Two of A Kind by B.A. Tortuga Audio Review

Title: Two of A Kind

Series: Dreamspun Desires 65

Author: B.A. Tortuga

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary, Cowboys

Length: 6 hrs

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (21st February 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Working on a full house.

Once upon a time, Trey Williamson and Ap McIntosh had quite the whirlwind romance – but that was before family tragedy left them the guardians of five kids. Their lives have changed quite a bit over the last six years, but Ap is still on the rodeo circuit, doing what he does best in an at-tempt to feed all those extra mouths.

That leaves Trey back on the ranch, isolated and overworked as the kids’ sole caregiver. Some-thing has to give, and when Ap comes home, they’re reminded how hot they burned once upon a time. But is it a love that can withstand wrangling over time, money, and the future? They have to decide what kind of family they want to be…and whether what they share can stand the test of time.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Two of A Kind is a wonderfully, sexy cowboy romance with a cast of crazy kids by BA Tortuga, for Dreamspun Desires. I love BA Tortuga’s stories, especially the cowboy ones. Because seriously, a story about a hot but flawed cowboy is just wonderful. Tortuga, for the most part, does justice to a story with at least one cute kid in addition to the cowboys. I love it!

I read the book of this when it came out and absolutely adored it from start to finish. So I was looking forward to killing some time during my commute listening to it all over again. On top of that, I was looking forward to the narration of John Solo, who did not disappoint. It feels like its been ages since I’ve heard Solo’s work. His voice lent added so much depth to the story, I loved it.

Trey Williamson and Ap MacIntosh met years ago when Trey’s sister and Ap’s brother got married and then proceeded to have five kids. They are both quite young – in their late twenties – and so six years ago when tragedy struck and Trey and Ap became the guardians to their nephews and nieces they were just at the start of their own adult lives. Trey had been saving to go to college and Ap had been on the road competing rodeos since he was approximately sixteen. While their siblings had been alive the two men had shared a couple of special moments but could never explore a serious relationship once they became the guardians to the kids. Trey stayed behind on the small ranch looking after the kids day in and day out, while Ap stayed on the rodeo circuit making money to raise the kids. In fact, Ap leaves very little money for himself, leaving it all for the kids.

However, after six years Trey is burning out. Six kids between the ages of six and sixteen takes a lot of energy and he has basically been a single parent the entire time. So Ap has to come back and be more than the uncle who rings up while on the circuit and go back to visit for special occasions. Ap learns some important home truths as he finds out just what Trey sacrificed to raise the kids and work his exhausting schedule. And so years after they had started to explore an intimate relationship, they are finally together under the same roof and no longer just passing ships in the night.

There was a lot of emotion and while I felt a bit of resentment at Ap for never trying to be more than the bread winner and the cool uncle who drops in every now and again, I really did like Ap and liked how his character matured.

Everyone who loves a good cowboy romance will be entertained by this one!

The Best Worst Honeymoon by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Title: The Best Worst Honeymoon

Series: Dreamspun Desires 60

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 49 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15th January 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: How can heartbreak turn into happily ever after?

Tommy Gordon is all set for happily ever after – until heartbreak strikes when his husband-to-be leaves him at the altar. In a bid for distraction, his best friend, Grayson Phillips, suggests he takes advantage of the luxury honeymoon anyway! But the last thing Tommy wants is to go alone, so he invites Grayson and his son, Petey, along.

Beautiful Bonaire lends itself to romance, and along with close quarters, relaxing on the water, and a matchmaking kid, Tommy and Grayson soon find themselves closer than ever…and con-sidering more, much to Grayson’s delight. But before they can plan the best best honeymoon ever, dark clouds descend in the form of Tommy’s ex and a sting from paradise that could ruin everything.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: The Best Worst Honeymoon is written by Andrew Grey for Dreamspun Desires.

I make it no secret that Andrew Grey is one of my all-time favorite authors and he is an automatic read for me. However, while The Best Worst Honeymoon Ever is not up there with my favorite books, it is a fun book. The story is quite simple really. The book itself is also well paced with solid character development.

Although the narration, which was completely wonderful, by John Solo really lifted the entire story and made it more enjoyable. It almost feels as though his voice added credibility to the story, he really nailed the voice of the MC’s, Tommy and Grayson, and the little boy, Petey.

The book opens with Tommy Gordon nervous for his wedding, but is bolstered by the presence of his best man and best friend, Grayson Philips, and Grayson’s incorrigible son, Petey. Then immediately Tommy’s world is crashing down around him when he is jilted by his fiancé. When Tommy plans to cancel his tropical honeymoon, Grayson convinces Tommy to go and have fun. Which leads to Grayson and Petey tagging along to the tropical island.

This is a fun and sexy story that turns friends to lovers, which has the family friendly element with the addition of the precocious Petey, who is more than happy for his dad to get with Uncle Tommy so that he can keep Uncle Tommy for real. Seriously, cute and sneaky kid. Petey also is a highlight when Tommy gathers the courage to properly face his ex that the three of can have a chance to become a family.

For fans of Andrew Grey and the Dreamspinner Press house line, Dreamspun Desire this is one to add to your list as, at least for me, it is everything that I expect from both.

Love You So Special by Tara Lain ~ Audio Review

Title: Love You So Special

Series: Love You So 03

Author: Tara Lain

Narrator: Ry Forest

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 18 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (24th January 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Can a man’s secret yearnings be revealed in a tank full of fish?

Artie Haynes knows he’s nothing special, with just-your-regular-brown hair, a solid plumber’s job, not much education, and a family that can barely get off the couch. But Artie has quirks – like his love of tropical fish, a landlord who’s a professor of existentialism, a passion for the amazing piano music he hears at a concert hall while he’s fixing the bathrooms – and the fact that he’s never come out as gay and probably never will. But when he’s hired to build a guesthouse for the pianist whose music enchanted him, Artie is swept up into an unimaginable world.

François Desmarais may be famous, rich, and revered as one of the world’s great classical com-posers and pianists, but he’s soothed and challenged by the inquisitive, stalwart, protective man in his back yard. When François’ terrible fear of crowds turns into a dangerous plot, Artie can stay in the closet or prove just how special he is.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Love You So Special is the third book in Tara Lain’s Love You So series. Each book is about a different couple and while the previous characters pop up briefly or mentioned in passing these are standalone stories, completely independent from each other. The one thing that is common between the books in this series is that one main character has either a health condition (epilepsy in book 2) or mental health issues (self esteem issues in book 1 and anxiety in book 3). I haven’t read (or heard) a lot of Tara Lain books but I have loved this series, I’ve loved how the stories have flowed, the sweetness and the love needed to help the MCs heal.

Ry Forest has done an exceptional job narrating this series too. I’ve never heard him perform before I listened to these audios. His softly spoken voice is perfect for capturing the tone and emotion of the MCs as they grow and learn about love, ultimately accepting love in their lives.

In this final instalment we meet Artie Haynes, who is a plumber. He comes from a blue-collar family, using to not having enough money and used to being told that he is nothing special. However, it is clear from the start that Artie is very special and he is as smart as a whip, his biggest problem is that his talents were never nurtured at school. Working at a theatre which is undergoing major repairs, he is drawn by the music of the performers, especially a piano player who disappeared as fast as they appeared.

Artie’s job takes him to the home of the Desmarais family, a mother with her grown son. Francois has crippling anxiety, which is probably made worse by the fact that he is one of the most sought after classical concert pianists. His mother is his manager, organising tours and appearances. Unfortunately, Francois does like the continual performances and his mother is bull-headed when it comes to her son’s career. A chance meeting with the plumber who is fixing up the guest house on his mother’s property where Francois intends to live leads both men on a journey of discovery – about themselves and each other. Things take a dangerous turn when it seems that Francois is in danger from a stalkerish fan.

This is a fast paced romance that manages to stay sweet between all the danger. There is a touch of angst as Francois faces his anxieties and gets the courage to be himself and discover love for the first time.

A Fool and His Manny by Amy Lane ~ Audio Review

Title: A Fool and His Manny

Series: The Mannies 04 / Dreamspun Desires 62

Author: Amy Lane

Narrator: Kenneth Obi

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs, 18 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (6th December 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Seeing the truth and falling in love.

Dustin Robbins-Grayson was a surly adolescent when Quinlan Gregory started the nanny gig. After a rocky start, he grew into Quinlan’s friend and confidant—and a damned sexy man.

At twenty-one, Dusty sees how Quinlan sacrificed his own life and desires to care for Dusty’s family. He’s ready to claim Quinlan—he’s never met a kinder, more capable, more lovable man. Or a lonelier one. Quinlan has spent his life as the stranger on the edge of the photograph, but Dusty wants Quinlan to be the center of his world. First he has to convince Quinlan he’s an adult, their love is real, and Quinlan can be more than a friend and caregiver. Can he show Quin that he deserves to be both a man and a lover, and that in Dusty’s eyes, he’s never been “just the manny?”

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: A Fool and his Manny is the fourth book in Amy Lane’s, The Mannies. I have adored every book in this series, so much so that I’ve both read the books and listened to the audio. It is just so super sweet, there is so much love and a crazy, whacky family supporting all the MCs.

It is also the last book in the series, so it’s kind of a butter sweet ending with all the happy couples and seeing the Robbins family and their associated branches grow over about twenty years. This is the second book in the series that goes onto the next generation of the people that are somehow apart of the Robbins family.

This is the story of the oldest Robbins-Grayson, Dustin. His father knocked up his mother, in book one (the hero’s, Tino, best friend and sister) and way before his parents had a bajillion kids. Now Dustin is all grown up and attracted to Quinlan Gregory, the man we met in book 3, a trumpet player and friend of Sammy (Dustin’s cousin) who was taken in and hired by Dustin’s parents to be a manny for their herd of kids. Dustin was a teen by book 3, he isn’t that much younger than Quinlan, so I assure you, it really isn’t as weird as it sounds. This is a relatively low angst book, my favorite kind, and Dustin and Quinlan make a totally cute couple.

I really enjoyed seeing this side of Dustin. He was always a brat when we’ve seen him previously. Now he has grown up and matured into a young man. Quinlan was an ordinary college student and gifted musician when we first met him but there has always been an element of loneliness to him from the start. He is one of those characters that I felt strongly and looked forward to having his own HEA. It makes me ridiculously happy to say that. I love how Lane has developed all the characters over the four books. On a side note, I loved the conversation on the band bus involving Harry Potter and how the kids grew up from cute kids to good looking (yes, we’re talking about Neville Longbottom!).

Kenneth Obi is the narrator and does a wonderful job. Obi did not narrate the previous books in the series (John Solo was the narrator for books 1 and 2, and Peter B Brooke was the narrator of 3), I’m not sure if this was on purpose in terms of what the narrator could bring to the characters, or if it was just a matter of availability. Nonetheless, I’ve enjoyed many of Obi’s performances and this was no exception. He added a depth to the characters with his tone that meant I could feel when the high emotional times popped up.

This is a must read for anyone who has been following the series. I’ve tried to be concise with my description but as you can probably tell, there is a lot of background, hence my recommendation. For those that haven’t read the series, I recommend reading it in order because this is a proper family saga that spans approximately 22 years. If you love a sweet story with a HEA and low angst this is the book for you, especially if you’re a sucker hot guys working with kids.

Rocking the Cowboy by Skylar M. Cates ~ Audio Review

Title: Rocking the Cowboy

Series: Dreamspun Desires 64

Author: Skylar M. Cates

Narrator: Colin Darcy

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 38 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (3rd January 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Opposites who go together like country and rock ’n’ roll.

Long before he was a superstar, Remy Sean had a secret crush on Jed Riley. But Jed sees Remy as a spoiled pop rocker and an extension of his father’s control. Still, Jed is willing to let Remy hide from the press on his ranch—but only as a way to get his father out of his life and business for good.

Used to being admired and fawned over, Remy keenly feels the sting of Jed’s dismissal. Can he make Jed see him as more than a pain in the ass? Or is Jed too tangled up in his ranch to see past his old hurt?

Jed doesn’t believe someone desired by so many fans could want him, a simple cowboy. But Remy is determined to change Jed’s mind and steal his heart….

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Rocking the Cowboy is a Dreamspun Desires line book by Skylar M Cates. I’ve read the book in ebook format and while it enjoyed it well enough, I had thought that perhaps hearing the audio would add another layer of interesting to the story.

I’ve read a handful Skylar M Cates books before – some I enjoyed and one I couldn’t finish. Ultimately, while this wasn’t the greatest book I’ve ever read, I really did enjoy this one. The romance was wonderful, the characters were relatable, the story was a lot of fun and most importantly the MCs had great chemistry.

In addition to that, the narration was good. Colin Darcy is a relatively new narrator to me. However, I feel that he did justice to this story, which is great because of its simplicity. His performance was great, despite the fact it didn’t really change my mind in calling this an excellent story, to a totally awesome story.

Rockstar Remy Sean has gone through a horrifying experience on stage where he almost got trapped by stampeding fans who broke through barriers to get onto stage. His agent, who personally is not a good man but ruthless in business, decides that Remy should go spend time at the family ranch which is ran by his son, Jed Riley. The problem is, Jed does not get along with his father at all.

Remy looks forward to this opportunity to heal from his mostly psychological scars. Years ago, when he had been sixteen, he had spent the summer at the ranch. Back when things were a lot better for the Riley family. This had been when Remy first met Jed, but he was certain that over the years he had a bad case of hero worship for Jed.

Jed makes a deal with his father for Remy to stay at the ranch in exchange for his father’s compliance. Jed will do anything to make his mother and sister happy and he has zero time for his a-hole father. What Jed didn’t expect, despite a bumpy start, was that he would have a true connection to Remy.

Fans of cowboy stories will not be disappointed, and if you like yourself a bit of a celebrity falling for an ordinary guy type of story then you’re in luck here too. Overall, a fun and enjoyable audio book.

A Full Plate by Kim Fielding ~ Audio Review

Title: A Full Plate

Series: Dreamspun Desires 56

Author: Kim Fielding

Narrator: Kenneth Obi

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 19 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (5th June 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Opposites come together for a spicy surprise.

Bradford “Tully” Tolliver has everything—money, a great car, a beautiful condo, and a promising career as one of Portland’s hottest young lawyers. Sure, he puts in long hours and has no social life to speak of, but who needs romance when corporations pay top dollar for his expertise? He hesitates when a colleague asks if her cousin can live with him, but the arrangement will last less than a year, and then the cousin—Sage Filling—will return to his tiny hometown.

But Sage is handsome and intriguing, and his cooking makes Tully swoon. Sage has obligations back home, though, and Tully has offers he might not refuse from a persistent—and very wealthy—ex. Since Tully and Sage each have a full plate, can they make room for a side of love?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: A Full Plate is a novel by Kim Fielding from the Dreamspun Desires line. I’ve read this book in the past and have enjoyed it, I love the ease of the audio format for my commute and so enjoy listening to books that I’ve read and liked in the past.

I’m also always curious because sometimes narration can help me enjoy the story more. This story was excellently narrated by Kenneth Obi, a narrator I’ve become more familiar with in the past 6 or so months and I’ve never had an issue with his narration. I really enjoyed the he gave to the characters and the tone used throughout the book. It worked well. I think the only reason why his narration didn’t allow me to enjoy the story so much more than when I read it is probably because I felt that the story was a tad slow in the middle leading up to when the characters get their butts into action. Not to say that this was a bad story, because obviously, I don’t think that at all.

The story is about high-power lawyer Bradford Tolliver, better known as Tully to his friends, and Sage Filling, the cousin of one of Tully’s friends. At first it seems like these guys are complete opposites. Tully is a well-educated city boy, whereas Sage is a country boy who had spent so much time and energy running his family’s diner in his home town. Sage needs to make money and he can’t do it at the old diner anymore, so he’s in the city where he is a line cook at a greasy burger joint. Sage also happens to be a cooking prodigy; his only problem is that he doesn’t have the fancy education to be much more than a line cook anywhere. Tully takes Sage in as a roommate, in exchange for his room and board, Sage does all the cooking.

These guys don’t come together easily. Their road to each other is a little bumpy to say the least, mostly because Sage doesn’t want to start a relationship when he is only going to be in Portland for less than a year. Tully will take anything he can with Sage, even if he knows it will end in heartache. Regardless, these guys are clearly made for each other and their subtle romance is something that I cheered on. The most telling part was when their lives meshed together so easily and both men displayed some misplaced jealousy.

If you’re into a sweet romance between a country and a city boy this is the story for you. I enjoyed the lack of ego and these guys just being average guys trying to make their lives work.

Love You So Hard by Tara Lain ~ Audio Review

Title: Love You So Hard

Series: Love You So 01

Author: Tara Lain

Narrator: Ry Forest

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 2 hrs, 55 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (17th July 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Craig Elson’s life has hit rock bottom. Even though he’s one of the best strategic planners around, a more confident guy takes credit for his work, and despite being a good-looking man, he suffers insults from the slimiest creep at the bar. Taking care of his beloved mom, who has

Alzheimer’s, uses all his funds, leaving him in a plain, depressing car…and a plain, depressing life.
Until he sees gorgeous grad student Jesse Randall and his T-shirt that reads “I Would Bottom You So Hard”. The message seeps into Craig’s soul, and he asks Jesse to teach him to top.

Jesse’s had his eye on the quiet hottie who comes into the coffee shop, and he’s more than eager to perfect his tutoring. He sets out to get Craig a new job, a new apartment, and a new life so far outside plain and depressing that it’s unrecognizable. The problem is, Craig loves his les-sons – and his teacher – too much to want to graduate. How can Craig reach the top without los-ing his sassy bottom?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Love You So Hard is the first book in Tara Lain’s Love You So, series. It is a really nice, relatively short audiobook that is totally sweet. I’ve enjoyed Tara Lain’s writing in the past, including the second book in this series. So it goes without saying, it’s OK to listen to this out of order, you don’t get any spoilers of what happened in book 2 about book 1 other than seeing the two guys together.

Craig Elson works hard. He prides himself on his work as a strategic planner and is expecting a big promotion at work. His mother is in a care home due to the Alzheimer’s taking her memories away from Craig. The highlight of his day is going to the coffee shop and seeing the hot guy who wears the shirt that says “I’d Bottom You So Hard”. But when his boss takes credit for his, gets the promotion that Craig was looking to get, Craig just hits a wall and decides to take a vacation to figure out his next step.

This is where Jesse steps in. Jesse, he’s writing his PhD thesis and teaching at the college and happens to be the guy who wears the shirt that intrigues Craig so much. It just so happens that he is as curious about Craig as Craig is about he. They get to talking and strike a deal – Jesse is going to become Craig’s tutor to help him get his life together and find a better job.

What I love about this the most is the simplicity of the story. What we get as the reader/listener is a beautiful romance as two men unwittingly get involved and transform each other’s lives.

The one thing I am going to whinge about, and it’s honestly nothing bad about the book or the narration, just the simple fact that I cannot stand how Americans pronounce Craig (i.e. “kreg” instead of “krayg”).

Fire and Flint by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Title: Fire and Flint

Series: Carlisle Deputies 01

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary, Men in Uniform

Length: 6 hrs, 8 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12th June 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Jordan Erichsohn suspects something is rotten about his boss, Judge Crawford. Unfortunately, he has nowhere to turn and doubts anyone will believe his claims – least of all the handsome deputy, Pierre Ravelle, who has been assigned to protect the judge after he received threaten-ing letters. The judge has a long reach, and if he finds out Jordan’s turned on him, he might im-pede Jordan adopting his son, Jeremiah.

When Jordan can no longer stay silent, he gathers his courage and tells Pierre what he knows. To his surprise and relief, Pierre believes him, and Jordan finds an ally…and maybe more.

Pierre vows to do what it takes to protect Jordan and Jeremiah and see justice done. He’s willing to fight for the man he’s growing to love and the family he’s starting to think of as his own. But Crawford is a powerful and dangerous enemy, and he’s not above ripping apart everything Jor-dan and Pierre are trying to build in order to save himself….

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: I love almost anything written by Andrew Grey. The man has a way with words and romance that I absolutely love. So, I’m not going to spend time gushing over how much I love his characters and how well they develop over the course of the book, and the chemistry, the sexual tension between the MCs. He also does wonderful stories with kids, who don’t steal the show but are often as sweet and as lovable as their fathers. I basically love everything.

Greg Tremblay performs the audio for this book. I know his narration from other Andrew Grey audios, particularly from the Senses series. In this book, his voice is absolutely perfect for tone and suspense in the stories, as well as providing the perfect tone for the individual characters.

Fire and Flint is the story of Carlisle Deputy, Pierre Revelle, and Jordan Erichsohn, the assistant to Judge Crawford. The judge has been receiving some threatening letters lately which is what brings the two men together. Jordan, finds it difficult to trust the deputy and scared to do anything that could jeopardise his adoption of a sweet little boy who needs love and parent. The situation is dangerous because Jordan is sure, or at least suspects, that there is something crooked with this boss. Pierre is instantly attracted to Jordan, but he is a professional and he is intent on finding out what the hell is happening. Love comes organically as Jordan helps Pierre try to discover the truth of who and why the judge is being threatened.

Fire and Flint is a fast paced suspense, romance. This is good for people that love a good romance where the sexy cop comes riding in like a knight in shining armour and a strong lawyer who has so much love to give. They aren’t a conventional family but their chemistry together is perfect.

Romancing the Undercover Millionaire by Clare London ~ Audio Review

Title: Romancing the Undercover Millionaire

Series: Romancing the… 03 / Dreamspun Desires 71

Author: Clare London

Narrator: Seb Yarick

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 9 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (14th February 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Can poverty and privilege find a loving compromise?

Alexandre Bonfils, a rich and spoiled second son, is tired of being ignored and decides to help when the family’s exclusive wine business is in trouble. Going undercover in the warehouse, he loves the adventure – and the chance to be close to the sassy and sexy manager, Tate Somer-ton.

Tate is hardworking and financially struggling, bringing up his siblings on his own. A suspected saboteur at work is his latest challenge, but now he also has a clueless, though very attractive, new intern. There’s an immediate spark between the ill-matched couple, until a shocking acci-dent cuts short Alex’s amateur sleuthing.

While recovering in the generous care of Tate and his family, will Alex realize what belonging really means? Passion and pride come together to fight for the company they’re both committed to preserving, but can a personal bond remain when the dust settles?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Romancing the Undercover Millionaire is the third book in Clare London’s Romancing The… series. I really like Clare London’s writing and this book, in fact the series, has not been an exception. All the books in the series are standalone, with no linking characters, so there’s no need to worry if you’ve not read the previous books. This series is really just sweet romances between men of completely different walks of life. This book is for the people that love the sweet romances, where Prince Charming comes in and saves the day.

The narration by Seb Yarick is quite good too, although the accents didn’t seem right throughout the book being that none of these are my native accents after a while it didn’t bother me at all. Instead the strength in his tone used for the millionaire in the book, Alexandre Bonfils, is perfect. Alex is something of an entitled guy who learns about what it’s like to be a person without the privilege and trappings that comes with absurd wealth. He also nails a great, soft spoken tone for the other MC, Tate.

With Alex being a millionaire, the ne’er do well son of the head of major international company, Tate really is his exact opposite, he’s the son of a factory worker who has become the warehouse manager for the Bonfils’ company. For Alex, after a show down with his father, Alex decides (with a bit of help) to show his family that he isn’t useless. But to do that he goes undercover in the company warehouse to track down some suspicious “accidents” that keep happening as the company approaches the release of a new wine that could win them one of the most prestigious awards in Europe. This is how he meets Tate, the warehouse manager. Tate has a few niggling feelings about Alex (who is definitely not going by the name Bonfils and has now dyed his blonde hair black). As they get to know each other, the suspicious activity begins to increase. Tate rejects his concerns over Alex when Alex is injured. When Tate insists on inviting Alex to stay with his family, the two men become closer and suddenly for Alex everything becomes more and more complicated when feelings become involved. However, all that Alex wants to do is figure what the hell is going on and who is trying to sabotage his family’s company.

Starting at Zero by Lane Hayes ~ Audio Review

Title: Starting from Zero

Series: Starting From, 01

Author: Lane Hayes

Narrator: Michael Pauley

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 8 mins

Publisher: Lane Hayes (15th May 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Justin Cuevas is going through a rough patch. A broken relationship, a scandal, and the demise of his band have shaken the aspiring rock star’s confidence. Working two jobs and sleeping on his friend’s sofa isn’t ideal, but Justin isn’t ready to give up yet. With a little luck, he’s hoping to re-launch his music career in LA with his new band, Zero. The key is to stay focused, and not get distracted by his past…or the sexy songwriter he can’t get out of his head.

Gray Robertson has written dozens of hits and worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. But he’s never met anyone like Justin. The younger man is fiery, passionate, and smart. A powerful voice for a new generation. Other than an unforgettable one-night stand and a passion for music, the two men have nothing in common. Or do they? Justin knows the out-of-the-blue challenge to write a quintessential love song is a huge opportunity. And it’s the ultimate test for someone who’s doesn’t believe in happily ever after. When sparks fly, Justin and Gray realize they have a shot something special if they start from zero together. Maybe even love.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Even though I find that I like Lane Hayes’ writing, I don’t particularly seek out or thoroughly investigate what comes out until something kind of just pops onto my radar. However, reading the blurb for Starting at Zero left me in two minds but I figured this would be a book that I would enjoy but not love. If only because for me Hayes’ writing style makes it so easy for me to connect to the characters. Being an audio, narration almost always lifts a book and how much I enjoy it.

Well, I was totally wrong.

Not on the narration – the narration was wonderful and did exactly as I said it would. Michael Pauley is a wonderful narrator and his voice suited this book, and the tone used for the two MC’s was absolutely spot on. Cannot say a bad word about his performance at all.

The part that I was totally wrong about was how much I would enjoy the story. I was completely pulled away and completely pulled in by the drama of the whole book. The whole struggling singer getting together with someone experienced in the industry is not entirely uncommon, but I really liked the direction that Hayes took on it. I also really liked the fact that the story was told from the POV of both MCs, which left me very satisfied in knowing what both the guys were thinking.

The singer is Justin Cuevas. He has dreams of being a rock star (he makes a comparison to Dave Grohl which, as a Foo Fighters fan, I really appreciated). However, a scandal caused by his ex, which in turn led to the band breaking up has ruined their chances. For now. At the age of twenty-six, Justin knows that he is facing his last chance to make it big. A new gig with what was left of the band and a trap laid by his ex and a slimy club owner leads Justin and his band to an opportunity, albeit with a plenty of drama.

Justin meets Gray Robertson, not realising just how successful Gray is until Justin gets an offer he can’t refuse. First, he is offered a job to sort and curate Gray’s insanely large record collection. Then later, it becomes clear that Gray’s friend (an aggressive producer named Seb) has plans to exploit the drama in Justin’s life, leading to the opportunity of a lifetime for Justin. But Justin isn’t just looking after himself, he has his band members of the newly formed band Zero to take care of. Gray sees Justin’s intelligence, appreciates and respects it. Gray is just one of those awesome guys that you just want to get a HEA for.

This story is Justin’s fight to get his band what they all deserve, but like anyone, there are so many facets of a life, and for Justin that also means finding love, trying to reconcile his mother and brother, generally trying not to have some sort of break down as his mind races and the stress gets to him.

The story is also Gray’s second chance at finding a love that would stand the many tests life throws his way. He has had his heart broken in the past, he has lived in the closet, at first by the necessity and then because he was asked to. He loves his home, his record collection and his music. And despite the age difference and the clear talent he wants to nurture in Justin, he wants more from Justin than he feels has the right to have.

The two men compliment each other, where Gray acts as a grounding force for Justin’s passionate mind. Justin is all emotion, often acting first, while Gray is all about thinking. I really enjoyed their relationship. It was passionate but it was deep, I really liked that they took the time to know each other, not just fall in love. Their love story is so entwined with the drama of the book, you can’t have one without the other, and you cannot have these two guys without having all the people that surrounded them.

The secondary characters are widely varied and very deep. This adds so much complexity to the whole story because although they are not Justin and Gray, these characters had a massive influence on the plot. I’ve already mentioned, Seb, and while he was a good enough character, he wasn’t the most important secondary character. Gray’s godson, Charlie, quickly becomes a character that I was intrigued by. Charlie had a lot of good intentions and is a strong character that cares deeply for the ones he loves. The passion that he shows has him pegged as one of my favourite secondary characters, in addition to member of Zero and Justin’s best friend, Tegan whose passion was just as intense as Charlie’s. I hope that both these characters have their own stories to tell.

I recommend this one to people that like their couples with an age gap and those that love the idea of a plot of men looking to capture their chance at stardom.

Unbreak My Heart by K-Lee Klein by Audio Review

Title: Unbreak My Heart

Author: K-Lee Klein

Narrator: Nick J Russo

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 10 hrs, 27 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (28th June 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Brett Taylor’s world collapsed three years ago when he lost the love of his life. Almost as bad as the grief is the advice he’s starting to get from everyone and their brother, telling him it’s time to move on. They’re flat-out wrong. He left his career as a musician and escaped to his ranch be-cause he needs the peace and quiet, and he’s doing just fine. He doesn’t want anyone invading his memory-filled, booze-fueled solitude.

JT Campbell’s world has been defined by his parents’ money, status, and his own empty rela-tionships, until he’s desperately sick of it. A quest to find something meaningful leads him to Brett’s failing ranch. It’s supposed to be a brief stay. JT never wanted to be anyone’s savior or compete with the ghosts of lovers past. Still, he can’t help wanting this gruff and grieving man.

JT’s mind knows it’s a bad idea, but his heart keeps pushing him to find out what lies beneath Brett’s rough and broken exterior. Brett’s not going to make it easy. JT can only be patient, keep his sense of humor, and hope for the day he may be allowed far enough into Brett’s world to unbreak his heart.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Unbreak My Heart is a beautifully sweet romance by K-Lee Klein. The author was completely unknown to me, so I didn’t know what to expect. What I found is a wonderfully written slow burn romance about losing a great love, being forced to face reality and ultimately learning how to allow love back in. It is also a sad story, with probably a touch of angst. In many ways this reminded me a little of Andrew Grey with that all-important theme of finding love after loss, with the ranch setting and cowboys thrown in.

The narration by Nick J Russo was excellent. I can’t think of a performance of Russo’s that I haven’t enjoyed. His soft-spoken voice created the perfect tone for this heart felt story.

When we meet Brett Taylor, he is a broken man. He has lost the love of his life, and that is part of the grief that keeps him firmly stuck in his whiskey bottle. However, as we get to learn more about Brett, he also has to work through his own guilt and regret from the past. Retreating to alcohol, he has firmly shut out the past, quitting his life as a popular musician and closing everyone off, holding on tightly to his misery. He resents that his family insists that it is time to move on. Brett is a stubborn sod and he decides to dig his heels in.

All that changes when JT Campbell is forced into his life. JT is a bit of a mystery to Brett. JT came from money and privilege and so many empty relationships that he decides to leave it all behind to find himself. JT knows what a disaster it could be to fall for a man who was hanging onto the ghost and memories of his dead lover, but JT is attracted and he wants to do anything to help Brett.

If you’re into slow burn romances and cowboys this is for you. Of course, there is the typical explosion of drama required at the end of any book, but I love how it all played out.

Prophesy by A.E. Via ~ Audio Review

Title: Prophesy

Series: The King & Alpha 01

Author: A.E. Via

Narrator: Nathaniel Black

Genre: Paranormal, Shape shifters, Vampires

Length: 6 hrs, 51 mins

Publisher: Tantor Media

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Justice Volkov is the youngest Alpha Zenith to ever lead the wolf shifters. Following in his father’s large paw prints was a responsibility he met head on. Now at age thirty-three, he is alpha of the alphas. As a direct descendant of the original Siberian pack, his wolf is bigger and stronger than Justice himself is sometimes able to control.

His wolf howled long and hard but Justice kept it inside. It felt like a bass drum beating against his rib cage. The harsh breaths, angry snarls, and the determined pacing inside him were overtaking him.

Justice takes his role of leadership and his legacy very seriously. He has little time for romance, not to mention a true mate. His packs are his priority. With a human government trying to regulate them, an uprising of rogue shifters, and a violent team of scientists trying to experiment on them, Justice has his hands way too full.

Chadwick ‘Wick’ Bentley is not enthusiastic when the captain of his escort tells him he has to leave his comfortable London home and go back to the States. As the Vampire King, he has no choice but to get his species back in line before they cause any more chaos. At over one hundred years old, Wick is no one to trifle with, but his smooth, charismatic manner makes him quite unique, despite the negative reputation vampires have. Wick has had nothing but time up to this point. He doesn’t feel the need to make issues pressing. Nothing is urgent in his life. Until he meets Justice. His beloved.

‘Natural enemies can’t be mates.’ Or so Justice thought. He knows his skepticism and rejection is hurting his mate, so while he fights their connection, Wick gets help from a source very close to Justice to help him win his beloved’s heart. Wick is a force all on his own, but when he’s blessed with a special gift from the Mother herself, not even Justice’s powerful wolf can prevent the prophesy from being fulfilled.

Contains mature themes.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: When I was given A.E. Via’s Prophesy I didn’t know what to expect. I think I may have heard of the author before, but I’ve never read or heard any of their books in the past. However, I do love me a good shifter/vampire romance, and that made me keen to get through this.

The book starts when we meet Justice Volkov, the Alpha Zenith, i.e. the alpha of all alphas, for the wolf shape shifters. He is a powerful man, despite being only in his early thirties, and his wolf is just as powerful and just as formidable as the man. He doesn’t want to be weak and he wants to lead by example, so when it seems that shifters are causing issues, he wants to get straight into action to fix the problem. His wolf is almost uncontrollable when he meets and rejects his true mate. Justice feels like he has a lot of things to do before he can settle down with a mate, let alone his true mate. It just makes it worse in his human mind that his true mate is the king of the vampires. His wolf longs for his mate, even if the human struggles at first.

Chadwick Bentley, aka Wick, is the king of the vampires. He’s over one hundred years old. With the violence between the wolves and the vampires increasing, he is forced to go to America from his home base in England to deal with the situation personally. That is how he meets his beloved, his mate, and things do not go well at first. On top of this, Wick’s always known that he was different, other than being the king of the vampires, but it seems that his mating opens a whole can of worms. These guys have to work together to get their relationship on an even keel, as well as figure out what the heck is happening in the paranormal world and the new dangers arising that they have to deal with as a team.

Justice and Chadwick are a wonderful couple with explosive chemistry. Even though I didn’t know what to expect, I don’t think I expected the great character development of both the guys, despite the true mate situation usually meaning that we are getting an insta-love storyline. But there were plenty of struggles and that was awesome. I feel that also there was a definite difference shown in the age gap between the two men, because Wick showed a lot more maturity and poise than Justice. Although I’m sure if this is meant to be a product of their ages or of their species. Regardless, I liked it because you got to see them both “grow up” in different ways.

The audio performance by Nathaniel Black was sublime. Nathaniel Black does something that many narrators have trouble with, a credible accent for any foreign main character that didn’t take me a good ten minutes to get used of a slightly off accent. Let’s face it, going between American and English accents, as in the case of this book, can be odd. Beyond brilliant accents, Black also provided the perfect tone and timbre required for the tough and violent world of shape shifters and vampires in a world where interspecies relations is on the cusp of something big and catastrophic.

This was a surprisingly awesome read for me. This is great for people that love a shifter romance, although I felt that there is touch more depth, angst and darkness than some of the books out there, it’s definitely one of the better paranormal/shape shifter romances I’ve recently read. Since we already know the couple of the second book, I’m keen to find out what happens there too.

Prophesy by A.E. Via Audio Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Hi guys we have A.E. Via popping in today with her the tour for her new audio release Prophesy, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway where there’s some awesome prizes up for grabs including a $100 Amazon GC and 3x signed paperbacks (or ebook) copies of the Nothing Special series, and Prime’s review, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~

PROPHESY

The King & Alpha, 01

A.E. Via

Justice Volkov is the youngest Alpha Zenith to ever lead the wolf shifters. Following in his father’s large paw prints was a responsibility he met head on. Now at age 33, he is alpha of the alphas. As a direct descendant of the original Siberian pack, his wolf is bigger and stronger than Justice himself is sometimes able to control. His wolf howled long and hard, but Justice kept it inside. It felt like a bass drum beating against his rib cage. The harsh breaths, angry snarls, and the determined pacing inside him were overtaking him. Justice takes his role of leadership and his legacy very seriously. He has little time for romance, not to mention a true mate. His packs are his priority. With a human government trying to regulate them, an uprising of rogue shifters, and a violent team of scientists trying to experiment on them, Justice has his hands way too full.

Chadwick “Wick” Bentley is not enthusiastic when the captain of his escort tells him he has to leave his comfortable London home and go back to the States. As the Vampire King, he has no choice but to get his species back in line before they cause anymore chaos. At over 100 years old, Wick is no one to trifle with, but his smooth, charismatic manner makes him quite unique, despite the negative reputation vampires have. Wick has had nothing but time up to this point. He doesn’t feel the need to make issues pressing. Nothing is urgent in his life. Until he meets Justice. His beloved.

“Natural enemies can’t be mates.” Or so Justice thought. He knows his skepticism and rejection is hurting his mate, so while he fights their connection, Wick gets help from a source very close to Justice to help him win his beloved’s heart. Wick is a force all on his own, but when he’s blessed with a special gift from the Mother herself, not even Justice’s powerful wolf can prevent the prophesy from being fulfilled.

Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Continue reading “Prophesy by A.E. Via Audio Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!” →

Starting From Zero by Lane Hayes Audio Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Lane Hayes - Starting from Zero Audio Banner

Hi guys, we have Lane Hayes stopping by today with her new audio release Starting From Zero, we have a great excerpt and a fantastic $25 Amazon GC giveaway, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~

Starting From Zero

(Starting From… 01)

Michael Pauley ~ Narrator

Lane Hayes

Justin Cuevas is going through a rough patch. A broken relationship, a scandal, and the demise of his band have shaken the aspiring rock star’s confidence. Working two jobs and sleeping on his friend’s sofa isn’t ideal, but Justin isn’t ready to give up yet. With a little luck, he’s hoping to re-launch his music career in LA with his new band, Zero. The key is to stay focused, and not get distracted by his past…or the sexy songwriter he can’t get out of his head.

.•.•.**❣️ Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK❣️**.•.•.

Continue reading “Starting From Zero by Lane Hayes Audio Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!” →

You Are the Reason by Renae Kaye ~ Audio Review

Title: You Are the Reason

Series: The Tav 01

Author: Renae Kaye

Narrator: Dave Gillies

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 8 hrs, 19 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (1st March 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Davo’s a pretty average guy. He has a decent job, owns his own home, and spends his week-ends at the pub. He fully accepts that he’s gay, but doesn’t want to be one of those gays who are girly. He likes football and other masculine pursuits, and firmly avoids anything that could be seen as femme – including relationships that last beyond 15 minutes.

Then Davo’s friend and gay idol not only gets a boyfriend, but also adopts a baby girl. Davo is seriously spooked and scuttles down to the pub. That’s where he meets Lee, cute from her cherry-red hair to her pretty little dress and pointy red shoes. Davo is charmed – but how is that possible? He’s gay. Isn’t he? Then Lee tells him he’s actually a guy – he just likes to wear women’s dresses occasionally. Thoroughly confused about an attraction that’s out of character for him, Davo begins the long journey to where he can accept himself without caring what everyone else thinks.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Renae Kaye is a new author for me, which is surprising because I love to check out Australian MM authors, so no idea why it took me so long to get onto the band wagon. You Are the Reason is the first book in Kaye’s series, The Tav, a series that I’m interested in reading more of. This is a really awesome book where the MCs grow a lot as they become closer. The evolution of the characters was really the highlight of this book, although an Australian romance that isn’t based in Sydney (NSW), Melbourne (Vic) or on a farm (this one is based in Perth, Western Australia) is another highlight and refreshing.

The only issue I had was the narration. Dave Gillies, a new narrator for me, did a pretty damn good job and really providing the right tones for the characters throughout the book. My issue was the accent. I realise that narrators can’t always do a perfect accent and I know Australian accents are notoriously tricky (see how many times Hollywood manages to completely butcher the accent). However, there were times where the accent was just… not right. I think if you’re not Australian, the performance is all well and good, but for an Australian, I found it a little annoying at times.

Davo is your typical Aussie larrikan, right down to his name. He’s out and proud, has a good job, own’s his own home (a sure sign that this isn’t based in the eastern states! Haha!) and has some great family and friends. To add to the Aussie bloke persona, there are some lengthy discussions of Aussie Rules football. I think the explanations are easy enough to understand some of the rules, but I’ve gone read plenty of American football romances and ice hockey romances and I got no idea any of the rules of those games. Not that this is an important thing beyond the fact that Davo is a footy fan (I’m an Aussie that does not like AFL or NRL so it kinda makes me roll my eyes because not everyone is obsessed with football). Meeting Lee at a bar changes his entire world. Especially when he initially fears that he is a gay man attracted to a woman, when in fact Lee is a gay man who likes to occasionally dress in women’s clothing.

This is a really fascinating book. There is a brief discussion of trans people, especially when it’s clear that Davo really doesn’t understand the difference between transgender and transvestite (? I’m not sure if that’s the right wording and please do not be offended if I have got this wrong, I do not mean anything negative to anyone). It really digs a bit into the issues faced by the trans community from within the LGBTQI community. Another really important theme that makes up a majority of the book is the whole “Aussie bloke” and “don’t be fairy gay” and similar phrases that come up, particularly in Australia. I really enjoyed Davo’s storyline, finding out what made him think “it’s ok to be gay, as long as I don’t act like a girl” despite his supportive family and learning to overcome these thoughts as he grows closer to Lee. Lee is a refreshing character and totally wonderful, he has all the patience and love in the world and he is exactly what Davo needs!

Michael, Reinvented by Diana Copland ~ Audio Review

Title: Michael, Reinvented

Series: Delta Restorations 02

Author: Diana Copland

Narrator: Michael Pauley

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 8 hrs, 20 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (24th October 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Cute hipster and interior designer Michael doesn’t do love – not after his ex screwed him over. Sex is a different story, though, and the gentle giant who’s painting the mural in the old mansion they’re restoring might be perfect hookup material. Gil is just Michael’s type with his solid mus-cle, wicked sense of humor, and the hazel eyes that seem to see into Michael’s soul.

Trouble is, Gil does do love. He wants romance and forever, and he’s set his sights firmly on Michael. Michael’s not going there again.

Yet when Michael is the victim of a vandal who’s been plaguing the men working for Delta Res-toration, Renovation, and Design, Gil is the first person he tells. No matter how he fights it, it’s becoming harder and harder to deny he’s crazy about the guy – even if that thought terrifies him. But the true fear sets in when the criminal behavior escalates, and Michael realizes he might have lost the chance to tell Gil how he feels – forever.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Michael, Reinvented is the second book in Diana Copland’s Delta Restorations series. I accidently started listening to the audio of this book first, and then listened to the audio of the first book after, but that in no way took away from my enjoyment of the book. I love the characters, main and minor characters alike, and their depth, they are well developed without being outrageously complicated. On top of that, I love the chemistry between the main characters without being a case of insta-love or saturating the story with angst. Instead Michael and Gil’s story is a sweet romance between two strong men.

Michael and Gil appeared in book one, Gil’s interest in Michael was clear from the start. Michael is the best friend of David from book one, who is also his personal assistant at the job they worked at until the new restoration business takes off, which emphasises ties to the LBGTQI+ community and professionals. Gil is one of the workers, he’s a house painter with a hidden talent (at least to Michael) for creating beautiful works of art. Gil is a kind hearted man and is kindness and gentleness personified.

However, equally as clear was the fact that Michael is a soft-hearted romantic who firmly believes that love or a happily ever after is something that would never happen to him. Michael needs to get over his baggage and his reservations about relationships and when a sinister plot that leaves Gil severely injured emerges, Michael’s heart catches up to what his brain had already figured out.

Delta Restorations is a series that I sincerely hope that there are more stories (well, at least one other story because I would love to have a HEA for at least a couple of the guys on the restoration crew).

David, Renewed by Diana Copland ~ Audio Review

Title: David, Renewed

Series: Delta Restoration 01

Author: Diana Copland

Narrator: Michael Pauley

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 9 hrs, 2 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (16th Jan 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: When interior designer David Snyder buys a beautiful century-old house in eastern Washington, he is reeling with heartbreak and looking for somewhere to put down roots. Unfortunately his new home comes with a laundry list of problems: electrical, plumbing, heating…things David knows nothing about. When his mother offers him the business card of a local handyman, David pictures an overweight, balding man in his fifties. But Jackson Henry couldn’t be further from that stereotype.

Dark-haired, muscular, and handsome, Jackson left a large construction firm in Seattle to take care of his sick mother. However, his hometown still has an active “good old boy” network, and finding employment in construction is almost impossible for an openly gay man. Determined to persevere, Jackson takes odd jobs as a handyman. He’s exactly what David needs – in more ways than one.

David isn’t ready for his attraction to Jackson, not considering the way his last relationship end-ed. But as the two men get to know each other, it becomes clear that the heart often knows best, and it rewards those willing to listen.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: I was pleasantly surprised by just how awesome David, Renewed from Diana Copland’s Delta Restorations series. This is the first book in the series and the author is completely new to me, although I’ve seen the name pop up on Dreamspinner Press website.

Is it just me and I’m a complete weirdo, but sometimes I look at a book written by a new author (new to me anyway) and either the cover or authors name – which is in no way offensive – gives me warning vibes like I’ll probably not like the book? I know, I’m a strange sort of person. However, that was the vibe I got off this book, for no apparent reason because the blurb really appealed to me.

I will admit, I accidentally listened to this series out of order and by the time I realised it, I was too far in to bother. Doing so didn’t really ruin anything for me and it didn’t leave me confused when I listened to book 2 first. This was an awesome series. But specifically for this book, I loved the characters. Everyone, both MCs as well as the minor characters, were all brilliantly fleshed out and totally relatable. These are just ordinary guys living their own extraordinary life, living with their baggage and letting love happen. The chemistry between David and Jackson is both sweet and hot. Jackson is completely sexy and will definitely fulfil anyone’s need to read about sexy tradies.

The narration was also on point. Michael Pauley is not unknown to me as a narrator, his voice absolutely fitted the characters and he picked just the right tone for everyone involved. Really, it was something wonderful.

David has recently got out of a bad relationship and in his hurt and grief, he has impulsively brought a grand old home which he wants to bring back to its former glory. The only issue with that is, his buy was so impulsive he quickly finds out he needs to sink a lot more money into the project, which doesn’t help when his ex comes back trying to con money out of David. David is desperate for help and it is his mother that suggests a local handyman (construction worker?), who is the son of one of her friends, Jackson. David thinks Jackson is straight from the start but there is definite chemistry. The romance is slow to start between the men but once it ignites there is no stopping the fire caused by David and Jackson’s romance.

Jackson isn’t just a pretty face though. He had been forced to move back home when it became apparent that his mother, who has MS, needs someone close by but his brother and sister are too selfish to think of their mother. However, his mother is a sweetheart and when David and his mother get involved to help Jackson and his mother, the romance becomes something more and the mothers become this cute little cheer squad for the men.

In between all that is the issues surrounding Jackson and the contractors he uses to help restore David’s house – obviously they run against some homophobia. Which leads David, an interior designer, to come up with a mad cap idea which leads us directly into the next book.

His Leading Man by Ashlyn Kane ~ Audio Review

Title: His Leading Man

Series: Dreamspun Desires 59

Author: Ashlyn Kane

Narrator: Kenneth Obi

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 22 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (16th August 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Drew Beaumont is bored of the same old roles: action hero, supervillain, romantic lead. He’s not going to let a fresh gay buddy comedy languish just because they can’t find him the right costar. No, Drew bats his eyelashes and convinces everyone that the movie’s writer should play Drew’s not-so-straight man.

Aspiring writer Steve Sopol has never had a screenplay optioned. Now, one of Hollywood’s hot-test properties wants to be in a movie Steve hasn’t finished writing – and he wants Steve as his costar. Turns out the chemistry between them is undeniable – on and offscreen.

Drew swore off dating in the biz, but Steve is the whole package: sharp, funny, humble, and cute. For Steve, though, giving in to the movie magic means the end of the privacy he cherish-es.
Will the credits roll before their ride into the sunset?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: His Leading Man by Ashlynn Kane is from the Dreamspun Desires line, so the blurb (and the story) was exactly what I expected, a really light, sweet romance. This is a fairytale Hollywood romance between one of the most popular, in demand actors, and the indie screenwriter/script doctor he cons into playing his leading man. I’m pretty sure I know the author, Ashlynn Kane, from Dreamspun Desire stories – I really don’t know – but the story was enough to draw me since I have read this before and enjoyed it. I was just super keen to hear the audio.

The narration is done by Kenneth Obi. I know his work mostly from listening to Dreamspun Desire and Dreamspun Beyond audios and I haven’t come across a performance that I didn’t like. Not so long ago Obi was a new narrator to me, but I have now come to look forward to listening to his work. He’s really good at injecting the necessary emotion, the highs and the lows and keep me engrossed.
The story surrounds Drew Beaumont, a Hollywood superstar and Steve, a script doctor and script writer who wants to make his own way in the world without depending on the popularity of his family.

Drew Beaumont has been cast as all the usual hero and romantic roles before. He wants to get his teeth into something different, something that will challenge him as an actor. He finds that when he reads the script of an unknown screenwriter. It’s something of a buddy comedy that ends with a gay romance. Drew wants to star in this movie and make it happen at any cost. The only problem is that he can’t find an actor that fits the role of his best friend/love interest. And so that is when he manages to get his agent (and a good friend to Steve) to convince the writer, Steve Sopol, to add acting to his repertoire.

Steve isn’t an international man of mystery, or someone with stars in their eyes or a shady past. There are a couple of surprising revelations about Steve, but other than that, he is a nice, down to earth sort of guy. He does live with his mother, who is always flitting around, but that does not make him a mama’s boy in the least.

Steve and Drew have a wonderful instant chemistry but thankfully they foster it and don’t rush into romance or any I-love-yous. If you don’t like insta-love, this book will still appeal. They need to navigate their way through Hollywood to become that fairytale couple that it was obvious they would become. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good Hollywood style romance.

Banded Together by K.C. Burn ~ Audio Review

Title: Banded Together

Author: K.C. Burn

Narrator: Darcy Stark

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs, 30 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (24th April 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Punk’s not dead, but it’s time to redefine life.

Devlin Waters thought he’d have music forever. But the tragic death of his best friend ended the twenty-year run of his punk band, Negative Impression. Unable to process the loss, Devlin dis-tances himself from everyone and everything that reminds him of the band. But forty-one is too young to curl up and wait for the end. In a search for a second career, he finds himself at uni-versity with a bunch of kids young enough to be… his kids. His sexy archeology professor, however, makes Devlin think about life beyond his grief….

Dr. Jack Johnson does not appreciate Devlin’s lack of respect, his inability to be serious, or his chronic lateness. Worse, he hates that he’s attracted to a student. When he realizes Devlin is the rock star he crushed on in his youth, he drops his guard—against his better judgment.

Before they can move forward together, Jack must admit to Devlin that he’s not only an admir-er, but he also sings in a cover band. How will Devlin react to his ultimate fanboy when his own music has died?

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Banded Together, by KC Burn is a pretty complex story that, when it comes down to it, is something awesome. I really don’t have any need to dance around the point. I like the author well enough and find it very easy to connect with Burn’s writing, although I don’t include Burn on my automatic read list (yet?).

This is a story of loss, moving on and finding a different and completely fulfilling type of love. With the mental anguish and grief which is front and centre in this story, I really loved how Stark captured these feelings. This is a great example of how an excellent narrator can keep the person in the world of the story and feel that direct connection with the main characters. Darcy Stark is a new narrator to me, I’ve not listened to the other audio I have with his narration, but that is another KC Burn book that I am looking forward to. In terms of this book, the narration was totally on point.

Devlin Walters and Dr Jack Johnson appear to be polar-opposites on the surface. Devlin is a 41-year-old ex-punk star, popular all over the world, who has turned to completing his archaeology degree after life changing events. Dr Jack Johnson is 35 and a lecturer/academic in archaeology at the university Devlin attends. He’s a little surly when it comes to students who he feels do not take their studies seriously. But on the inside Devlin is broken man, and Jack isn’t so much a prim-proper academic.

Devlin and his best friend from the age of three formed a band, they added a couple more bandmates and became world famous. However, his world shattered when his best friend died some months ago. He’s pushed everyone away, even his mother who he is now living with. Devlin is struggling with life after such a massive loss and no longer feels the music inside. When he decides to go back and finish the studies he started his first positive emotion in months is his fascination with his very hot professor.

Jack isn’t just a quiet professor with a brilliant brain, he also happens to be the singer in a cover band that performs Devlin’s songs. In fact, Jack had a major crush on Devlin when he was a teenager and Devlin was a worldwide star. However, since he has changed his appearance and out of his performing person, Jack doesn’t realise who Devlin is.

This is a slow burn romance. The men both approach a relationship with trepidation, but it is Jack who is helping piece back Devlin’s heart together. Devlin needs to learn not to shut out those that love him and come to terms with the fact that he might not want to be in the limelight again. By the end I was very satisfied and had shed more than a few tears.

Jack is a character that I relate to, at least professionally. A lot of stuff he says in terms of students is something that I’ve felt and discussed with other academics when I taught at a university. With that foot in the door, Jack was so easy to understand and get. Even though I’m a scientist, I’m interested in archaeology and my sister is a historian/archaeologist, so those profession specific thoughts is something else I found easy to relate to.

I recommend this book to those that love a slow burn romance with a touch of angst, also people that like when two men find out that they have a lot more in common than they first thought.

Coaches Challenge by Avon Gale ~ Audio Review

Title: Coach’s Challenge

Series: Scoring Chances 05

Author: Avon Gale

Narrator: Scott R Smith

Genre: Contemporary, Sports

Length: 6 hrs, 50 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: It’s been decades since blackmail forced Troy Callahan to retire from playing professional hockey, and he’s built a successful career behind the bench. When he’s offered the opportuni-ty to coach the Asheville Ravens—the most hated team in the ECHL—he’s convinced that his no-nonsense attitude is just what the team needs to put their focus back on hockey. But Troy is disheartened when he finds that the Ravens have signed Shane North, a player known for his aggression. And it only gets worse when Shane’s rough good looks give Troy inappro-priate thoughts about a member of his team, even if Shane’s set to retire at the end of the sea-son.

Shane’s career in the majors never quite took off. Wanting to quit on his own terms, Shane agrees to a one-year contract with the Ravens and finds himself playing for a coach who thinks he’s an aging goon and with a team that doesn’t trust him, the coach, or each other. Despite his determination to not get involved, Shane unwillingly becomes part of the team… and is just as unwillingly drawn to the gruff out-and-proud coach. As the Ravens struggle to build a new identity, Shane and Troy succumb to the passion that might cost them everything.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Coach’s Challenge is the fifth book in Avon Gale’s Scoring Chances series. Not to be mixed up with, which is what I did, with VL Locey’s book of the same name from one of her excellent hockey romance series.

For me it’s been a couple years since I’ve read the Scoring Chances series, but I remember absolutely loving it and had been more than happy devouring them all at the time. This is a series that I recommend reading in order, even for those that just need to refresh what happened in the previous books of the series. This book is something that irons out a lot of the hurts of the previous books, as the team that had caused so much heartache undergo a change and become more tolerant and open under the support of a new coach. This is the story of the Raven’s redemption and you also really need to understand the hate and heartache directed at other teams that made the Asheville Raven’s the ECHL’s most hated team.

The MCs of this story are Troy Callahan and Shane North.

Troy Callahan is the coach. He didn’t have an easy time in his professional playing career (I won’t spoil anything!) but over the years has proved himself to be a damn good coach. Now, after replacing the unethical and all around horrible coach of the Asheville Ravens, it is his job to build the team up. (Think the Mighty Ducks if they had been made up of mostly brutish, homophobic a-holes). He has a plan for the team and the last thing the team needs is a player known for being aggressive.

Shane North has something to prove. He’s coming towards the end of his playing and feels like he needs to prove himself as a hockey player after a lackluster career in the majors. Shane is a lot different to what people assume of him, especially when they see him on the hockey rink. It’s really pleasing to see him open himself up to Troy.

Fans of the books will not be disappointed I think. It gives the Ravens a new lease on life after being totally vilified for four books. Sports romance fans will love this series too.

The narration by Scott R Smith is really quite wonderful. I would assume that it is difficult to capture the romance in between all the testosterone filled hockey plays, as well as dealing with the fall out as the Ravens seek their redemption. Smith gives the characters distinct voices and conveys their emotions, both on the rink and off. Listening to the audio has definitely enhanced my enjoyment of this book.

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PROPHESY

A.E. Via

Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

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Starting From Zero

Lane Hayes

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