Tag: GLBT Action/Adventure

Touch & Geaux by Abigail Roux

???????????????????????????????????????Title: Touch & Geaux

Series: Cut & Run 07

Author: Abigail Roux

Genre: Action, Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, Contemporary

Length: Super Novel (349pgs)

Publisher: Riptide Publishing (8th April 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: After having their faces plastered across the news during a high-profile case, FBI Special Agents Ty Grady and Zane Garrett have become more useful to the Bureau posing for photo ops than working undercover. Just as Zane is beginning to consider retirement a viable option, Ty receives a distress call from a friend, leading them to a city rife with echoes from the past.

New Orleans wears its history on its streets, and it’s the one place Ty’s face could get him killed. Surrounded by trouble as soon as they land, Ty and Zane are swiftly confronted with a past from which Ty can’t hide—one with a surprising connection to Zane’s.

As threats close in from all directions, both men must come to terms with the lives they’ve led and the lies they’ve told. They soon discover that not all their secrets are out yet, and nothing lasts forever.

Purchase Link: http://www.riptidepublishing.com/titles/touch-geaux

Review: This story is part of a series and must be read in order. Grady and Zane both know that undercover work might not be an option anymore after their pictures are plastered on the news. With over twenty years in the Bureau, Zane just might consider retirement. But, when Ty receives a call from a friend in need, they drop everything to get to New Orleans. But, New Orleans holds secrets from Ty’s past.  One that briefly crosses paths with Zane’s past. As Ty and Zane face threats from the past, Ty’s secrets shake loose and Zane is left reeling. Can Zane and Ty escape from the past and New Orleans alive… and more importantly together?

Ho-ly crap!! This is an action packed, emotional rollercoaster, secret filled, jaw dropping, grin inducing story that you won’t want to put down. This story digs deep into the past and into the secrets that Ty holds close. It’s a story that will make you gasp in shock, moan in despair and grit your teeth in frustration. Forget all the books before, because this is the book that defines Ty and Zane.  This is the book that could make or break them and this is the book that leaves you reeling in shock, heartbreak, betrayal and hope. All the while you root for our guys and pray that it all works out.

Abigail Roux has crafted an incredible story, while keeping the storyline fresh and interesting. she pulls us into Ty and Zane’s world again giving them insurmountable obstacles to overcome. Not only do we get the incredible Zane and Ty, but we also get Digger, Owen, Kelly and Nick… oh. And I can’t forget blast from Ty’s past, Liam. All the characters play brilliantly off each other giving the story an edge. So that’s about all I will say about this book. Because I refuse to ruin it for anyone. And this is one book that has to be read to discover the incredible secrets it has hidden. Oh and Abigail Roux… the ending, how could you!

The only recommendation that I can give is to read this book. It isn’t to be missed and if you have read the other books then *scream* you will never believe what’s awaiting you!! And if you haven’t read any of the other books… welcome to Earth, alien visitors.

 

Splintered Lies by Diane Adams and RJ Scott

Title: Splintered Lies

Series: In the Shadow of the Wolf 03

Author: Diane Adams & R.J. Scott

Genre: Shifters, Alternative World

Length: Novella (164pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (29th September 2012)

Heat: Moderate

Heart: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Joe is consumed with grief about his wife and baby and wants nothing more than to lash out. Nick is Joe’s best friend, but he will do anything to help Joe fight the people who want to kill them both.

Joe Christie is consumed with grief, and when new information about his wife and baby comes to light, his first instinct is to kill.

Nick Alexander is first and foremost Joe’s best friend. When Joe met Mara, Nick stood to one side and respected Joe’s decision to settle down, despite being in love with the man who was his lover. Now, in the middle of a case that is murder and betrayal, he has to fight his love for Joe and the people who are trying to kill them both.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/772

Review: This story is part of a series and I recommend they be read in order. Joe is still grieving the loss of his wife and unborn baby when he is told new information about them.  Rage strikes and he needs the help of his friends to get to the truth. Nick is Joe’s best friend and ex-lover and has stood on the side lines for years and is there for Joe no matter what.  But, getting Joe to keep calm is next to impossible when they discover the depths that some humans have gone to.

Splintered Lies is the third book In the Shadow of the Wolf series and is an excellent addition to the series. Joe suffers from grief over the loss of his wife and baby, but he also harbors guilt over his attraction to Nick.  He forces himself to ignore the attraction, as he tries to discover the truth about the new information.  But, as he struggles with his emotions, his need of Nick won’t be denied. Nick stood aside when Joe chose Mara, but he never stopped loving him. After the shocking revelations concerning a senator, Nick knows that Joe needs him more than ever, but will Joe ever accept what Nick has to offer?

I must admit to being torn with some of the storyline. I wasn’t quite sure how to take Joe’s adamant vows of love for Mara, who was he trying to convince, himself or me? It was also the way that he phased his relationship with Mara as ‘He had made a choice’ and ‘The decision had been a good one’ it seemed cynical. Anyway, the rest of the book was spanking good, his guilt over feeling attraction to Nick made sense and his rage when the new information came out was not unexpected. Nick was a darling, pure and simple; he was there for Joe through everything and loved him that much, that he let him go with no recriminations.

The new discoveries that the men made were haunting and there is a bit of danger as a result. there are some passionate sex scenes with one or two tinged with guilt. Joe and Nick are great characters and we also get to see characters from previous books as they are still integral to the continued storyline.  There’s angst, guilt, anger, rage, grief and some happiness. Joe has been through a lot and it leads others to make choices about how shifters should really be treated.  Nick also goes through a lot and it shows just what a strong character he is, that he can let things go when some of us might have been screaming blue murder.

So, I will recommend this to those who love shifters, danger, a complex continued storyline, a range of emotional distress, some hot lovin’ and a new beginning for Nick and Joe.

 

We Are The Guardians by Edward Kendrick

Title: We Are the Guardians

Series: Phoenix Rising 02

Author: Edward Kendrick

Genre: Contemporary, Action, Adventure

Length: Super Novel (390pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (15th September 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: In addition to their work with Phoenix Rising, Giuliana and Roger are secret operatives for a group run by the ‘old man’. As danger and emotions heat up, will the team members be able to keep their focus on the missions at hand?

With someone out to kill Gregory, head of Phoenix Rising security, Roger Nielson, and new player in the game, Rico Ferranti help keep him and his lover, Daniella, safe; assisted by Giuliana Salvaggi.

Once Gregory’s problem is solved, Robin Seawood, who works for a clandestine group of secret operatives run by the ‘old man’, as does Roger, recruits both Giuliana and Rico to join them, much to Roger’s dismay.

As danger and emotions heat up, will the team members be able to keep their focus on the missions at hand?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/876

Review: Roger doesn’t just work for Phoenix Rising; he is also a secret operative for a clandestine group who take care of problems that governments can’t touch. now his control (Robin) has approached Giuliana to join the group. Gregory gets a warning that an enemy from his past is looking for him and with the help of an old ally Rico, Roger and Giuliana they protect Daniella and confront the enemy. Robin makes it his mission to get Rico on board and before long; Roger and Rico have to confront their feelings, before one of them ends up dead.

This is a well written story that is written in Parts, so it is as though you get a series of stories from this complex group of people as they are drawn into the workings of the ‘old man’. It’s difficult to delve into the storyline, as although we have the main romance of Roger and Rico, there is also Giuliana who develops a relationship, secrets are revealed and enemies come out of the woodwork. We see the type of work that the ‘old man’ assigns and the type of people who are eliminated.

First off, let’s talk about the action; it’s good, really good. you never quite know what is going to come next or what type of assignment we are going to see next. Then there is the sexual tension, Rico and Roger are a very conflicted pair. They both hate each other, but something lingers behind all the hate and when Roger is hurt trying to prove himself, Rico questions his own actions. This is a suspense/action story that you don’t want to end, just because you want to see what the next mission will be and who is assigned it.

We don’t see much of Urbain and Con in this one, but they are there, especially when everything comes pouring out at the end. This story definitely leans more towards the clandestine actions of the security staff of Phoenix Rising, and questions that sneak up on you throughout the book are answered near the end.

So, all in all this is a well-rounded book of rescues, assassinations, explosions and discovering allies and enemies and I have to recommend it to everyone who enjoys all of the above, along with two men falling in love and Giuliana getting her happy ever after as well.

The Ballad of the Burning Year by Augusta Li

Title: The Ballad of the Burning Year

Author: Augusta Li

Genre: Fantasy, Incest (Brothers), Action, Adventure

Length: Super Novel (437pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (18th August 2012)

Heat: Explicit

Heart: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Brothers Kei-Go and Ju-Go barely escaped the destruction of their homeland by a savage race of invaders, only to find themselves stranded on an isolated island. Kei wants to stay safe, but Ju craves vengeance. Who will win the argument?

Brothers Kei-Go and Ju-Go barely escaped the destruction of their homeland by a savage race of invaders, only to find themselves stranded on an isolated island. For Kei, the island is a paradise, safe from the horrors of slavery and war. But Ju craves only vengeance and the liberation of their people.

Kei and Ju gradually formulate a plan to free their kinsmen, and while implementing it, they’ll make unlikely allies and cross lines they never thought they would, all for the good of their people.

Will they sacrifice their ideals in the name of vengeance? Are they willing to give up their forbidden love, and any chance of happiness, for the greater good?

CONTENT ADVISORY: This title contains incest and scenes of rape or near rape.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1183

Review: Kei and Ju have been stranded on an Island since they escaped from the invaders of their homeland. Kei is happy on the Island, but Ju is burning with revenge for their people. When they have visitors and they learn of the true plight of their people, Kei has no choice but to lose his paradise and his lover to rescue his people. Ju just wants his vengeance and will accept the limited help of his enemy to do it and he will put aside his love to get freedom for his people.

Augusta Li has produced a story that makes you keep reading as you follow the progress of two brothers who lead their people to freedom. Kei and Ju fought against the invaders as their land was destroyed. They were captured and finally escaped, living on a paradise. Island Kei is happy, but Ju can’t stop thinking about his homeland and what happened. And now, finally an opportunity arises that means they can help their people from the enforced slavery and rules of the invaders. But, just what lengths will they have to go to, to liberate their people and is it a price they can pay?

This story is all from Kei’s POV and it is he, who suffers the most for his brother’s need for vengeance. Kei and Ju might be brothers but they are lovers of the heart. They belong together, but their people puts taboos on relationships like theirs. Kei is happy with how things are and would be happier if Ju would bond with him, but Ju holds back. Ju is burning up with his need for revenge and pushes his brother more than he realizes. They have a true love, but it is far from easy for them. I must admit that although I loved the way this was written I would have loved it even more if we could have had a peek into Ju’s head to see how he really felt and thought about things.

This is not an easy review to write because there is more at work than a simple storyline than the liberation of the Elim. It is also about the sacrifices two brothers have to make in the process and not just their own relationship, but with what Kei has to do with forbidden magic. even knowing that if any of his kinsmen ever found out he would be banished even if it was for the good of his race. The only thing that keeps poor Kei going is the belief in his brother’s love and the hope for the future. Now this is a warning, Kei does have a couple of different partners in this, with his brother’s blessing, of course, but all the encounters are beautifully done. There is danger, violence, betrayal, forbidden love, secret allies and unexpected friends that make this book what it is.

I have to recommend this to those who love fantasy, an uprising of a downtrodden race, two determined brothers who want to love each other and an ending that is explosive, violent and gives the Elim a bargaining chance.

All or Nothing at All by Carolina Valdez

Title: All or Nothing at All

Author: Carolina Valdez

Genre:  Gay / Science Fiction / Futuristic / Action / Adventure / Ménage (M/M/M) / Group Sex / Exhibitionism / Public Places

Length: 156 Pages

Publisher:  Amber Quill Press (November 13, 2011)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb:  Duty robbed them of their last night together. A deadly fireball struck Earth’s New Los Angeles in the late afternoon, and instead of an evening of dinner and passionate sex with his lover, Battalion Chief David Garrison reported for duty and led his elite fire warrior squadron to fight the raging flames engulfing historic L.A. At first light the next morning, duty sends David’s lover, Dillon Rapner, a special agent working undercover, off world to ferret out the source of these incendiary bombs destroying Old Town.

During his search, Dillon is captured and enslaved for several years on another planet. Only thoughts of returning to David, the man he would love forever, keeps Dillon alive and determined to escape.

Never in his wildest imaginings, however, did Dillon expect that when he returned to Earth he’d find another man in David’s bed…

Product Link:  http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/AllOrNothing.html

Reviewer:  Madison

Review: Well, the blurb pretty much gives everything about the plot away except for the resolution, which you can probably guess before even reading the first sentence. At least I did. I would have enjoyed this one more had I not read the blurb beforehand. There simply weren’t any surprises in the story.

Kudos to the author for making me cry, though. My heart went out to poor Dillon. I can overlook a lot of problems if I’m drawn into the story emotionally, and I was. I also enjoyed the world building. Especially the futuristic sex toys.

A good editor would have probably scrapped a few lines here and there. For example, the explanation about why they weren’t using condoms (thanks to modern medicine) was silly, and not something either of the men would have been thinking about in the heat of the moment. There were also at least three places where the wrong name was used (David instead of Dillon, or vice versa). I had been so proud of myself for keeping the two D’s straight, and then the name errors pulled me out of the story. These were minor disturbances, though. Overall, the writing was good and it was a quick, enjoyable read.

Cooper's Promise by Timothy Jay Smith

Title:  Cooper’s Promise

Author:  Timothy Jay Smith

Publisher:  iUniverse (January 16th, 2012)

Genre:  Action/Adventure

Length:  Novel (220pages)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Heart

Blurb:  Army sharpshooter and deserter Cooper Chance is trapped. Recruited from Iraq to fight in an African country ravaged by a chronic civil war, Cooper wants nothing more than to go home. Unfortunately, the only thing waiting for him in America is jail, and Cooper is acutely claustrophobic. Whether he likes it or not, he now leads the life of a mercenary, in a gritty world filled with thugs, prostitutes and corrupt cops.

To survive his desperate circumstances, Cooper trades diamonds. One day he wanders into a diamond shop, where he meets Sadiq, a young merchant as lost in the world as he is. As they fall in love, Cooper has no idea Sadiq has ulterior motives. Meanwhile huge oil reserves are discovered nearby, and the CIA offers Cooper a way home without jail time if Cooper agrees to carry out a risky, high-stakes mission.

Cooper will do anything to get home – except sell his soul to the devil. But when a teenage prostitute he has promised to save suddenly disappears, Cooper finally relents. Unfortunately, he has no idea that unexpected consequences wait.

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/Coopers-Promise-Timothy-Jay-Smith/dp/1462084087

Reviewer:  Showme

Review:  I should start off by saying this was a more somber read than my normal books of choice. That being said, I was compelled to read it and the sad truths it held. I was wary about starting it, but once I did, Mr. Smith hooked me. Cooper is a soldier trapped in Lalanga.  He’s forced to leave his post because of an affair with his CO, who is in denial of his preference for men.  The situation was life or death for Cooper. Leaving meant he was a deserter. So he’s trying to survive when he happens upon one of Lalanga’s many brothels and meets a girl name Lulay whom he has an instant need to protect. She says she seventeen, but it’s closer to fifteen.  It’s not like there aren’t hundreds like her, but this one girl gives him a purpose beyond surviving the hot hell that is Lalanga.  He’s in no position to save her so he does the best he can. Buys her time, condoms and protects her when he can. To make money he buys stolen blood diamonds from the children who work the mines. It’s dangerous to steal from the Colonel Diamond, but the living conditions are so poor they risk the danger.

Cooper sells the diamonds to diamond business man in town. One day he walks into the shop and sees a beautiful boy named, Sadiq, the owner’s son. Cooper is immediately intrigued by the boy and seeks him out whenever possible. They develop a friendship while Cooper secretly hopes for more. The duties expected of Sadiq as the only son of his family make admitting his preference for men impossible. So they steal away moments of passion where they can.

When Cooper is busted by the local dirty police chief, he’s pushed into a situation needing the help of an annoyingly ever-present CIA agent. The agent requests Cooper’s help with a major task based on his special skills. Cooper refuses until the situation with Lulay is dire. Her owner has plans to sell her to a possibly worse situation. Cooper can’t buy anymore diamonds to sell. When he goes to find her he learns she’s been sold. Frantic with worry he goes to the CIA agent to make a deal for finding Lulay. The tension builds as the books final pages play out.

I, of course, won’t give away the ending, but it’s safe to say this wasn’t an easy read. The conditions these people lived in hurt my heart. This is a tale of girls and boys being sold or tricked into prostitution, ruthless evil men doing as they please and a lovely but tragic possible romance between two men hoping for the chance to love.

 

Solid as Stone by Amylea Lyn

Title: Solid as Stone

Series: The Brotherhood 01

Author: Amylea Lyn

Genre: Science Fiction, Contemporary, Action

Length: Novel (243pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (21st July 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: The Brotherhood is seeking their freedom, and one man holds the key. When the father’s sins come to light, can one shy doctor and a tough assassin work together or will past scars be too much for them to overcome?

Stone’s life is one of ordered control. As a child he was experimented on and turned into something more than human. Now the leader of The Brotherhood, an elite group of soldier assassins, he is given the task of eradicating the man who possibly holds the key to his freedom.

When Dr Wesley Folcomb finds himself targeted by the government group that killed his father, he is forced to seek safety from the very assassin sent to eliminate him.

On the run for their lives, Wesley and Stone grow close but with such different pasts, can they find love? Or will the danger hunting them cause their relationship to crumble before it has a chance to become as solid as stone?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/917/

Review: Wesley is shocked when he finds his father’s notes among his mother’s things. They detail an experiment that was overtaken by the government years ago. Now, Wesley faces the results of the government experiment as they are sent to bring him in. Stone is amazed when he discovers who Wesley really is and begins to hope he is the answer to his and his brother’s problems. But, first they have to lose the The Company and their Alters.

Amylea Lyn has produced an interesting story that begins with a naive scientist and government betrayal and is obviously the beginning to a brilliant new series. Wesley is a brilliant man, but he is hopeless in social settings. When he teams up with Stone, his awkwardness is apparent, but his sweetness shines through. Stone has never been allowed to have emotions and has had them beaten out of him, but The Company failed and although Stone is very awkward with his emotions and very rusty with them, they are still there and very apparent when he talks about or is with his brothers.

Seeing Wesley and Stone fumble about with their feelings for each other is quite sweet. But, we are always reminded that they are in danger and The Company will never stop looking for them. Stone has five brothers and we meet each of them; Fury, Blade, Trigger, Ghost and Locke. When Stone discovers who Wesley is, they all defect from The Company and they have to stay one step ahead not to fall into their hands again. The Company wants Wesley and they are determined to find out what he knows about his father’s experiment and discovery.

The storyline is really good and the plot is interesting. The characters are brilliant. I can’t wait for the other brothers’ stories so they can begin to heal emotionally. There are times of danger, times of loving and times of anger and they all blend well. I really did enjoy this story, but at times I felt disconnected from the story and I can’t even tell you why. I would be in the story and then suddenly I would seem to drift for a few pages. I’d read it, but it was as though those few pages was filler with no substance, which really was a shame because Amylea Lyn has developed a really good story base and some brilliant characters. She has great baddies and a brilliant lead for the next book.

I will recommend this to those who like secret government agencies (baddies), a collection of hot men who want to be normal, two men falling in sweet love, hot sex and an ending that makes us want the next book now.

 

 

Full Circle by RJ Scott

Title: Full Circle

Series: A Sanctuary Story 05

Author: R.J. Scott

Genre: Action, Contemporary

Length: Novel (187pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (23rd June 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Manny Sullivan is the backbone of Sanctuary and involved in every mission. After rescuing Josh Headley, his skill helps Sanctuary to solve the Bullen case. When Manny risks his life could it be time for Josh to risk his heart?

Manny Sullivan is the backbone of Sanctuary. He has his fingers in every pie and when he spots Josh Headley where he shouldn’t be, it is Manny who goes in and rescues him.

Josh is in Sanctuary witness protection after his dad turns on the Bullens. Not only is his dad a murderer but his ex is a liar who was using him for information. With his skill in information retrieval, he hopes to make a contribution to the solution.

What started with the death of Elisabeth Costain is drawing to a close and Josh and Manny are in the middle of it all.

When Manny risks his life could it finally be time for Josh to risk his heart?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1098/

Review: Whoo hoo. Its Manny’s book. the one that I have been waiting ages for. Josh needs to know the truth so he leaves Sanctuary to hunt for answers. But, he didn’t count on Manny’s sharp eyes. Manny races to the rescue, before Josh is caught where he shouldn’t be. Manny has a bit of a mysterious past and he has put it far behind him. But, now for his Sanctuary family, he digs it up and revisits the past to try to bring the Bullens down.

Ohhh Manny, what secrets have you been hiding? Josh needs to know the truth. Was his boyfriend just using him? When Manny discovers Josh where he shouldn’t be, he is the closest person to get Josh out before it goes wrong. Manny insists on Josh’s assistance when he discovers the extent of the other man’s computer skills, so when Manny goes in as bait, Josh is his handler. But Josh and Manny have started to become close and Josh is terrified something will go wrong.

I really enjoyed this Sanctuary story, as we really get to know Manny. Finally, after seeing him in so many of the other stories. His interaction with Josh is really good. Although, they do get physical Manny realizes that as the Bullen case heats up he has to put off his wants until a later date. Josh doesn’t really know what to expect, as he is in witness protection and he doesn’t see it ending anytime soon. So, getting involved with Manny will have to be temporary… although, he longs for more. Manny and Josh are really hot together and you can feel for both of them as they struggle to find a way to make it work in the longer term.

The storyline for this was a bit tenser, as everyone is digging as deep as they can to get concrete evidence on the Bullens. Beautifully done, such a twist right at the end, and the Bullen brothers no longer have financial backing. Ha. serves them right. We also get a brief glimpse of Sean (FBI mole) and that leaves us with something to chew on for the future.

So I highly recommend this if you like intrigue, a touch of action, adrenalin rushes, some really hot sex, guns, computers and a happy ending. (Make sure you keep an eye out for Jake’s and Sean’s story around November time.)

 

 

The Sea Vixen by Pelaam

Title: The Sea Vixen

Series: A Demonica Story 03

Author: Pelaam

Genre: Action, Adventure, Paranormal, Alternate World

Length: Novella (99pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (23rd June 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Frank thinks proposing to Nathan is his hardest task until an ancient evil is disturbed. The crew of the Sea Vixen faces a powerful adversary. They must prevent the evil from escaping a remote island into the world.

Frank Reinhart thinks his hardest task is plucking up the courage to propose to Nathan, his lover, until an ancient evil is disturbed on a remote island. Called in to investigate strange deaths, the crew members of the Sea Vixen find they are facing a powerful preternatural adversary–a centuries old demonic creature released from its prison. A way must be found to prevent the evil escaping from the remote island into the world at large. But in answering the call for help, Frank also finds himself vying with the beast for the life and soul of his young lover.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/799/

Review: The Sea Vixen is a submarine and its crew is tasked to missions involving the supernatural. Frank has been dithering over asking Nathan to marry him and has now plucked up the courage to ask when they are both next on leave.  But, before that can happen, they are sent on a mission which makes him realize that the time for dithering is over.

This is a well written paranormal novella. Frank and Nathan have been together for five months. It hasn’t been perfect, what with different working shifts, but what time they do have together is perfect. Frank has been thinking of asking Nathan to marry him, but because Nathan is ten years younger, he worries that he will say no. But that is all put into perspective when the next mission they are on puts Nathan in danger from a supernatural being that is determined to have him.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it had a great storyline where a military type unit was set up to investigate paranormal actions that would do harm. Frank and Nathan are members of that unit and began a relationship that has blossomed even under the limited quality time that they have together. Frank and Nathan love each other deeply and it is lucky for them that they do, because there is something which is determined to have Nathan after it spots him and it is only their love which stops him from succumbing to the creatures allure.

All the characters including supporting characters are well written and you get to know them quite well, they add a lot to the depth of the story and they do intrigue you about what skills they possess. Nathan and Frank are quite something together, very hot and erotic, but you can clearly see that the sex isn’t just all that is between them. They both genuinely care about the other and it shines through in different ways for both of them.  For Frank it’s his worry over what could happen to Nathan and his need to protect him. for Nathan it’s his full belief in their love and his belief in Frank as a man who keeps him tethered in his time of need.

So, I will recommend this to those who love the paranormal, supernatural, strong surviving love, military men (some who aren’t too bright) and a really happy ending.

 

 

 

The Mystery of Ruby Lode by Scotty Cade

Title:  The Mystery of Ruby Lode

Series:  N/A

Author:  Scotty Cade

Genre:    Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Gay, Historical, Paranormal/Alternate World, Romance, Thriller, Western

Length:  Novel

Publisher:  Silver Publishing (May 26, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts                                                                       

Blurb:   Something left behind in the abandoned Ruby Lode gold mine attacks four friends, exploiting their weaknesses and insecurities, threatening their sanity, friendship, and ultimately their lives. Can they solve the mystery of Ruby Lode in time to save each other?

After six long months of research, adventure seekers Bowen McAlister, Cyrus Curran, Duff Gentry, and Lockhart Dawson are on their way to Boulder, Colorado to explore Ruby Lode, an abandoned gold mine. Duff, a born psychic, senses something isn’t quite right, and the closer they get, the more his unease grows.

Something left behind long ago in the deep shafts and drifts of Ruby Lode makes its presence known by exposing dark, heavily guarded secrets.  Preying on each of their weaknesses and insecurities, Ruby Lode’s own destructive secret threatens their sanity, friendship, and ultimately their lives.

CONTENT ADVISORY: This story contains elements of rape/near rape.

Product Link:  https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/new-release-c-1/products_id/849/?zenid=5b689a0780bf14b69461002bfeb4fb57

Reviewer:   Portia

Review:  Normally, I begin a review with a bit of a blurb.  But, I have to preface that with a bit of a confession.  I am always nervous when an author jumps genre.  I know, that sounds petty, but oh well.  Sue me.  I like when my favorite writers are predictable and consistent.  But, every now and then, one of them surprises me.  Scotty Cade shocked the hell out of me…in the nicest possible way.

Now as a writer, I can tell you flashbacks can be hard to pull off.  If you put them in the wrong place, or cover the wrong time frame, you can lose your reader.  Scotty Cade pulled wove flashbacks into this entire story brilliantly.  The Mystery of Ruby Lode begins at the beginning, in the spring of 1914.  Frink and his best friend Counter are two young prospectors trying to strike it rich.  Realizing that they lack both experience and equipment, they hook up with two other miners to better their odds of actually striking gold.  Before they can pull a single piece of ore out of the ground disaster strikes.

Then, we jump to present day.  The four friends have been on this type of adventure before.  But, this time is different. This time not only their lives are in danger, but their very sanity.

This is a fabulous romantic suspense.  I can’t say that enough times.  Absolutely brilliant.  The pacing was just right.  The flashbacks that are woven into the main story let us stay just a head of the four friends.  And the touch of paranormal is so well done, that it if you don’t believe if ghosts, you might.

For those of you who are wondering, there is some really hot sex, but it is always tempered with the intimacy of lovers…at least in the present day. 😉 And in true Cade fashion, these are grown ass men, who don’t play head games with their lovers.  Each has a secret that must be revealed in order to solve The Mystery of Ruby Lode, all trusting that their secrets will be safe, with their closest friends.

I am recommending this one for, of course, all the Scotty Cade fans…trust me, he delivers.  And anyone who loves a good cold case mystery with a touch of paranormal thrown in.  Highly recommend.

Home by Donna McIntosh

Title: Home

Series: Home 01

Author: Donna McIntosh

Genre: Science-Fiction, Action, Adventure

Length: Novel (151pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (21st April 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Detective Sean Riker goes after old nemesis, Mitchell Yates, never expecting the man to save his life. Yates shows Riker a science fiction world full of wonder. Now Riker must choose–stay with the LAPD or work for intergalactic peace.

Every detective has one criminal he wants to bring to justice–the one who skates around the edges of the underground world, but always has an alibi and can’t be pinned down for a single crime.

For LAPD Detective Sean Riker, that criminal is Mitchell Yates.

Riker thinks he finally has Yates and decides to pull him in for questioning. Instead, Yates saves Sean’s life when he takes a bullet to the shoulder. The shooting hasn’t stopped and escape routes are blocked. Yates does the only thing he can.

Transports Riker to his HOME–a manmade satellite orbiting Earth.

Now Riker faces a choice–Remain with the LAPD…or join the Keepers’ mission.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/761/

Review: Sean has been trying to pin Yates for his crimes for years. But, they always slide off him and Yates always walks away clean. But, now Sean is having to rethink everything he has ever known, as Yates saves his life and shows him a life he never even suspected. Yana (Yates) is not who he first appears to be and it is a revelation as to who he really is.

I liked this story as it has a secret organization that is trying to help with justice on Earth. Sean is a LAPD detective who ends up getting rescued by his nemesis Yates.  Sean doesn’t have a clue what is going on when Yates rescues him and takes him to a place that no one on Earth has a clue about. But, that doesn’t stop his questions. Yana (Yates) has an opportunity to show Sean that he isn’t as bad as Sean thinks and to show Sean his life. But, with an ex hanging in the background and his work to do, he doesn’t have much time to spend with Sean and relies on his friends to show Sean what their community is like.

Yana and Sean have a slow developing relationship. with Sean having to resolve what he thought he knew about Yana and what he now knows to be true. Yana seems to have been admiring Sean from afar, but knew that because of his role, Sean wouldn’t have anything to do with him. It was nice to see a slow build-up with a bit of confusion thrown in, in the shape of Jimmy. The space-station is a unique touch, as this is set in modern times and we get a bit of back-ground about the Peace Keepers and what their role is. But…I was left with questions.

I must admit that there was a couple of interesting aspects to the story, but we only got the beginning or the tail end of it. To me this story is the warm up leading to a wider range of stories in the future; sort of giving us a taste of what is to come.  where we will learn more about the Peace Keepers in the future.

I will recommend this to those who love science fiction, conflict, adjusting perspectives, finding love and the beginning of a beautiful relationship.

 

Battle of Hearts by Valentina Heart

Title: Battle of Hearts

Author: Valentina Heart

Genre: Action, Adventure, Paranormal, Alternate World, Shifter, Vampire

Length: Novel (205pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (14th April 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Valerian is a fighter and an Alpha–dangerous, unemotional, and vicious. The passion for his cougar mate is unplanned, but Teddy shares the enthusiasm and all but bites back. Do they have a chance or will the war destroy them?

Living in a world where vampires can’t stand the sight of shifters, and shifters gag at the smell of vamps, a vicious war rages — and the vampires are winning. Clearly, this is not an ideal setting for a mixed-species shifter couple.

Valerian is the Alpha of his pack, a fighter and an unemotional killer, but one whose skill has kept him alive. On one of his missions, among captured shifters, he finds the cougar Teddy, his mate.

Things would be simpler if either of them actually wanted a mate, but on top of the fact that they don’t, there is also the small issue of clashing personalities. Attacking is their first reaction — sex is only for survivors.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/774

Review: Valerian is one of three alphas’ in his pack.  They share responsibility, with Valerian’s duty being missions and vampire politics. So when he is on a mission to rescue some of his warriors, he is less than pleased to come across his mate. Teddy is a loner and has no interest in a mate, but when he discovers he might be able to find the vampire that captured him, he decides to stick around for a while.

God, I loved this one.  Two shifters, neither wanting a mate and both human sides fighting tooth and nail against their animal sides; snarling and bitching at each other as they fight the mating urge. Valerian has no interest in a mate who might die on him and leave him alone. It is easier to keep everyone at a distance, so when he meets his mate he carries on like he has always done while fighting the mating instinct. Teddy has just lost the person closest to him so now he will strike out on his own again. Once he finds the vampire who captured him, meeting his mate is not on the agenda. Especially when said mate is an alpha and an ass.

This story is well written with great world building and some pretty gruesome descriptions. A world were vampires and shifters despise each other and want to wipe the other off the face of the Earth. This is a fantastic shifter/vampire story where it is war.  Shifters kill all vampires they can find and vampires snatch as many shifters as they can for their blood. If some shifters die in the process, well, then they can always hunt for more. And there’s a vamp out there who wants shifters for his own purpose, but it back fires wonderfully ;-).

Valerian and Teddy are characters that are quite similar. Both prefer to be left alone, both are stubborn and have a mouth on them and both have no intention of mating. It is like a clash of the Titans when these two get together. The sex is explosive and primal and sparks fly whenever they are close. Fighting the mating urge when all their animals want is to give in is a struggle for both of them and they are brilliant in how they handle it. And while all this is going on they have an explosion, they have to fight the vampires, deal with a traitor, then Teddy has to escape, rescue the kids and kill as many vamps as possible all while dealing with a horrific ordeal *sigh* (so much goodness).

The best thing about this is neither shifter is graceful in his denial.  They are both snarly, scowlly and growly right up to the end of the book and neither will ever really be lovie dovie with the other as it’s just not them. Teddy goes through a period of doubt that Valerian helps him over, but as I said they will never be a roses and hearts couple and it makes them so much more interesting.

This one I will recommend to those who want a different type of shifter/vampire story, mates who fight the bond tooth and nail, blood, fights, and a twist for Teddy, hot explosive sex and a happy ending.

 

Jazz by Jude Mason

*This is the first review by our newest member of the review team, Thommie.  *

Title:  Jazz

Series:  Daybreak 2525 02

Author:  Jude Mason

Genre:   Futuristic/Action-Adventure/MMF and MMM ménage

Length:  Novel

Publisher:  Total E-Bound (March 12, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb:   A city of death where Jazz must find Doc’s sister, or die trying.

Jazz and Doc are on a rescue mission. This time it’s personal, really personal. Robin, Doc’s sister, was taken to the nearby city and enslaved. Jazz lived in the city for years and although he dreads the return, he can’t refuse to guide Doc in. What they find there is worse than any memory.

City peeps who barely survive and a Warlord gone berserk are just the beginning. Can Jazz find Robin? Will the two men survive themselves? And what of Zoe, the lady love they left behind?

Reader Advisory: This book contains some violence and lots of swearing and sexual assault.

Reader Advisory: This book is number two in a series and should be ideally read second, but may be read as a standalone. Contains scenes of hot m/m, m/m/m and m/m/f intimacy.

Product Link:  http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1516

Reviewer:   Thommie

Review:  In a futuristic world where human kind has suffered a great war that sent humanity in a state of complete wildness, forgetting feelings such as compassion, respect for human life and civility, survival in the city has become the most dangerous situation one can find himself into. Yet there is exactly where Jazz and his lover, Doc must travel and find a way to rescue Doc’s sister, Robin from a frightening warlord that has enslaved her. Through the misery of this unfeeling world they manage to find love in strange triangles. However, confronted with mistrust and deceit, they get entrapped into the very warlords’ kingdom.  Yet, against all odds, they manage not only to find Robin, but to drive themselves along with many other slaves into freedom.

I would recommend it if you’re up for a nice story where one would do anything and risk anything for the ones he loved, where love and determination conquers it all, although it lacked suspense and sensuality and certainly dint blow my mind away.

 

Brothers in Arms by Kendall McKenna

Title:  Brothers in Arms

Series:  N/A

Author:  Kendall McKenna

Genre:   Action/Adventure

Length:  Novel

Publisher:  Silver Publishing

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   Jonah Carver is a Marine. He experiences a scorching night with former commander, Kellan Reynolds, but then they lose touch–to Jonah’s regret. When a V.I.P. is killed on Jonah’s watch, the FBI arrives; including Kellan! Once reunited, sparks fly.

Jonah Carver is a Marine and combat veteran. He and his former Captain, Kellan Reynolds, once shared a scorching night, but then lost touch; something Jonah has long regretted.

When an investigation into government corruption, and the murder of U.S. troops, ends in the killing of a V.I.P. on Jonah’s watch, the FBI arrives. With them is Kellan Reynolds. Together once more, Jonah begins to believe in second chances and sparks fly.

Nothing is that easy, though, as the suspects will stop at nothing to bring the investigation to an end. Jonah must keep everyone in his charge alive while helping the FBI and Kellan find the proof they need.

When Kellan is kidnapped, Jonah has to find and rescue him. If he doesn’t, not only will the investigation unravel, but he’ll lose Kellan for a second time–for good.

Product Link:  https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/coming-soon-c-2/products_id/780?zenid=e2ed59be411a5871d3e308de495f8013

Reviewer:   Portia

Review: Jonah is a career soldier.  He is a highly trained RECON Marine.  They are the baddest of the bad, the toughest of the tough.  They are not babysitters. This story begins with Jonah and his team baby-sitting a government investigator.  Unfortunately, knowing what he is investigating is above their pay grade.

In my fantasy world, where I am queen, I would love to believe that Brothers in Arms is the result of my mad rantings.  In the real world, I know Kendall McKenna’s debut novel was already “headed to the presses”, when I asked the M/M collective for something new.  Nonetheless, Brothers in Arms definitely fits the bill.

I cannot imagine how much research went into this book.  There is a mind-blowing amount of detail to military life, both before and after deployment. But, I can appreciate the skill with which McKenna draws pictures with words of a war zone.  Names that appear daily in my, became real places populated with real people as I turned page after page. The words and actions of the marines were sometimes horrifically realistic, at other times tender or silly.  While I read, I was transported to the unforgiving heat of the desert.  Heat that is so constant, it is almost a character.

Jonah has swag for days, a real man’s man.  But, he is also the true leader of his platoon.  Sometimes, he forgets that the new guys haven’t “been there and one that”.  Till his memories of Kellan’s words guide him. I love him.  And Jonah and Kellan together…smokin’ hot.  Set before the repeal of DADT, their lovin’ is mostly secretive touches and glances across the room.  But, on the few occasions when they actually get to do the nasty…they get raw and dirty with it.

But, this is so much more than a romance.  Actually, it is a war thriller with a very nice little suspense thread running through it.  Corrupt government officials, gun running and dodging insurrectionists make for some very nice action scenes.  Then there are enough unanswered questions, that even if Jonah and Kellan don’t make it back to the desert, the intrigue can continue.

My only complaint?  What the hell happened with Yarwood?

Highly recommending this title and looking forward to seeing what else the brilliant mind of Kendall McKenna will produce.

 

Tian's Hero by Cherie Noel

Title: Tian’s Hero

Series: The Akanti 01

Author: Cherie Noel

Genre: Science Fiction, Action, Adventure, M/M/M, M-Preg

Length: Super Novel (458pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (28th January 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: A spy posing as an assassin, a fiercely passionate healer, and a sweet, innocently sexy chef collide explosively onboard a slave-running pirate ship. Fed false information and light-years from help, a mentally unstable spy must discover a way through an ever shifting maze of deception on board a slave-running pirate ship to become Tian’s Hero.

A spy posing as an assassin finds himself riding the ragged edge of sanity during his latest mission; a frantic search for fabled lost colonists who fled his planet steps ahead of a devastating plague. The possibly mythical pre-plague migrants hold the only key to survival for his entire race.

Lewell’yn’s situation would be difficult enough without receiving deliberately false information, and now he’s light-years from reliable help and saddled with the two huge complications: a fiercely passionate healer, and a sweet, innocently sexy chef.

The bombs are in place. The detonators are set. The chrono is ticking. Caught between two men desperate to escape the clutches pirates and an insidious, hidden enemy, can Lewell’yn find a path to become Tian’s hero?

CONTENT ADVISORY: This title contains scenes of rape.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/tians-hero-ebook-p-726.html

Review: I died and went to heaven. Lewell’yn has a job to do and he is quite happy to carry it out to visions of killing his Boss.   When things start to go a bit pear-shaped, he has to make decisions that affect not just him, but the sexy slave Tian and the passionate healer Kay, as well.

This is one of those stories that will have you jumping up and down in both joy and in some parts frustration. Lewell’yn is a mystery wrapped, in an enigma, doused in a conspiracy and oozing misdirection. And he is abrasive, snarky, vindictive and downright nasty. Tian is sweet, gentle, sexy and obsessed with cooking. Kayron is passionate, compassionate, has a great sense of humor and is obsessed with a proper cup of tea. These three men come together during trying times and each will need the other two to make it through.

A well-written story that will confuse you, as you try to work out Lewell’yn and his behavior, the importance of Tian and Kayron and just who the Boss really is. Honest to god, this is one of those stories where you think you know where it is going and then it goes off in a completely different direction. Can I tell you more?  Yep, but you would be completely confused by what I was talking about.  So, I will say this, Lewell’yn needs both Tian and Kay to survive and not go over to the dark side.  He needs Tian for his gentleness and sweetness and he needs Kay for his passion and stubbornness. Both Tian and Kay are jealous of each other at first, Kay because Lewell’yn dumped him and has moved on and Tian because he can see that Lewell’yn still cares about Kay.

There is a lot going on and a lot to follow, but lucky you, it’s spread over 458pgs, so it doesn’t get overwhelming. Sometimes you will want to smack the crap out of Lewell’yn, because of how he treats Kay, but it is eventually explained.  Then you still want to slap him silly… just for the fun of it. There are secrets that start to come out and Lewell’yn learns new stuff about himself, as does Kay when he learns he is pregnant.

So in all honesty, if you love science fiction, adventure, action, assassins, spies, chefs, healers, red-hot sex, m-preg, secrets and a happy ending then this is the book for you.

Reward by Jambrea Jo Jones

Title: Reward

Series:   Alliance 04

Author:  Jambrea Jo Jones

Genre:   Science Fiction

Length:  Novel

Publisher:  Total E-Bound (February 27, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   Book four in the Alliance Series

Vacation can be its own reward.

James Rodrick deserved a vacation. Running around the galaxy protecting people can be a rough road. His first officer was nicely settled and a cure for a deadly disease had been found. Time for a break. Alphonse Carter was not what the doctor ordered. A con man on the run does not a vacation make.

Alphonse Carter lived life high on the hog pretending to be something he wasn’t. His undercover identity was discovered and now he must flee before he is caught by the wrong side. Hijacking a captain with Alliance ties wasn’t in the cards, but he had to take what he could.

Will mistaken identity cause havoc or romance?

Product Link:  http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1556

Reviewer:   Portia

Review:  The fourth installment of the Alliance saga opens with James Roderick on vacation.  Well, actually, it’s more of a pity party, but let’s not quibble with details.  James’ first mate oopsed up and fell in love and ran off to live with his lover.  James is happy for them, but he wouldn’t mind finding his own “happy-ever-after”.  Alphonse/Ali is up to his eyeballs in an undercover operation gone bad.  He’s just trying to get off the planet and keep his ass alive.

If you’ve read my reviews, you are probably aware that I have a serious girl-crush on Jambrea Jo Jones.  No one feeds my love of MM sci-fi like she does.  Reward has all the action adventure, steamy sex…all through that space ship, and intrigue I’ve come to expect from JJJ.  If you haven’t read the other Alliance books, relax…Reward does nicely as a standalone.

The guys of Reward are a bit rougher than some of her other male characters.  James is an ex-Alliance pilot, who hates all this Alliance.  He’s loyal and smart and a good guy to have around in a fight.  Alphonse, on the other hand, fights dirty and is well…Alliance to the born.  James and Alphonse’s attraction is immediate and off the charts.  Sex is not a problem for these two.  Unfortunately, that is the only easy thing in their lives, right now.  The road to their HEA is littered with spies, betrayal, and oh yeah…literal bombs.

I loved everything about this book.  But, especially, the fact that these two are all man.  Alphas males to the core.  They work hard, play hard and love hard.  They also complement one another and do what it takes to keep the other safe and happy.

I think you should read this book, for no other reason, that to keep Jambrea feeding my addiction.  I really need Angel’s story written faster.  😉  Highly recommend.

The Only Easy Day by R. J. Scott

Title: The Only Easy Day

Series: A Sanctuary Story 02

Author: R.J. Scott

Genre: Action, Adventure, Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (196pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (18th February 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: One dead girl, one scared witness, and two men trained as Navy SEALs. Whether searching for justice or revenge, the final showdown between them is the same—explosive.

Dale MacIntyre, former Navy SEAL, works for Sanctuary. He’s the acting handler for a member of the Bullen family’s inner circle. He’s close to obtaining the evidence he needs to prove Elisabeth Costain’s death was ordered by them… until someone gets in his way.

Joseph Kinnon, active Navy SEAL, is back on US soil for the first time in months, and he’s told the tragic news that his stepsister is dead, gunned down in an alley by an unknown assailant. He’s determined to find out who murdered her… until someone gets in his way.

They both want the same thing but have different methods of accomplishing their goals. They both want the Bullen family brought to account, but one wants justice and the other wants revenge.

What happens between them, however, has nothing to do with either.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/the-only-easy-day-ebook-p-818

Review: This is slightly different from what I am used to from R.J. Scott but it is no less impressive. Dale may be an ex-Navy Seal but a horrific incident in his past has jaded him to the Seals and he has no faith in them. Joseph is an active Navy Seal and he wants to find his sisters killer but when he finds brick walls thrown up in his way he is determined to get to the truth even if he has to tear them down with his bare hands.

Well this is a slightly gritty more brutal story than the last one and all I can say is that Dale and Joseph have a more un-traditional connection than the normal romance that we are used to. Joseph wants justice for his sister but Dale doubts that is all he wants, Dale is convinced that Joseph will go in guns blazing to kill the one who ordered the hit on his sister, Joseph just wants the man who did order the hit to pay for it through the courts so his mother and step-father can have some peace.

Dale and Joseph are both strong confident men who have both got  careers that they love.  The connection between them is hard to see at first because of Dale’s attitude toward Joseph, but you get a feel for both of them and once Dale accepts Joseph is not one step away from a bloodbath his longing for the other man comes through. We get to see past characters of Morgan and Nik as they are still trying to bring down the Bullen’s and Joseph tracks them down trying to find answers.

This isn’t a traditional relationship… they are not going to buy a little house with a picket fence, Joseph is going to still be gone a lot but Dale will be his port in the storm, this is a beginning for them and I don’t know why but I think that they still have another story in them.

So I will recommend this to those who love danger, explosive car chases, hot sex, total alpha men, bloody rescues and a happy (for these men) ending.

 

 

Mage of Silence by Edward Kendrick

Title: Mage of Silence

Author: Edward Kendrick

Genre: Fantasy, Action, Adventure

Length: Novel (227pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (14th January 2011)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Castien, a mute elven mage, and Theirn, a young half-elf thief, join forces to rid their land of an evil Lord. Their feelings deepen as they travel across the seas to spy on a mage/prince who enslaves his subjects.

Castien, an elf mage who cannot speak except with the aid of a magical dagger, has been captured while on a mission. He is freed by his companion, the warrior elf Daeron, and returns with him to Daeron’s homeland. There they will join forces to rid the land of a Lord bent on the destruction of the elves.

Theirn, a young half-elf thief, attempts to rob Castien during his stay at an inn and is caught by the mage. Much against Theirn’s will he is enlisted into the group of rebel elves. But as Theirn’s infatuation with Castien grows, he becomes more eager to risk treachery, betrayal, and even death on dangerous missions just to be close to the man he is growing to love.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/mage-of-silence-ebook-p-716

Review: Castien was cursed to silence as a punishment.   He might be a powerful mage, but because of the curse he is limited to when he can do some spells. Theirn is a thief and gets caught by Castien, but with the information he reveals he is enlisted into the group and also comes in handy when they need access to a castle. Castien and Theirn start to become close, but Theirn has some fears…at first.

There are two parts to this book or more correctly two adventures in one book.  The first one is where Castien and Theirn meet and help to get rid of an evil Lord.   and the second one show’s how their relationship develops as they set out to spy on a mage/prince. I must admit that I did enjoy this story and the world it was set in.   The characters were interesting and their reaction to each other was well written. The entire story was well-written; in fact and I am not being bias just because it’s a fantasy, honest!!

The action was really good and although we don’t see any sex, we do see the lead up which is at first filled with a misunderstanding. The development of the story is good and we do find out about both Castien’s and Theirn’s background and the characters are really sweet together later in the book.  I will admit here that there was one bit that niggled for me and that was the curse that Castien has.  It just seemed too awkward to be effective but you can make your own mind up about that.

So in all honesty, I have to recommend this to those who love fantasy, action, adventure, magic, elves, love, spies and a cracking mage battle near the end.

Confessions by Carol Lynne

Title: Confessions

Series: Cattle Valley 25

Author: Carol Lynne

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (95pgs)

Publisher: Total E-Bound (21st November 2011)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Government contracted mercenary, James “Priest” Evans, slides back into town after a mission gone very wrong. Haunted by his latest kill, Priest’s job is weighing heavily on his mind for the first time in memory… In Cattle Valley to heal and re-evaluate his life, Priest didn’t expect love but that’s exactly where’s he’s headed.

After a devastating and very public breakup, Luke Hatcher has given up on love. He’s more than happy to enjoy hot and heavy sex, but that’s as far as he’s willing to go. When he runs into Priest, Luke believes their mutual lack of trust is perfect for a short-term holiday affair.

Their steamy affair takes an unexpected turn when Priest makes a bedroom confession that will forever change the way he views life and love. Will the confession bring them closer together, or will it send Luke packing?

Purchase Link: http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1442

Review: Okaaaay. Luke is having trouble mentally since a horrific car accident he attended and luckily Priest sweeps into town to take his mind off it. Priest is having suspicions after his last job and he starts to dig deeper to find out the truth. In the meantime, he thinks it’s a great idea to pass a little time with Luke and get him out of his system.

This is a quite well written story that is a bit outlandish but has some mega hot sex. Luke is struggling to cope as an accident brings up memories of when his mother died.  When he sees Priest again he snatches the chance to get to know him better; little knowing how easy it would be to fall for him. Priest is in Cattle Valley for a little downtime and decides to relax with Luke, as his last job catches up with him Luke is placed in danger because Priest cares about him.

I liked Luke and Priest, they seemed like nice men and they seemed to have more going for them than just sex. I must admit that Cattle Valley has begun to pall for me as the stories are getting more outlandish… ‘cuz really, Cattle Valley becoming THE gay, military and Assassins retirement ground is just a bit too much for me to grasp and there seems to be a hell of a lot of killing going on as well nowadays.

I can only recommend this to those who adore Cattle Valley, love Assassins, a hint of mystery, a senseless kidnapping and torture, hot sex and a happy ever after.

Hitman's Creed by Edward Kendrick

Title:  Hitman’s Creed

Author:  Edward Kendrick

Genre: GLBT Action/Adventure

Publisher:  Silver Publishing

Length:  Novel

Heat Level: Mild

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Blurb:  Can two men, one, Joey Fairburn, a twenty-one year old Criminal Justice student, the other, Glenn Tanner, a thirty-four year old hitman attempting to start a new life, reach a common bond to stop a murderer and find love despite their disparate ages and occupations?

Two men:
Glenn Tanner, a thirty-four year old hitman who wants to disappear and start a new life.
Joey Fairburn, a twenty-one year old Criminal Justice student studying to become a police officer.

One problem in common:
Joey’s father, an escaped killer, has come to the small town where Joey and his mother live and where Glenn has finally settled down. Glenn meets Joey, discovers what is happening and becomes involved in trying to stop the killer before the man can murder Joey’s mother.

Will these two men, Glenn and Joey, with such disparate ages and backgrounds, be able to find a common bond that will unite them in love? Only time will tell.

Reviewer:  Portia

Review:  This was so not what I was expecting from Edward Kendrick.  There is a lot of sexual tension but not a lot of sex.  Which really surprised me, as his last book that I read, Everyone’s Man was dripping with sexual innuendos and steamy bedroom scenes.

Instead, this is a very well written story.  For Joey, it is love at first sight. And as much as Glenn would like to take Joey up on his subtle invitations, he is more concerned with keeping Joey safe.  There are guns and bad guys and two very horny men fighting their attraction for one another.  It was a bit of a stretch when Glen brought Joey into his lair and Joey barely blinked, but everyone is not a nosy control freak like me.

I loved the ending…kinda. Might have been interesting for Nate to fight a bit harder…but, since it really wasn’t his story…

This was a very enjoyable read.  Would make an excellent movie.  Tall, dark hitman willing to risk everything for the sweet tender criminal justice major…I’d pay $8 bucks to see them come to life on film.