The Secret of the Sheikh’s Betrothed by Felicitas Ivey

Felicitas Ivey - The Secret of the Sheikh's Betrothed Cover sTitle: The Secret of the Sheikh’s Betrothed

Series: Dreamspun Desires 46

Author: Felicitas Ivey

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (212 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15th November 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖 3 Hearts

Blurb: A billionaire and a Bedouin girl – each with a shocking secret.

Billionaire Fathi al-Murzim is a workaholic businessman, too busy running the family’s companies to even think about marriage. Too bad he never told his grandfather he’s gay, because Grandfather just announced a childhood betrothal – to a Bedouin girl Fathi never heard about before.

Ikraam din Abdel was raised as a woman by his avaricious and abusive older sister, who didn’t want him to be their father’s heir. He’d never thought to be married either, and is surprised when his sister informs him of his betrothal.

When Fathi and Ikraam meet, they are drawn to each other in a manner neither of them expected. As the plans for their wedding progress, they both realize they need to tell the other the truth. But can they, with both cultural taboos and family pressures to deal with?

ISBN: 978-1-63533-962-8

Product Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: First, I have to admit, that while I liked this book, it was a little bit difficult to really get into the story, mostly because of the impossibility of it all. I spent a lot of the book struggling to suspend my disbelief. I actually enjoyed the audio of this book than I did the ebook, but part of me has been left wondering if I had clouded by the fact that I had had bronchitis when I heard the audio. However, the one thing that I was relieved about was that I couldn’t hear the sometimes terrible accents that I had heard in the audio.

Felicitas Ivey is a relatively new author to me. I’ve read one other book by the same author, yet I am struggling to remember details of what I liked or disliked about it that book.

I didn’t know what to expect when I read the blurb but fond reminiscence of the time before I got into MM romances to when I used to love romances of hot desert Sheikhs and their damsels in distress drew me in. To be perfectly honest, it was everything that I expected from one of those types of stories. In fact, it was almost as though in the writing process it started as a hot Sheikh and a young Bedouin woman and somewhere along the line the woman became a man disguised as a girl for his entire life. The latter being what had me troubled throughout the book despite enjoying the basics of the plot. Then again, there is a whole cultural system that that I don’t have enough understanding of to wonder just how something so outlandish the scenario.

The titular Sheikh is gorgeous billionaire Fathi al-Murzim, a relatively guy who adores his twin brother and grandfather, yet at the same time doesn’t have a lot of time for a life outside of work. The reason for being a workaholic is that he had made the choice, after getting his business degree in the US where he was free to be himself, was that Fathi decided his family (his grandfather) were more important than for him to have a chance with another man. That excuse makes it easy for Fathi to stay firmly inside the closet. When his grandfather wants Fathi to honor an old marriage agreement, Fathi agrees and despite his reservations and with the help of his beloved twin, resigns himself to what could be an advantageous marriage.

Fathi’s betrothed is Ikraam din Abdel. Ikraam was raised as a woman, he hadn’t even known he was a boy until he is six or so. Ikraam’s father was the old tribal leader, who had taken Ikraam’s mother as a second wife in his old age. He was the only boy with six other older sisters. I don’t want to go into the entire explanation as to how this happened but suffice to say from a young age he was an orphan at the mercy of his power-hungry older sister who couldn’t lose the leadership of the tribe to a baby. It’s really convoluted but it somehow works.

As I said, I struggled throughout despite the fact that I also enjoyed it. I think it honestly comes down to that time where I loved reading MF romances with rich Shiekhs and feisty women who didn’t want to be damsels in distress. I don’t like MF anymore for a number of reasons but it was kind of fun to see my this trope translated to an MM story.

The Secret of the Sheikh’s Betrothed by Felicitas Ivey ~ Audio Review

Title: The Secret of the Sheikh’s Betrothed

Series: Dreamspun Desires 46

Author: Felicitas Ivey

Narrator: Simon Ferrar

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hours

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (14th March 2018)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: A billionaire and a Bedouin girl – each with a shocking secret.

Billionaire Fathi al-Murzim is a workaholic businessman, too busy running the family’s companies to even think about marriage. Too bad he never told his grandfather he’s gay, because Grandfather just announced a childhood betrothal – to a Bedouin girl Fathi never heard about before.

Ikraam din Abdel was raised as a woman by his avaricious and abusive older sister, who didn’t want him to be their father’s heir. He’d never thought to be married either, and is surprised when his sister informs him of his betrothal.

When Fathi and Ikraam meet, they are drawn to each other in a manner neither of them expected. As the plans for their wedding progress, they both realize they need to tell the other the truth. But can they, with both cultural taboos and family pressures to deal with?

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

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I got no idea where to start. I am exhausted, struck down with bronchitis, and as a result I’ve been devouring audio books like it’s nobody’s business. The cheesiness of this story was pretty damn good medicine, although I spent a lot of the book struggling to suspend my disbelief.

Felicitas Ivey is a relatively new author to me. I’ve read one other book by the same author, yet I am struggling to remember details of what I liked or disliked about it. Likewise, Simon Ferrar is a new narrator for me. In fact, my current binge of audios is bringing up a lot of new narrators for me in the Dreamspun Desires imprint – which is just awesome. Over all, I enjoyed the narration by Ferrar but it took me a bit to be sold on the accents used for the character, which seemed to be somewhere between Middle Eastern and Indian.

I didn’t know what to expect when I read the blurb but fond reminiscence of the time before I got into MM romances to when I used to love romances of hot desert Sheikhs and their damsels in distress drew me in. And to be perfectly honest, it was everything that I expected from one of those types of stories. In fact, it was almost as though it started as a hot Sheikh and a young Bedouin woman and somewhere along the line the woman became a man disguised as a girl for his entire life. The latter being what had me troubled throughout the book despite enjoying the listen. Also, there is a whole cultural system that that I don’t have enough understanding of to wonder just how something so outlandish could happen.

The titular Sheikh is gorgeous billionaire Fathi al-Murzim, a relatively guy who adores his twin brother and grandfather, yet at the same time doesn’t have a lot of time for a life outside of work. The reason for being a workaholic is that he had made the choice, after getting his business degree in the US where he was free to be himself, was that Fathi decided his family (his grandfather) were more important than for him to have a chance with another man. That excuse makes it easy for Fathi to stay firmly inside the closet. When his grandfather wants Fathi to honour an old marriage agreement, Fathi agrees and despite his reservations and with the help of his beloved twin, resigns himself to what could be an advantageous marriage.

Fathi’s betrothed is Ikraam din Abdel. Ikraam was raised as a woman, he hadn’t even known he was a boy until he is six or so. Ikraam’s father was the old tribal leader, who had taken Ikraam’s mother as a second wife in his old age. He was the only boy with six other older sisters. I don’t want to go into the entire explanation as to how this happened but suffice to say from a young age he was an orphan at the mercy of his power-hungry older sister who couldn’t lose the leadership of the tribe to a baby. It’s really convoluted but it somehow works.

As I said, I struggled to suspend my disbelief but despite this I really enjoyed it. I think it honestly comes down to that time where I loved reading MF romances with rich Shiekhs and feisty women who didn’t want to be damsels in distress. I don’t like MF anymore for a number of reasons but it was kind of fun to see my this trope translated to an MM story.

And to All a Good Night by Felicitas Ivey (Bah Humbug Giveaway!)

Bah Humbug MMGBR Giveaway gifFelicitas Ivey - And to all A Good Night Cover sTitle: And to All A Good Night

Series: Dreamspinner Press 2016 Advent Calendar Bah Humbug.

Author: Felicitas Ivey

Genre: Contemporary, Arts, Holiday

Length: Short (50 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (17th December 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Kobbi Aackers was excited to have a traditional family Christmas with his younger sister Franzi, a famous rock star. But instead of the peaceful holiday he had planned, she’s turning it into a televised musical extravaganza, in a desperate bid for publicity. 

Kobbi can adapt, especially since the show’s host Wytt Kanard is easy on the eyes and easy to work with, even if he doesn’t believe in Christmas at all. Wytt is alternatively amused and horrified at the simplicity that is Kobbi’s life and the enthusiasm he has for the holiday, all while taking care of his houseful of unexpected guests. 

Maybe Kobbi can convince the cynical Wytt that Christmas isn’t an event to be managed, but something special to be shared. Maybe he can muster the courage to confess his attraction and offer Wytt a surprise present.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-179-0

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/and-to-all-a-good-night-by-felicitas-ivey-7973-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: And To All A Good Night is a wonderfully fun Christmas story – especially for those that like reality TV and celebrities – by Felicitas Ivey. This is the second book I’ve read by Felicitas Ivey, and that had been a Christmas story from 2 years ago. Looking back, I loved that story probably as much as I loved and enjoyed this book. This is a very tidy written and edited short story. It was just so easy to get into the characters and feel the sparks of attraction and emotion between them.

The story follows Kobbi, whose younger half-sister, Franzi, is a massive rock star, just as their father had been. When Franzi turns up to his home in the middle of nowhere (not literally, but it is isolated) with a film crew and a signed contract for a Christmas special. Kobbi has no choice but to open up his house to visitors. The bonus for Kobbi is that special’s director, Wytt, sparks his interest in more ways than one. I particularly liked that Kobbi and his sister Franzi also get an ending, as well as Kobbi and Wytt.

Felicitas Ivey - And To All A Good Night Square gif

1st prize $100 DSP credits!
2nd prize $50 DSP credits!
3rd prize $25 DSP credits!
4th prize $25 DSP credits!

Felicitas Ivey’s Question!

What is Felicitas’s dreaded day job?

(Just leave a comment with the answer on this post)

Catch up with the previous questions: MMGBR Bah Humbug Giveaway!

(Winners will be picked by a dart on 1st January 2017)

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Bah Humbug MM Good Book Reviews Giveaway Coming Soon!

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Hey everyone! I’m just here today to give you the heads up for MM Good Book Reviews upcoming month long giveaway which starts on the 1st December 2016. 

MM Good Book Reviews has asked each of the Bah Humbug Advent Calendar authors to submit a question which you readers will be able to answer. And most of them agreed! So throughout the month of December EVERY DAY we’ll have a review from the Bah Humbug Advent and the books author will ask a question… all you have to do is to answer the question in the comments for that review.

What will you win? Well I’m feeling very generous this year so MM Good Book Reviews has the most AMAZING prizes… especially for those of you who will be feeling the pennies pinching in the New Year! 4th & 3rd prizes are $25 Dreamspinner Press Credits, 2nd prize will be $50 Dreamspinner Press Credits and 1st prize is an astounding $100 Dreamspinner Press Credits!  

I know you’re thinking ‘what’s the catch’. Let me assure you there’s no catch whatsoever other than needing a Dreamspinner Press account if you win, oh and needing to get the answers correct 😉

The best thing about the giveaway is… there’s 31 chances to win! Yep if you comment on every Bah Humbug review with the correct answers then your name will be pinned 31 times to the corkboard (darts! It’s gonna be so fun on New Years Day) if you get 26 correct answers then your name will be pinned 26 times on the corkboard, easy.

And while it would be nice if you visited us every day in December you don’t have to, that’s right you could just visit once a week or if you’re really pushed for time then just once on the 31st Dec, I’ll be creating a page with all the links to the reviews and questions so you won’t have to miss any 🙂

So guys why don’t you nip over to Dreamspinner Press, check out the Bah Humbug Advent and take a look at the stories that have made me feel super generous this year <3

Don’t forget the MM Good Book Reviews Bah Humbug Giveaway starts on the 1st December! 

Lots of huggles & snuggles ~Pixie~

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Bah Humbug

There’s always that one guy for whom the holiday season is anything but jolly. It’s a bother, a trial, or in a few cases, a downright misery, but in the end, the holidays bring hope, love, and cheer to even the darkest of days. What else but love would get Scrooge willingly under the mistletoe?

Holiday reading fun! A story delivered automatically to your bookshelf each day in December. More than 400,000 words of romantic fiction in 31 stories that would sell individually for a total of $85.69. Buy the package early and save:

November* – $49.99

*Sale of packages for daily delivery ends Nov. 25.

Beginning December 1, stories will be available individually as priced or as a bulk package for $64.99.

Dreamspinner Press

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One Pulse ~ Charity Anthology Guest Post by John Amory!

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Hey guys, today we have John Amory, one of the authors from the Dreamspinner Press Charity Anthology One Pulse, visiting with an incredible guest post, so check out the post and then I want you to check out the blogs that the other One Pulse authors will be visiting during the next two weeks. <3 ~Pixie~ 

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One Pulse

by

Jon Keys, Alicia Nordwell, Mickie B. Ashling, M.T. Aspen, M.A. Church, Caitlin Ricci, George Seaton, Jayce Ellis, Bree Cariad, Chrissy Munder, Ellis Carrington, Felicitas Ivey, John Amory, Grace R. Duncan, John Goode, J. C. Long, Elizabeth Noble, Renee Stevens, Troy Storm, Connie Bailey, Dev Bentham, Andrea Speed, Laura Lascarso, Lila Leigh Hunter, Emery C. Walters, C.C. Dado, Sera Kane, KC Burn, Vicktor Alexander, Edmond Manning

Stories drive life. Sometimes life is good; sometimes life is bad. But it’s the nature of our community that in the aftermath of an act of hatred, we respond with love. Because darkness cannot exist in the presence of light. Cruelty cannot stand against compassion. Negativity will never overcome hope.

To show our support for those affected by the Orlando shooting, our authors, editors, artists, and staff have volunteered their talents to create this anthology. All proceeds will be donated to LGBT organizations in central Florida. Join us as we celebrate the triumph of love over every obstacle.

Continue reading “One Pulse ~ Charity Anthology Guest Post by John Amory!”

Werewolf PTA by Felicitas Ivey

Felicitas Ivey - Werewolf PTA CoverTitle: Werewolf PTA

Series: 2016 Daily Dose- A Walk on the Wild Side

Author: Felicitas Ivey

Genre: Gay Erotic Romance, Paranormal

Length: Short Story (51 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (June 1, 2016)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 2 ½ Hearts

Blurb: Dr. Malak Shahzed moved to the small town of Goodfields for a quiet practice and a chance to leave his other life behind. Finding kind and handsome Sheriff Shiloh Payne is a bonus. Their relationship is mostly stolen glances and innocent meetings, but Malak wants to play doctor with Shiloh—if the sheriff feels the same.

All is not well in Goodfields. After each PTA meeting, the body of a single man is found torn apart by a wild animal, and the town is getting nervous.

Murder is complicating Malak’s seduction of Shiloh, especially since he knows more than he is willing to admit. Because sane people don’t believe in werewolves…. Do they?

ISBN: 978-1-63477-509-0

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/werewolf-pta-by-felicitas-ivey-7163-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This is part of the Dreamspinner 2016 Daily Dose Package “A Walk on the Wild Side”.

Someone is killing humans and Malak has figured out that it is a Were that is doing it. Being not only the doctor and coroner, but also a shifter does have its advantages. So he knew what he was seeing. His old friend has come to help him rid the world of their little problem, but the sheriff is having a bit of trouble with it. However he is not having any trouble with Malak. That is if you get my meaning 😉 .

These stories are interesting but they are way too short for anything more than just a taste. I am however not sure of this one, it is a bit creepy. However it does give a new look into the paranormal world. I did like the story but it just wasn’t for me.

Back to the Dream by Felicitas Ivey, 2nd edition

o-back-to-the-dreamTitle: Back to the Dream, 2nd Edition
Series: Dreamlands, #2
Author: Felicitas Ivey
Genre: Fantasy / Paranormal
Length: Novel (310 pages)
Publisher: DSP Publications (December 23, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.75Hearts
Blurb: Although Inuzaka Keno has found freedom and love in the Dreamlands with oni Samojirou Aboshi, the war is still raging between The Trust’s battle-hardened recruits and the demons of his new home. While cloaked in shadows and magic, powerful people are using Keno, Aboshi, and their Lord Tamazusa as pawns in a deadly plan to rule both worlds.

They’re not alone: soldiers Mason, Wolf, and McGann—Keno’s friends from The Trust—also find themselves embroiled in the battle spreading through the Dreamlands, involving its other lands and cultures.

If they’re to have any chance to survive, Aboshi will have to leave his love to protect him, and Keno will have to find the power within himself to live on without his heart.

1st Edition published by Dreamspinner Press, October 2010

ISBN: 978-1-62798-972-5

Product Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/back-to-the-dream-by-felicitas-ivey-38-b

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: This is the second book in the Dreamlands series.

The story has an interesting plot as Keno, Mason and Wolf meet up again when Keno and Tamazusa are betrayed and left to die at sea. Mason and Wolf along with McGann suffer the same fate by the Trust after they are sent to the wrong destination.

Intense and powerful this story draws you in until the very end. The betrayal was staggering and the reasons why unbelievable. I found myself so angry on behalf of those affected. The battles were brutal along with a very real sense of danger throughout.

My favorite character Keno, showed he was not one to mess with no matter what he wore or which persona he was in. Helga was a pain at the first introduction of her and I could not help but not like her in the least.

Though I was intrigued at the way women were treated where Helga was compared to where Tamazusa is from. It leads to some intense confrontations. Iida reminded of a snake, sneaky and slippery.

All in all this was an intriguing story of fantasy, deception and mystery. I loved it and can’t wait until the next book to see what else happens.

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

The Mechanical Chrysanthemums by Felicitas Ivey

81o2dXsDT9L._SL1350_Title: The Mechanical Chrysanthemums

Series: N/A

Author: Felicitas Ivey

Genre: Steampunk

Length: Novella (91 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (January 14th, 2015)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb: Hachisuka Narihiro is a pilot in the Shogun’s elite unit of musha-ki, robotic armor automated by steam and magic for the defense of Nippon in a slowly modernizing 19th Century, when he’s requested to help with political negotiations. Compromises are difficult, with American Admiral Perry determined to open Japan to the West but only on his terms.

Like most Western leaders, the admiral is unaware of the advances the Japanese have made with steam and thinks Nippon is an isolated and backward nation. Narihiro’s uncle, the twelfth Tokugawa Shogun, believes Narihiro is the best man for the duty. Despite his extensive training, plans might not go as well as expected.

With the American delegation comes closeted former Pennsylvania Dutch farmer, Maarten Zook, a shy translator who catches Narihiro’s interest. As negotiations stall, the Japanese are left with few options to convince America that Nippon is its equal.

Japan is ready to open its borders, but a show of force may be needed, and that force may destroy the budding relationship between Narihiro and Maarten.

ISBN-13 # 978-1-63216-493-3

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5941

Reviewer: Gigi

Review: This was a lovely, imaginative introduction to what events could have been like if 19th century Japan had been handled differently by British and US empires at the time. It’s a little bit historical romance, a little bit anime, a little bit of dominance and submission an a small and large scale, and an introduction to Japanese customs vs. American shortsightedness.

There is a lot of East Meets west cultural barrier examination. The author introduces Japanese or Nippon culture to the reader through Maarten’s experiences, one of the largest differences being the acceptance of nanshoku, or male love, among its citizens, and American’s prudishness when it comes to such things.

Tensions rise, insults are slung, and a rude awakening is imminent for the American delegation, but will Maarten be bundled in with the other soldiers when the the musha rise?

Will the passion between Maarten and Narishiro have the chance to bloom? Don’t worry. At the very least, they try with some very hot scenes! A great short story, very colorful and informative. Other than being insulted that all Americans seemed to be painted with the same brush, I was very entertained and enlightened.

What Father Christmas Left by Felicitas Ivey

WhatFatherChristmasLeftLGTitle: 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 *

In Trouble with Angels by Felicitas Ivey

InTroubleWithAngelsLGTitle: In Trouble with Angels
Author: Felicitas Ivey
Genre: Holiday/Paranormal/Angels and Demons/Humor
Length: Short (40 pages)
ISBN: 9781627987561
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (February 3rd, 2014)
Heat level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Eric
Blurb: With the increasing commercialization of Valentine’s Day in the 1950s, the Pagan deities of Love, led by Eros, gather to make sure everything runs smoothly. Shy, quiet angel Shateiel offers help, and Eros is quite taken with the cute angel, though he keeps his lust to himself. When the higher-level angels discover Shateiel’s little rebellious streak and how he’s been spending his time, they intervene to keep him from falling from grace. Now, Eros may wish he’d admitted his feeling before it was too late.
Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4672
Review: This book was downright amazing. I found it so fresh to read of angels and demons, and goddesses and gods of love. The book held such a fun ring to it. The freshness of the story had me curious and kept me that way until the story ended. I found the character Eros to be downright fun. He had a way about him that kept me interested and curious how he handled things.

The characters were great and unique. The plot was addicting. And when it finished I wished it hadn’t. I wanted to read so much more about it. This author truly does have the gift to write great books. I look forward to seeing what Felicitas Ivey comes up with next.

Her work is downright superb. Highly recommended.

A Solstice Journey by Felicitas Ivey

SolsticeJourney[A]LGTitle: A Solstice Journey

Series: 2013 – Heartwarming Advent Calendar

Author: Felicitas Ivey

Genre: Urban Fantasy / Holiday

ISBN: 978-1-62798-599-4

Length: Novelette (59 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2013)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Upon leaving his company’s Christmas party, Gunnar Dagviðurson decides to walk to the train and enjoy the snowfall, only to get caught in a winter storm that magically transports him to a mysterious foreign realm. That’s how Celyn finds him, stumbling blindly through the snow, and Celyn takes Gunnar home to a castle of faery. Gunnar wants to find his way home for Christmas, but suddenly he’s faced with a choice: does he go back to his adopted family in the human world or stay with the magical family he’s found?

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2013 Advent Calendar package “Heartwarming.”

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4501

Review: As enticing as the main idea for this story was I found it somewhat detached.

Here we have Gunnar, being different from all the races known to mankind, raised by a loving family that adopted him when he was little. He grows up to be really content though and chasing a career as an accountant. After the company Christmas party though Gunnar walks his way home only to be lost in a strange snowstorm and find himself in an altogether different realm where elves and dark elves exist and he is supposed to be one of the former.

Okay, so honestly, if I found myself lost in a strange place from one moment to the other and weird people come get me calling me elf, I’d have panicked. No matter how, no matter what, I would not have Gunnar’s reaction. He seemed to take it all in stride and the only time he panicked was when he saw the Yule Cat, and even that was detached from emotions, never making it down to me (the reader).
I don’t know what to make of this story really. Fantasy-wise it was fun, a world I’d love to know and read about. The core of the story though was so bland. The romance itself was lukewarm at best. I mean come on, you have an Elf and a Dark Elf, the very combination entices you to put things on fire let everything burn to ashes, yet it was not. As if it was a matter of course that Gunnar and Celyn would get together and be good for each other. Even the part where they were supposed to be together and the passion, the lust, the wanting, the falling for, everything were skipped making me think what was the point of even writing the story in first place. Was it only the journey from one real to the other? But then again the journey was that much of a shocker what with all the hints we got from the beginning of the story, so it came as a matter of course too.

I don’t know, this story had the potential to be awesome but wasn’t, it had the potential to be steamy hot and sensual as hell but it wasn’t, it had the potential to be dramatic and affect you with suspense but that was seriously lacking, so in the end for me it was just another read will lots of potential.

 

A Modest Proposal by Felicitas Ivey

Note:  A digital review copy of this title was provided by the publisher.

Title: A Modest Proposal

Author: Felicitas Ivey

Genre: Science Fiction, Futuristic  

Length: Novella (118pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (28th September 2011)

Heat Level: Explicit/Scorching

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Hagar is the captain of the cargo ship Midgard Serpent. Most of his shipments are legal, but he has a reputation for being an honest smuggler—a reputation that lands him some troublesome cargo. Shibito, an exiled member of the Nipponese imperial family, meets Hagar on Dunmore Station. Keeping his true identity secret, Shibito tells Hagar he’ll do anything to get out of there. Never one to turn down an offer like that, Hagar accepts.

But Shibito doesn’t have just any destination in mind, and Hagar is furious when he discovers that his mysterious passenger has altered their course without telling him. With no way to change course a second time, Hagar has no choice but to trust—and face the temptation of Shibito’s request for some rough handling, a proposal Hagar isn’t sure he can resist.

Review: Shibito was drugged, kidnapped and dumped onto a backward planet at the arse end of the universe.   He escaped and now needs to get off the planet before the military find him.   He finds what he needs at Mama’s bar. Hagar is an honest smuggler, most of his business is legit and Mama is a good friend of his, so when Mama says someone needs a ride he considers it little knowing what he’s let himself in for.

Hagar is like a gentle giant but he can’t seem to control himself around Shibito.  Shibito is worried about how he wants Hagar to treat him as he never had these urges before he was drugged. I thought that the storyline was quite good and the plot was sound.  I especially liked that there was a power-hungry Emperor, Kogon.  I liked the idea that in the future the human race divides up the universe into sectors that were like countries i.e. American/European Settled Space, The Russian Collective, Scandinavian Cooperative and Asian Sector. This story also has a Yaoi flavor to it which works quite well.

The way the two men seem to be drawn together is good and it’s not instant love.  It’s hot, hard, passionate, intense sex and neither man seems able to get enough of the other.  The story is also left open so the two men can rescue other victims of the Emperor Kogon.  Maybe more stories with the progression of their relationship (I can and will beg and plead :-)).

I will recommend this to those who enjoy science fiction, futuristic, space romps, secrets hidden, scorching hot sex and a D/s flavor to the sex and some angry passionate dubious consent.