When Zack and Pike fall, they fall hard! I loved that their feelings for each other were shown more than spoken. While they both were reluctant to verbalize their feelings, the intensity of their emotions were shown by the author in a way that made me feel them in my gut and left me breathless.
“Kissing Pike always felt like breathing— necessary, important and vital to his well-being— but right then it felt more like a sacrament . Or like super glue instantly sealing their bond together. And that’s what this was— a bond.”
“Zack kissed him back, and Pike swore he could taste his fear and need and underneath it all, his unwavering affection. Somehow this complicated, confused man had managed to see past all Pike’s jokes and flirtation and see who Pike was inside. Why did it have to be you?
“You like me, don’t you?” Pike whispered against his lips.
“More than,” Zack whispered back. “You. This. Us. It’s everything.”
Pike didn’t trust himself to speak, so he kissed him again, harder this time, biting and sucking at Zack’s lips.”
I loved this book, it kept me fully invested from the beginning to the end. But there was just too much homophobia and it took forever for Zack to grow a spine and stand up for himself. I am however so excited about this new series and can’t wait to read more! I’m also dying for a chance to read Apollo’s story and hopefully get a new happy ending for him and his kids.
Hiya guys, we have Annabeth Albert stopping by today with her new release Off Base, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway, so check out the post and click that giveaway link <3 ~Pixie~
Off Base
(Out of Uniform 01)
by
Annabeth Albert
After trading the barracks for a fixer-upper rental, navy SEAL Zack Nelson wants peace, not a roommate—especially not Pike, who sees things about Zack he most wants to hide. Pike’s flirting puts virgin Zack on edge. And the questions Pike’s arrival would spark from Zack’s teammates about his own sexuality? Nope. Not going there. But Zack can’t refuse.
Pike Reynolds knows there won’t be a warm welcome in his new home. What can he say? He’s an acquired taste. But he needs this chance to get his life together. Also, teasing the uptight SEAL will be hella fun. Still, Pike has to tread carefully; he’s had his fill of tourists in the past, and he can’t risk his heart on another, not even one as hot, as built—and, okay, yeah, as adorable—as Zack.
Living with Pike crumbles Zack’s restraint and fuels his curiosity. He discovers how well they fit together in bed…in the shower…in the hallway… He needs Pike more than he could have imagined, yet he doesn’t know how to be the man Pike deserves.
Hi guys, we have Annabeth Albert popping in today with her brand new release Wrapped Together, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway so check out the post and click that giveaway link <3 ~Pixie~
Wrapped Together
(Portland Heat 05)
by
Annabeth Albert
In the bustling restaurants, shops, and cafés of Portland, Oregon, things really heat up for the hard-working men behind the scenes when the holidays come into town . . .
For a stationery store owner, the holidays are great for business. But for Hollis Alcott, Christmas reminds him of the tragic events of three years past, and the last thing he wants to do is take part in Portland’s over-abundance of festive cheer. But Sawyer Murphy, a hunky gift shop owner whose brother is married to Hollis’s sister, has made it his mission to pluck Hollis out of his holiday blues. And his plan is beginning to work. Wrapped in the warm glow of newfound passion, the former business rivals hit up Portland’s finest holiday traditions—and Hollis’s icy attitude begins to melt like snowflakes on his tongue. But he isn’t sure he can trust anyone with the only gift he has—his heart—without breaking it like an antique ornament. Unless he can find the courage to take a leap with the one lover he never expected . . .
Hi peeps, we have Annabeth Albert visiting today with her new release Connection Error, Annabeth has brought along an exclusive excerpt and a fantastic giveaway, we also have Aerin’s review for you to check out, so enjoy the post and click that giveaway link <3 ~Pixie~
Connection Error
(#gaymers 03)
by
Annabeth Albert
It’s typical of video game programmer Josiah Simmons to be the last one on the plane on the way to the biggest meeting of his career. Though he’s (mostly) coping with his ADHD, he can’t handle another distraction. But he also can’t ignore his rugged seatmate—especially once he learns the military man’s a fan of his game.
Ryan Orson refuses to let his severe injuries pause his career as a navy SEAL. He’s got hours of grueling physical therapy ahead of him, and no time for anything that might get in the way of his return to active duty. But that doesn’t mean he’s above a little first-class flirtation with geeky-cute Josiah.
When a delay strands the pair in St. Louis, they agree to share a hotel room and a night of gaming. Neither expects their new connection to move to the next level in the light of day. Opposites may attract, but is this game over before it’s even begun?
Hiya peeps, today we have Annabeth Albert popping in with the tour for her newest release All Note Long, we have a great guest post from Annabeth with her All Note Long playlist, a great excerpt, Aerin’s review and a fantastic giveaway! So peeps, check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~
All Note Long
(Perfect Harmony 03)
by
Annabeth Albert
Giving true love a spin . . .
Michelin Moses is a country music star on the rise. With a hit single under his Texas-sized belt buckle and a sold-out concert tour underway, his childhood dreams of making it big are finally coming true. But there’s one thing missing—a promise to his dying mother that he’d find it—him—when the time was right. With a little luck, he won’t have to wait too long . . .
Lucky Ramirez is a hunky boy toy who dances at The Broom Closet, one of West Hollywood’s hottest gay bars. He loves what he does, and he’s good at it—almost as good as he is at playing dumb when he spots Michelin Moses at the bar. What happens next is off the charts—and keeps Michelin coming back for more. He’s just not sure it’s the right move for his career. But if Lucky gets his way, Michelin will get Lucky—and no matter how the media spins it, neither of them will be faking it . . .
Hi peeps, we have Annabeth Albert popping in with her newest release Knit Tight, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway so enjoy the post and click that giveaway link <3 ~Pixie~
Knit Tight
(Portland Heat 04)
by
Annabeth Albert
It’s no secret that Portland, Oregon, has some of best restaurants, shops, and cafés in the country. But it’s the hard-working men who serve it all up that keep us coming back for more…
One of Portland’s hottest young baristas, Brady is famous for his java-topping flair, turning a regular cup of joe into a work of art. Every Wednesday—aka “Knit Night”—hordes of women and their needles descend on the coffeehouse, and Brady’s feeling the heat. Into the fray walks a tall, dark, and distractingly handsome stranger from New York. His name is Evren, and he’s the sexy nephew of Brady’s sweetest customer, the owner of the yarn shop down the street. He’s also got a killer smile, confident air, and masculine charm that’s tying Brady’s stomach in knots. The smitten barista can’t wait to see him at the next week’s gathering. But when he tries to ask Evren out, his plans unravel faster than an unfinished edge. If Brady hopes to warm up more than Evren’s coffee, he’ll have to find a way to untangle their feelings, get out of the friend zone, and form a close-knit bond that’s bound to last a lifetime…
Hi peeps, we have Annabeth Albert stopping by today with her newest release Love Me Tenor, we have a great excerpt, a fantastic giveaway and Aerin’s review so enjoy the post and click that giveaway link <3 ~Pixie~
Love Me Tenor
(Perfect Harmony 02)
by
Annabeth Albert
Trevor Daniels is feeling aimless. A recent college grad, he’s not sure what to do with his useless degree, and his family all but abandoned him after he revealed the truth about himself. But a friend’s suggestion that he take his chances on a reality show aimed at finding the next big boy band strikes a chord with him—until the show’s producers convince him to act like he’s in a relationship with a guy who’s not at all his type. It isn’t exactly love at first sight for Jalen Smith either—but lust just might push them in an unexpected direction. If only their secrets weren’t even more twisted than their sheets, threatening to cost them the win—and each other…
Title: Love Me Tenor Series: Perfect Harmony, #2 Author: Annabeth Albert Genre: Contemporary/Arts Length: Novel (266 pages) Publisher: Lyrical Shine, Kensington Books (February 16th 2016) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts Blurb:There’s no way he’ll shake this off…
Trevor Daniels is feeling aimless. A recent college grad, he’s not sure what to do with his useless degree, and his family all but abandoned him after he revealed the truth about himself.
But a friend’s suggestion that he take his chances on a reality show aimed at finding the next big boy band strikes a chord with him—until the show’s producers convince him to act like he’s in a relationship with a guy who’s not at all his type. It isn’t exactly love at first sight for Jalen Smith either—but lust just might push them in an unexpected direction.
If only their secrets weren’t even more twisted than their sheets, threatening to cost them the win—and each other…
Review: Hands down, this is Annabeth Albert’s best book to date. It was not only fun, but also very complex and the characters certainly manage to play with your heartstrings. I’m pretty sure every single character in this book grew a lot, changed, and matured, from who they were at the beginning of this book. I usually don’t watch talent shows, but I’m pretty familiar with how they work, and I kind of enjoyed the setting and plot of this book.
I loved Trevor and Jalen from the very beginning, and I loved every single one of their interactions, from the reluctant enemies to incendiary lovers. Let me tell you, Trevor and Jalen set the sheets on fire. I’ve never come across a hotter frottage scene than the one that takes place between these two.
Holy fuck, it was intense…
Jalen is dominant and bossy, but at the same time a very sensual lover, while Trevor loves to be held down and rubbed into submission. The result is some out if this world sex in many different forms (I tend to skim the sex scenes when they get too repetitive, and I never once wanted to skim any part of this book).
Trevor is a much damaged soul who’s at a very bad place in life. He’s been kicked out of his very religious family after coming out to them, wasn’t able to find any reliable job, and he’s about to become homeless when he gets the call about being part of Next Direction Show.
Trevor is not a confident person, and there’s not much about himself he loves or even likes. He’s too short, his dick’s too small, his voice is too high pitched, he’s gay, and he doesn’t think he deserves any of the good opportunities being part of this show can bring him.
Trevor’s journey is somewhat painful to watch, and I found myself aggravated with him at times (mostly when I wasn’t brokenhearted), mainly for his ignorance and dismissal when it came to his diabetes. The feelings of guilt and shame he experienced after each time he had sex broke my heart, and I was so glad I had Jalen to hurt with…we were hurting buddies, Jalen and I.
Jalen is a rock, that dude has my heart! Once he realizes he’s attracted to Trevor and decides to give the chemistry simmering between them a try, Jalen is 100% in. He is a caretaker, a worrier, he NEEDS to know that the people he cares about are happy and safe, always taken care of.
Trevor pushes every one of his buttons, because he NEEDS people who care about him and his wellbeing, and there’s nobody better at that than Jalen. I absolutely loved how Jalen refused to be stereotyped and put in a box simply because someone believed he belonged in one. He believed at all times that being yourself was the only way to go, and he teaches Trevor how to love, both himself and others.
There are lots of secondary characters, but I want to give a shout-out to the boyfriend-“twins” Carter and Carson, the other two member of Stand Out… dudes, your brand of drama made me smile from the beginning, because I could totally see your inner-divas shining brightly. You guys were catty, bitchy and pretentious, sometimes even downright rude, but I still loved you anyways, especially after you removed those huge baseball bats you had shoved up your bottoms and became amazing friends to Trevor, who was in desperate need of support.
I went from being amused and mildly annoyed (with Carter mostly) to loving you guys to pieces, and I always appreciate a character who can make me go through such a complex range of feelings.
This book totally rocked, I’m goo-goo, ga-ga, over the top in love with the whole story! I hope we get more in this series, because Michelin really needs his own book, it’s about time!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Better Not Pout
Title: Trust with a Chaser
Title: On Point
Title: Love Me Tenor