Second Bite of the Cherry by Louise Lyons

Title: Second Bite of the Cherry
Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar
Author: Louise Lyons
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Short (28 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: When Daniel Berrisford reluctantly agrees to accompany his best friend Kate to the New Year’s Eve celebrations in London, he doesn’t expect to enjoy himself. Daniel is pleasantly surprised to see his first boyfriend, James Allison, among the merrymakers. The pair hasn’t seen each other for four years, but as they talk and midnight approaches, it becomes clear the spark between them is still there.

The New Year is a time for new beginnings, and for Daniel and James, it might be the time to give love another chance.

ISBN: 978-1-63216-765-1

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5868

Reviewer: York

Review: I don’t think I have ever read a story with so few pages pack so much punch. It’s no secret that if faced with the choice of a 40-page novella or a 400-page novel with no time constraints, I will choose the novel every time. However, the novellas are growing on me and this is a perfect example of why. Second Bite takes you from heartbreak to the promise of lifelong love from 0 to 60 in 28 pages flat.

I can certainly understand Daniel’s reluctance to open his heart again and I appreciate his best friend, Kate’s determination to enjoy the ringing in of the New Year despite her very recent break-up. When she uses her “bestie wiles” to get him out of the house, you can’t help but shout out “You go, girl!”

The plotline may be a bit of a holiday cliché but, Miss Lyons writes it so well with a perfect blend of humor, lust, and the promise of a better year ahead that you don’t even realize the oft-used scenario.

Stardust by Andrew Grey

Title: Stardust
Series: Dreamspinner Press’ 2014 Advent Calendar: Celebrate
Author: Andrew Grey
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: Novella (62 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st 2014)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Duncan is an ocean from home over the holidays and expects to spend them alone. To his pleasant surprise, one of his European co-workers, Georg, befriends him and includes Duncan in the holiday traditions of his homeland: cutting a Christmas tree under starry skies at Georg’s country estate, decorating it at the family’s city home, and shopping at the Christmas market in Munich. Both men are lonely and realize they have much in common. But Georg’s life is in Germany and Duncan’s is in Boston. With the project they’re working on nearing completion, any chance for more than a holiday fling seems as elusive as stardust.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”.

ISBN: 978-1-63216-764-4

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5848

Reviewer: Tams

Review: Duncan volunteered to work in Munich over the Christmas Holidays so a co-worker could stay home with his expecting wife. As a single, gay man without a boyfriend or family to speak of, it seemed like a no brainer. A few weeks into the project, his liaison is replaced by one tall, dark, and handsome German named Georg. From the start, Duncan feels very comfortable with Georg and the two share details about their lives over lunch and a sightseeing trip where Georg shares the love of his country and his home with his new American friend.

The attraction is mutual but Duncan needs a little reassuring that he won’t be just another notch in the proverbial bedpost. He is leaving in a few weeks back to America, so how could a torrid affair possibly end well for either of them. The stars seem to shine down on them though, making their connection impossible to ignore. Chemistry, passion and common interests can only take you so far when you live oceans apart. Duncan wonders how he will be able to leave this man that he is falling for, but what other choice is there?

I love that Grey put time and effort into researching the area this story takes place in. The descriptions of scenery, traditions and the family dynamics of someone of Georg’s stature added a little weight to the story, making it more than just fluff and romance. Ah, but the fluff and romance were quite fun to read as well. The perfect story for the season, I think my face hurts from smiling so much. A sweat and endearing love story for all us hopeless romantics, a very lighthearted read.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

A Snowman Made of Sand by JJ Carroll

Title: A Snowman Made of Sand
Series: Dreamspinner Press’ 2014 Advent Calendar: Celebrate
Author: JJ Carroll
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (37 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Blurb: Last year in England, Australian Ethan Harvey not only met his “perfect” man in Tristan Lewin-Jones, Ethan shared a wonderful Christmas with Tristan’s “perfect” family—an ideal British holiday full of genteel good cheer and all the traditional trimmings.

Now Tris and Ethan are living in Sydney, and Tris wants the quintessential Australian beach Christmas, with sun, sand, surf, seafood… and the Harveys. But Ethan didn’t mention the Harveys are politically incorrect, rude, crude, and loud. He worries his family will drive Tris away. Giving Tris the perfect beach Christmas with the imperfect Harveys is going to take a holiday miracle.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”.
ISBN: 978-1-63216-762-0
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5866
Reviewer: Prime
Review: It’s Tris’s first Christmas in Australia and Ethan wants to make it special, he also doesn’t want to spend Christmas with his family. I had to laugh at the latter because I was thinking of my crazy family. But really, Ethan is just scared of doing the big introduction knowing how awful his family is. And Tris is just unbelievably cute at the end after suffering through his boyfriend’s family!

Everything in this story is just fun. I think I found it a blast being an Australian and reading a Christmas story that doesn’t involve snow, being snowed in, blizzards and snow days. (The movie Snow Day was baffling when I saw it as a kid). It’s about as Aussie as you can get, even if we all don’t all go to the beach or beach shacks on Christmas Day to play cricket and footy.

This is a story anyone could relate to, because of the widely varied family involved. I think there’s something for everyone to understand on any level. The thing I related to, but in a different way, is that Ethan mentally refers to his honours thesis (step before PhD, we generally skip Masters) on parasitic plants. I usually have family asking me for my opinion on something not quite in my area of science and truly felt Ethan’s annoyance. I also had to laugh at all the innuendo with the word “bugger” and “buggered”, because it is a common slang here in Australia, but no one really looks into the literal meaning. It’s just a handy curse word.

I realise that editors/publishers have their standard use of language but I think it’s nice to be a bit more real about what different countries call things, to me it adds more to a book. These are just minor picks at language: the use of the word mile instead of kilometre. And “crisps” in Australia are “chips”, just as fries are “hot chips” but we do get fries from MacDonald’s (aka Macca’s) and Hungry Jacks (Burger King).

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Wait for Me by T.S. Morgan

Title: Wait for Me

Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar

Author: T.S. Morgan

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short (21 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-761-3

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: To fulfill his grandfather’s final request, TJ Barclay travels to Scotland over Christmas to bury his ashes next to his lost love, so they can be together at last. While there, he meets Jamie, the orphaned grandson of the man his grandfather loved sixty years ago, before circumstances tore them apart. Concerned for Jamie, TJ can’t leave Scotland without knowing he’s all right. Neither man expected a love story from the past to ignite a new one in the present.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package”

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5865

Review: Beautiful just doesn’t describe this well enough. I love a story of fate and destiny and this hit the mark!

TJ goes to Scotland to lay his grandfather to rest after finding out that, he isn’t really his grandfather and that he was gay. TJ finds out that his grandfather’s first love had a grandson and that the young man was lost and alone. Both men are straight but in the end, no labels are needed when destiny intervenes.

I thought this story was beautiful and reading the grandfathers letters nearly brought tears to my eyes. I loved how TJ wanted to help his grandfather by doing the right thing for Jaime.

I will definitely be looking for more from this author.

What Father Christmas Left by Felicitas Ivey

Title: What Father Christmas Left
Series: Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calender package “Celebrate!”
Author: Felicitas Ivey
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (46 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Blurb: Ex-Pat American Jacob Moore is looking forward to hosting his traditional Christmas Eve party with his partner, Errol. They love the quiet night of friends and food at their house in London, and the break before dealing with family, presents, and Boxing Day. The quiet is shattered when Jacob’s younger half-sister, Pru, shows up on his doorstep, running away from home for a very good reason. Jacob has stayed in touch with her over the years, even though he’s estranged from their father. But nothing prepared him for this.
Now he has to decide what to do with his unexpected package from Father Christmas.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calender package “Celebrate!”

ISBN: 978-1-63216-760-6

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5864

Reviewer: Prime

Review: This was one very cute, sweet story! It’s perfect for Christmas, once again showing that we may not choose our parents (or other members of the family) but we can make one with our friends, significant other and the blood relatives we love most. This isn’t a love story, really, or if you want to call it that, it’s more about the love between siblings.

Errol and Jacob have been together for seven years and come from very different family situations. Though, it took me a few times not to sing that song that goes “oh, Errol, I would give anything just to be like him!” – talking about Errol Flynn, mind you. But this Errol here is awesome; he’s a six-foot five cuddly bear, if only he had a larger role to play!

The difference between these character’s families are that Errol has come from an understanding family, although his parents had died and he had finished the job of raising his younger brother and sister. On the other hand, Jacob had a severe falling out with his father after coming out of the closet. Subsequently, he moved to England where he eventually met Errol. In all that happened, Jacob also has significantly younger half-sister, Pru.

This is a heart-warming story of Jacob and Errol trying to keep their family together and help get what is best for Pru, with Errol playing supporting role. Pru is a teenager well on the way of being damaged, but is surprisingly well-adjusted, though Jacob is an awesome and supportive older brother.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Three Wise Men by Connie Bailey

Title: Three Wise Men
Series: Dreamspinner Press’ 2014 Advent Calendar: Celebrate
Author: Connie Bailey
Genre: Contemporary/MMM Ménage
Length: Short (29 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb:College friends Joon, Tae, and Sangsun parted ways after an aborted attempt at a threesome. Ten years later, life has carried them down very different paths, but Joon misses his friends and decides to invite them to his home in South Korea for Christmas. He believes they belong together, but convincing the others to defy tradition and try again will take faith, hope, and a lot of talking—especially since all three of them are still in the closet.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”.
ISBN: 978-1-63216-759-0
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5863
Reviewer: Prime
Review: Joon has nervously awaited and prepared for the Christmas he had planned with Sangsun and Tae, the three had not been all together in 10 years, since Tae went and joined the army. Joon has at some point converted to Christianity, hence why he has prepared to celebrate Christmas. I’m not good with working out the origins of different names, but I figured this is set in South Korea, mostly because Joon offered Sangsun and Tae soju (then we are actually told on page 10 that it’s Korea).

This is a great story with three characters that are men and now have their careers as teacher, businessmen and career army but need to come to terms with who they are. All three men are likable characters, too, which meant it had my emotions tossing about. Sangsun is a bit stubborn, but then again there is always someone who needs more than a little convincing.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

The Eve That Finally Happened by Diane Lennox

Title: The Eve that Finally Happened
Series: Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calender package “Celebrate!”
Author: Diane Lennox
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (33 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Blurb: After seven years in Canada, Korean native Jae-ho Kim still hasn’t had the special Christmas Eve date night that he would have enjoyed back home – a fact that has his sister, Soon-kyu, very uset during their yearly phone conversation. This year, Jae’s lack of effort concerning his love life comes back to haunt him in the form of Christmas Eve ghosts, showing him very vividly what will become of him if he refuses to take a chance and find a date for Christmas Eve.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calender package “Celebrate!”

ISBN: 978-1-63216-758-3

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5862

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Jae has studied and lived in Canada for seven years, moving from Korea for his love of art and to be somewhere more accepting of his homosexuality. He also happens to have a crush on his boss, Peter Wei.

When Jae starts having his “Christmas Carol” moments, the story not only gains momentum but it is amusing, not just the situation but also the actual banter between Jae and his “ghosts”. We also learn a fair bit of background, which is very satisfying.

Jae isn’t a Scrooge, but this is a fun read and is an interesting modern-day spin on the Charles Dickens classic. After the spirit of Christmas Future visits, I feel that there is room for another kinky story with Jae, as long as that future doesn’t happen!

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

A Night Never Forgotten by SJD Peterson

Title: A Night Never Forgotten
Author: SJD Peterson
Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: Short (29 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st 2014)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: After a one night whirlwind romance, Braylon returns to Toronto on the first of December every year in the hopes of seeing the man of his dreams again. Instead, Braylon meets a strange man who tells him Christmas is a magical time, and one never knows what unexpected gifts he’ll receive.

Braylon takes a chance and makes a Christmas wish, but instead of getting what he wants, he contracts an infection leaving him dependent on dialysis and unable to make the journey the following year. But the stranger just might be right; an unexpected gift may be the miracle Braylon needs most of all.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5861&cPath=62_1243

Reviewer: Tams

Review: Braylon returns to Toronto every year at the first of December in the hope of finding the man that he shared a passionate night there with several years prior. But this December his ailing health prohibits him making the annual trip. Over the next year, Braylon recovers from a kidney transplant and begins to live his life again, including taking his trip to Toronto in December.

Will a strange twist of fate finally bring him and Ross back together, or will Braylon resign the encounter as a one-night stand that just wasn’t meant to be?

A short, heartwarming story that shows the true power of circumstance and coincidence. There was a lot of content for so few pages as well. You really get a sense of how badly Braylon wants to reconnect with Ross. And the twist at the end left me surprised and smiling. Definitely a must read for my fellow hopeless romantics.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

The Journey Back by Kristen Slater

Title: The Journey Back

Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar

Author: Kristen Slater

Genre: Contemporary/ Holiday

Length: Short (35 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-756-9

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Having quit his job, Idris is trying to make it home to his partner of twelve years, Dan, in time for Christmas. Stuck on a train during a snowstorm, Idris has nothing to do but think back on how much he has missed by putting his career first. His job has been straining their partnership for years, and now Idris worries he’s damaged it beyond repair. He desperately wants to get back to the UK and salvage their relationship—if there’s even anything waiting for him when he gets home.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5860

Review: Idris has been working away from home for two years. His relationship of twelve years is falling apart and he took a big step in quitting his job to see if he could salvage his partnership. On the way home, the train keeps stopping making the trip seem longer than it is, giving Idris time to reflect on his past and how the two men met and how the relationship has deteriorated.

This was a very beautiful story. I thought the reflecting back was a perfect way to give us the backstory and how Idris and Dan met was beautiful. It also shows us o how life can consume us and glaze over what is really important. I will most definitely be looking for more books by Kristen Slater.

If you like deep, heartfelt stories, reflections, and an allover beautiful romance, I highly recommend this. It’s short but sweet!

Last of Summer by Genna Donaghy

Title: Last of Summer

Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar

Author: Genna Donaghy

Genre: Holiday/ Urban Fantasy

Length: Short (23 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-755-2

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)

Heat Level: None

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Although Rowan Stormbringer was raised Wiccan, he’s never felt a connection to magic. That changes on the eve of Yule, when he encounters a magical creature, a phoenix, which needs his help getting to Stonehenge before the sun sets that day. Hiding a magical creature in the mortal world is tricky at best, but partnering with a good-looking, snarky taxi driver may be just the ticket Rowan needs. As they explore their instant attraction to each other, Rowan and Martin must learn to trust one another if they hope to deliver the phoenix home in time.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5859

Review: Rowan was raised as a Wiccan but he doesn’t have a connection to the magic until the eve of Yule when he finds a fallen Phoenix. He hires a taxi to help get the bird to Stonehenge and meets Martin.

This is a very good urban fantasy story. I will say though it felt like a chapter in a story and not a complete story. I would have liked to seen more developing romance between Rowan and Martin.

Having said that I did love the dialogue the bits of his family being Wiccan (I would have liked a bit more of this as well) and the Phoenix. I also liked that this was a story of magic and not a phoenix shifter story.

If you like urban fantasy, phoenix, magic and little to no sex, this story is for you!

Snow and Moose and Finnish Secrets by Reni Kieffer

Title: Snow and Moose and Finnish Secrets
Series: Dreamspinner Press’ 2014 Advent Calendar: Celebrate
Author: Reni Kieffer
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (25 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Blurb:When Jake takes his boyfriend Ian home to celebrate Christmas with his parents in the Finnish woods, Ian, a skeptic by nature who has to deny his preference for guys in front of his own family, is not only worried about the reaction of Jake’s family, but also about the feast itself—and the cold. However, within minutes, Jake’s parents make Ian feel warm, welcome, and at home, and begin to introduce him to their Christmas traditions.

The visit goes smoothly until Jake’s ex-girlfriend barges in and drops a bomb that shatters their peace and harmony—a tiny detail Jake failed to mention to his boyfriend. Angry and hurt, Ian struggles to let go of the past and focus on the blessings surrounding him.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”.

ISBN: 978-1-63216-753-8
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5857
Reviewer: Prime
Review: Ian is in Finland with his boyfriend, Jake (really Jakko), to meet Jake’s parents for the first time. On top of that, it’s also Christmas and Jake’s parents doesn’t know he’s got a boyfriend instead of a girlfriend. His introduction to Finland is a little rough, not only does he fear bear attacks he finds out the hard way he also has to contend with moose. Jake’s got some drama that he left behind in Finland when he went to study in New York, which was where he met Ian. Now Ian finds himself in the middle of it and Ian is rightfully angry.

I like this one. It’s simple enough and both Jake and Ian are really likable characters. I also like the underlying story of how Ian dislikes Christmas, it shows just how different he and Jake are, yet they work so well. Very cute and very much had me thinking about “walking in a winter wonderland” – which is pretty good for someone who gets heatwaves at Christmas instead of cold winter.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Business or Pleasure by Michael Cross and Emma Michaels

Title: Business or Pleasure
Series: Dreamspinner Press’ 2014 Advent Calendar: Celebrate
Author: Michael Cross & Emma Michaels
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (37 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts
Blurb: When American Ian lands a secretarial job in the United Kingdom, he thinks he’s set for life. Admittedly, he’s still a bachelor living in a small apartment and working for a complete jackass, but other than that, his life is everything he ever hoped for in an enticing city full of beautiful people. When Alistair Security is robbed during the Christmas Fundraiser, the last thing Ian expects is to end up locked in with his boss, Alex Alistair, and to realize he might have mistaken his resentment for something else. The two men find common ground throughout the night, but when morning comes and the news hits the headlines, their connection will be tested. Ian might find himself at the start of a hot office romance—or he’ll spend the holidays browsing the classifieds.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”.

ISBN: 978-1-63216-752-1

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5856

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Ian moved from the US to the UK for a job he had worked his butt off to get. Ian works security for Alex Alistair at Alistair Security Inc. Alex is a sleaze when it comes to his various women, or shall I say man-slut? He doesn’t seem particularly liked either. Ian tends to overlook this because of the size of his paycheck and the prestigious position he held as the man’s PA.

Then there is also Erik Brakenridge.

He is Alex’s charming business rival, who not only seems to have a better temperament than Alistair. But he has more than one reason to have interest in Ian. On the night of Alex’s Christmas ball, all the tension culminates to become drama.

I found it hard to work out where this plot was going. I had changed my mind on what exactly was going on. However, regardless, I was cheering for Ian the whole time. It’s full of clichés and one in particular left me rather trouble. But really, I’m looking too far into it. It’s a fun read full of drama worthy of the best soap operas.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

The Swag Man Delivers by Sean Michaels

Title: The Swag Man Delivers
Series: 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”
Author: Sean Michael
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (24 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts
Blurb: Orpheus “O” Drummond, a recent Ph.D. graduate, is visiting Australia after defending his thesis, and being dumped by his boyfriend. While alone on the beach in Australia was not how he’d originally planned on spending his Christmas, when O runs into Gage, he figures Santa knew exactly what he was doing.

Gage is traveling away from his Texan home, trying to “find himself.” When he finds O instead, he doesn’t think things could have worked out better. Together Gage and O celebrate Christmas in the best way they can think of.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

ISBN: 978-1-63216-751-4

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5847

Reviewer: Leigh

Review: O decided to visit Australia alone after being dumped by his boyfriend of five years the day after he defended his thesis. While sitting on the beach watching the water he meets Gage. Gage is a Texan boy who has been in Australia for a month. The two hit it off right away and decide to spend Christmas together. What follows is pretty hot.

This was a cute little holiday short. Both O and Gage are adorable. It leaves it with a happy for now deal and I wouldn’t mind seeing a larger story with them.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Tidings of Comfort and Joey Down Under by David Connor

Title: Tidings of Comfort and Joey Down Under

Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar

Author: David Connor

Genre: Contemporary/International Romance/Holiday

Length: Novella (67 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-750-7

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)

Heat Level: Low to Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Seth Anderson thought he was a finalist in the Hot Jack cologne modeling contest for King’s Department Store, but Sandy King, upon reviewing Seth’s photo and resume, just wanted to jump him like a horny kangaroo. Seth quickly learns there is pain behind Sandy’s bravado and a sweet, lonely man behind the act. A holiday romance blossoms like the flowers on an Australian Christmas Bell.

When Seth, used to a family dynamic without boundaries, over steps by outing Sandy to his estranged grandmother, however, everything changes. Sandy is furious. He breaks things off with Seth and threatens to return to the US. As Christmas approaches, any chance at happily ever after seems as likely as a snowstorm in Sydney. It would take a miracle from above to set things right. Good thing ‘tis the season.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5846

Review: Seth’s parents entered him in a contest for a cologne commercial. He agrees because he is interested in the grand prize trip. When he arrives, he sees all the hunky men there to audition for the part of the Jack. He is appalled when he finds out that he isn’t on the list even though he got a letter. When he meets Sandy, he finds out Sandy had a personal interest in him and also thought he would make the perfect Joey.

I absolutely adored this story. It was fun, sexy and had lots of twists and turns. I loved the Australian accents and terms, I felt it added even more humor to an already funny and cute story. I loved the romance between these two men and all the twists thrown. I especially loved Seth’s parents and adored Sandy’s grandmother as well. I would have loved even more in this story it was awesome.

I highly recommend this to anyone that loves a sweet, sexy m/m romance, funny parents, twists and turns and an all-over fun romance

Ilya and the Wolf by Rory Ni Coileain Book Blast, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Rory Ni Coileain - Ilya and the Wolf 600x600Banner

Hi guys, today we have Rory Ni Coileain stopping by to show off her latest release Ilya and the Wolf, her cute short story for the Dreamspinner Press 2014 advent calender ‘Celebrate’. We have a great excerpt, Lisa’s review and a great giveaway, so enjoy the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

Ilya and the Wolf

(From the Celebrate advent calender)

Rory Ni Coileain

Ilya, the youngest son of a Moscow oligarch, is so deep in the closet he’d find Narnia if that weren’t a decadent Western story. On Christmas Eve, his brothers lure him into the forest, intending to murder him and erase the shame he inflicts on their family by existing. However, the attempt is interrupted by Volyk, a wolf who carries the blood of the ancient oboroten’ —shapeshifters. Ilya never imagined a Christmas gift like the handsome wolf, but accepting what Volyk offers will have consequences that change both of their lives forever.

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5832

Continue reading “Ilya and the Wolf by Rory Ni Coileain Book Blast, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!” →

Love Light by Jane Darius

Title: Love Light

Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar

Author: Jane Darius

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short (21 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-749-1

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Nick, a bartender, and Ben, a hotel reviewer, have been together two years. Though he hates the paperwork involved, Nick agrees to accompany Ben to a beautiful lodge on the Mozambican side of Lake Malawi. Over a bottle of wine, they trade Christmas horror stories from their pasts. But memories of hurt and loss only serve to remind them how lucky they are to have found each other.

It might be time to try out the showerhead built into the tree outside….

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5845

Review: Nick and Ben are lovers and have a good relationship. Ben works for a company that reviews hotels so he travels a lot. Nick usually stays home, but this year Ben insisted he go with him to Africa on this trip for Christmas.

This is another very beautiful story. I loved the descriptions of the hotel and area they were in. I felt as if I were there. I also liked the emotion scene where they shared secrets of each other’s crappy past Christmases.

If you like sweet romance with lots of emotion, other countries with beautiful descriptions, and some sensual man-sex this is for you!

Quite A Spectacle by Meg Harding

Title: Quite a Spectacle
Series: Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calender package “Celebrate!”
Author: Meg Harding
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (56 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Max moved away from his family to be with Michael, and his family never got over it. Now, for the first time in almost a decade, he’s going to return to London for Christmas celebrations. He’s confident his family will welcome Michael with open, loving arms. At least that’s what he tells himself.

Michael doesn’t have his head buried in the sand. He knows he has a lot to prove this Christmas, and he’s not sure if he’s up to the task. All these years and he’d never considered having to spend a holiday with Max’s family. Now that it’s happening he’s not scared to admit it – he’s terrified.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calender package “Celebrate!”

ISBN: 978-1-63216-748-4

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5844

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Max and Michael are an established couple, they’ve been together for years, have a home and they have their fur-child, a dog called Buddy. Michael has met Max’s family before, but it seems it has always ended in some sort of disaster – at least in Michael’s mind. To top it off, this is first Christmas they’ve actually flown back to London to spend with Max’s family.

In a comedy of errors, it seems indeed that there must a curse on Michael when it comes to travelling. I definitely felt sorry for the guy. But somehow the guys get have a great time and Michael makes some much needed progress with Max’s family. It’s a harrowing trip for the couple but an enjoyable read.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Neighbors by Emma Wilson

Title: Neighbours
Series: Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar: “Celebrate!”
Author: Emma Wilson
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (38 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Ever since he moved to London, shy editor Eric has been watching his neighbor, Crooked Smile, jog every morning. Aspiring restaranteur Rhys eats breakfast by the window so he can see his neighbor, Bed Head, help the old woman downstairs clean off her car.

When Eric’s roommate unexpectedly returns home for the holidays, she realizes their idiocy and, with the help of Rhys’s business partner, Andreas, tries to help both men see there might be more in their futures than they’re seeing through their windows.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

ISBN: 978-1-63216-747-7

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5843

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Eric is feeling lonely, mostly because that’s why his Christmas is shaping up. He’s also a bit dorky, a bit nerdy and has a full-blown crush on his neighbour with a sexy crooked smile. Rhys finds his neighbour adorably sexy; the problem for him though, is he’s convinced that his neighbour with the adorable bed hair hates him.

There’s quite a bit of unrequited love here in this story, so if you’re like me, this is just the short story to entertain. I love how both Eric and Rhys’s misconceptions and shyness play on the entire situation. It’s very sweet with a small cast of supporting characters that held Eric and Rhys along. Way too cute!

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

The Magic of Weihnachten by Bru Baker

Title: The Magic of Weihnachten

Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar

Author: Bru Baker

Genre: Contemporary/Holiday

Length: Novella (51 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-746-0

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: American Walsh Brandt is happy when a promotion lands him his dream job and a quiet new life in Germany. Until December rolls around, when he realizes it’s almost impossible to hide from the holiday season in Germany.

Dierck Reiniger is fascinated by Walsh’s hatred of Christmas and makes it his personal mission to help Walsh enjoy Weihnachten and the German traditions he grew up with. Walsh has a great time getting to know Dierck—but he still isn’t sold on Christmas, despite Dierck’s efforts. Dierck’s on the rebound, and he’s determined to develop their physical relationship slowly, much to Walsh’s frustration. It isn’t until they’re alone in a secluded cabin—hiding from the traditional trappings—that Walsh finally recognizes what the magic of the season can bring when spent with someone special.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5842

Review: Walsh as transferred to Germany to work and loves his job. He thinks it will be easier to escape Christmas abroad but finds out the community he is in goes all out with festivals and other things that he can’t seem to escape. He meets Dierck who loves the holiday celebrations and is determined to make Walsh at least like them.

I loved this story. It was so sweet and romantic. I loved both Walsh and Dierck. The descriptions and explanations of the German tradition were great. I love learning about other countries and their traditions. I think this was the perfect setting for this story. I loved the budding romance between these two men.

If you like countries abroad, German holiday traditions, and a sweet romantic story, this is for you!

Minstrel's Solstice by Nicole Dennis

Title: Minstrel’s Solstice

Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Holiday/European High Fantasy

Length: Short (29 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-745-3

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: A wasting plague swept over the Four Quadrants, changing how folks view the traveling guilds. Most travelers now make permanent contracts and settle in villages instead of continuing on the road. Needing to alter his lifestyle, Kerryll MacGhylle rides deep into the Northern Quadrant in search of a place to belong.

The Northern Duke, Cullan Gryffyn D’Antuono, accepts the contract of the frozen minstrel arriving during a powerful ice blizzard. He nurses Kerryll through the ravages of the sickness. Though they live at opposite ends of society, they have more in common than they realize.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5841

Review: Kerryll is a traveling minstrel hoping to find a contract for the winter solstice and hoping he can find a permanent home as well. He has been kicked out of many towns since the townspeople don’t trust travelers after a big virus outbreak. Freezing and scared he finally makes it to The D’Antuono castle barely alive. Duke Gryff accepts his contract for the Winter Solstice.

I absolutely loved this story. It was beautiful and heartfelt. I could have read more of this for hours. I loved the duke and his people as well. I loved Kerryll too. The setting is described beautifully, I felt as if I went back in time to the castles with Kerryll and Gryff.

I had one small thing issue and that was a few words I never could figure the meaning, however it wasn’t enough to take away form the story.

If you like, Knights, Dukes, traveling minstrels and a sweet romance this is definitely for you.

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Ilya and the Wolf

Rory Ni Coileain

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