Two for Trust by Elle Brownlee ~ Audiobook

Title: Two for Trust

Series: Dreamspun Desires 34

Author: Elle Brownlee

Narrator: Andrew McFerrin

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs 40 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (14th September 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: A fairy-tale vacation—if he can get the ending right.

American nurse Finch Mason steps beyond the comfort of his orderly life and takes a dream trip to England, complete with a National Trust Pass so he can visit numerous historical sites. At the first one on his list, he’s warmly welcomed—and told he bought a pass good for two.

Finch doesn’t hesitate to offer the pass to Benedict, a handsome Brit also there on an outing. They spend a magical week touring the countryside, and while it’s too soon to get attached, Finch wishes their time together would never end.

Then Finch finds himself stuck abroad with no money, and he has no one to turn to but Benedict. Benedict is happy to help, but he also owes Finch some answers—such as who he really is and why he was at the estate where they first met.

Product Link: Audible AU | Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Two For Trust is by Elle Brownlee and published under the Dreamspun Desires imprint. I have already read this book and so unlike when I read the book (going into the book completely open minded since I wasn’t sure if I’d read anything by the author in the past, still not sure by the way), I knew what to expect when I listened to this one.

I was looking forward to the OTT drama and romance. I was looking forward to the whole “Lord of the Manor” type of thing, bordering on a Mr Darcy like personality that is totally attractive, especially if you’re into take-charge, strong aristocrats. I used to be addicted to ready regency romances with rakish Marquises and devilish dukes, so I was more than happy to pass time on my flight to visit family and friends with this audio.

The story is about American nurse, Finch, and the charming Englishman, Benedict. (Yes, I’m sure some of you are thinking Benedict Cumberbatch and sniggering, I know I did that a bit).

Sweet guy with a tragic past, Finch, is on his dream holiday of a life time in England. A mix up in ticketing leaves him with a double pass for one week instead of one pass for two weeks. Handsome Englishman, Benedict, happens to be at the National Trust Site Finch is visiting when he finds out this information and Finch happily invites Benedict to take on the second pass. However, this being a romance fiction, it is all too obvious that there is more to Benedict than meets the eye. After the week finishes Finch feels he is ready to part ways, though there is a definite spark between the guys. But when all his belongings are stolen, Finch has no one but Benedict to turn to – which is where he learns the truth.

OK, I really did enjoy reading this book, I truly did, but I didn’t fully connect with the characters. However, I think that Andrew McFerrin’s narration injected enough emotion that I liked this book far more in audio than I did when I read the eBook. There isn’t a lot of hot and heavy romance (in fact there was no sex), which I would expect from a love at first sight sort of trope, but it was nice to see the guys get to know each other for a week before getting all angsty.

If you’re into sweet, old fashioned and very English types of stories, this might be your type thing. For those that hate insta-love (and I know there are lots of you), you’d probably do best to stay away from this one, particularly since there is no actual sex going on as well (I personally find insta-love tolerable in even the worst cases if there is hot sex).

Artistic Appeal by Andrew Grey ~ Audiobook

Title: Artistic Appeal

Series: Art Stories 02

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary, Arts

Length: 6 hrs, 42 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (3rd August 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Brian Watson knows close friends Gerald Young and Dieter Krumpf have an ulterior motive when they invite him to their Christmas party. Brian has taken over the case to secure the return of the famous painting called The Woman in Blue to Dieter, but they don’t want Brian to be all work and no play. They intend to set him up with a friend, but he’s not who catches Brian’s eye. Instead, it’s Nicolai, the deaf art restorer caring for the works already returned to Dieter.

But pursuing Nicolai won’t be easy. A year ago Nicolai had to fight to regain his independence after a bad break-up, and he’s reluctant to give up his freedom a second time. Plus, Brian has competition in Justin, Nicolai’s ex, who wants him back badly.

Nicolai’s reluctance isn’t the only roadblock. Brian was married to a woman for almost 10 years. Now he has to confess to his mother, his ex-wife, and his young daughter that he loves a man, all while conducting a potentially groundbreaking court case and trying to convince Nicolai that love isn’t about co-dependence, it’s about support.

Product Link: Audible AU | Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK 

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I love Andrew Grey’s Art series, so I was very much looking forward to the audio of this book. In fact, I think the first book in this series was one of the first Andrew Grey books I read after starting on his Love Means… series. I think I always say this, but I love how Andrew Grey takes ordinary guys – guys that are so relatable and spin a completely relatable and interesting story. There is no insta-love, the characters go through their struggles and I’m a bit of a sucker when he adds adorable kids and making big loving families by the end of the book.

Artistic Appeal is the second book in Grey’s series and while you don’t need to be familiar with book 1, I recommend it because the two characters who are the best friends in this book are the starring characters of book 1. It was great to revisit these great guys and also see their characters evolving.
However, Artistic Appeal is all about Brian and Nicolai.

Brian is a successful lawyer, working for Gerald from book 1. He is the lawyer that Gerald and his partner Dieter look to for to help and to take over the case of regaining Dieter’s family treasures in the form of artwork by a famous painter. As I said, there is some carry over in the plot of Gerald and Dieter in book 1 but knowing all the details aren’t necessary. Brian’s life is a little complicated by with an ex-wife demanding alimony, but the light of Brian’s life is most definitely his daughter Zoe, of whom he has full custody. While he knows he is gay and a select few friends know of his sexual orientation, he isn’t =out. His harpy ex-wife doesn’t know and his mother (who does have a major harpy vibe too) definitely don’t know at the beginning of the book. Brian’s life is shaken when he meets Nicolai and while dealing with challenges on the professional front, his personal life is suddenly more complicated.

Nicolai is a super sweet art restorer. He’s done work with Gerald in the past, but this is the first time he’s encountered Brian. I think I fell in love with his character immediately. Nicolai is also deaf and I have to admit that I have a soft spot with strong characters that live with a more or less permanent disability. Nicolai has been in an abusive relationship before, which makes him wary of the possibility of a new relationship, especially with a man who isn’t completely out of the closet.

I think it is Brian’s daughter Zoe who played a part in helping Nicolai and Brian together. Zoe is completely adorable and very accepting of Nicolai, even going as far as wanting to learn sign language before her father even gets there.

This is a super sweet yet sexy book. John Solo is also one of my favorite audio narrators, so this audio was pure joy to read with the wonderful tone that Solo brings to the characters and to the story.

All In by Ava Drake ~ Audiobook

Title: All In

Series: Wild Cards 03 / Dreamspun Desires 38

Author: Ava Drake

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs 8 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC

Heat Level: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Heart Rating: Explicit

Blurb: In crime, like in love, there can be no half measures….

Fashion model Zane Stryker needs money – badly. At almost 30, his glory days are behind him, and he needs capital to start over. When his luggage is switched with a bag containing contraband he’s forced to deliver, it’s either the worst thing that’s ever happened to him…or the best.

Enter Sebastian Gigoni, formerly of the British Special Forces, who has to decide just where Zane’s loyalty lies and why. Sizzling attraction erupts between them, but that doesn’t mean they can trust each other. They double down in a race for their lives – and their love – but are their purposes at odds? As they struggle to reconcile their goals, their consciences, and the needs of their hearts, one thing is clear – they must go all in or give up altogether.

Product Link: Audible AU | Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: All In is the third in Ava Drake’s Wild Cards series and apart of the Dreamspun Desires imprint. The story works as a standalone book, with only a minor appearance from previous characters where you don’t need to know any back story.

The story follows Zane Stryker, a fashion model who battled addiction and got himself back together and is now trying his best to make a come back for what would be the final couple years of his modelling career. He knew he was getting too old for the job but he wanted to make sure he had enough money to see him through a while and end his career on a high note. He’s on his way from Europe to New York where he intends to revive his career when his luggage is lost and he’s pulled up by customs in New York, turning his life upside down.

This is where Sebastian Gignoni enters the scene, he’s ex-British SAS and now working for the protection agency Wild Cards Inc. He’s been sent to the US on a case and Zane and the contraband placed in his suitcase are the direct he needs to break open an international conspiracy. Sebastian is instantly attracted to Zane but he needs to know if the man is in on the crime or if he is an unwilling participant who is being dangled with a most tempting payment.

I’m still not completely sure on my thoughts on this story. Makes me sound a bit boring I suppose, but I felt that it was an effort to suspend my disbelief for this one. I think what I had the most problem with was the insta-love/attraction which meant during some really dangerous moments, the tension was killed with “oh, let’s have sex”.

I enjoyed, I liked the characters, I loved the narration but I suppose I was just not completely grabbed by the main plot line.

The Teddy Bear Club by Sean Michael ~ Audiobook

Title: The Teddy Bear Club

Series: The Teddy Bear Club 01 / Dreamspun Desires 39

Author: Sean Michael

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs 9 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (10th October 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Two lonely men. One perfect family.

Aiden Lake adopted his institutionalized sister’s two daughters, and he’s a good dad. He works nights on websites and gets in his adult time twice a week at the Roasty Bean, where he meets with other single gay parents.

Devon Smithson wants to be a good dad now that his 16-year-old sister asked him to babysit her newborn…three months ago. But he’s overwhelmed with the colicky baby. An invitation to the daddy-and-kid gatherings at the café is a godsend. The pot is sweetened when his friendship with Aiden develops into more – maybe even something that can last.

But the mother who kicked Dev out for being gay wants to get her claws into the baby, and she doesn’t care if she tears Dev, Aiden, and everything they’re building apart in the process.

Product Link: Audible AU | Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: The Teddy Bear Club is a totally cute and sweet romance that was everything I expected after reading the blurb and getting excited. It is narrated by John Solo (I don’t think there’s been a book he’s narrated where I didn’t dislike his narration) and so for me this was a no-brainer – I had no choice, I was going to listen to this book.

The story follows Aiden Lake and Devon Smithson. Aiden has adopted his sister’s two kids after she was institutionalized with a severe mental illness. His nieces/daughters are adorable, and they are a cute little family.

Devon’s sister dropped off her baby son three months and now Devon is making changes in his life to be a father to his nephew – which includes a much-needed name change. However, he is feeling overwhelmed and needs advice and support, which he finds at the Roasty Bean where there are a group of single gay parents who meet up to chat, drink coffee and generally hang about in the company of like minded adults.

The road to romance and HEA is not exactly smooth. Aiden and Devon are willing to take the chance and support each other. There really isn’t much more for me to say than that I loved the loving family’s and the sweet romance. I’m looking forward future books in the Teddy Bear Club series.

Manny Get Your Guy by Amy Lane ~ Audiobook

Title: Manny Get Your Guy

Series: The Mannies 02 / Dreamspun Desires 37

Author: Amy Lane

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs 16 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (10th August 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Starting over and falling in love.

Tino Robbins’ sister, Nica, and her husband, Jacob, are expecting their fifth child. Fortunately, Nica’s best friend, Taylor Cochran is back in town, released from PT, and in need of a job.

After years in the service, and recovering from grave injury, Taylor has grown a lot from the callow troublemaker he’d been in high school. Now he’s hoping for a fresh start with Nica and her family.

Jacob’s cousin Brandon lives above the garage and thinks “Taylor the manny” is a bad idea. Taylor might be great at protecting civilians from a zombie apocalypse, but is he any good with kids?

Turns out, Taylor’s a natural. As he tries to fit in, using common sense and dry wit, Brandon realizes that Taylor doesn’t just love their family – he’s desperate to be part of it. And just like that, Brandon wants Taylor to be part of his future.

Product Link: Audible USAudible AU | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Manny Get Your Man is the second book in Amy Lane’s series, The Mannies. I suppose that this does work as a standalone book, but I think that you really need to get acquainted with first book if you haven’t already. If nothing else you’re doing yourself an injustice by not reading an excellent book. Manny Get Your Man features a lot of characters from The Virgin Manny and is set about 10 years later, so you find out about all the characters (major and minor) we fell in love with in book 1. In fact, the first sentence of the blurb does assume that the reader has read the first book.

I really loved Manny Get Your Man. Taylor and Brandon’s story was just… awesome. We met Taylor back in book 1 – he was the obnoxious, brash best friend of hero Tino’s (The Virgin Manny of the title) sister Nica, who hit on Tino while Tino was busy getting his HEA with Channing. But 10 years later and after a stint in the military, Taylor has grown up – A LOT – and starts his journey of redemption (at least for the reader). Taylor is returning home after recuperating from injuries and his job is to be the manny for his best friend Nica, who is about to have her 5th kid with her brother’s best friend, Jake. It is here that Taylor meets Brandon, who lives in the garage apartment of his cousin, Jake.

I know, it’s a tangle. I won’t stop you from getting a paper and pen out to draw the family tree.
I absolutely loved this story. John Solo’s narration of the book is wonderful to hear, but then again, I think I could listen to almost everything narrated by John Solo and be exceedingly happy. That man can narrate a book like nobody’s business.

If there was one criticism it is that unlike book 1 where Sammy (Tino’s charge) was a major character of the book, Nica and Jake’s kids are not really characters, only occasionally getting the spotlight with their manny. Though I must say, this would have been tricky to work through with that many kids… seriously, five kids before 30! But with my belief suspended, I fell in love with both Brandon and Taylor. Their story is beautiful, and it was just awesome to be able to revisit old friends. The guys just clicked with their chemistry and were super relatable.

Out of the Shadows by K.C. Wells ~ Audiobook

Title: Out of the Shadows

Series: Dreamspun Desires 20

Author: KC Wells

Narrator: Finn Sterling

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs 6 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Can he step out of the shadows and into love’s light?

Eight years ago, Christian Hernandez moved to Jamaica Plain in southern Boston, took refuge in his apartment, and cut himself off from the outside world. And that’s how he’d like it to stay.

Josh Wendell has heard his co-workers gossip about the occupant of apartment number one. No one sees the mystery man, and Josh loves a mystery. So when he is hired to refurbish the apartment’s kitchen and bathrooms, Josh is eager to discover the truth behind the rumors.

When he comes face-to-face with Christian, Josh understands why Christian hides from prying eyes. As the two men bond, Josh sees past his exterior to the man within, and he likes what he sees. But can Christian find the courage to emerge from the darkness of his lonely existence for the man who has claimed his heart?

Product Link: Audible AU | Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I loved the plot of this book. I love KC Well’s writing. I also read the book and wondered how much my opinion would change between formats. Often I find that a narrator adds the right tone and emotion to the characters that allows me to enjoy stories more. Unfortunately that was not the case. However, that is not to say I didn’t not like the narration. On the contrary, I really enjoyed listening to the narration of Finn Sterling, the first time I’ve had the pleasure to hear his narration.

This is a book for those that like a bit of insta-love, are all for a Phantom of the Opera type of disfigurement and a smoking hot, young handy man who seems a tad naiveté or too good to be true. My only criticism is that I desperately wished that it had a lot more depth of emotion, particularly from Christian’s side and part of me wanted more trepidation, more dating because Christian is agoraphobic and if there had been a chance to develop the emotion and plot a little more would have made the characters more believable and more relatable.

Christian Hernandez moved Jamaica Plain – an idyllic housing development south of Boston – eight years ago from Colorado. He learnt a hard lesson when he became disfigured and then decided to hide away from the world.

Honestly, I can’t say much more without blowing his entire back story. I suppose you can call him agoraphobic, he refuses to leave his apartment but it all comes down to vanity and hating the stares his looks usually attracts. (This dude needs to go back to counselor or psychologist, stat). He has everything delivered to his and works from home. Everything is ordered in his little world until he finds out that his kitchen and bathroom is going to undergo a much needed renovation. That means the handyman that does a lot of the work around his building needs to enter his home. Something that Christian can’t have, even if that handyman is the hot guy he often admires from his window.

Josh Wendell is young and idealistic in many ways. But he is the handyman that is going to renovate Christian’s apartment. There have been many rumors about the occupant of apartment 1, but nothing could prepare Josh for what happens. This is especially because his first impression is that Christian had locked himself in his bedroom all day while Josh was working (unknown to Josh at first). Josh has just the right amount of sweetness and understanding to help Christian get out of his shell. A little bit of romance doesn’t hurt either!

Teaching Ben by Shae Connor Guest Post & Excerpt!

Shae Connor - Teaching Ben Banner

Hi guys! We have Shae Connor popping in today with her upcoming release Teaching Ben, we have a brilliant guest post from Shae and a great excerpt so check out the post and enjoy! ❤ ~Pixie~

Teaching Ben

(Dreamspun Desires 52)
by

Shae Connor

Learning to love means a study in patience.

Fresh out of the military, Ben Cooper is ready for a new start. He’s away from his domineering father, making his own choices… and out of the closet. On his first day of college, he meets David Powell, who’s just the kind of gorgeous man Ben’s dreamed of. Too bad he’s the teaching assistant—which makes him off-limits in Ben’s eyes.

David is Ben’s age, but his life has taken a different path. He’s close with his family, who helped him deal with personal struggles after he came out. And while he’s staying away from any hint of scandal, Ben’s a kind of temptation he hasn’t faced in years. If only they’d met on more equal footing.

As the semester progresses and their lives become more entwined, keeping their relationship platonic becomes more difficult. They just have to hold out until the end of the semester….

Release date: 20th February 2018
Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback | Amazon US | Amazon UK | B&N | Kobo |  iTunes | Google Play

Continue reading “Teaching Ben by Shae Connor Guest Post & Excerpt!”

Swann’s Revenge by Shira Anthony Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Shira Anthony - Swann's Revenge Banner

Hiya guys! We have Shira Anthony popping in today with the tour for her upcoming release Swann’s Revenge, we have a brilliant guest post from Shira, a great excerpt and an awesome giveaway, so check out the post and leave a comment to enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~

Swann’s Revenge

(Dreamspun Desires 51)
by

Shira Anthony

Can a swan make peace with his ugly duckling past? 

Chubby geek Jimmy Zebulon’s heart broke the day his high school crush, Danny Parker, looked on as his teammates tormented Jimmy. Fifteen years later, Jimmy is long gone, and from his ashes has risen Graham Swann, a movie-star-handsome law firm owner. Graham thinks Jimmy and his past are long forgotten—until attorney Dan Parker shows up for his first day of work. 

Getting injured playing college ball was the best thing that ever happened to Dan. It turned his future in a better direction and allowed him to emerge from the closet that trapped him.

Graham wants to believe his childhood dream can come true, but he can’t bring himself to tell Dan who he really is—and their pasts might ruin any chance for a happily ever after….

Release date: 6th February 2018
Pre-order:
 Dreamspinner Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Kobo | B&N | iTunes

Continue reading “Swann’s Revenge by Shira Anthony Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!”

Romancing The Ugly Duckling by Clare London ~ Audiobook

Title: Romancing the Ugly Duckling

Series:  Dreamspun Desires 36 / Romancing The… Book 2

Author: Clare London

Narrator:  Joel Leslie

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 15 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (19th June 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Is this the makeover of a lifetime?

Ambitious fashionista Perry Goodwood lands the project of his dreams – track down a celebrity family’s missing brother in the Scottish Highlands and bring him back to London for a TV reality show. But first he must transform the rugged loner into a glamorous sophisticate.

Greg Ventura has no use for high fashion. He lives on the isolated island of North Uist to escape the reminder that he’s nowhere near as handsome as his gorgeous brothers and to avoid the painful childhood memories of being bullied.

Greg wants nothing to do with city life, and Perry’s never been outside London. When Perry is stranded on North Uist, this conflict seems insurmountable. But Greg is captivated by the vivacious Perry, and Perry by both the island and his host. However, Perry’s one heartfelt wish remains: that ugly duckling Greg fulfill his potential as a swan.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: There is a lot for me to love with this book. Firstly, I love the author – I love the sweet English romances by Clare London. I suppose to sum up her writing in a word would be “enchanting”. I loved the first book in this series and that is absolutely true of the second book. Secondly, I love reading about someone meeting their true love and finally seeing themselves in the beautiful light that their love interest sees them. I find that truly uplifting, to see self esteem grow over the course of a book, because hey, I can be sappy. And thirdly, the audio book to me was the sheer enjoyment of listening to Joel Leslie, I’m pretty sure for the first time, and loving every moment of the hustle and bustle of England and the calm solitude of the Scottish Highlands (and yes, I am an Outlander fan and have been for a decade, I blame that!).

Greg Ventura is the guy who left the hustle and bustle of the city to live in an island in the Scottish Highlands. He comes from a family and famous, ridiculously good looking and ridiculously talented brothers. He’s the Ugly Duckling. He doesn’t think that he is as good looking as his brothers – mostly because his brothers instilled this thought into his mind. But now his brothers are calling on him again. They need him to be part of a reality TV show and look like a happy family.

That’s how Greg meets Perry (Peregrine) Goodwood. Perry is an ambitious about his career as a designer/fashionista. It’s hard to explain his career except that he is the guy that does the fashion makeovers. He’s been hired by Greg’s brothers to find Greg, make him over and get him to London to his family. The problem is that Perry gets more than he bargained for when he discovers the gentle, carefree soul that is Grey Ventura – very much unlike his brothers. On top of all that, he needs to be in London because he needs his job desperately, as mistakes from his past threaten to keep him in debt for longer than he can handle.

I love the story and the whirlwind Scottish romance. It is as simple as that. It appeals to that side of me that loves everything about British dramas and the Scottish Highlands (even with all his rain and cold).

Extrasensual Perception by Rayne Vause ~ Audiobook

Title: Extrasensual Perception

Series:  Dreamspun Desires 26

Author: Rayna Vause

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: 5 hrs, 45 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (22nd February 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: If a stalker doesn’t kill them, the heat between them might.

Christopher Vincent is desperate enough for a job that he accepts an offer to entertain as a psychic in a friend’s nightclub. Jackson Whitman, one of the club’s co-owners, is less than thrilled by the new act. To him, psychics are ridiculous and a liability. But when they come face-to-face, attraction flares to life between them.

Someone is watching Jack and Chris from the shadows. What starts as a series of creepy encounters leads to deadly attacks.

Jack and Chris must set aside their differences and work together to survive a homicidal stalker. But can they survive their explosive connection?

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Extrasensual Perception by Rayna Vause is something that is very tricky for me to review. The blurb drew me in, the plot itself I enjoyed and I really did love the two MCs. I’m totally sure if I’ve read anything by Vause in the past, but I have to say that I liked the writing style too. However, there was something about it that left me feeling flat and just a tad bit … well, meh.

The story starts out with Christopher Vincent, he’s a good guy but down on his luck – like many MCs in books – and just like many MCs in romance books he’s desperate to find a job. And just like many other romances, the second MC and love interest is the best friend’s brother, the very hot, very macho and serious businessman Jackson Whitman. Christopher gives in to his best friend’s pleas to act as psychic in her new co-owned club which gimmick is a carnival. The trouble being that Christopher, much like his mother, does actually has legit psychic ability. I don’t suppose this book really falls into the realm of Dreamspinner Press’s new line, Dreamspun Beyond, but the whole psychic thing was a little quirky and a very enjoyable side to the story.

This is where all the drama starts. With Jackson’s sister, Chris’s best friend, being the target of a stalker Chris is a race against time to understand the glimpses his gift gives him in order to save the day. The romance between Jackson and Chris gives off massive sparks from the get go, I will admit that there is good dose of insta-love, but the romance rolls along well with the rest of the plot. In short, I’m just trying to say that it all rolls up in a neat package that makes sense.

As always I found the narration by John Solo flawless. I have loved his narration of every book I’ve heard him do. He just has a knack for nailing the voices and emotions of the main characters, as well as the secondary characters. I honestly don’t know what left me feeling a little flat about the whole story. I did enjoy it and personally I think it would the perfect book to listen to when you’re trying to unwind – especially if you’ve just read an intense book that leaves you utterly shattered.

Getting His Man by B.G. Thomas Guest Post & Excerpt!

B.G. Thomas - Getting His Man Banner

Hi guys! We have B.G. Thomas popping in today with his upcoming release Getting His Man, we have a fantastic guest post from B.G. and a tantalising teaser of an excerpt so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Getting His Man

(Getting His Man 01 / Dreamspun Desires 48)
by

B.G. Thomas

A love story worthy of an old movie… with a new twist.

Artie needs a hero, a man like those he’s always revered in Golden Age films. His drug-dealing jerk of a roommate got him arrested, and since his savior isn’t likely to sweep in and save the day, Artie calls a bail bondsman.

August has always imagined himself a hero from a black-and-white movie, but he’s never found a man willing to let him play that role—at least not until he gets the call from Artie.

Both of their dreams might come true, but not before August must use his skills as a bounty hunter as well as a bondsman. Artie is on the run for his life, and August must protect him and help him clear his name. Only then can they both finally get their man.

Release date: 15th December 2017
Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Continue reading “Getting His Man by B.G. Thomas Guest Post & Excerpt!”

Artistic Appeal by Andrew Grey ~ Audiobook

Title: Artistic Appeal

Series: Art Stories 02

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary, Arts

Length: 6 hrs, 42 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (3rd August 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Brian Watson knows close friends Gerald Young and Dieter Krumpf have an ulterior motive when they invite him to their Christmas party. Brian has taken over the case to secure the return of the famous painting called The Woman in Blue to Dieter, but they don’t want Brian to be all work and no play. They intend to set him up with a friend, but he’s not who catches Brian’s eye. Instead, it’s Nicolai, the deaf art restorer caring for the works already returned to Dieter.

But pursuing Nicolai won’t be easy. A year ago Nicolai had to fight to regain his independence after a bad break-up, and he’s reluctant to give up his freedom a second time. Plus, Brian has competition in Justin, Nicolai’s ex, who wants him back badly.

Nicolai’s reluctance isn’t the only roadblock. Brian was married to a woman for almost 10 years. Now he has to confess to his mother, his ex-wife, and his young daughter that he loves a man, all while conducting a potentially groundbreaking court case and trying to convince Nicolai that love isn’t about co-dependence, it’s about support.

Product Link: Audible USAudible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Artistic Appeal is the second installment of Andrew Grey’s Arts Stories series. If you’ve enjoyed reading the book, the audio narrated by John Solo is an absolute joy to read. Solo’s efforts to bring the characters to life had me enthralled and it made a train ride and shopping in the city fun (as well as helping me avoid people handing out leaflets).

Artistic Appeal can read/heard as a standalone book. Honestly, it’s been a while since I have read the first book in the series and don’t really remember too much of it. Yet I had no problem picking up the story and the threads of sub plot that continued from the previous story. However, in saying that I now want to go back and reacquaint myself with Gerald and Dieter’s story.

The story follows recently divorced, single dad Brian Watson. He’s friend and boss to Gerald from book 1. That means he’s a lawyer and a damn good one. After being set up by his friends, among the few people that know his true sexuality, Brian meets arts restorer, Nicolai. Nic is deaf after losing what little hearing he had by the age of ten. It is Brian and Gerald’s work on the art scene, dealing with stolen art and the like, that brings Nic into their circle.

Brian and Nic are just ordinary guys, though. Brian needs to come out of the closet to those who are closest to him and that includes his harpy of an ex-wife. At the same time he’s enjoying a massive upswing in his career while trying what could possibly be his hardest case to date. On the other hand, Nic’s career is only just building after the GFC saw a decrease in the number of clients willing to pay to have their artwork restored. Similar to Brian, he also has seen the end of the relationship in the past year and unfortunately his ex is suddenly unwilling to let go Nic. Nic has only just got used to being on his own and regained his independence rather than rely on another man for so many things because of his deafness. Needless to say, he’s a little reticent to let another man into his heart.

Grey has a knack with writing characters that feel real and are totally relatable. He also has a knack to write wonderful child characters and allows the family to form organically. This story is no different, Brian’s daughter Zoe is a wonderful character in her own right.

If you are unfamiliar with the Arts Stories series, then those familiar with Grey’s Senses series, would also enjoy these books/audios. However, if you ask me anything Grey writes is gold and he is a must-buy for every book release.

High Test by Elizabeth Noble Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Hi guys! We have the lovely Elizabeth Noble visiting today with her upcoming Dreamspun Desires release High Test, we have a brilliant guest post, a great excerpt and a fantastic giveaway, so check out the post and leave a comment to Elizabeth’s question to enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~

High Test

(Dreamspun Desires 47)
by

Elizabeth Noble

Hayden Owens is just your typical graduate student working his way through school as a barista for the Owens Coffee Company—no relation. But he keeps the “no relation” part to himself when he meets dashing, older Neal Kirchner, a successful architect from an old-money family. Hayden doesn’t exactly lie, but he figures it can’t hurt for Neal to believe he’s a rich kid. After all, Hayden doesn’t want Neal thinking he’s a gold digger.

 The closer they become, the harder it gets for Hayden to come clean. Something always seems to get in the way. When a company bankruptcy and a jilted, vindictive woman threaten to expose his charade, Hayden thinks it’s all gone down the drain. Luckily Neal is ready with some innocent trickery of his own.

Release date: 1st December 2017
Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press eBook | Dreamspinner Press Paperback

Continue reading “High Test by Elizabeth Noble Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!”

The Bunny and the Billionaire by Louisa Masters

Title: The Bunny and the Billionaire

Series: Dreamspun Desires 43

Author: Louisa Masters

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (204 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (1 Oct 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Spending their fortunes and losing their hearts.

Hardworking Australian nurse Ben Adams inherits a substantial sum and decides to tour Europe. In Monaco, the home of glamour and the idle rich, he meets French billionaire playboy Léo Artois. After getting off on the wrong foot—as happens when one accuses a stranger of being part of the Albanian mafia—their attraction blazes. Léo, born to the top tier of society, has never known limits, and Ben, used to budgeting every cent, finds it difficult to adjust to not only Léo’s world, but also the changes wealth brings to his own life.

As they make allowances for each other’s foibles, Ben gradually appreciates the finer things, and Léo widens his perspective. They both know one thing: this is not a typical holiday romance and they’re not ready to say goodbye.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-876-8

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-bunny-and-the-billionaire-by-louisa-masters-8824-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: For me, Louisa Masters is a new author to me. To be perfectly honest, though, I didn’t really pay too much attention to the author when I was busy salivating over my next installment of the Dreamspun Desires imprint. I mean the story is called The Bunny and the Billionaire – the part of me that loves paranormal romance thought of some sexy shifter action. But the hopeless romantic that loves nothing more than a hot story of an ordinary guy meeting a smoking rich, hot, kind, handsome and all other things that are nice and awesome.

The story is about Ben – he’s a nurse from Australia (this Aussie wanted to know where in this wonderful country he came from). He was a private nurse who got a shit ton of money from a client who died – you will definitely need to suspend your disbelief for this part of the story. I found it just weird. Honestly, if it did happen in Australia the poor dude would probably be on Today Tonight or the cover of Woman’s Day for being some shifty character. As you can see, I struggled with relating to the character on this level, so that is the reason, though I really liked the story, that I could only rate it a 3.5/5.

Enjoying his European holiday of a life time, Ben meets rich French/Saudi playboy Leo Artois. Come on am I not the only one who keeps thinking of the beer Stella Artois? Not the point. The point is, Ben meets Leo at a Monaco casino and the two of them just click. There is plenty of sweet romance as well as hot sexy time. I really enjoyed that these two guys got to know each other and it wasn’t just about Leo showing off his lavish lifestyle to Ben. Or Ben showing off his insanely large inheritance.

If you’re into trashy romance (I can’t find another word for it, but I mean trashy in the most awesome possible way), you’ll love this. If you’re into Mills and Boon where the ordinary gets the insanely rich playboy – this is basically the MM romance you’re looking for.

Fireman’s Pole by Sue Brown

Title: Fireman’s Pole

Series: Dreamspun Desires 44

Author: Sue Brown

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (220 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15 Oct 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: The flames of passion rise for the lord of the manor.
It’s springtime in Calminster village, but things are already heating up. Sexy firefighter Dale Maloney is new to the local station. When Dale backs the company fire engine into the village maypole, he attracts the ire—and attention—of Benedict Raleigh, the Baron Calminster.
Soon after meeting Dale, Ben breaks off his relationship with his girlfriend, and the sparks between Ben and Dale are quickly fanned into flames.

Unfortunately the passion between the two men isn’t the only blaze in the village. An arsonist’s crimes are escalating, and it’s up to Dale and his crew to stop them. Meanwhile, as they investigate, an unscrupulous business partner attempts to coerce Ben into marrying his daughter. The May Day parade is around the corner, but they have plenty of fires to put out before Ben can finally slide down the fireman’s pole.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-655-9

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-firemans-pole-by-sue-brown-8862-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I have a soft spot for books set in England – I think it stems from my love of regency MF romances and it kind of just holds over to everything else. I don’t know why, I’m just weird. That was what initially attracted me to Sue Brown’s books and after that I just fell in love with her writing and the sweetness of her stories. For me Sue Brown is definitely a go to if I see a new book come out.

Fire fighter Dale Maloney is the newbie at the village of Calminster’s fire station and he is having problems making a good impression. Life just doesn’t seem to like him at the moment because he seems to be doing everything wrong, especially when it comes to the Baron of Calminster, Benedict Raleigh.

For the most part, what you read in the blurb is what you get in the book.
Dale is indeed the hot firefighter who is trying to fit into small town life and is making a few mistakes along the way. He also comes with baggage. He’s moved for a fresh start. He’s decided to take charge in his life. He no longer wants to live in the closet and he doesn’t want to be someone’s dirty secret. Despite his bumpy start with the Baron of Calminster, Ben, the two men actually do hit it off. So much so, that Ben knows that if he wants anything to be real in any sort of relationship with Dale, he has to make some major changes in his life.

This is a sweet story that feels real. The emotions feel on point and the chemistry between the characters is explosive. I also like the fun of playing off the whole “lord of the manner with one of the commoners” type of story (I think this again goes back to my initial love of regency romances).

The Bunny and the Billionaire by Louisa Masters Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Hi guys! We have Louisa Masters stopping by today with her upcoming release The Bunny and the Billionaire, we have a brilliant guest post from Louisa and a great excerpt, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

The Bunny and the Billionaire

(Dreamspun Desires 43)
by

Louisa Masters

Spending their fortunes and losing their hearts.

Hardworking Australian nurse Ben Adams inherits a substantial sum and decides to tour Europe. In Monaco, the home of glamour and the idle rich, he meets French billionaire playboy Léo Artois. After getting off on the wrong foot—as happens when one accuses a stranger of being part of the Albanian mafia—their attraction blazes. Léo, born to the top tier of society, has never known limits, and Ben, used to budgeting every cent, finds it difficult to adjust to not only Léo’s world, but also the changes wealth brings to his own life.

As they make allowances for each other’s foibles, Ben gradually appreciates the finer things, and Léo widens his perspective. They both know one thing: this is not a typical holiday romance and they’re not ready to say goodbye.

Release date: 1st October 2017 Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback | Universal link

Continue reading “The Bunny and the Billionaire by Louisa Masters Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!”

Tall, Dark, and Deported by Bru Baker ~ Audiobook

Title: Tall, Dark and Deported

Series:  Dreamspun Desires 31

Author: Bru Baker

Narrator: Dorian Bane

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs, 30 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Crossing the border into love.

Snap decisions and misguided ideas bring Portuguese national Mateus Fontes and businessman Crawford Hargrave together at the Canadian border crossing.

Mateus is caught in a catch-22. With his almost-expired tourist visa, entrance to Canada is denied, but the US won’t let him back in either. Crawford thinks he’s solved things when he tells the border agent they’re engaged, and it works – except now they have to actually get married before either of them can get back into the United States. But Crawford has been burned by marriage once, and he’s determined not to make that mistake again.

Neither of them expects real feelings to bloom out of their fake marriage, but they do. And the two of them have to learn how to be honest with each other to make things work, which is especially hard when their entire marriage is based on lies.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I’ve not read or listen to much by Bru Baker in the past, although I did actually read this book when it came out, I was more than happy to go back and listen to the audio. The title of the book, Tall, Dark and Deported, gives you most of the information that you need to know about the type of story you’re about to read or listen to.

What you see is definitely what you get with the blurb. We got one hot South American (sorry, can’t think of his country of origin from the top of my head), Mateus. He’s done something rather silly and used the internet to get answers about how to “reset” his visa. He wants to stay with his brother and sister in law longer now that they are setting up their own orchard and his sister in law is about to have a baby. He’s excited about being an uncle and wants to be there. That why, at the airport, he meets Crawfard. Crawford is a businessman and after meeting Mateus, he is willing to help the guy, which of course means marriage!

Despite being a predictable plot, this is totally enjoyable as way as to just lose yourself. As I said in the opening sentence, you will need to suspend your disbelief but that don’t let that deter you from the sweet romance (well, insta-love romance) that unfolds between the two men.

I’ve been hearing a number of audios narrated by Dorian Bane recently and I have to say that I am beginning really like his narration. He has a very warm sounding voice which makes listening to books a pleasure – in some cases enjoying the audio more than when I actually read the book. I will admit that there was probably a smidge of this happening for this book as well.

My only thing is that sometimes the accent Bane uses for Europeans characters (in this case Portugese) tends to sound more Russian sometimes (or for a few moments every so often he reminds me of the Count from Sesame Street). I don’t think it makes the narration terrible, but it just disrupts my concentration for a few moments every so often.

Two Cowboys and A Baby by B.A. Tortuga ~ Audiobook

Title: Two Cowboys and a Baby

Series: Dreamspun Desires 30

Author: B.A. Tortuga

Narrator: Dorian Bane

Genre: Contemporary, Cowboys

Length: 5 hrs, 51 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: A little bundle of joy means big changes.

Hoss McMasters has a working ranch, a bull riding career, a nosy momma, and a best friend he’s been in love with since he can remember. He’s a busy, happy cowboy, living the good life.

Then one morning he discovers a baby on his doorstep.

Well, Hoss does what any reasonable man would do – he calls his momma and his buddy, Sheriff Pooter, and they head to the clinic to see if Doc knows of any suddenly not-so-pregnant girls.

In the meantime, Hoss and his best friend, Bradley, have their hands full trying to care for an infant, run a ranch, and deal with the sudden confession that Bradley doesn’t hate Hoss for coming out to him in high school. In fact, Bradley’s been trying to catch Hoss’s attention for damn near a decade.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: For me, BA Tortuga has always been an author I can take or leave. I don’t dislike any of her books, really, but more the writing style sometimes leaves me feeling a bit nonplussed. But still I keep on going back because the type of stories Tortuga writes are what I like. I know, I’m a person of many contradictions and whatnot.

Now see, here’s a funny thing. I read and reviewed this book and gave it a 3.5/5… then I forgot about my opinion and listened to the audio and rated it a 5/5. For some reason I just loved listening to the audio, whereas I merely enjoyed reading the book. No idea why, but that’s how it goes. I’m fairly sure that a good part of the reason was because of the narration by Dorian Bane – I loved the voice he gave the cowboys and made me feel a new level of emotion which I don’t remember from when I simply read the book myself. The actual idea of the story and the whole “cowboys looking after a baby and finally reveal their feelings for each other” plot device – absolutely perfect. I also loved the touch of soap opera type of drama introduced when it comes to said baby’s paternity.

The story is about Hoss (ok, as it had done when I read the book, the nick name Hoss seriously rubbed me the wrong way again) and his best friend since childhood, Bradley. They are both cowboys and have been secretly in love with each other years. One day, Hoss finds a baby randomly left on his door step and through some convoluted reasoning, he ends up looking after the baby girl with the help of his friend. The story works in two parts, 1) Hoss and Bradley getting together, where one is out and the other is in the closet still, and, 2) looking after the baby and the mystery of where she came from.

There was a twist at the end that came from nowhere, it’s a bit unbelievable, so people that like things to be more relatable may need to enter with an open mind. Seriously, when I say this is something you would see on Days of Our Lives /Neighbours/Coronation Street, believe it.

Finding Mr Wright by B.A. Tortuga Guest Post & Excerpt!

Hey guys, we have the brilliant B.A. Tortuga stopping by today with her upcoming Dreamspun Desire release Finding Mr Wright. We have a fantastic guest post from B.A. and a great excerpt, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Finding Mr Wright

(Dreampun Desire 42 / Leaning N 02)
by

B.A. Tortuga

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including weddings. And misunderstandings.

Colorado wedding planner Mason O’Reilly lands a major contract: a two-hundred-guest wedding at the Leanin’ N Ranch, where his friends Ford and Stoney are working to provide a safe space for GLBT events. The Wright/Preston ceremony is a destination wedding, and as the grooms are from Texas, everything is done over the phone and email. There’s no way that could lead to trouble, right?

Oops.

Oil tycoon Noah Wright isn’t happy about the impending disaster, but he admires Mason’s quick thinking and grace under pressure. And that’s not all he likes about the out-and-proud wedding planner. Even though Mason’s interested in Noah, his Mr. Right can’t possibly be a rancher from Dallas.

Can he?

Release date: 15th September 2017
Pre-order:
 Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Continue reading “Finding Mr Wright by B.A. Tortuga Guest Post & Excerpt!”

All In by Ava Drake

Title: All In

Series: Dreamspun Desires 38 / Wild Cards Inc 3

Author: Ava Drake

Genre: Contemporary, Suspense

Length:  Novella (228pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15th July 2017)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: In crime, like in love, there can be no half measures….

Fashion model Zane Stryker needs money—badly. At almost thirty, his glory days are behind him, and he needs capital to start over. When his luggage is switched with a bag containing contraband he’s forced to deliver, it’s either the worst thing that’s ever happened to him… or the best.

Enter Sebastian Gigoni, formerly of the British Special Forces, who has to decide just where Zane’s loyalty lies and why. Sizzling attraction erupts between them, but that doesn’t mean they can trust each other. They double down in a race for their lives—and their love—but are their purposes at odds? As they struggle to reconcile their goals, their consciences, and the needs of their hearts, one thing is clear—they must go all in or give up altogether.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-651-1

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I really enjoy reading Dreamspun Desires – this imprint by Dreamspinner Press is a guilty pleasure for me because it speaks to the me that got obsessed with reading certain types of Mills and Boon/Harlequin books before seeing the light and finding MM. I also enjoy reading Ava Drake’s work. They are usually, sweet, totally steaming hot and sexy novellas with a fast paced plot.

The books in this series are all standalone, with some throw back to familiar characters. I have to admit that All In, the third installment of the Wild Cards Inc, series left me a little short. However, with this one I found the plot a little too convoluted and that unfortunately took away from my enjoyment of the book. And I have to admit, after loving the first Wild Cards Inc. novella, the second and third don’t quite reach the same bar of awesomeness. I’m not sure if the action got too much in the way of the rest of the story or what.

The story itself is about Zane, a fashion model that is reaching the end of his career in a young, cut throat industry. He’s on his way back home to the States after going to Europe in an effort to get fashion labels interested in him once more. He soon meets Sebastian; he’s helping out a friend by using his skills as an ex- SAS in a case for the Wild Cards. Cue Zane becoming the damsel in distress as he unwittingly gets caught in the middle. Unfortunately for me, Sebastian and Zane, while both likable characters, didn’t really have a lot of chemistry except when they were having out of this world fantastic sex.