Tag: GLBT Anthology

Scoring, Edited by Vincent Diamond

scoring185Title: Scoring

Author: Edited by Vincent Diamond

Genre: Contemporary/Sports

Length: Anthology (212 pages)

Publisher: Torquere Press (August 28th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: From tight ends to sliding home to running into love, Scoring collects seven sports stories that are scintillating, sweaty, and sexy. Hard bodies on the baseball field, the cricket field, the hockey rink or the track, these are men all about playing sports and scoring, in more ways than one. Of course, they love their sports, they love their fans, and they also love the men who play along.

V. L. Locey’s “Goaltender’s Penalty” focuses on the harsh world of ice hockey with a seemingly mismatched couple who are just right for each other. M. Durango contributes “Summertime Blues,” a lovely piece about baseball. G.S. Wiley writes intriguingly about cricket in 1930s India in “The National Game,” and Indra Vaughn’s “All That is Gold” focuses on the lone challenge in running track. Jena Wade contributes “The Slide Home,” with charming lovers from America’s favorite pastime. Katherine Halle gives us “Calling the Shots,” a baseball love story. And Sean Michael has written “Balls and Strikes,” a BDSM-tinged tale of the men on the diamond. 

Pick up Scoring and score some romantic, sexy tales all about sporting–and loving– to win.

Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=96&products_id=3968

Review: Quite a nice anthology in my opinion. I loved most of the reads in it, and had quite a great time reading it.

The Slide Home by Jena Wade ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

Randy Slater is not having much fun. When he accepted his coworker’s invitation to play softball he hadn’t counted on his nemesis David McGraw. Ever since high school David had been his number one bully making his attempt for a baseball spot a nightmare and he and his cronies making the rest of his high school experience a memorable one. Now they are adults and on the same team, but nothing has changed much with David always avoiding and glaring at him. What’s worse, Randy’s southern regions don’t seem to get it that his brain dislikes the guy, thus making it impossible for him to be around David and not have a constant sizzling desire.

As much as Randy is enjoying softball though he made up his mind to quit the team and on this last game he had to go and slide the home plate, a move that cost him quite a nice rash. What Randy doesn’t know is that the pain is well worth it as at that moment his doorbell rings, and everything he thought he knew is going to change dramatically. His nemesis appears and he won’t remain a source of frustration for long. Well not the kind you’d want to avoid anyway.

I loved this little story. Adorable, sweet, and sexy it turns the tables with the most desirable way. The guys were good together, even as I found Randy’s forgiveness a bit hasty, and they had that thing going between them, that chemistry and longing that made their intimacy all the better when it occurred.

 

The National Game by G.S. Wiley ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

(Historical 1939)

Cricket and India; an Englishman and a native; a love blossoming in the beginning of war.

Despite the bittersweet tang of this story, or because of it, I liked it a lot. Scoring is the theme of this anthology, and it is exactly that which spurs this couple into winning-high, hot and steamy coupling.

Phillip might be terrible at cricket, especially when forced to play in the hellish heat of India, but he very good at one thing; loving and succumbing to his tempting native coworker Rajveer. How can he say no when such a handsome man looks at him with such adoring eyes?

The English charm, the Indian loveliness, and the forbidden act of two men being together are the ingredient for this interesting historical read, which will travel you back in time in an era where romance still lived.

Summertime Blues by M. Durango ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

Working for a baseball team, even as an equipment manager, has always been Adam’s dream. The traveling season though this time is taking a heavy toll on him, especially since his partner Will has been travelling more frequently lately too, leading to a period of five weeks not seeing each other. Add in that the fact that temptations are always around the corner, and guys wanting to hook up sometimes are more persistent that one would like, and you got a relationship in the brick of serious trouble.

But both Adam and Will lose their jobs, so how are they supposed to find a solution to their problem?

And this is another story from this anthology that I liked. Real problems, real people, happy surprises, and blessed solutions making for a nice, sweet read. The intimacy of these two men was so good, with the time obstacle between them making the longing, lusty feeling come to the surface and grand us with a hot, sexy scene. Great read!

All That is Gold by Indra Vaughn ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

Oh this was a good one. A runner running for his gold, running because it’s all he can do, in a world where everything is about running, single-track mind, and running, the best thing in his life seems to has lost that special edge, that fun that made it the most important thing in the world.

Brody is a charming character, the little we get to know him, and he doesn’t seem to know what’s been missing; only that something is.

And then, there’s Luke, his masseur, a gorgeous creature that had Brody’s world in turmoil whenever he looks at him. For years it’s been the same, but this time something gives. Some things cannot be contained this time, this time Brody runs for something that brings him joy, makes running a fun thing to do again, his goal in the end still a gold, a golden man.

A lovely read, hot, erotic, and sensual, with a dash of longing that makes it even better a read. Loved it.

Calling The Shots by Katherine Halle ♥♥♥2.5 Hearts

Well baseball’s always been good for innuendos games. Pitching, catching, and players in tight pants with a great show of assets. Yeah, baseball is a sexy game.

This story follows Cal, who is relaxing at a small league team while his leg gets back in full health, breaking the new catchers. Nothing really challenging for him until Todd comes along. Instant gaming chemistry combines with instant personal chemistry and both men quite quickly fell for each other, being goo on both the field and their bed.

But Cal gets better quickly and his return back to The Show is right around the corner. Will this couple manage to survive till Todd makes it there too?

So this was a sweet story, with a steady pace, but not much more. There was a certain edge missing to make us more involved with the story, and while it wasn’t bad at all, it simply didn’t thrill me, or make me feel more about it. An ok read!

Balls and Strikes by Sean Michael ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Holly Mother… Well, that’s it, I love kinky reads, and this one, this one was just perfect. It had everything; edge, kink, harshness, rough men, sounding, fisting, and damn it, it was glorious. Erotic and hot as Hell, if you’re a fan of any of the above you’ll love it.

As for the plot, well two baseball players playing for opposite teams share a secret relationship, and not a vanilla one at that. Mac has certain needs and Dove is the only one that can cater to them. And every time Mac plays well, he gets a seriously hot reward from his lover. Surprises are not amiss either.

Did I say this read was hot? Yes? Well, never hurts repeating myself. I loved it.

Goaltender’s Penalty by V.L. Locey ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Oh my freaking God, this was too hilarious! And fun! And funny! And so damned romantic in the end. I loved it!

Have you heard the phrase “gay for you”? No this was not such a read, but it was “a sports fan for you” kind. Daryl was not a hockey fan, but he had one look to Ryan, a Hawks goalie, and the gold God of a man had him drooling. Ever since Daryl had been a Ryan fan, and by extension a Hawks’ fan.

The first time Daryl goes to the stadium he’s ecstatic. He goes so far as to even buy a jersey with Ryan’s number, plus all the paraphernalia. And from the looks of the things, Ryan gives him “the look.” Unfortunately, when Daryl heads to the players’ exit to get his jersey autographed he gets punched by Ryan instead… No, it wasn’t intentional, it was just a stray punch aimed to an opponent who ducked and got Daryl instead. And if Daryl didn’t think at that moment that it was the best thing to happen to him, he certainly must have thought it at some point in the near future.

What happens next you might have an idea? What I hadn’t thought of and I don’t know why, was how this thing between them would go. I had envisioned Ryan doing Daryl. The image of the five foot five little man taking the Viking like Ryan instead took me unaware, but Hell it was a hot image, one that made me drool over the scene. So hot! So fresh, so not the cliché, that I’m ashamed for being shocked at the beginning.

As for the whole of the story, well it was a great on, and had quite some length to it. I enjoyed the heck out of it. J

 

His: Manlove Edition

his_manlove__57803.1376536825.300.450Title: HIS: Manlove Edition

Author: Nicola Cameron, Lucy Felthouse, Giselle Renarde, Noelle Keaton, Pelaam

Genre: Contemporary / BDSM

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Strength. Power. Experience. There’s nothing like a man who knows how to get what he wants, both in and out of the bedroom. And these dominant alphas want nothing more than to please and possess the men they love. No kink is too risqué as these men ensure their lovers never want to be anywhere but under their command.

Come and find out how good it feels to be HIS.

Be Warned: m/m sex, BDSM

Product Link: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/his-manlove-edition/

Review: These stories focus more on the Silver Fox/Daddy fetish. They are not all about kink and BDSM though, mostly about the age difference and emotions between two people with such a great chasm in their ages. If you’re expecting only D/s relationship with the ultimate submission as a goal, don’t, you won’t find them here. Here goes my review for each of them.

In His Name by Nicola Cameron ♥♥♥2.5 Hearts

This story was about a priest who was compromised, found himself suddenly in lust with his superior, and put on sabbatical for six months to re-evaluate his life.

Searching for work Sean crosses paths with Matt, the general manager of the shelter he’s applying for. Matt is older than him, silver fox type, a strong man managing this hell of a world where people suffer and suffer and then suffer some more, and he is HOT. For six months, Sean battles with his demons and his guilt. God and a life he thought he wanted since he was nine years old, or Matt and a life serving God’s best interests without the title of “Padre” and a chance to live like everybody else?

Mostly this was a read on struggling with your inner thoughts, guilt, and wishes. A book on forcing oneself to see reality, make life-changing choices, and having a strong man by your side help you do just that. The romance part was not so much my thing as the instant love theme doesn’t really inspire me. It didn’t help that declarations of love were out in the open before the pair had even come together, with one of them being literally a virgin. Somehow, that juts puts me off. The rest of the read though was quite good.


Garden of Eden by Lucy Felthouse ♥1Heart

No! No! A huge screaming no! This is exactly the type of insta/sappy/cheesy love I totally dislike. I had my fears when Dale was introduced as being a virgin, submissive, and gay at twenty-one years old, waiting to make up his mind of what he wanted, visiting a BDSM club for the first time, meeting a posh Dom and wanting more than just sex/domination, wanting real love. But when after one date at a posh restaurant where Dale and Lee mostly had disagreements between them, (while the rest of the date and their “bonding” were thrown to the wind by skipping them and going directly to the end of the nigh) Lee confesses that he has “feelings” for Dale… Well, right there I draw the line. A no-go for me, because it’s so utterly unrealistic I can’t even begin to comment. Of course, it went totally out of hand when by the end of the story, the undying, unconditional love was declared by both of them.

As for the Dom/sub dynamics, everything there was amiss. The Dom lost me the moment he opened his mouth (the dialogue was horrible), so not the confident, strong and silent guy he was supposed to be, and the sub, well let’s just say that he did not feel the twenty-one year old inexperienced kid at all. Actually, Leander felt more the inexperienced guy than Dale there. During the entire read Leander was in a way begging Dale and he only took on a transformation when Dale chose to submit to him. There we had Lee taking a deep breath and going in Dom mode, yet what followed was so cliché I couldn’t stomach it. It didn’t help that there was no sense of chemistry, no sensuality at all and the sexual act itself was yet again skipped.

A very disappointing read!


This Stage of Life by Giselle Renarde ♥♥♥3 Hearts

The story starts nicely with Andrew returning to his high school after thirteen years to watch a dress rehearsal for a show the kids were going to play. He had forgotten however, the crush with his former dancing teacher, but all came back in a rush as soon as he laid eyes on Mr. Czarneki again. After the rehearsal was over his high school friend (who was the reason he was there in the first place) and the rest of the teachers gathered up at Mr. Czarneki’s house, and a fake excuse has Andrew staying back when everyone else leaves. Up until that moment Andrew thought he had things figured out, that Mr. Czarneki wanted him to stay, but he began to have his doubts as his former teacher disappeared in his bedroom, leaving Andrew to finish his dinner all alone.

That is until the door opened and his former teacher greeted him again in a completely different outfit and attitude. In front of Andrew stood a Dom.

Unbelievable! One moment they are talking about his teacher’s deceased wife, the next the story jumps into hardcore BDSM. What on Earth? And just how did Czarneki know that Andrew was a kinkster, when not even we knew anything about it? I mean we are reading this story from Andrew’s point of view; it would be only fair to know such a thing, right? And that damned huge leap, from zero to hundred in a fragment of a second. We’re talking about giving consent to unknown element unthinkingly and without even a small talk for boundaries. Nothing, zero, zip! A master/dog scene blasts right in front of our eyes, taking us unaware into a smacking, slashing, whipping, humiliating session; Just. Like. That!

But that doesn’t mean it was not good. I might have found some of it hilarious and even ludicrous, but I also found it damned HOT! This read certainly managed to get the personal feel into it, the chemistry between the characters, and the hotness that accompanies good scenes. Master & pup kink might not be my favorite, but I surely enjoyed this one.


Campaigning for the Billionaire by Noelle Keaton ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Politics and politicians is the theme of this story, with the leading character, Dylan, being a campaign staffer, and the second lead being Charles, a self-made billionaire running for Senator.

I liked this story, it was quick and to the point, with a good narration, and a chemistry between the two men that made it to the surface and reached me as a reader. Add in that the little bit of suspense and tension, a third provoking element with a nicely placed blackmail leading the story to an unseen turn of events, and you have a very nice and enjoyable politician’s hotbed story.

The intimate part was also well thought and written. The lust Charles and Dylan shared was most delicious, and their lovemaking quite sensuous and sexy.

This was definitely a read that I enjoyed, without having the final declaration of “never let you go” spoiling it for me. I found it mostly appropriate thinking this happily ever after should definitely end Just. Like. That.


Date with a Stranger by Pelaam ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts

There was no way I would have thought the turn this little story took, but I’m so glad I kept on reading it.

So there I am reading about Cassidy who at first sight seemed like a pretentious, rich jerk. Sorry, but he did. I goes into this high-class club were the patrons are all rich and show it. He takes his place at the bar and starts searching for someone to take home when a twink makes his appearance. Admittedly, the twink is hot, and has all heads turning. While some other pretentious rich jerk send him a pink cocktail and gets rebuffed unceremoniously, Cassidy orders champagne, and what do you think, the twink falls head over heels with the older rich man.

At this point, I’m wondering how someone can be so shallow and slutty. I mean gold-differ doesn’t even come close, Jeff was so not appealing, not to mention that as hard to get as he played it, he went down way easily. And just as I’m about to let this one go, boom, the plot takes a huge U-turn and I’m left with my jaw hanging in the air. Damn, what a great change and what a surprise in such a little story. In hindsight, you understand that this story is one hell of a role-playing fantasy, so hot, sexy, and so I-want-to-do-that-too kind of idea.

Loved it!

Public Displays of Affection by Mychael Black

2101Title: Public Displays of Affection

Author: Mychael Black

Genre: Anthology

Length: 48 pages

Publisher:Razor’s Edge Press (August 9th 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb:Eight men, four public venues, tons of hot action.

Whether it’s a dark movie theater or a snow-covered park, these men have a thing for sex in public places. In “Opposites Attract” a long-haired rocker finds himself the object of a jock’s affection in the middle of a movie theater. “Starting Over” for one man leads to hot chocolate and the best blowjob of his life in a snowy park. A Dom puts his beloved sub through sweet pain in “Birthday for a Slave.” And finally, two sword-fighting instructors give in to their mutual attraction during a RenFaire in “Faire Game.”

The four stories in this collection were previously published under the name Kay Derwydd. They have been re-edited for release in this collection.

Purchase Link: http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=2101

Review:Public Displays of Affection is a short story collection of four stories centered on public sex.
Birthday for a slave
it’s Lucas birthday and his Dom Kynan has a special, erotic treat planned for him. 
This is very good, very hot, very sexy, story of D’s relationship. The public sex in a crowded club is extremely sexy.

Opposites Attract
Eric has to live in a dorm this semester and his roommate Russ has a handsome brother that lives in the Frat house. Eric has never been with a jock. His roommate Russ says his brother Carson likes him and also likes public sex. Their first night together they have hot sex in a movie theater.

Starting over
Chris is stood up by Justin, again, on Christmas Eve. This time Justin dumps Chris. Michael sees the argument and brings Chris hot chocolate. What happens next is hot enough melt the snow. You will have to read the book to see for yourself. It’s HOT!

Faire Game
Cory and Jason are sparring at the renaissance Faire and the swordplay gets really sexy.

I recommend this book to anyone that likes a good collection of smoking hot short stories and of course public displays of affection. (Sorry I couldn’t resist.)

Ad Dick Tion, Volumn 3

51XL4KRwf9LTitle: Ad Dick tion #3

Series:  Ad Dick tion

Author: Sax Alexander, Alex Carreras, Monica Corwin, Dianne Hartsock, Melody Kiss, Sally Max, Raven McAllan, Wt Prater, Carrie Pulkinen, Rhiannon Wellman

Genre:  Anthology

Length:   222 pages

Publisher:  Breathless Press (July 25th 2013)

Heat: Explicit

Heart: Overall ♥♥♥♥ (a few ♥♥♥♥♥ on individual reviews)

Reviewer:  Cat

Purchase Link:   http://www.breathlesspress.com/index.php?main_page=product_free_shipping_info&cPath=18&products_id=460

Review: Overall, This is a very good collection of short stories. A great book to take along on a summer vacation for a nice quiet read. Very hot and sexy with sweet stories and mostly happy endings!

Blurb: The Land of Embarrassment and Brunch by Sax Alexander

Jamie is head over heels for Chris, but does dating exclusively for six months mean it’s mutual? When an old college flame invites Jamie to his live art show, and Chris insists they attend, Jamie gets the answer to his question—a sizzling performance that just might steal the show.

♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
This is a short and cute story of two men that have been dating a few months. One day Jamie literally runs into his ex and gets invited to an art exhibit, Chris accepts to Jamie’s chagrin. I thought this was a really sweet, hot and slightly funny story of young love

Thing About The Being a Werewolf by Sally Max

Dumped, homeless, and hunted, wasn’t how Torolf thought he would be spending the full moon. His only hope is to find another pack and ask for asylum. While running for his life, a great white wolf appears which can only mean one of two things: safety or death.

♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Oh boy was this a fun story. Torolf is on the run for his life when a white wolf saves him.
Though it is a typical werewolf story it is beautifully written, the characters interesting, and the style sweet with a touch of wit. I would love to read this in a full-length story. 

Sun, Surf, Sand, and a Sling by Alex Carreras

When David Hendricks suggests a getaway to Fort Lauderdale, Daniel Fletcher, David’s partner, jumps at the chance imagining blue skies, ocean breezes and sandy beaches. What he doesn’t imagine is a clothing optional resort were guests wear nothing but a smile, and each room has a sling suspended from the ceiling.

♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Daniel and David have been in a long-term relationship that has gone a bit stale. They take a vacation to reignite the flames. David booked them at a resort called The Leather 
Inn; each room has a leather sling.
I thought this was such a cute, sweet story of two men in love that just wanted to get the sizzle back. The story is sweet and hot with a happy ever after ending.

A New Dawn by Raven McAllan

Sam never thought he’d move forward with the help of his past in the shape of Alex. Would their history help or hinder them?

♥♥♥3 Hearts
Sam is a gay bar owner and his image is extremely campy. He reminisces about his first love and wishes he knew why he left him for another man without a word. Abraham/Alex moves back to town and Sam literally falls for him again
This story has a lot of potential but I have to say it left me pretty confused. There were many things mentioned that never got followed up on and the camp and clichés were so over the top it left me confused. However the overall romance was so sweet, who doesn’t like a first love found again…

Underground Temptation by Monica Corwin

Rone spends his days guarding London’s elite and his nights seducing them. No one has ever been good enough, beautiful enough, to tame him. The Abyss, London’s premier nightspot for an edgier crowd, always brings something new to the table. Tonight, his name is Josh.

♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Rone is in a S& M bar when he spots a beautiful man. He is taken immediately by him but another Dom approaches. The other Dom gets bossy and Rone can tell the guy is not into S&M and definitely not a submissive. He goes to the rescue and Josh is appreciative.
Wow ! This story is beautiful and hot. I loved both characters, how they complimented each other so well. I was disappointed that the potential of the D’s wasn’t explored further but the sex was perfect for Josh’s first time. My only issue was it ends too fast. I wanted to scream more, more, more!

Exercising His Options by Wt Prater

When Enver Mann started jogging every morning, it was at his wife’s provocation. After a year, he’s still at it, but now it’s his choice. Little does he know that choice may open up a whole world to him. While jogging one day, he happens upon two men having sex, and for the first time he wants that. The man with the red hair and the incredible ass. And while his mind might second guess him, his wife doesn’t. When she instigates their encounter, Enver knows he will never look at life, or sex, the same way again.

♥♥♥♥4Hhearts
Enver was jogging one day when he hears a sound in the woods stopping to check he saw two men having oral sex. He was so turned on but he felt guilty. He told his wife and she took it well and they had sex, she went jogging with him that weekend and hired Kurt to jog with him.
I loved this story a lot. It is a beautiful story of a man with his sexual identity changing. His wife is supportive and helps him deal with this new feeling and it has spiced up their love life as well. I will say I wasn’t thrilled with the ending. I prefer more conclusive one, one way or another. But I will say this was amazing and HOT!

Paul’s Mistake by Dianne Hartsock

Paul has no doubts. He wants Eran in his life. But can Eran, a young man from an abusive background, come to terms with his fears so he can have a future with this man he loves?

♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Paul is very much in live with Eran, and wants to protect and shelter him. Eran is tired of running and hiding from his past and wants to prove to Paul that he isn’t a mistake.
This is an extremely hot and sexy story, but is also so heartfelt. I couldn’t help but love both of these men, and of wish for a love like the one, they shared.

Fraternity Brothers by Carrie Pulkinen

When Aiden joins a fraternity, he has no idea a hazing incident with Miguel will change his life forever. Now, being friends with Miguel isn’t enough. Can Aiden plant the seed for romance to bloom without killing their friendship? Or will he have to settle for just being fraternity brothers?

♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Aiden joined a fraternity and was shocked the initiation. The leader tied him and the other candidate naked, spanked them and ordered Miguel to give Aiden a blowjob. Aiden was straight but couldn’t get over thinking about Miguel.
This story was hot and sweet. I loved how the two worked out a friendship after the embarrassing ordeal, and became friends. If you like hot, sexy, stories about friends to lovers this is for you

Fun in the Guard House by Melody Kiss

A night out with friends unexpectedly changes Justin’s life. Just who is the sexy stranger from the club?

♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Justin is gay and a soldier. He sneaks away from his friends to a gay bar, meets a hot stranger, and spends the night, coming back to barracks late. He gets arrested for going AWOL. Much to his surprise the general is the man he had spent the night with. Let’s just say his punishment consisted of a cane, a spanking, hot sex, and a voyeuristic Secretary.
This story was hot! Hot! Hot!

Animal Magnetism by Rhiannon Wellman

When Simon took his beloved dog for a walk, he had no idea what it would lead to. With wild animals, sexy landowners, and a psychotic ex-boyfriend, he’s in for a wild ride. But boy will it be worth it.

Harvey has spent years locked away from everything, the fences around his land just as high as the ones around his heart. Simon is like a light in the dark. Will he be just what Harvey didn’t know he needed?

Both men need to learn to love again, but will their animals’ budding friendship be the catalyst for everything that follows?

♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Simon takes Wilber for a walk and he disappear. Following him, he meets a sexy man, Harvey with an unusual pet. They quickly make friends, and the two men hit it off too!
This was such a cute story. The characters were great though I’d have liked more description of Simon since it’s supposed to be why people can’t believe his job. Otherwise, the story was very sweet with several twists and turns, the sex hot and loving, and the animals an extra benefit.

I recommend this book to anyone that loves a good collection of sweet, romantic and sexy, love stories; there is a little something for everyone. , Plenty of hot man- sex and satisfying endings

 

 

Zombie Boyz – A Wilde City Press Anthology

18126254Title:  Zombie Boyz

Series:  A Wilde City Press Anthology

Author:  TJ Klune, Eric Arvin, Ethan Stone, Daniel A Kaine, Ethan Day and Geoffrey Knight

Genre: M/M Zombie Romance 

Length:  Anthology (93,000 words)

Publisher: Wilde City Press (July 17th 2013)

Heat Level:  Mild to Moderate

Heart Rating:  The sex is a 3Hearts. The scare factor climbs from a 3 to a 5 by the end.

Blurb:   Board up the windows, push an old dresser against the door and load your shotgun. A zombie apocalypse is about to hit Wilde City, and if you want the best survival tips, six of Wilde City’s boys are here to help.

You’ll never want to exercise again as Eric Arvin and TJ Klune turn a gym full of hunks into a smorgasbord of terror in GHOUL’S GYM.

Gather your friends and fight for the man you love, as Ethan Stone and Daniel A Kaine turn Vegas into a zombie nightmare in SURVIVING SIN CITY.

And bring a date to dinner to celebrate Grumpy Grampy’s 90th birthday and introduce your family to your new zombie boyfriend in Geoffrey Knight and Ethan Day’s GUESS WHO’S COMING AT DINNER.

You’ll scream with terror and howl with laughter as Wilde City’s boys bring you our first undead anthology ZOMBIE BOYZ.

Product Link: http://www.wildecity.com/books/gay-mainstream/zombie-boyz/#.Ufgdt74o45s

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Guess Who’s Coming at Dinner is more comedy than sexy M/M Romance with some fantastic one-liners and an absolutely hysterical chapter around the dinner table. 19-year-old Chandler has crushed on Zane for as long as he can remember. When Zane is infected by the recent zombie pandemic, it doesn’t stand in the way of true love. Knight and Day weave a tale that is so farfetched it’s actually believable with GWCAD. Chandlers ongoing commentary will have you giggling and Zane with steal your heart (figuratively speaking, of course). Flesh eating zombies, mad cows and sexiness are kept to a minimum in this first part of Zombie Boyz.

Surviving Sin City is more the traditional zombie story, with two consenting adult males pounding each other into oblivion as an added bonus! Cooper is a Brit on vacation in Las Vegas when he finds himself smack dab in the middle of a zombie apocalypse. While trying to get out of Vegas and back to England he runs into Kaleb, an American trying to stay alive and hide while he looks for his brother. The sexual chemistry is evident from the start and it doesn’t take long for Kaleb to find a safe place to bury himself, if you catch my drift. Can these two find Kaleb’s brother as well as safety while surrounded by hoards of zombies that get smarter with each brain they eat? This second story of Zombie Boyz is definitely more hard-core with lots of blood, guts, brains and some sexy guy on guy action when Cooper and Kaleb redefine the term “mile high club”!

Ghouls Gym is full on zombie bloody and scary. There is a wee bit of sex and a whole lot of naked men throughout the story. A manipulated strain of a virus goes rogue resulting in a gym full of naked, horny, gay zombies. There wasn’t nearly enough sex in this part for me, and although I loved the concept that Klune and Arvin were aiming for the story was slightly chaotic and disjointed. Ghouls Gym is “B” horror movie meets gay movie.

I’d recommend fans of the M/M genre give this one a go. If you like zombie stories as well that is a definite plus! I’d love to see a full story for Chandler/Zane and Cooper/Kaleb, sadly I’d have to pass on Uly and Jake.

Lust in Time: Erotic Romance Through the Ages edited by Rob Rosen

17402331Title: Lust in Time

Series: Anthology

Author: C.C. Williams, Kayla Jameth, Tilly Hunter, Julian Siminski, Stevie Woods, Jeff Mann, Kenzi Mathews, James Thorpby, K. Vale, Michael Roberts, Salome Wilde, Steve Rudd, Barry Brennessel, Richard May, Landon Dixon, Rob Rosen

Genre:  Historical, Erotica, Anthology

Length: 77, 000 words

Publisher: MLR Press (February 22nd, 2013)

Heart: ♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts

Heat: explicit- overall though a few have little or no sex.

Blurb:  History and fiction meet at the crossroads in these erotic tales of love and lust. From ancient Israel and Greece and Rome, to the time of the Vikings, the Wild West, Woodstock, and all points in between, witness the steamy encounters, lurid battles, raucous clashes, and tender moments of couples who span the centuries. Get swept up in the lives of the biblical David, Emperor Hadrian, barbarians from Britannia, a 19th Century physician, Jewish immigrants, cowboys World War I soldiers, hippies, and so many more, all in search of adventure, passion, and, yes, even fame.

Product link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=RRLSTTIM

Reviewer: Cat

Recommendation: I highly recommend this to anyone that likes Anthologies, stories that date back in time, Vikings, Warriors, Civil war, Cowboys, Indians, time travel,  friends to lovers, Sad stories, true love,  and much, much, more.

Review: Overall. This is a fabulous mix of stories ranging in heat levels and genres. Plenty to choose from, but I suggest you read them all. Here are my individual reviews for each story.

1000 B.C. by C.C. WILLIAMS

David is a Shepard and loves playing his Lyre. He is summoned to go play for King Saul. When he goes, he meets Jonathan King Saul’s son and a great warrior. He will do anything for Jonathan even risk his life to fight a giant named Goliath.

I found this a very sweet and sexy take on the biblical story of David and Goliath. It was interesting, sweet, and loving. ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

496 B.C. by Kayla Jameth

Galen was Alexio’s slave and lover. Alexio freed Galen so other kings couldn’t order him to pleasure them. Alexio loved Galen and wanted him for himself. Alexio was put under tutorship to King Lyko’s and King Lykos had designs on Alexio. Galen was jealous though Alexio said his heart was only for him. Galen’s jealousy gets him into a lot of trouble since the other men do not respect him though he is no longer a slave.

I liked this story a lot. It showed hints of a love triangle, but nothing really happened threesome wise. More of one of the men was just a voyeur. This was a sweet and sexy story. ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

27 A.D by Tilly Hunter

Lucius was defeated and captured by Barbarian Finian. Lucias likes the rough treatment and finds himself wanting Finian’s humiliation and more. Finian is very rough on Lucias.

I found this story very intriguing if a bit hard to read. The rough treatment was tough but it was sexy in its own way. If you like rough and not loving BDSM this one is for you   ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

130 A.D.  By Julian Siminski

Antinous is Hadrian’s servant and lover. He is turning twenty and no longer a boy. Antinous fears he will be cast aside since men are not allowed to serve. Sabina Hadrian’s wife is jealous of Antinous and cuts his hair showing he is now a man. Hadrian and Antinous are both very upset. They visit the Oracles and each of the three gets their futures. Antinous sacrifices himself for Hadrian.

I loved this. It was absolutely beautiful. I loved the way it showed Antinous ’love and passion for Hadrian and how they came to be together. I loved the way Hadrian fights for Antinous and the end is so sweet and sad. You definitely need a box of tissues for this! ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

794 A.D by Stevie Woods

Aland and Garrick had been friends since boys. They also have been lovers but must keep this secret. It is highly looked down upon for two men to be lovers. They go on a battle together and were very worried for each other. After the battle, they return to Garrick’s and make love. Garrick knows that Aland must take a wife and Aland Knows Garrick needs one to help him on his land. Though the two men know, they shall always love one another.

I loved this story it was sexy and sweet. It shows that sometimes though love is hard it does overcome all obstacles. My heart went out to the two that they could never show their love publicly yet would always find a way. ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

1066 A.D by Jeff Mann

Thorir is a Viking. He and Eirik are lovers in a time and among men, this is just not heard of so they must keep their secret. Thorir goes to visit Eirik to spend time before their next trip to plunder and raid a village. Their families think they are hunting.

This story was very good. I loved it. There are many twists and surprises. It’s extremely hot but I warn you the sex is very brutal. This is a good rough and tumble BDSM story and be sure to have your box of tissues. ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

1576 A.D by Kenzie Mathews

Cesare is a very spoiled rich boy. His father has a close relationship with Jewish family the Montefiore as there accountants. Cesare has seen a mistake in the books and knows the Montefiore’s have been stealing form them. He also has designs on his personal advisor Tuviya. He spots Tuviya with a servant girl laughing and it makes him jealous so he grabs Tuviya and tells him he knows his father has been stealing form his father. He gets rough with Tuviya.

I liked this story. It is a bit rough the way Cesare handles Tuviya and could almost be considered rape. Though Tuviya is confused by the rough treatment he also finds he doesn’t really want the debt settled and be discharged from Cesare’s services. This story is rough and nothing sweet at all about it but it shows that sometimes love isn’t always sunshine and sugar. It’s much deeper.  ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

1822 A.D by James Thorpby

Charles is a doctor to the King and is very glad the king is leaving the next day so he can get some rest. He has a thing for Mosby one of the servants and that is the one thing he doesn’t want to see leave.

This one is very hot and sexy. I loved the story how both men have such feelings and was glad for a sweet story to break up some of the macabre ones, though the sex here is pretty rough and tumble yet loving also. ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

1865 A.D by K. Vale

Ben and Ammon have to keep their love for each other a secret from the Calvary men. They steal some time away before a battle.

I loved this. I loved how Ammon n had surprised Ben by setting them up a sort of romantic place to have sex and share their love. It was sad when they were separated. Another you will need tissues for but it is bittersweet. ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

1881 A.D. by Michael Roberts

Eric is a time traveler and he has just brought back Billy the Kid with him.

This one was so funny. I laughed until I about cried at the banter between Billy and Eric the sex was pretty hot. I loved it. ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

1889 A.D by Salome Wilde

This is an account from a Yiddish Journal. It is a rather sweet tale of a man on a trip to start a new life he meets a stranger on the trip and they fall in love though the  man decides he can’t defile his religion and faith and he decides to not pursue the relationship after the trip. It’s sweet romantic and very bittersweet. Beautiful. ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

1890 A.D by Steve Rudd

One night Shem drunkenly wanders into Wayne Smiths tent. They both work for the buffalo bill traveling show. Wayne is busy tending to himself when Sham walks in and they end up in some frisky sex. Wayne asks if he’d be interested in doing it again and adding another bull. Shem hasn’t done a threesome, but accepts the offer. It turns out to be an Indian.

I loved this it’s another funny and hot story. I loved the banter between the two and how the Indian was so silent and submissive to them. It’s super-hot and sexy with a bit of charming wit.♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

1909 A.D. by Barry Brennessel

Jesse is taking his parents to the train station in their new car. A blizzard is coming and he is worried that he will ruin the car and get in trouble. He finally makes it home, but gets the car stuck. A group of boys comes by and one helps. It turns out to be his old friend and first lover Fig.

This is a sweet sexy story of friends to lovers and love lost and reunited. I loved it! ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

1916 A.D. by Richard May

Henson is under jacks command. Henson reminds him a lot of his lost love Alex. Alex had been killed in battle a few years back. On leave, Jack runs into Henson. They are form two stations in life. They find a bond between each other.

This was a lovely yet heart-wrenching story. I am a sucker for a good tearjerker and this one does that. Very sexy, very sweet and very sad. ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

1957 A.D by Landon Dixon

A young private Dick was sent in to investigate if Bert was fixing the game show. The young man knew how to use all his skills to manipulate both his boss and the game show master.

This was a cute sexy story. I loved the twists, though the language and sex is very pornish, it is still funny and an enjoyable read. ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

1969 A D by Rob Rosen

This is a very sexy escapade of two men in the 60’s at Woodstock. It is hot and sexy with a bit of a twist. If you haven’t ever read any Rob Rosen, you should. His style and wit are so much fun to read!

If you like a short story to break the monotony of waiting in lines or appointments or just want a bunch of quick to read stories and  like stories with angst  rough sex and not all happy endings. This is a great collection.

Promoted by the Billionaire Anthology

promotdbythebillionaire_800Title: Promoted by the Billionaire

Authors:  Marie Sexton and Rowan Speedwell, SL Majors, JP Bowie, Em Woods, Sara York and Noelle Keaton

Genre: Contemporary/Anthology

Publisher: Total E-Bound Publishing (April 29th, 2013) Available through the VIP program 03/01/13

Heart: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Heat: Explicit (overall- some stories are more so than others)

Blurb:   I have put my reviews after each individual blurb.

Product Link: http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=2081

Reviewer: Cat

‘Flowers for Him’ by Marie Sexton and Rowan Speedwell

He wanted to learn about beauty. He never expected to learn about love.

Billionaire Chandler Harrison’s third marriage is now history, and he’s left with his ex-wife’s parting barb, “You have no appreciation of beauty.” Determined to prove her wrong, Chandler hires artist Neil Sweeney to add a mural to his office wall. He doesn’t even care what the picture is, as long as it’s beautiful.

Neil Sweeney is an ex-tagger, a free spirit, and a bit of a hippie. He’s never met anybody as uptight as Chandler, but when it comes to warming up Chandler’s cold, stark office, Neil has plans involving more than art.

Chandler begins to find himself strangely moved by the mural developing on his office wall. He’s especially moved by the artist himself. Chandler has denied his homosexual urges for most of his life, but it isn’t long before Neil begins introducing Chandler to all kinds of new things. As Neil’s masterpiece comes to life, so does Chandler’s appreciation for art, color, and the best kind of beauty of all—love.

Review:  I thought this story was very beautiful. I loved the depth of both characters. I loved the way they just sort of meshed together and the storyline is just sweet and swoon-worthy, the sex super- hot! Wow great story! 

‘Vital to Him’ by SL Majors

Hot sex in the back of a limo? Billionaire Brenton Marston is stunned when his street-wise chauffeur welcomes him home in a way he never expected, and Brenton wonders who is really in the driver’s seat.

No fraternizing…

Billionaire Brenton Marston has rules meant to keep the boundaries clear. He respects his employees and never wants anyone to feel as if they owe him anything.

Robert Silles, the reformed hoodlum, has desired his boss for years. Robert has fantasized about introducing Mr. Marston to the pleasures of man-on-man sex, fucking him and sucking him until he forgets his numerous stresses.

When his trusted chauffeur suggests a hook-up, Brenton is stunned, but he knows he shouldn’t be. No one knows him better than the man who’s seen him at his best as well as his worst.

It shouldn’t surprise him that Silles knows him and his innermost secrets. In fact, Silles recognized the truth before Brenton ever did.

Silles’ suggestive offer turns Brenton on. Damn if he isn’t attracted to this broad, handsome, sexy man, in a way he never wanted anyone else.

The question is, will Brenton push aside his inhibitions and reservations? Will he allow his chauffeur to give him what he craves? Will he willingly surrender to the orders of his servant?

Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes of M/M, rimming, anal sex, spanking with leather belt and hand and sex outdoors

Review:  I thought this story was so hot.  I loved the way the roles were reversed and the driver took charge.  I loved both characters. Hot sexy story Wow!

‘Fly to Him’ by J.P. Bowie

A young flight attendant gets a billionaire’s attention in a way that could have meant the end of his career, but instead could be the beginning of an unexpected romance.

When Kevin Tate takes over for a friend as flight attendant on billionaire Logan Maguire’s private jet, he is certain it will be his one and only time aboard when he accidentally dumps an ice-cold drink on his employer’s lap. Instead, an instant attraction flares between the two men and Kevin accepts Logan’s offer to stay with him at his villa in Puerta Vallarta.

Their fledging romance is abruptly brought to an end when Logan hurries back to the States on a desperate mission to save his company from a hostile takeover. Kevin is left wondering if success and wealth is more important to the billionaire than the chance of love and real happiness.

Review:  This story was pretty hot. I did find it a bit odd that the billionaire just jumped the new attendant and they went straight for the bedroom. Having said this, I am like a love at first sight story I just think this should have been worked into a bit more gradually but it was a very hot sexy story. I loved it

‘Enough for Him’ by Em Woods

When secrets come to light, two men must realize that, despite their fears, the love they have really is enough.

When software mogul Shannon Murphy is requested to appear at an international convention to accept an innovation award, he’s honored. But when the invitation arrives and requires the attendance of his fictional partner, he needs a plan. There is only one man he wants, one man he trusts, to help him. He turns to personal assistant and best friend Noah Greene.

Noah isn’t sure if this is his most secret desire come true, or his worst nightmare. Once the media connects them in a relationship, no secret will be safe, and Noah is positive that Shannon won’t be comfortable in the reflected spotlight of a recovering gambling addict. Unable to turn away his friend, Noah decides to do this one favor for Shannon before sacrificing everything he’s worked so hard to build and walking away.

Review:  Wow words can’t say how much I loved this one!  Everything was fabulous. The both characters are so endearing with their plight for love of one another and why they haven’t pursued anything other than friendship.  The story line intriguing and written with finesses and wit and charm, the sex is hot. I just can’t say enough!                                                                                                                            
‘Surrendered To Him’ by Sara York

When the storm hits, everything changes. Will shifting priorities lead to a shift in life, or will Storm Bennett abandon his heart’s desires?

Storm rules the Bennett Empire with an iron fist, never taking time to allow emotions into his life, leaving him looking like the bad guy in the media over and over again. When a typhoon hits the island where one of his hotels is located, he sees it as a chance to repair his damaged reputation.

On the island, nothing is as it should be. Storm meets Keoni, a native, who challenges everything Storm knows about relationships, family and love. Keoni is blown away by Storm but wants the man so badly he can taste it.

Can he risk his newfound peace, giving a part of himself to Storm, or will he stay detached, allowing love to slip away?

Review:  This story is very heart warming. A big-shot finally learning that life is more than money but can he live without money can love be enough? You must read this and see.  I am a huge, huge Sara York fan and she did not disappoint here!  A great story and very hot mansex

‘Designs For Him’ by Noelle Keaton

Normally all business when it comes to his career, Jon finds the lines between the professional and the personal getting blurred after falling in love with billionaire CEO Warren

After months of unemployment, Jon Pritchard finds work with Cressen Furniture, the ‘American IKEA’, in a low-level job. A software program he creates in his free time attracts the interest of Warren Cressen, the interim CEO of Cressen Furniture, who quickly gives Jon a promotion.

The attraction between the two men is undeniable, and it isn’t long before they act on it, though they agree to be discreet until Warren’s position as CEO is made permanent.

Their relationship grows serious, but it is tested when evidence is discovered that seems to point to Jon being a corporate spy and Warren starts to wonder if he hasn’t been used all along.

With the highest professional stakes on the line, Jon and Warren have to decide whether the professional success they share in the boardroom is worth sacrificing the passion they share in the bedroom.

Review:  Another great story in a very hot collection.  This story had great characters and a great story. The attraction was mutual then the thought of betrayal and mistrust and boardroom scandal.  Just when you thought things was going so well. This story will have you on your toes. It’s hot and sexy with a twist you don’t see coming.

 

Recommendation: If you like anthologies this is one to get. Everything about it is fabulous. An A list of fantastic authors, stories of scandal, boardroom sex, friends to lovers, mile high club, storms and devastation, art,  and some great hot mansex. A must read!

                                                                                                                    

Winter Warmers Anthology

winterTitle:  Winter Warmers

Series:  N/A

Author: Anthology (Clare London, Chrissy Munder, JL Merrow, Josephine Myles, and Lou Harper)

Genre:  Anthology, Contemporary

Length:  Novella

Publisher:  Pink Squirrel Press (November 26, 2011)

Heat Level:  Moderate overall, though a few of the stories were more explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts for anthology as a whole, each story has ratings in review.

Blurb:  Baby, it’s cold outside! Beat the chill with Winter Warmers – a seasonal anthology

Mulled wine. Butterscotch kisses. Hideous sweaters. Candy at the beach, or a trip to a sex shop in Amsterdam. And the man of your dreams, wrapped around you…

Winter warmers come in many shapes and sizes, from the tongue-in-cheek to the hot-as-hell. Enjoy a quintet of heart-warming tales of men loving men from Clare London, Chrissy Munder, JL Merrow, Josephine Myles, and Lou Harper that are guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face.

One thing’s for sure—it’s going to be a red-hot Christmas!

Product Link: http://www.smashwords.com/extreader/read/108246/1/winter-warmers

Reviewer:  Cat

Review:  Overall I found the stories all very cute and interesting. I did have one caveat on the overall book and that was there was no titles on each stories It just seems to flow into the about the author then into the next book with no warning. But once you figured out where you were the stories were as sweet and fun as can be!

Individual stories

Lucky Dip by Clare London

Heat Level: Explicit   Heart Rating:   ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

I loved this one. Andy is a teacher getting ready for a school fundraiser.  He is going to have to share his corner with a volunteer that turns out to be his ex-boyfriend Greg.

I laughed until I cried over this one. The kids were so cute and funny and the story was a sizzler; sure to warm you on a cold winter night.

Butterscotch Kisses by Chrissy Munder

Heat Level:  Explicit  Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

I also loved this one! Mathew was afraid of heights and this fear cost him his boyfriend and a lot of humiliation. After purchasing a self-help program, he goes daily to the toboggan run to climb the steps. He meets “cute Ticket guy”. Does he conquer I his fear? Do he and ‘cute ticket guy’ go out’? What do butterscotch kisses have to do with heights? You will have to read this one and see! This was another very cute story written with a lot of wit and humor. The story of the fear of heights is easy to relate too and you can just feel Mathew’s fear. And the hats on cute ticket guy? Just hilarious!

Wintertide by Lou Harper

Heat Level:  Explicit  Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

I really liked this one, too. It’s not as humorous as the last two, but just as sweet and sexy. Jem lives in the run down part of Hollywood and is alone for Christmas. He goes to the beach and sees an older man who he finds intriguingly handsome. He watches him throwing in candy in the water. They meet and immediately hookup. Jem wakes up at Oscar’s and looks around, seeing a lot of photos of another handsome man. Assuming Oscar has a boyfriend, Jem leaves.

This story has a very sad backstory, so be sure to have some tissues on hand. It is very sweet and sexy also! A real heart-warmer.

When in Amsterdam by Josephine Myles

Heat Level:  Explicit Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Brandon went with his boyfriend, Jos, to Amsterdam for their version of Christmas. They wind up at a kink shop. Brandon isn’t into the kink scene, but knows Jos is.

This was my least favorite of all five stories. It was a good, but it centered mostly on the D/s, and sex thing without a real plot. I did like the loving relationship that Brandon and Jos had, and the fact that Brandon loved Jos enough to try new things.

A pint of beer, A Bag of Chips, and Thou by JL Merrow

Heat Level: Moderate                        Heart Rating:   ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

This one was another very cute funny one. I loved the way this one felt like the author was speaking directly to you, even asking you questions. I found myself answering a few! I laughed and laughed. I would definitely read more JL Merrow books.

Liam was a son of a witch. His family is quite eccentric, as is he. He plays his sax in the tube for money. He has his eye on a man who frequents the area, but is sure the man is far out of his league. His aunts and mom give him these horrendous knitted Christmas gifts: one a day for three days. You will have to read this to see what they are and how they play a part in the story! You won’t be sorry! The story is cute, sassy and sexy as heck! A great one to cuddle up under a blanket with hot cocoa!

I recommend this collection to anyone that loves a good anthology. Witches, Doms, peppermint lovers, cute guys in silly hats, and lots of laughs! Oh, I almost forgot the hot mansex!

Geisha Boys by Valario la Martire

Title:  Geisha Boys

Series:   N/A

Author:  Valerio la Martire

Genre: Contemporary/BDSM/Transvestite

Length: Short Story (45 pages)

Publisher: Self-Published (first published in Italy 2009 by Edizioni Croce) English Translation- 2012

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥3Hearts

Blurb:   “I cover my lips with a thin layer of blue colour. I look at myself again.
A distorted figure on a white background. I am the one who doesn’t need it, the one who lives alone out of the House. I am the one who doesn’t have a name because it doesn’t matter, the one who doesn’t have a colour at the right place.”

Outskirts of Rome. An Okiya house in which seven boys live together as geisha; leaded by a transsexual Mama-san. They tell with their own words their love and how they sell away themselves..

Product Link:  Geisha Boys

Reviewer: Cat

Warning: Strong sexual content, violence and you will need tissues.  Not a romance or a HEA.

Review:  Geisha Boys is a very heart-wrenching poignant story of seven young boys plus their Mama-san and how they became rent-boys. I liked how each chapter began with a dossier (character profile) for that character, and then went into his thoughts.  The story has a lot of metaphors and is beautifully written; almost prose like.

I recommend it to anyone that likes something different with no HEA, very rough sex, BDSM, rent boys, Golden Showers, a good cry and a reality check once in a while.

Friends to Lovers by Sedonia Guillone and D.H. Starr

Title:  Friends to Lovers

Series:  N/A

Author:  Sedonia Guillone and D. H. Starr

Genre:   Contemporary, Historical and Romance

Length:  Anthology (177 Pages)

Publisher:  Ai Press (October 27, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts

Blurb:   What do an advertising executive, an Olympic skater and an 18th century samurai have in common? Each is in love with his best friend and knows he’s found his soul mate. But is Fate destined to give him his heart’s desire? A timeless theme explored in three sizzling M/M stories by two of today’s favorite authors, D.H. Starr and Sedonia Guillone.

It Was Always You (D.H. Starr) A drama club geek and a consummate jock—hardly a formula for friendship. Yet Caleb Richards and Kevin O’Brien have been best friends since high school. Kevin’s free spirited ways brought Caleb out of his shell, and Caleb introduced Kevin to a world outside of sports. When Kevin came out to Caleb as gay, all the things he’d thought were wrong about himself suddenly seemed right…except for his inability to say the four words that could open the door to his ultimate happiness: I love you, Kevin. Years later, when Caleb finally faced his fear and plans to finally tell Kevin, “It was always you,” he’s a bit too late: Kevin tells him he’s found someone. How will a friendship ever become more now?

Blind Love (Sedonia Guillone) After a harrowing seventeen-year separation, Hirata Morimasa leaves his home and secure future to search for his childhood friend, Sho. Blinded by illness when they were children, Sho was sent away, apprenticed to a blind masseur (an anma) to learn his trade, and then disappeared. Desperate to find the other half of his heart and soul, Hirata willingly sacrifices the prestige and security of his father’s dojo to find him. When an anma who looks exactly like Sho crosses his path in front of a gambling parlor one day, the man flatly denies he is Sho. Hirata knows better and is determined to get the truth…and to rekindle what he’d lost with his friend. However, even though Hirata knows in his bones this man is his soul mate, Sho has…changed…in ways Hirata could not have prepared for in his wildest imaginings, changes that could continue to keep them apart…forever.

Skating For Gold (D.H. Starr) Joined by sorrow, Olympic figure skating hopeful Devon Hayes met champion Lance Dawes at a time when both their worlds were falling apart. Devon lost his mother to cancer and Lance’s family rejected him for being gay. When Devon leaves for college, a door seems to close on any hopes for something more than friendship…until Fate provides a second chance. Devon returns home to train with Lance. As the Olympic trials draw closer and their love grows stronger, the tug-of-war between desire and ambition threatens to ruin everything. If they can’t discover what matters most, they might end up with nothing

Product Link:  http://ai-press.net/2012/10/29/now-available-friends-to-lovers/

Reviewer:   John

Review: 

It Was Always You by D.H. Starr ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Caleb Richards and Kevin O’Brien are best friends since high school. Unbeknownst to Kevin, Caleb has always been in love to him, but he had not found the courage to share his feeling with him since Kevin has a reputation of sleeping around with a lot of guys. However, everything changes one day when Kevin wants to introduce to Caleb the guy he calls The One. This is where things get interesting.

I loved Caleb. He was smart, funny and a very nice guy. He has always been in love with Kevin, but has not dared to confess it to him. I absolutely loved Kevin since he was a real bad boy and a player. I was happy and shocked to know that Kevin loved Caleb as well, thus the name of the novel fits perfectly. On the downside, the story felt a little too long, even though it was a short story. It would have been better if the story was cut straight to the point or reduce the pages of internal conflict of the main character.

Blind Love by Sedonia Guillone ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Hirata Morimasa was a Samurai in training and his father owned a dojo. His best friend was Sho, a blind child who was the son of his father’s servants. But everything is not perfect since at just ten years old, Sho has to leave with a Blind Guild. Against Hirata and Sho’s wishes, he leaves and is never seen again. Before he is taken away however, Hirata promises that he will look for him someday. When Hirata is seventeen years old, he leaves his home and finds Sho ten years later. Everything should have been perfect, but it’s not since Sho does not recognize him.

This novel is not my type, but it was a masterpiece. The author clearly shows knowledge about this era and culture beyond my expectations. At first, I was sad by Sho’s rejection to Hirata since the guy had been looking for him for TEN years. For ten solid years, he looked far and wide for his one and true love. Now, that’s true love! After Sho told us his side of the story, I fell for the kid even more. He was a lost little boy who was force to grow up away from his family, friends and love. I knew then why he behaved that way. Everything about this story was perfect and story line was believable. The author did an amazing job with this short little story.

Skating For Gold by D.H. Starr – ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Devon Haynes is an ice skater who has been training with Lance Dawes. They have been in love with each other, but neither of them have had the courage to say it out loud to each other. When the Olympic Trail nears, they become closer and shared their troubling conflicts.

D.H. Starr is an amazing author. There is no doubt about that. His writing style comes alive on every page, but this was my least favorite story. Don’t get me wrong, the characters and story were great and believable. Everything flew well, but I don’t know why this story felt too long like the first one. Maybe, it was the amount of pages given to the troubling thoughts surrounding the characters. This would have been much better if it was cut straight to the point or reduce the number of pages of internal conflict of the main characters.

I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read three amazing little stories about how friends become lovers and one in the same.

Encounter by Lee Brazil

Title:  Encounter

Series:  N/A

Author:  Lee Brazil

Genre: Contemporary/Paranormal

Length: Anthology

Publisher: Self-published (September 26, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:
Encounter: A nervous wannabe actor slips away to steal a smoke at an audition and finds more relaxation than he expected.

Finding Justice: When Justice figures out his boyfriend considers him nothing more than a piece of ass on the side, he takes matters into his own hands.

Nick: Insecure nurse Nick discovers something about his rock star boyfriend he just can’t forgive.

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/Encounter-ebook/dp/B009HCWBHM/ref=la_B0049WSOVM_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1351021236&sr=1-6

Reviewer:  Cat

Also includes reviews for two bonus stories   Finding Justice and Scenes; Nick

Review:  Encounter 

Trevor is backstage trying to calm down for an audition for a part he really wants. He sees Kaspar and both are taken by each other. Kaspar says he can help Trevor relax. Both men agree to a one -time thing. Will this be the only time he sees Kaspar?

As usual this is a very sweet fast short story.  One that when you need something fast to  fill a few minutes , you can count on sweet hot and in this case a bit intriguing.

I recommend this to anyone that likes any of Lee Brazil’s stories, Sweet hot sex, and a hint of something out of this world.  If you like short and sweet you can’t go wrong!

You also get a couple of bonuses.

Finding Justice

 Justice is tired of being kept hidden like he is Payton’s dirty little secret. Payton not coming home for their anniversary and saying they don’t have a real relationship to celebrate, Justice leaves. What ensues? Read it and see.

I absolutely loved this story. I am such a sucker for a love that someone will go to any length to find.  Yep I was hooked with this one. Swoon!

Plus you get yet another Bonus

Scenes; Nick

Nick is tired of feeling like he isn’t good enough for Jayden. Nick is just a nurse and Jayden is a singer in a popular band. Finding something in the laundry Nick finds the nerve to finally dump Jayden.

I loved this also. I could see me in Nick. I would have done the same.  Another great, hot story of a love that prevails.

I recommend this book to anyone that loves short sweet love stories with hot sex. You get three for the price of one plus an Excerpt from Lee’s next book…Truth Deeper than Logic

 

Sins of Autumn anthology by DJ Manly, AJ Llewellyn and Serena Yates

Title: Sins of Autumn

Author: D.J. Manly,  A.J. Llewellyn, Serena Yates

Series: The Seven Deadly Sins

Genre: M/M contemporary

ISBN: 978-0-85715-775-1

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing (November 7, 2011)

Format/length: ebook 463 KB

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Artemis

From the Publisher:   The Sins of Autumn weaves a general thread of revelation loosely tying these tales together. Wrath, gluttony and pride are explored in these hot m/m tales involving action, burning hot sex and out-of-this-world adventures that will leave you hoping for cooler weather—soon!

About the Authors:

D.J. Manly:   I write not only for my own pleasure, but for the pleasure of my readers. I can’t remember a time in my life when I haven’t written and told stories. When I’m not writing, I’m dreaming about writing, doing something wild and adventurous, or trying to make the world a better and more open-minded place to live in.

A.J. Llewellyn:   A.J. Llewellyn lives in California, but dreams of living in Hawaii. Frequent trips to all the islands, bags of Kona coffee in the fridge and a healthy collection of Hawaiian records keep this writer refueled

Serena Yates:   I’m a night owl who starts writing when everyone else in my time zone is asleep. I’ve loved reading all my life and spent most of my childhood with my nose buried in a book. Although I always wanted to be a writer, financial independence came first. Twenty-some years and a successful business career later I took some online writing classes and never looked back.

My Review:   The first book of this anthology really grabbed me right from the start. In Hail Storm by D.J.Manly, Chance and his friends absolutely worship the rock band Hail Storm and form a tribute band in their honor. Chance doesn’t realize that he has a connection to the lead singer until they meet face to face. It turns out that Hail, the lead singer, is actually Chance’s brother and the two quickly form quite a deep bond. A little thing like falling in love with the same guy (Storm, a key member of the band) might just tear them apart.

From the very beginning of this book, I could feel the hormonal angst of a young guy and his passionate obsession with his favorite rock band. There is a lot of hero-worship going on and he cannot believe it when Hail tells him they are really brothers. Chance is torn between the loyalty he feels towards his brother and the deep feelings he develops for Storm. Hail is obsessed with Storm and Chance knows that by falling in love with him, he will bring Hail’s wrath down on both of them.

I loved the way the author portrayed the conflict in this story. Hail gives Chance everything…opening his home to him and helping him achieve his own success, but in return Chance falls in love with the man Hail wanted to claim as his own. There was no malice involved, just circumstance, and as the pages turned and the conflict was resolved I had to smile at how right things ended up in the end.

The second book of this anthology, Full by A.J.Llewellyn didn’t grab me quite like the first one did. Barney Calloway is an extremely overweight voice over actor in Hollywood. He has struggled with his weight his whole life and after a particularly embarrassing party mishap he finds a business card tucked under his windshield wiper saying one word. Full. On the back is a phone number (which he calls) and miraculously the next morning he wakes up at his ideal weight. Family members and old flames react oddly to the new Barney and he isn’t sure that being overweight was really his only problem.

The message that the author portrays here is a powerful one….our happiness cannot be achieved by being physically perfect. Barney is overweight at the beginning, yes, but after the weight comes off, he starts to realize that maybe he had a ‘fuller’ life than he thought he did. While I liked the story, I think the writing was a bit choppy. I would have liked for the pace of the story to slow down a bit, maybe have the author pick a few key characters to focus on, and still keep the same storyline. Great message, though and one Barney finally understood in the end.

In Autumn Quest by Serena Yates there is a parchment thief stealing books and scrolls from the Royal Library and he must be stopped. The Khan decides to put his youngest son, Bayar, in charge of solving the mystery of the thief’s identity. Bayer chooses an assistant…Chinux, a bounty hunter…to help him in this quest.

The contrast between the scholarly Bayer and the rough and tumble bounty hunter is quite evident. Even though Bayer should be in charge (being royalty and all), it is clearly Chinux that is leading this expedition. They are shocked to learn the true identity of the thief, but their combined strengths and talents allow them to overcome evil in the end. There is a nice bit of adventure, intrigue, and passion all wrapped up in this story. These two characters really complement each other well and I was rooting for them to not only find the thief, but maybe find a life together in the end as well.

Overall, the Sins of Autumn Anthology is a nice collection of stories that illustrate the sins of wrath, gluttony, and pride and how passion can play a part in all of them.

 

Po' Boys Anthology by Tc Blue, Kiernan Kelly, Lydia Nyx, Julia Talbot, and Ba Tortuga

Title:  Po Boys Anthology

Series: N/A

Authors:   T.C. Blue, Kiernan Kelly, Lydia Nyx, Julia Talbot, B.A. Tortuga

Genre: M/M contemporary

Length: eBook, 205 pages

Publisher: Torquere Press

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb: New Orleans is beautiful, mysterious, and above all, sexy. Po’ Boys explores all the dark alleys and shadowy cemeteries the city has to offer, with all the heat you expect from the Deep South.

In Ghost Hunting with the Stars by Lydia Nyx, Harley Weston is an average guy. So when Jackson Carney, America’s favorite gay ghost hunter, comes to film a TV show at the haunted French Quarter hotel Harley works in, Harley isn’t impressed. However, Harley does admire Jackson’s surprisingly down-to-earth attitude.

In Bubba’s All Night Diner and Bait Shop, by Kiernan Kelly, you’ll find muffuletta and murder at Bubba’s, where the danger is as thick as the accents, and the sex is as spicy as the jambalaya.

In Sexual Frankenstein, by TC Blue, friends and band mates Darian Jones and Tony Delacourt think they know each other well. When an opportunity for the band falls into their laps, it seems like a dream come true, but between their unacknowledged attraction, and some questionable decisions, they must decide whether to play it safe, or risk it all.

Finally, in Link to the Crescent, by Julia Talbot and BA Tortuga, werewolf Landry is sent to New Orleans from his home in the swamp, told he’ll meet his destiny. What he meets is vampire, Thierry, who might just be exactly what Landry’s looking for.

Let the good times roll!

Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76&products_id=3531

Reviewer: Artemis

Review: Having lived in the Gulf Coast area for many years, I fell in love with all things Cajun.  So, I was really looking forward to reading this book. It is made up of 4 different stories, all set in or around New Orleans,

In Ghost Hunting with the Stars, by Lydia Nyx, Harley meets Jackson Carney, America’s favorite gay ghost hunter, and immediately thinks he resembles a perfectly decorated cake.  All pretty on the outside but weirdly fake.  Harley is just an average guy and has no interest in celebrities, but as he gets to know Jackson he starts to realize that America’s favorite gay ghost hunter is really a pretty nice guy.

I loved the author’s writing style and she created two very likeable characters.  They had an easy way of bantering with each other that made me smile.  I also enjoyed the secondary characters she added into the story.  Harley’s best friend Keith was funny and a bit crass and Jackson’s assistant Amanda was slightly scattered and frantic.

This story had a little bit of ghost hunting, a little bit of sex, some real life stuff thrown in and really well written characters and dialogue.  Very enjoyable!

In Bubba’s All Night Diner and Bait Shop by Kiernan Kelly, Jackson shows up at the diner looking for the Malvin brothers and Bubba offers to show him the way to their cabin.  Bubba is the diner’s owner and has an accent as thick as the gumbo they serve.  Jackson looks like an FBI agent, but is really looking for the Malvin brothers to get their signature on the paperwork that will give his company rights to the natural gas reserves hidden underneath the swamp.  Too bad the Malvin brothers are too dead to sign anything!

Bubba and Jackson get acquainted during the murder investigation and subsequent arson investigation and hospital stay.  When the whole thing finally unravels, Bubba and Jackson are more than happy to keep seeing each other, even if they do come from two totally different worlds.

I liked the story the author created and it really was true to life with gators and shotguns and everything else you find in the back woods of the bayou.  I admit, though, I am never a huge fan of trying to read accented speech.  It makes it very realistic, but there are a few too many aint’s in the story.

In Sexual Frankenstein by TC Blue, Darien and Tony have been in the band with each other for a couple of years, each one secretly crushing on the other and assuming they have no chance.  An amazing gig falls in their laps and during the course of the night they find themselves getting involved with other people.  These brief liaisons serve to open their eyes to what they COULD have if they just manage to find the courage to grab it!

When Tony and Damien finally acknowledge their attraction to each other and end up in bed it is sweet and hot and a little bit frantic and even just a tad bit awkward.  Just what you would expect of 2 college kids who have been suffering from unrequited love for the last 2 years!

The author created a group of very likeable characters and I loved that there was an epilogue at the end to let us know how things ended up after the initial craziness of the new relationship.

In Link to the Crescent by Julia Talbot and BA Tortuga, Thierry is bored. He has been around a long time and has lost interest in life.  Landry is a werewolf, sent from his pack, in search of his destiny.  He is young, but denies it, and hungry and wanting to play.  Thierry offers him a nice rare steak and a bit of fun and they quickly move forward to a fiercely loyal and protective relationship. Unfortunately, another pack has already claimed this area for themselves and Landry and Thierry need to stake their own claim.

This was a fast paced story with thoroughly enjoyable characters.  Thierry is protective and loving and Landry is adorably playful and willing to please.  I found it interesting how the author blended the wolf and the human in some scenes.  It was often difficult to determine which one was actually in charge.  Throughout the story, I could really feel how much they cared for each other.  I wish the story had gone a little farther, I didn’t want it to end!

These four stories are all very different, but if you love the bayou and all things Cajun I think you will really have fun with this anthology!

Chasing the Dream – Dreamspinner Anthology

Title: Anthology – Chasing the Dream

Author: Sue Brown, G.A. Hauser, Sammy Jo Hunt, Patricia Logan and Lisa Worrall

Genre: Contemporary/Paranormal, M/M, M/M/M, BDSM.

Length: Five Novella’s (338pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (17th September 2011)

Heat Level: Explicit/Scorching

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½ (overall)

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Chasing the dream…something every one of us aspires to. But every dream is different for each individual. Some crave love, fame, or immortality. And for still others, they desire power and riches, and all that comes with it.

In this anthology, share in the vivid imaginations of five bestselling authors who are masters of the genre, each writing steamy, hot passionate stories of men loving men, men sharing their bodies, who hope to attain their own secret desires.

Come along for the sensual journey that awaits you, and get lost in this collection of must-have gay erotica. Let these stories steal you away to another world where hot men share their deepest hopes and fantasies with you, while they’re Chasing the Dream.

* * * * *

Racing raindrops by Sue Brown (56pgs) Hearts: ♥♥♥♥3 ½

Caught by an unexpected rain shower, Tony DiMarco seeks shelter in a bar. The last thing Tony expects is to be propositioned by the hot bartender and his equally hot cousin. Mac and Chase make it clear it’s his decision, but Tony is torn between his desires and his responsibilities. On a sudden whim he decides to let the raindrops sheeting down the window make the decision. If they go right he’ll say yes to a night of sex that might blow his world apart, if the rain goes left he’ll leave and never look back.

Review: Tony hides his sexuality because he knows what would happen if his father or his employer found out.  He meets Mac and Chase and they have him tempted to look for something more.

This is a cute read which is extremely hot, we see Tony battling with indecision as he tries to decide if he should take the two hunky men up on their offer.   and we see Chase and Mac want more than just one night with Tony. Not quite a HEA but a beginning …maybe?

*****

Nasty Boys by G.A. Hauser (78pgs) Hearts: ♥♥♥2 ½

Fire-fighter by day, sex god by night, ‘Clyde’ chased his dream in Hollywood to be the top gay male porn star in West Hollywood. What Clyde didn’t expect was a little help from a pretty-boy superstar. ‘Blaze’ lights this fireman’s world on fire!

Review: Clyde wants to fulfill his dreams of being a sex god porn star and ‘Blaze’ wants a night out with the hunky Clyde.

Clyde is not quite as tough and macho as he appears wanting a gentler lover and something more than a quick hook up; we feel his longing for more.   ‘Blaze’ also wants something different and he seems to find it in Clyde. The story cuts off a bit abruptly and is a novella for the Action series so I don’t know if we will see more of Clyde. This is good for a quick scorching sex fix.

*****

The Soul Awakening by SammyJo Hunt (68pgs) Hearts: ♥♥♥♥♥5

While on promotional tour across Europe, Michael Nolan’s rental car encounters engine trouble and leaves him stranded in the dead of night. The offer of help from a tall dark stranger sets him upon a life-altering course of events. It could lead to love…but more likely, his own private hell.

Review: Michael gets lost on a dark country road when his car breaks down.   There he meets Zandor who comes to his rescue and turns his life upside down.

Zandor wants nothing more than for someone to love him and to share his lonely existence.   He finds that in Michael.   Michael wants Zandor but is too scared to give up his life and everything he knows.  Brilliant writing with a twist on vampires and the emotions from the characters are wonderful… a definite must read.

*****

Chasing Deuce by Patricia Logan (63pgs) Hearts: ♥♥♥♥♥5

Has Colt’s fantasy of bringing Slade into the bedroom with Deuce driven Deuce away for good or can Colt lure the handsome cowboy home to be loved by two instead of one? Slade has been in lust for Colt for years. Will he get the opportunity to taste the man he’s always wanted and the added bonus of his cowboy lover?

Review: Colt loves Deuce but he wants a bit of spice with Slade.  Deuce loves and adores Colt but feels betrayed that Colt needs someone other than him.   Slade has wanted Colt for many years and he’s now in his grasp.

Deuce’s feelings are fully understandable and you can sympathize with him when he leaves but he loves Colt too much and they try to work it out. The sex is outstanding and the storyline will bring out conflicting feelings in you… a definite must read now.

*****

Dreaming of You by Lisa Worrall (61pgs) Hearts: ♥♥♥♥♥5

Noah Kinkade is an up and coming designer, one of the best newcomers in the field. When he is hired to restore the old Seevers mansion to its former glory, he thinks all his dreams have come true. He doesn’t know how right he is.

Review: Noah is working all the hours that God sends on a mansion and it’s affecting his life.   Sebastian is waiting for his lost love Thomas and Noah is the spitting image of him.

This is a brilliant little novella, the storyline is fantastic and the characters are great. The sex is scorching hot and they all find love. The story also flicks to 1861 and it really adds to the book, this is great for those who love the paranormal.