The Boy Who Came In From the Cold by B.G. Thomas ~ Audiobook

Title: The Boy Who Came in From the Cold
Author: BG Thomas
Narrator: Charlie David
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 7 hours and 57 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (04-09-14)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Todd Burton has had enough of small-town Buckman. His abusive stepfather calls him a fag; his friend Austin makes him realize he may be gay, but Todd doesn’t want to admit his stepfather is right; and he dreams of being a chef. Three good reasons to flee his hometown and pursue greener pastures. But when Todd reaches the big city, his luck runs dry. Soon he can’t pay his rent and gets evicted. In the middle of a snowstorm.

Gabe Richards is a wealthy businessman with enough wounds of his own to make him afraid of ever being intimate again. But when he sees Todd outside his building, freezing to death, he takes pity on him and takes him in from the cold.

To their mutual surprise, Todd and Gabe find themselves drawn to each other. “One night” turns into a week. Maybe letting a man in from the cold can melt the ice around Gabe’s heart—and maybe getting evicted will turn Todd’s luck around.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/The-Boy-Who-Came-in-from-the-Cold-Audiobook/B00JJRYLA0
Todd Burton is jobless, broke and now homeless in the middle of freezing blizzard. Not the greatest combination. Little does he know that the man who lets him come inside the foyer of his apartment building is about to change his life, irrevocably. Gabe Richards is always paying it forward, so much so that he’s had his heart demolished in the past because he is so kind. But he can’t resist wanting to help the scared, frozen young man he finds outside his building.

When Gabe offers him a meal and a place to sleep for the night that is safe and warm, Todd immediately gets the wrong idea and not only insults Gabe, but hurt’s his feelings. None the less, when Todd realizes he has nowhere else to go, but out in the cold, he decides to take Gabe up on his offer.

Todd spent the better part of his life ignoring his sexuality. There have always been hints, little clues, like the heated make out session with his best friend Austin, the men’s fitness magazines he horded as a teenager, oh and the underwear model ads, all male models. But a verbally, mentally and sometimes physical abusive homophobic stepfather made him deny née and every inclination he had toward the same-sex.

But now that Todd is staying with Gabe, he’s finding it hard to ignore the attraction to him. There is also a familiarity and a trust with Gabe that Todd has never experienced with another human being.

Gabe was rescued himself by his boss, mentor and friend Peter when he wasn’t much older than Todd is now. It made his very aware of just how precious life is and how some people just need a helping hand sometimes. Gabe also wears his heart on his sleeve, which some people will take advantage of, which is how he got his heart broken by a young man he helped once a few years ago.

Though Gabe still does anything and everything he can to help someone who is down and out on their luck, he’s safeguarded his heart. Fear of being taken advantage of and hurt again make him deny his increasingly growing feelings for Todd.

Love at first sight and all that are at the core of this story, that and coming to terms with who you are and how you want to live your life. Todd will have to set aside all the ingrained hatred that is stuck on repeat in his brain and Gabe will have to open himself up for possible heartbreak again, if they are going to stand a chance at any kind of happy ever after.

I was hooked on this story from the first words uttered by Charlie David. The scenario of a young man who is battling his own mindset in order to be who he really is was seriously fascinating. Thomas did a great job of writing the inner turmoil that Todd goes through with his stepfather’s barrage of insults constantly repeating themselves inside his confused mind.

It’s not until he finds a way to turn that off that he finally opens himself up to Gabe. The narration was splendid, with David giving that southern twang to Todd’s accent while Gabe had the more mature and commanding tones to his voice. But my personal favorite voice would have to have been Peter, Gabe boss and friend. David really captured the maturity and British nuances to Peter’s proud voice.

If you are a fan of coming of age and being true to yourself stores with a sexy edge, Charlie David narrating and just overall a fun, romantic read then you really should give this one a go. I recommend it!

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

The Devil's Brew by Rhys Ford ~ Audiobook

Title: The Devil’s Brew
Series: Sinners Series, Book 2.5
Author: Rhys Ford
Narrated by: Tristan James
Length: 1 hr and 34 mins
Release Date: 08-11-14 (Dreamspinner Press)
Purchase link:
http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/The-Devils-Brew-Audiobook/B00MJ65Q0C/ref=a_search_c4_1_1_srTtl?qid=1410440749&sr=1
Reviewer: Tams

Review: Short, Sexy, Steamy and downright hysterical!

Miki St. John and his partner, SFPD Inspector Kane Morgan have settled into a comfortable lifestyle. Miki, Kane, Miki’s best friend Damie and Dude the dog have their own definition of family in the warehouse they all live in. First Damie drags Miki out shopping for Sionn, Damie’s boyfriend who is also Kane’s cousin, at a jewelry store. Then the two friends settle in for fish & chips for lunch. At a place they used to haunt with their deceased band mates. So the holiday, the certainty that he’s going to screw it up with Kane and missing his 2 fallen friends all have Miki in a slightly sore mood. Can the promise of an evening at home alone with Kane brighten the young rockers otherwise dreary mood?

Things are definitely looking up until Kane gets called in to work. The working doesn’t bother Miki. He can understand and loves Kane all the more for what he does. It’s the, dare I say, wrapping of Kane’s gift that get’s Miki all in a tizzy! At the end of the day, the guys exchange their gifts and solidify their love for each other that ends with Miki underneath Kane… hot, sweaty, sticky, and completely debauched.

This was the perfect addition to the Sinner’s Gin series. Just to give all us hardcore fans a little update with the goings on in the lives of our two favorite couples. Miki is one of the most messed up, comical, endearing, and lovable characters of any series I’ve read to date. The way that he and Kane communicate is equal parts baffling and beautiful. They crack me up! And the love letter that Kane wrote to Miki, but he has it shoved inside his guitar, like a little morsel just waiting for Miki to find it in like twenty years.

** Updated review to include audio review 9-11-14 **

Tristan James returns to continue telling the story of the Morgan clan and their men. It’s amazing to me how James manages to maintain a different tone and inflection for each of the Morgan men, so much so that the listener always knows exactly which character they are following. His voice and narration adds an extra edge to this already amazing series. Whether it’s the big, bad cop Kane whose patience and love for Miki is never ending. The unwavering best friend Damie. Or young, insecure and slightly psychotic Miki St. John himself. James gives each and every one of them their own distinct personality and voice that only compliments Ford’s written characters.

This audio version is the perfect addition to an already stellar series of books, I’ve both read and listened to all the books, and while they are highly similar, each version gives you a different perspective to the characters and the stories. I’m anxiously waiting for Tequila Sunrise to release on audio, and for book 4 to release on Amazon, write faster Rhys!!

Backwoods Asylum by Megan Derr ~ Audiobook

Title: Backwoods Asylum
Author: Megan Derr
Narrator: Paul Morey
Genre: Paranormal
Length: 1 hour and 46 minutes
Publisher: Less Than Three Press (06-12-2014)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Skylar is used to the way people think of him as frightening, mean, and dangerous. Snakes are not the most popular shifters around and the fact he grew up wild doesn’t help. He knows the way he’s chosen to live alone in the woods only makes things worse, but he didn’t think it meant people thought him capable of killing a couple of wolf puppies.

Determined to find the real monster who left them to die, Skylar calls up the only wolf he knows, a man he always wished would see him as more than a snake …

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/pd/Romance/Backwoods-Asylum-Audiobook/B00KX906R0/ref=a_search_c4_1_1_srTtl?qid=1409501495&sr=1-1
Review: Skylar is a snake shifter and a loner by nature. He lives alone and secluded in the woods, it’s the way he prefers it. But his self-imposed seclusion is about to abruptly end when he wakes one night to the soft cries of a couple of wolf shifter pups. Skylar reaches out for help from the only wolf shifter he knows, Brady.

Skylar and Brady have always been uneasy around each other. Each thinking the other disliked him, when in fact it was a mutual attraction that made them unsteady. Forced into close quarters while Brady tries to figure out why the pups were dumped off at Skylar’s pond, presumably so the nasty snake shifter would have them as a midnight snack. The two finally get to see each other for who they really are.

This was just a fast paced, fun read with a little bit of mystery and suspense. It’s difficult to write too much about this short, as I don’t want to give everything away. Derr has a knack for writing these short stories that contain more content than a lot of full-length novels. Her characters are always three-dimensional and her stories very vivid.

Add to that the sultry voice of Paul Morey as he gives her words and characters a voice and the end result is a fantastic audible that will make the time fly by.

Brian's Mate by Hollis Shiloh ~ Audiobook

Title: Brian’s Mate
Author: Hollis Shiloh
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Narrator: Stone Cannon
Length: 4 hours and 32 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press through Audible (05-12-14)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Brian is the alpha of the least impressive pack of wolves at the whole Moon Ceremony. When a human is discovered uninvited in their midst, he bonds with the man to save his life.

Luke doesn’t know about all this wolf stuff, but he’s starting to develop feelings for the gentle man who rescued him. Both Brian and Luke expect to quietly dissolve the bond later. But feelings intervene, and some bonds are not so easy to cast aside.

Building a life together as alphas will take love and hard work—especially when new wolves keep inviting themselves into their lives.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Brians-Mate-Audiobook/B00K7PMSQC/ref=a_search_c4_1_3_srTtl?qid=1409414732&sr=1-3
Review: Brian is probably the most unassuming Alpha wolf ever. He inherited his pack upon his father’s death as the eldest son, and the pack still holds to small numbers. Just Brian, his brother, sister-in-law and nephews. Brian is an artist, a sort of free-spirited loner who makes good money, but gives the majority of it to support wolves that don’t have a pack or a home. He would love to find a mate and have a family, increase his pack, but as a gay shifter, he realizes that probably isn’t in the cards for him. That is, until he meets Luke.

During the annual Moon ceremony, Luke unknowingly stumbles onto pack land and, by law, is about to be killed. To save the adorable, sad man with scared eyes, Brian claims him as his mate. What starts out as an arrangement of sorts quickly becomes something more for both the Alpha and his new human mate. Luke is scared, defiant and sexy all at the same time and Brian enjoys nearly every minute of it. But will Luke want to stay mated to him once the ceremony ends, and the threat on his life is no longer hanging over their heads?

This story was totally cheesy, slightly predictable and yet, absolutely adorable and so much fun! Brian and Luke become the Alpha’s of one of the strongest packs there is, a pack full of misfits and outcasts. They have half wolves, gay wolves, homeless wolves… any wolf that either doesn’t have a home or isn’t wanted or treated right in their current pack for any number of reasons, including being gay, is accepted and fully embraced into their pack. This unlikely coupling of Alpha wolf and human, two gay men that thought they’d never find a husband, much less a family, become the head of a large and loving pack. And in a lovely little twist, Luke the only full human member of the pack becomes the heart of them all, his spirit holds them together.

This is my first audible with Stone Cannon, and while I’ve heard better, I’ve heard worse as well. At times, it seemed like he was just reading off his grocery list, completely void of emotion. But other times he would dive right into the character and the situation at the time. I think he has promise to become a great narrator, he just needs to find his niche. Overall, though this was just a fast, fun listen that I’ll probably listen to again.

If you are a fan of lighthearted romance, shifters and cheesy love stories then grab a copy of this one. It will leave you with a smile on your face.

Wholehearted by Cate Ashwood (Audiobook) Book Blast, Review & Giveaway!

Hiya my fellow mm readers, we now have the fabulous Cate Ashwood with her audiobook Wholehearted, we have an excerpt for you to listen to, a great giveaway where you could win your own audio copy and Tams fantastic review. So peeps I will leave you to enjoy the post and remember to click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

Wholehearted (Audiobook)

(Hope Cove 02)

by

Cate Ashwood

Officer Declan Grant responds to a call at the Hope Cove docks to find Lucas Hale barely alive after being beaten and tossed off his fishing boat. The violent crime rocks this tranquil community where everyone knows each other and doors are rarely locked. Despite Declan being new to Hope Cove, he wants to keep his new home and Lucas safe. He starts by volunteering to care for Lucas after he’s released from the hospital.

Lucas just wants to put the whole incident behind him and move on, but the more he gets to know Declan, the harder he finds it to push Declan and his do-right attitude away. The investigation into the assault continues, but Declan will soon face a moral dilemma, a choice that may topple his tidy life and force him to choose between Lucas and the law.

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5198

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Seven Days by Andrew Grey ~ Audiobook

Title: Seven Days
Series: Seven Days #1
Author: Andrew Grey
Narrator: Sean Crisden
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 5 hours and 38 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (11-17-2011)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Can a person’s life change in just one day? How about seven? This is the story of seven pivotal days in Evan Donaldson’s life. Evan was a teenage street hustler when Father Valentin talked him into coming to Saint Bartholomew’s Academy. In that one day, Evan’s entire life changed. That’s the day he met his roommate, Clay Mueller, and the day Evan began to live. But Evan’s life would change again and again, from abuse to first love, to separation and heartbreak, and eventually to starting his own family. Through it all, whenever a door closed for Evan, a window opened, and the window was Clay. From the first day of finding faith and connecting with Clay through their relationship’s twists and turns, this is a glimpse into seven decisive days and the critical, amazing way a single moment can change destiny.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Seven-Days-Audiobook/B0068S4Y14?ref_=sr_1_2

Review: Evan Donaldson is a teenage, homeless boy who lost both his parents in a car accident and then ran away from the foster parents he was placed with. He learned how hard life could be that very first night on the street, and now he does whatever he has to do to survive. When he first meets Father Valentin on the street, he assumes the priest wants to be his next customer. But Father Valentin wants so much more for Even. The chance to give the young man the life he deserves. Evan is wary at first, but he puts his faith in the older, gentle man and it changes his life irrevocably.

For a teenage boy who has lost everything including his hope and dignity, Father Val, the school and the friends he meets that very first day turn his life around. Especially Clay Mueller. Evan is smitten with Clay from the start, but he never acts on it. Not only has Father Val explained the rules of the school, but also Evan is certain that Clay is straight, and doesn’t want to lose his best friend. Years later, the night before they graduate, Evan learns that Clay shares his attraction. But then after graduation the two drift apart, going to separate colleges and leading different lives. But Clay remains the one constant in Evan’s life. Through school, growing up, boyfriends, girlfriends and eventually adopting a little boy who is not much different from Evan all those years ago. Time and distance cannot escape destiny.

This is by far one of my favorite books in the genre. It is also my favorite book by Andrew Grey. I read the print copy several years ago and the story of Evan, Clay and Father Val has always resonated with me. It’s deep and powerful and shows that with determination, anyone can do anything. And that when you love unconditionally and give as much as you can to someone, expecting nothing in return as Father Val did with Evan and all the young men at the school, it can stay with them throughout their lives. Shaping them into decent and loyal human beings with a scale for love that has no limit.

Narrated by Sean Crisden, one of the best storytellers that we have today. I imagine those old radio shows from back in the day and the voice coming through the speaker transporting you into the world he was reading about. That is what Crisden does with this story. I have both read and listened to this book, and neither variance was disappointing. This is a must read if you like coming of age, finding who you are, beating the odds and that sometimes elusive HEA ending. And, who doesn’t love Andrew Grey?!

Dirty Kiss by Rhys Ford ~ Audiobook

Title: Dirty Kiss
Author: Rhys Ford
Series: Cole McGinnis Mysteries book #1
Narrated By: Greg Tremblay
Length: 8 hrs and 21 mins
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (03-10-14)
Heat Level: Moderate to Explicit
Hearts: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Cole Kenjiro McGinnis, ex-cop and PI, is trying to get over the shooting death of his lover when a supposedly routine investigation lands in his lap. Investigating the apparent suicide of a prominent Korean businessman s son proves to be anything but ordinary, especially when it introduces Cole to the dead man s handsome cousin, Kim Jae-Min.

Jae-Min s cousin had a dirty little secret, the kind that Cole has been familiar with all his life and that Jae-Min is still hiding from his family. The investigation leads Cole from tasteful mansions to seedy lover s trysts to Dirty Kiss, the place where the rich and discreet go to indulge in desires their traditional-minded families would rather know nothing about.

It also leads Cole McGinnis into Jae-Min s arms, and that could be a problem. Jae-Min’s cousin’s death is looking less and less like a suicide and Jae-Min is looking more and more like a target. Cole has already lost one lover to violence he s not about to lose Jae-Min too.
Buy Link: http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Dirty-Kiss-Book-1-Audiobook/B00IUQDD8M/ref=a_search_c4_1_1_srTtl?qid=1401840329&sr=1-1
Review: Cole McGinnis is a half Irish, half-Asian gay man. The former cop has little to no contact with his mother and father since he came out. His older brother, an attorney, has never turned his back on his brother though regardless. It’s Cole’s brother Mike that brings him his latest job, digging into the death of Mike’s boss’s son. It’s at the family home that Cole meets the elusive, beautiful, and troubled cousin of the victim. The last thing Mike wants is to be attracted to anyone, still in mourning after his long time lover was killed by his former partner on the force. But there is something about Jae that pulls Cole closer and makes the PI want to get to know the closed off Asian a little more intimately.

Kim Jae-Min hides his sexuality, sort of. It’s no secret to his late cousin’s family, who actually blame him for “turning” their son gay. And that couldn’t be further from the truth. Jae is attracted to the large and in charge PI as well, and it confuses him. Cole really aggravates him and pisses him off, pushing his buttons, but he turns him on like no one else ever has as well. Jae is a conundrum, fighting Cole one minute, and then rocking his world the next, sometimes the two happen simultaneously, which is both confusing and entertaining.

As Cole grows closer to uncovering the truth about Yung’s death, he and Jae grow closer as well. But the person responsible for Yung’s death wants to keep their identity a secret. Even if that means one-half breed, PI and a gay go-go dancer have to be the next casualties in this twisted game of murder and secrecy. Cole struggles to balance his attraction to Jae with his almost utter certainty that he is violating some type of promise to his dead lover to be miserable and alone for all eternity. Jae has his struggles as well. As much as he wants to be with Cole, it confuses him, the wanting the man so much. And he will not tell his family the truth, that he prefers men to woman, and risk being cut off from them. Can the two of them find a happy medium where they can stay true to themselves and manage to be with each other? And if they can, will they be alive to do so?

Ford delves deep into the trenches of Asian society and beliefs with this series, where as in the Sinner’s series, she explored the Irish. But this series is no less intense, Ford has definitely found her niche’ with murder, mayhem and snarky, sexy, half-naked men that can’t seem to keep their hands off of each other. Narrated by Greg Trembley, this is my first audio from Trembley but I’m quite taken with his skills. Trembley conveys the accents with precision and grace and manages to differentiate between characters with the slightest change of nuance and tone. The action is pulse pounding and almost nonstop. Every time you think that Cole is close to figuring things out there is another curve ball. I loved the phrases and the wording that Ford used while telling this story, describing these characters and Trembley really brought it all to life with his narration.

If you like a story with a mesh up of mystery and suspense with a couple of hard-headed fresh new lovers and a pretty accurate detailing of the Asian culture in the aspect of this story… this is the perfect book for you!

Parting Shot by Mary Calmes ~ Audiobook

Title: Parting Shot
Series: Matter of Time, #7
Author: Mary Calmes
Narrator: Tristan James
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 8 hours and 2 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (03/07/14)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts (can I give 10?!)
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: A Matter of Time Story

(Duncan Stiel from Acrobat by the same author)

Life has never been easy for Duncan Stiel. His childhood was the stuff of nightmares, and his day job as an undercover police officer forces him to hide his true self and occasionally lands him in the hospital. So when he finally meets the perfect man, it comes as no surprise that everything falls apart around him. What Duncan doesn’t expect is that the hardest hurdle to get over before he can make a life with Aaron Sutter is the one inside himself.

Everyone thinks Aaron has it all—looks, money, fame, and success beyond measure. Everyone, that is, except Aaron. At the end of the day, the cameras stop flashing, friends go back to their own lives, company business is handled, and Aaron is always alone. The moment he meets Duncan Stiel, Aaron knows he’ll do anything to hold onto the larger-than-life detective. But when he realizes money won’t buy him the ultimate happiness, Aaron needs to find the strength to give Duncan something much more important—his heart.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=Parting+Shot

Review: Duncan Stiel has been a very prominent secondary character through two of the Matter of Time books and Acrobat, as Aaron was close to a main character as the couldn’t take no for an answer ex of Jory Keyes. I sink to my knees and thank whatever forces above convinced Calmes to write Duncan and Aaron’s story!

Duncan Stiel loves his job in law enforcement. The big, burly undercover cop is much better with his hands than with his gun, so his body carries far too many scars, prominent memories of his years on the job. He keeps his sexuality a secret, even knowing how well it turned out for fellow officer and friend, Sam Kage. He lost the one man he thought he could love because of it. So when Aaron Sutter lands in his lap, he thinks they might actually be able to make a go of it. After all, the billionaire, socialite playboy is snugged tightly away in his closet as well. But the threat of Aaron losing his position and power at his family company is hovering over them, and when a case and miscommunication drive a wedge between them, it would seem that their almost was not meant to be.

Aaron Sutter is at a loss, he has never wanted to keep someone so badly before, until he met Duncan. Their relationship has its ups and downs and definitely gets off to a rocky start. First, they are blazing hot, then Duncan disappears for a while on a case, and when he comes back, there is no contact. When he finds out why he sets out to prove to Duncan how much he truly wants the cranky cop in his life. And when the board backs him, to spite the fact that he is gay, his and Duncan’s relationship becomes front-page news overnight.

Duncan is working a high-profile undercover investigation, trying to nail a guy for murder, a guy that wants something from Duncan he has promised to only share with Aaron. So he and Aaron go under cover at a BDSM resort, but even all Aaron’s billions and bravado may not be enough to catch this bad guy. And when Duncan is hurt, Aaron’s judgement is clouded by fear, the fear of losing the man he loves, and he blows their cover. Locked inside a guard tower with no windows, a way to escape or contact with the outside world, both men finally say those three little words. But they make not make it out of this one alive, so the declaration may just be a moot point.

What happens when you unite two alpha males full of good looks, snarky personalities and the innate need to be in control? Aaron has never relied on anyone, HE takes care of people. But Duncan won’t be manhandled. That is the major struggle they have to overcome in their relationship. Both men will have to learn give and take, finding a balance they are both comfortable with in order to maintain the love they have for each other. I assure you that they have absolutely no problem what so ever in the bedroom, or on the floor, up against several doors, behind a curtain or the floor of the limo. They are white hot with their shared passion for each other, and when they each individually figure out just how much each is willing to give and take (pun intended!) they are poised to be a power couple.

Brilliant writing, of course, Calmes has found her niche’. There is some drama and mystery, suspense, intrigue and lots of guy on guy action, hell, even the angry sex is sexy! This is a must read series, but this book in and of itself, could be read alone. And the narration was phenomenal. Tristan James takes over for this ‘parting shot’ in the Matter of Time series, and he did not disappoint. I don’t think the dry, snarky and witty Aaron Sutter could have been spoken any better. As much as I love the narration of Paul Morey for the first books in this series, Tristan James brought something new and fresh to the table for these characters. Subtle nuances and inflections were evident and he didn’t skip not one moan or groan either.

Still the best M/M series out there to date, in my opinion!
** I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **
http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Unearthing Cole by A.M. Arthur ~ Audiobook

Title: Unearthing Cole
Author: A.M. Arthur
Narrator: JP Handler
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 4 hours and 7 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (04-09-14)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Cole Alston swore he’d never return to his childhood home in rural North Carolina, but when his mother dies, he inherits her hoarded property. He hopes to sell everything and use the money to start over in Canada, far away from his abusive ex-boyfriend. It’s a daunting task, and Cole has no idea where to start. Luckily for him, the local antique storeowner, Jeremy Collins volunteers his services in sorting the hoard. Their professional relationship soon evolves into a personal one, but Cole must overcome his past and his anxiety before he can accept a new man in his life or the possibility of a happy future
Purchase Links: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=Unearthing+Cole

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3656
Review: Cole Alston has come home to settle his mother’s affairs after her death. He left home right out of college and rarely came back, he was embarrassed by his parents hoarding affliction. His mother was so far gone that she died in the very house that Cole was dreading stepping back into. Always feeling like his parents loved their material possessions more than their own son, Cole craved the unconditional love he’d always missed. Because of this need, he landed in the arms of a controlling, domineering and abusive man. For 7 years, Cole withstood the abuse.

Jeremy Collins has experienced love and loss himself. Both his wife and his sister have died and Jeremy is pretty much a loner, aside from his sister-in-law, who he has remained close to. No one in their little North Carolina town even knows Jeremy is bi-sexual, aside from her.
There is a small spark between the two men from the start, but Cole’s past assures that he will keep Jeremy at arm’s length. Not to mention that Cole is certain Jeremy is straight. As the days pass and Jeremy helps Cole clear out his parent’s house and sell’s items through his antique business, the two grow closer and eventually the relationship becomes sexual. At the start, it’s a friend’s with benefits type thing, but soon Cole is out of his element when his feelings continually grow into more. When his past catches up with him, will Cole stand tall? Or will he flee again?

This was a short and engaging audio book. The narration left a little something to be desired, but I have heard worse. I did enjoy the journey with Cole as I was given pieces of his back story here and there while he goes about cleaning out his child hood home, with every intention of speeding out-of-town as soon as he’s done. But gradually he begins to fall in love with Jeremy. The best part of this book though, for me, was something that happened at the end. I have never seen Karma come around and give it back before like this, it was fantastic, and I loved it. So that got higher markings. The mediocre narration lost a mark though, with a better narrator, this would easily have been a 5 star read.

I’d recommend this book, but perhaps the print version.

An Unconventional Courtship by Scotty Cade ~ Audiobook

Title: An Unconventional Courtship
Series: Unconventional Series book #1
Author: Scotty Cade
Narrator: Finn Sterling
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 7 hours and 21 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (2-13-14)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: 3.5 Hearts
Reviewer: Tams

Blurb: Tristan Moreau loves his job as chief administrative officer and personal assistant to Webber Kincaid, President, Chairman, and CEO of Kincaid International. It would be the perfect job… if only he hadn’t fallen in love with his boss as well as the work. After two years, he’s still doing everything in his power to keep his feelings hidden—mostly because he wants to protect the reputation of his famous boss but also because he wants to keep his job.

Webber Kincaid has stayed in the closet, using his best friend and confidante as his beard. Everything in his life was working out just fine until he met Tristan Moreau. Within months, Tristan stole his heart and became his lifeline. But Webber knows the rules of the workplace better than anyone, so he’s kept his distance.

But two years is too long to wonder “what if?” —especially when business takes them to a private Caribbean island. When Tristan and Webber succumb to the tropical heat, their professionalism starts to backslide. It’s a seemingly impossible relationship, making a go at it under the paparazzi’s microscope. It may be the best—or the worst—business decision they ever made.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=An+Unconventional+Courtship

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4812

Review: Tristan Moreau has worked as the personal assistant to the CEO of Kincaid International, Webber Kincaid, for a little over two years. Working closely with the sophisticated, older Kincaid has afforded Tristan a lot of perks, not one of which was falling in love with his boss. He keeps his feelings well hidden, as he knows it can’t end well. Not only is Webber his boss and therefore off-limits, but Tristan is still reeling from his first love that ended badly several years before.

On the surface, Webber Kincaid is happy and successful. He is the CEO of a thriving fortune five hundred company with a loving girlfriend by his side. The truth of the matter is, she is his best friend helping him hide the fact that he’s gay. He fears the backlash from the public as well as his employees and the board that helps run Kindcaid International were his secret to come out. Webber is, in fact, in love with his sexy, shy assistant. Two years are a long time for two men to pine after each other in secret. So Webber takes a chance and sets up a business trip as a guise to get Tristan away from the prying eyes of co-workers, paparazzi and the general population and find out if his feelings are mutual.

Webber and Tristan quickly cross the line between boss/assistant and lovers, at light speed almost. They spend their time in the Caribbean getting to know each other intimately only to return home and have to continue to hide their relationship, at Tristan’s urging. He moves into Webber’s mansion and they set about trying to uncover a scheme that is brewing at Kincaid International. But when Webber is threatened with being ‘outed’ if he doesn’t keep a serious and unlawful infraction at work from coming to light, all bets are off.

I liked the way Cade wrote the two ML in this story. Webber is very sophisticated, successful, and assured; Tristan is brilliant but sort of shy and reserved. And yet, in the bedroom it’s a complete role reversal. It was surprising and sexy all at the same time. I did not, however, connect with the love at light speed aspect to the story. Finn Sterling was a decent narrator. He nailed the commanding presence and confidence in Webber’s voice flawlessly. But he voiced Tristan as very effeminate, which I didn’t really get that personality from him in the words of the story or the description of the character.

There were some issues with the story and the narration, but the time flew by while I was listening, and it kept my attention throughout. While the ending seemed anticlimactic at the time, I’ve since seen there is a sequel available that picks up where this story left off, and I enjoyed this story enough that I will be grabbing a copy of the next book as well.

** I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **
http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Soul Magic by Poppy Dennison ~ Audiobook

Title: Soul Magic
Series: Triad, #3
Author: Poppy Dennison
Narrator: Robert G. Davis
Genre: Paranormal/Shifter Romance
Length: 7 hours 11 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (03-04-14)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Sequel to Mind Magic

Blood runs soul-deep. Cormac hasn’t been the same since the night the High Moon Pack was attacked. With his magic weakened, he’s consumed by a bloodlust he hasn’t felt since he first became a vampire. His need to replenish his power makes him a danger to his last remaining family member, and his hunger makes him careless. And that’s just the beginning of his troubles. Feeding from pack beta Liam Benson was supposed to slake his appetite, not leave him craving more.

Simon Osborne and Gray Townsend are trying to fight a being history says shouldn’t exist—one with all three types of magic. The pack must use all of their resources to combat the mysterious triad, even turning to the shady Council of Mages for help. While Cormac struggles to reconcile his past failures with his current desires, Simon must attempt the impossible: an alliance between mind, body, and soul.
Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Soul-Magic-Audiobook/B00IRI47EC/ref=a_search_c4_1_4_srTtl?qid=1398899424&sr=1-4
Dreamspinner: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4869
Review: In this third instalment of the Triad series, we finally learn the identity of the Demon that took the cubs and has repeatedly attacked the High Moon Pack and it’s variety of magical members.

Cormac has distanced himself from Simon and the pack since the battle with the Triad for fear of losing control of his hunger around them. Gray sends Liam, his pack beta, to check on the centuries old vampire for Simon’s sake. Liam finds the sexy, blonde vampire at a bar all but openly feeding on a human. Taking matters into his own hands, Liam offers himself up for Cormac to feed on, but doesn’t share this with his alpha. The last thing the two men expect is to be drawn to each other.

While Cormac deals with a thirst he hasn’t felt since he was first turned and his attraction to Liam, the two ban together to try to discover the identity of the Triad and a way to kill it. Being in close quarters and spending much of their time together it doesn’t take long for chemistry to ignite. But someone from Cormac’s past is about to make an appearance, and stir up all kinds of trouble. Not just for Cormac, Liam and the pack but for the entire magical race.

Since I had books one –three on audible, from the start I was able to listen to these stories back to back, and they flow together flawlessly like one long book broken into three pieces. With each piece of the story, these various characters have grown closer to discovering the identity of the Triad. Along the way, I’ve become completely invested in each and every one of them. From the youngest Garen who could possibly posses all three forms of magic, to the uncertain and naive Mage Simon who fell in crazy love with the alpha on sight. Gray, the head strong and fearless leader of the High Moon pack, who will stop at nothing to protect his family. Each and every member of his pack is his family.

The inclusion of Cade and Liam intricately into the books as Gray’s lifelong friends, Aunt Maggie, the council members, Rocky who is seemingly weak and insignificant, who grows into a major part of the stories. And Cormac, he is quite possibly my favourite character. Dennison truly brings all these varying characters to life and gives each person their own unique personality and Davis tells their stories so well that you always know who he is portraying at any given time.

I’ve failed to mention the utter sexiness in my previous reviews for this series. From the library to the fireplace to the bedroom, these guys know how to fog up your ear buds! If you haven’t read this series, you must. Especially if you have a penchant for shifter romance.

** I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **
http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Body Magic by Poppy Dennison ~ Audiobook

Title: Body Magic
Series: Triad book #2
Author: Poppy Dennison
Narrator: Robert G Davis
Genre: Paranormal/Shifter Romance
Length: 6 hours 29 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (02-06-14)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Sequel to Mind Magic
A pack is only as strong as its weakest member. Rocky Harris knows how the system works. He’s been on the bottom rung his whole life. But when his alpha consigns him to the High Moon Pack to help them improve security, he finds his beliefs not just challenged but also outright assaulted.

Cade Montgomery’s confidence took a hit when the pack’s cubs were kidnapped on his watch. He’s prepared to do anything to protect his family, even if it means working with Rocky. Maybe Cade doesn’t trust Rocky, but with the turmoil surrounding pack Alpha Gray’s unpopular decision to break tradition and mate with a mage named Simon, Cade knows more threats are coming.

Then someone declares war on shifters and puts the entire pack in danger. Cade and Rocky will need each other’s strengths to survive the impending battle—and the power of their growing attraction.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Body-Magic-Audiobook/B00I8OWWC4/ref=a_search_c4_1_3_srTtl?qid=1398898643&sr=1-3
Dreamspinner: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4800
Review: Cade Montgomery is strong, fierce and loyal to his best friend Gray, alpha of their pack. The big man is still angry with himself for the kidnapping of the cubs while he was supposed to be guarding them. Now they have an IT specialist on loan from another pack to help beef up their security and Cade hasn’t trusted the wolf much from the start. The two have butted heads, but there is something about the lithe, smaller wolf that captures Cade’s attention.

Rocky Harris is an Omega and a spy. His pack alpha sent him to High Moon Pack under the guise of helping them with their systems and security so that he could gain knowledge for a possible takeover. Rocky’s pack still believes in the vastly outdated ways of not mixing magics or species and believes Gray’s mating with Simon should not be tolerated. Rocky struggles with the love and acceptance he sees and feels with Cade and this pack, but his mind is muddled with what he’s been taught and told his entire life. Well that, and his attraction to the seemingly dominate wolf Cade, who is actually quite submissive to Rocky’s intentions.

All the while Cade and Rocky dance around each other, Simon is still learning to deal with his newfound family and powers with the impending visit from the Council looming over them as well. Simon is fearful that the Council will reject his, Gray’s mating, and he’ll lose the man he loves, and a wolf pack he has grown to love. Rocky is growing roots within the pack as well, but an Omega is sensitive to his own Alpha’s commands, and his alpha wants to take over this pack. Will Rocky stand fast behind the archaic beliefs of his own pack? Or will he open himself to the possibility of a life here with Cade, open and accepting even if he is an Omega?

The author and the narrator kept the steady and intense flow going from book one over into book two. These stories flow so well and even though the world is rooted in the paranormal, there is a reality to the mix matched family of Wolves, Mages and Vampires that adds a personality to the stories that really interests me. I love the ever-evolving relationship between Simon and Gray and that they remain the foundation of the books even when they aren’t the main focus. Simon and Rocky both struggle a lot in this particular installment and show a lot of personal growth. As I said in my review for Mind Magic, this really is a must read series for fans of the paranormal and shifter stories.

** I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **
http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Mind Magic by Poppy Dennison ~ Audiobook

Title: Mind Magic
Series: Triad, #1
Author: Poppy Dennison
Narrator: Robert G. Davis
Genre: Paranormal/Shifter Romance
Length: 6 hours
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (01-07-14)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Tams
Blurb: Magical species must never mix. According to the rules, Simon Osborne should ignore the children’s cries for help. After all, they’re werewolf cubs, and he’s an apprentice mage. But for once in his life, Simon breaks the rules and rescues the cubs, saving them from a demon intent on draining them of their magic.

Of course, all actions have consequences, and Simon’s bold move earns him the displeasure of his peers and the attention of the cubs’ alpha, a man named Gray Townsend.

The last thing Gray needs is a mage in his life, but Simon did save his son. Since Simon is now a friend of the pack, Gray doesn’t have much choice about it—or the forbidden attraction that goes along with it. Unfortunately, for the alpha, he needs Simon’s help to track down the demon behind the kidnappings—before it strikes again. Simon and Gray must join forces to protect the pack, even as they struggle to resist the temptation that threatens to destroy them both.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=Mind+Magic

Dreamspinner: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4651

Review: Simon is a Mage apprentice in a world where Vampires, Werewolves, Demons and Mages exist. They just don’t coexist very well.

He breaks their code of remaining indifferent when it comes to a magic outside of his own when he rescues several young werewolf cubs that have been kidnapped by a demon who is draining their magic, and subsequently killing them in the process. Simon is not only a very talented Mage. He is generally a decent, kindhearted person. He’s been held back from his gift by his teacher unknowingly, who has actually been draining his magic instead of helping him develop it.

Simon is instantly drawn to the Alpha of the pack, when he brings their cubs home. Tension runs high, as I said, the races don’t mix, but Garen the Alpha’s son has named Simon a friend of the pack. The attraction to the two men share is just one obstacle they will have to face. Garen and Simon are now connected somehow, mentally. So when the demon comes back to prey on the one that got away, Garen reaches out to Simon. When Gray and Simon are brought back together when Simon comes to help Garen, the mutual attraction is more than they can fight. But Simon refuses to be mated to Gray just for his packs protection.

I absolutely loved the concept behind this story. There are three types of magic, a triad if you will. The Mages, Mind Magic. The Wolves, Body Magic. And the Vampires, Soul Magic. Problems in the past have caused the three races to pull apart from each other and demand that their people live their lives separately, but The High Moon pack along with Simon and his grandfather will challenge this dusty belief.

There was a lot happening throughout this book, but the author managed to keep it all cohesive and contained, I never lost interest or got confused. The different types of magic and creatures and their archaic ways of thinking was intriguing. And then to have the new breed of the races shown in Gray and Simon that fall in love and challenge these “rules” was refreshing and only strengthened the storyline. The narration as well was good and kept my attention from start to finish. It’s always nice to have a narrator that tells the story and doesn’t just read it, subtle nuances and tone changes are key and Davis definitely conveyed those well throughout.

I’m excited to see where this series goes with the addition of Simon’s “grandfather” and the still looming threat of the demon in their midst. Fantastic listen, highly recommend it to fans of the paranormal genre.
** I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **
http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Love the Sinner by Avril Ashton ~Audiobook

Title: Love the Sinner

Series: Brooklyn Sinners, #1

Author: Avril Ashton

Narrator: Renard Pasquale

Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance

Length: 9 hours and 22 minutes

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave (2-18-14)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Tams

Blurb: Detective Gabriel Ashby has never looked twice at another man, yet the criminal across from him, the man he’s interrogating, isn’t like any other. Gabe can’t deal with the sudden, intense need he has for one of NYPD’s Most Wanted. Everyone close to Angelo Pagan ends up dead, with the smug gang leader standing amid the rubble. Gabe would love nothing more than to bust Angelo’s ass and lock him up. So why is he seeing the bastard in his dreams at night?

Angelo Pagan knows attraction to Gabe is suicide. He’s resolute to ignore the chemistry…until a police raid goes wrong. He critically injures Gabe, changing the trajectory of both their lives. Now the two can’t get close enough. They settle into a forbidden affair threatened by lies and betrayal, living on different sides of the law with no way of breaching the gap between them. With the authorities looking to make an example of Angelo, Gabe has to decide if it’s really worth it to hate the sin but love the sinner.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=Love+the+Sinner
Review: Gabriel Ashby is content with his life, or so he thinks. He has a long time live in girlfriend and he’s a successful detective with the local police force. Now sitting in an interrogation room across from Crime Boss and all around bad guy, Angelo Pagan, he feels something for this man that he’s never felt before. Weeks later and Ashby can’t stop thinking about Angelo Pagan, but he stuffs those feelings down deep, attempting to ignore them. Until he is shot in an ambush, by none other than Angelo Pagan. The bullet is a clean shot with no chance of seriously hurting Gabe, well, other than his pride.

Angelo Pagan has been living life in a fog since his sister was murdered at her birthday dinner. And then he spent a miserable afternoon being questioned by Gabriel Ashby, now he can’t stop thinking about the gorgeous cop with the mesmerizing eyes and curly dark hair. When one of his men stumbles on Gabe at a raid, Pagan steps up and shoots Gabe rather than allowing his man to do it knowing the gunman would surely kill the cop.

While recovering and off duty, Gabe’s girlfriend moves out, something about him being emotionally absent. He too is now living life in a fog, not even realizing that one crime boss is watching his every move. Soon enough Pagan makes his presence and his interest in Gabe known. Gabe tells himself this is a mistake, Pagan is a mobster, and he is a cop, not to mention Pagan is a man. But the attraction will not be denied and the two begin an unconventional affair that seems to be doomed from the start. Making an agreement to keep their affair and their jobs separate, they quickly learn neither one of them will be able to follow through with that. Can Pagan keep his associates from finding out about Gabe? Can Gabe separate the man he is falling in love with, with the mobster crime boss that Pagan is when they aren’t together?

This story is all about the raw sexuality that is shared by two men who are complete polar opposites, but can’t seem to keep their hands off each other, among other things. The writing was gritty, as were some of the characters and the storyline. Pagan truly is a murderous gangster with a heart, his goal is to get out of the business and get as far away from all the darkness as possible. Taking Gabe with him, of course. Gabe has fallen in love with the tall, dark, and brooding Italian with the long curly hair and golden hued eyes that seem to bore through his soul. But he has a hard time with these feelings as they go against everything it is to be a cop. He’s supposed to bring down the bad guy, not fall in love with him.

Narrated by Renard Pasquale and though this is my first audio with him, it won’t be my last. He transitioned flawlessly between the American accent of Gabe and that gangster sheik Italian slang that Angelo threw around. I was completely engrossed in this story between the writing and the narration. Multiple characters were woven into the story and first off, the author gave each one a veritable attitude. And then Pasquale carried that over into the audio book giving these men their own distinct voice.

Angelo and Gabe carry this raw, passionate sexuality as well that could not be denied. I would definitely recommend this audio book, and I cannot possibly imagine reading it on paper would be any less rewarding. My only complaint would be a bit of a weird transition for Gabe from being almost shy and inexperienced and then not ten pages later, he is taking the dirty talk and directing his lover to a whole new level. That was off for me, but overall this was one of the sexiest books I’ve listened to in a while.

Tigers and Devils by Sean Kennedy ~ Audiobook

Title: Tigers and Devils, 2nd edition

Series: Tigers and Devils, #1

Author: Sean Kennedy

Narrator: Paul Morey

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Length: 15 hours and 50 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (03-07-13)

Heat Level: Mild

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Tams

Blurb: The most important things in Simon Murray’s life are football, friends, and film—in that order. His friends despair of him ever meeting someone, but despite his loneliness, Simon is cautious about looking for more. Then his best friends drag him to a party, where he barges into a football conversation and ends up defending the honour of star forward Declan Tyler—unaware that the athlete is present. In that first awkward meeting, neither man has any idea they will change each other’s lives forever.

Like his entire family, Simon revels in living in Melbourne, the home of Australian Rules football and Mecca for serious fans. There, players are treated like gods—until they do something to fall out of public favour. This year, the public is taking Declan to task for suffering injuries outside his control, so Simon’s support is a bright spot.

But as Simon and Declan fumble toward a relationship, keeping Declan’s homosexuality a secret from well-meaning friends and an increasingly suspicious media becomes difficult. Nothing can stay hidden forever. Soon Declan will have to choose between the career he loves and the man he wants, and Simon has never been known to make things easy—for himself or for others.

First Edition published by Dreamspinner Press (March 2009)

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=Tigers+and+Devils

Review: Simon and Roger have been best friends since they were twelve years old. A shared love of football has kept them thicker than thieves ever since, even though they pull for opposing teams. Simon came out to Roger when they were teenagers and he has lived an open life with his friends, family and co-workers since then. It’s never been exactly easy, but it’s who he is and how he feels he has to live his life, regardless. So when he secretly begins dating the hottest footballer on the planet, his best friend is less than thrilled.

From the first time, Declan saw Simon at a house party and Simon was defending his current stretch of bad luck on the field, Declan was smitten. He stole a kiss under the stars and the cover of trees that very night. But the thought of coming out makes Declan sick, he doesn’t know how the media, his adoring fans or his teammates would take to a gay footballer in their midst. But as time grows, Simon grows on him as well, and when a glory hound reporter gets his hands on photos of Simon and Declan kissing, all bets are off! Will Declan take the deal his team owner offers him? To brush it off and say Simon made a pass at him that he rebuffed. Or will he put his career he has worked his life for on the line to come out and be true not only to himself, but to the man he loves as well?

There were a lot of ups and down in this book, and the majority of the time, it seemed down. I did love the differing personalities of the two ML, and the way the secondary characters complemented them within the story. The story flowed well and to spite an overall slowness to the book as a whole, the pace remained steady. I might have skipped ahead a few times if it had been narrated by anyone other than Paul Morey. I would have liked a little more intimacy between Simon and Declan when they had sex, which aspect was always mostly glossed over. And the ending was anticlimactic for me.

All that being said, there was an opposites attract and have a way of bending each other aspect that I liked to the story. It started off well, but lost me somewhere toward the end. I think that someone who really likes football would enjoy this story more than I did. But hey, I got to listen to Paul Morey for fifteen hours! His narration added something to the experience for me that the story itself was lacking in the end.

** I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **
http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Designs of Desire by Tempeste O'Riley

Title: Designs of Desire

Series: Desires Entwined, #1

Author: Tempeste O’Riley

Narrator: Max Lehnen

Genre: Contemporary Romance w/ lite BDSM elements

Length: 6 hours and 18 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 4^th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3Hearts

Reviewer: Tams

Blurb: Artist James Bryant has forearm crutches in every color from rainbow for fun to sleek black for business. He even has a pair with more paint splatters than metal. After his family’s rejection and abuse from a man he thought loved him, James only just gets through the day by painting. He lives in constant fear that he’s not worthy of anything, let alone love.

As CEO of his company, Carrington Enterprises, Seth Burns is a take-charge kind of guy, and he is instantly smitten by the artist helping with his newest project. When he witnesses James, suffer a panic attack, a protective instinct he never knew he had kicks in. He truly believes nothing is unobtainable—including James—if he’s willing to put in the time and effort.

James is shy and confused by Seth’s interest in him as a person. With Seth’s support, can he work through his fears to finally find the true love he deserves, or will someone finally land the crushing blow he won’t survive?

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=Designs+of+Desire

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4446

Review: James Bryant is an extremely talented artist that is only moderately happy in his day job where he is constantly berated by his immediate supervisor supposedly because of his sexuality. James is no stranger to abuse, both mentally and physically. His family disowned him when he came out, and his ex boyfriend liked to use him as a punching bag. He finds solace in painting when he finds the time to do it. Now he has the chance to do what he loves with a new job for the CEO of Carrington Enterprises.

As the CEO of a successful company, Seth Burns is used to being the boss and getting what he wants. He’s immediately taken with the shy artist working on his latest project. When James has a panic attack after meeting the foreman on the job, Seth’s protective instincts kick in. He yearns to make James his, and Seth knows full well that nothing worth having comes easy, but he will have James, at any cost

Seth has to tread lightly with the fragile psyche of James. He’s been used, abused and tossed aside by everyone he’s ever trusted except his best friend. He is naturally submissive, whether that is a direct result of his past is not even relevant. Seth is the dominate in the relationship, but he has an innate need to protect James as well, he expertly balances his need for dominance with the tenderness that James needs. But these two have a long and bumpy road ahead of them.

This book really tested me at times. It left me asking, how much is too much. James life has been an experiment in terror. Abandoned by his family, abused by his ex and left crippled only to be found and further abused, only adding to his disability. Then he is stalked, sent death threats and has his house set on fire. Loving Seth scares the crap out of him. He wants to trust Seth but he also fears the dominant side of him. He can’t put himself in a position to be hurt by someone he loves again. Can he trust Seth with his heart?

The narration left a lot to be desired. It’s really hard to listen to six hours of someone reading a book with multiple characters and having a hard time distinguishing between said characters because the narrator is so monotone, you almost fall asleep. I thought going into this story that the BDSM aspect would be what would bother me, but it is a crucial part of the storyline and it’s written cohesively. Overall, I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline written by O’Riley, but the narration coupled with way too many tragedies for young James left me frustrated in the end.

I can’t really say whether or not I’d recommend this book. I will say I am invested enough in these characters that I will grab a WRITTEN copy of the sequel and at least give it a go. They surely are sexy as hell even if Seth is a bossy bastard in the bedroom, its part of his charm!

** I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **

http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Who We Are by T.J. Klune ~ Audiobook

Title: Who We Are

Series: Bear, Otter and the Kid, #2

Author: TJ Klune

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Length: 12 hours and 42 minutes

Narrated by: Charlie David

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (10-1-13)

Heat Level: Mild

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 (NO 10!) Hearts

Reviewer: Tams

Blurb: Sequel to Bear, Otter, and the Kid Bear, Otter, and the Kid survived last summer with their hearts and souls intact. They’ve moved into the Green Monstrosity, and Bear is finally able to admit his love for the man who saved him from himself. But that’s not the end of their story. How could it be? The boys find that life doesn’t stop just because they got their happily ever after. There’s still the custody battle for the Kid. The return of Otter’s parents. A first trip to a gay bar. The Kid goes to therapy, and Mrs. Paquinn decides that Bigfoot is real. Anna and Creed do… well, whatever it is Anna and Creed do. There are newfound jealousies, the return of old enemies, bad poetry, and misanthropic seagulls. And through it all, Bear struggles to understand his mother’s abandonment of him and his brother, only to delve deeper into their shared past. What he finds there will alter their lives forever and help him realize what it’ll take to become who they’re supposed to be. Family is not always defined by blood. It’s defined by those who make us whole-those who make us who we are.

Purchase Link: http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Who-We-Are-Audiobook/B00FJJFCUU/ref=a_search_c4_1_1_srTtl?qid=1393901869&sr=1-1

Review: Bear, Otter, the kid, Creed, Anna and Mrs. Pauinn are back in this explosive sequel that just may be better than its predecessor. Bear, Otter and the Kid have moved into the house that Otter bought for them. Otherwise known as ‘The Green Monstrosity’ and are building a strong foundation for their new family.

The kid is getting ready to start school and has a new friend, Dominick. Bear as well is going back to school and still struggling with everything that has happened in his life over the past few years. He is now basically a father, fighting the mother that abandoned him and the kid for custody of the kid. Juggling his home life, school, work and jealousy. One of Otter’s exs is now the Kid’s new teacher, and a stranger at college shows an uncontrollable interest in Bear.

And then a series of unfortunate events brings Bears life to a screeching halt. Let’s just say, when it rains it pours! Faced with losing everything while finally gaining something he’s been fighting so hard for, Bear has to do some serious soul-searching. What we do, the lives we lead, and the decisions we make really do define, Who We Are.

This book, hell this series, has really been a roller coaster ride of emotions for me. I think at one time or another throughout I have experienced every spectrum of emotion on the scale. I’ve laughed, cried, screamed, jumped for joy, clapped my hands and that was just in the first hour! Klune has written one of the best coming of age, the most amazing finely tuned love story I’ve ever read. This wasn’t insta love or even a slow burning love. It is an ever-growing, constantly evolving story of love and family.

The kid completely stole the show in the first book, but in this book, Bear really comes into his own. His inner monologues left me laughing hysterically. He completely works out every scenario in his head, in other words, he over thinks EVERYTHING. And the reader gets a front row seat inside his chaotic mind. And Otter is right there, holding his hand and helping him escape the earthquakes through it all. Their love as well continues to morph into so much more; very passionate and intense. Where Bear is enthusiastic and slightly psychotic, Otter grounds him and brings him back to reality. He makes Bear and the kid feel safe, loved and at home. He is their home, and he is theirs, everything else is just gravy.

Narrated by Charlie David and he is just absolutely amazing. As I’ve said before I think, the fact that he is a gay man gives him an edge for M/M books. He can completely relate to the characters, their struggles and the stories when he reads them. There is always this almost uncontrollable emotion underlying as he reads, like he’s just so excited just to be reading for us. He changes nuances for characters and he really conveys every moan and groan expertly.

If you don’t read anything else ever, you should read these books. Intense, dramatic, passionate, endearing and realistic… they will pull you in and you’ll get completely lost in the world of Bear, Otter and the Kid.

** I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews **

http://www.mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Chasing Seth by J.R. Loveless ~ Audiobook

Title: Chasing Seth

Series: *this is the first book in a series that has not been titled yet. Book 2, Forgiving Thayne, is set for an early 2014 release*

Author: J.R.Loveless

Narrator: Jeff Gelder

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Length: 7 hours and 10 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 30^th 2011)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb: Veterinarian Seth Davies comes to Senaka, Wyoming, looking for peace and anonymity, trying to escape his past. He’s always been a target for trouble and pain, and Seth has had more than his share of both. Kasey Whitedove takes one look at Seth and assumes the worst. No white man could love animals the way the mostly Cheyenne population expects, and Kasey makes Seth’s first days in Senaka more than unpleasant.

Then an accident puts Kasey in the uncomfortable position of eating crow—and helplessly desiring Seth—despite the danger of Kasey’s life as a werewolf and Seth’s stressful secrets. Chasing Seth down and keeping him safe from his past has just become Kasey’s most important job.

Product Link Dreamspinner: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3022

Product Link Audible: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=Chasing+Seth

Reviewer: Tams

Review: Seth Davies has been trying to escape his past for years. A born wolf, his parents raised him to think they were the last of their kind. A created wolf found him after his parents death and convinced Seth that they were mates, and then abused him for months before his best friend Nick rescued him. He spent years moving from town to town until he settled in the small town of Senaka, Wyoming as the new vet. Seth hopes to find a fresh start in Senaka, to leave behind the shadows of his past. Did I mention he is a magnet for trouble?

Kasey Whitedove is the sheriff in Senaka. He is a born wolf as well, the son of the alpha that has been bred to be the future alpha. The Cheyenne wolves believe they are the only true wolves, that any other wolves are created. Created wolves are volatile and dangerous. When Kasey’s horse has trouble in her labor, he is less than pleased to learn the new vet is a white man. Even after Seth saves both momma and baby, Kasey is still down right hateful to him. But Seth has gotten under his skin and soon Kasey is forced to redefine his beliefs.

An accident reveals that these two unlikely wolves are, in fact, mates. Both fight it at the start and in a lovely little twist, its Seth that fights against the bond the hardest. Seth doesn’t trust anyone but Nick, especially not another wolf after what the last one did to him. I also liked the fact that even after Kasey claimed Seth and the bond was in place, Seth still fought it. Kasey is one hundred percent dominate alpha male, and Seth is submissive by nature, but they both want an equal partner. The beauty of this book was watching them find that balance. Learning to trust one another and embrace the bond.

I was completely engrossed in this story line from the start. It was a little bit cheesy and slightly predictable, but there was something about the ornery sheriff that always had to be in control and the fragile Vet that just wanted to be loved, but was too standoffish to let anyone get that close. It was a dichotomy of give and take for them to make it work. Once they find that balance so they can be together they still have to deal with Kasey’s pack. Thinking they are the only pack of born wolves, they assume Seth is a created, not good. All the while there is a shadow looming in the background as Seth’s past comes back to haunt him.

Narration is key with audio books and that is why I marked this one down a notch. If I had read this one, it might have gotten 5 stars, but Jeff Gelder’s mediocre vocals were a little off-putting. His changes in nuance and inflection from one character to the next are barely distinguishable, bordering on monotone. The actual story kept me intrigued though which should be a testament to Loveless’s prowess.

This is a must read for fans of a strong, dominant alpha male romance. There is an added element of surprise, and enough sexy to keep your blood pumping. I’m happy to learn that this is the first book in a series. The title for the sequel tells us that it will center around Nick and Thayne. Nick is Seth’s best friend and possibly the future alpha of his pack, and Thayne is Kasey’s younger brother. It promises to be a very juicy sequel!

Clouds and Rain by Zahra Owens ~ Audiobook

Title: Clouds and Rain, Audiobook

Series: The Wranglers, #1

Author: Zahra Owens

Narrator: Paul Morey

Genre: Contemporary Cowboy Romance

Length: 8 Hours and 0 Minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (February 7^th 2011)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb: Flynn Tomlinson has drifted for several years, working odd jobs when he needs the money and moving on when he doesn’t. He’s content with his freestyle life, not tied down, not responsible for anyone but himself. Then he comes across a Help Wanted ad in a post office in Idaho and meets Gable Sutton. Gable can’t pay Flynn until he sells his horses, but a serious accident has left him unable to work his ranch alone.

Working with horses beats stacking shelves at the supermarket, and so Flynn agrees to Gable’s terms. What Flynn doesn’t bargain for is being captivated by this gentle, lonely man who captures his heart and moves Flynn to take on an incredible burden: saving Gable’s ranch.

Product Link Dreamspinner: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3248

Product Link Audible: http://www.audible.com/search?advsearchKeywords=Clouds+and+Rain

Reviewer: Tams

Review: Flynn Tomlinson is a young free spirit that makes a living working odd jobs that he finds wherever his feet take him. He has no home to speak of as his family turned their back on him when they learned he was gay. The only true lover he’s ever had died, leaving him alone again. When he answers a help wanted ad that takes him to the ranch of Gable Sutton, he has no idea this one job will turn his life upside down.

Gable Sutton is an aged and crippled ranch owner. He’s standoffish, a loner and quite bitter. His former ranch hand slash lover left him after a fight, and Gabe’s reaction to this left him permanently injured. There really is a beautiful soul hiding underneath all that bravado, the question is… is there someone out there that can love him enough to see beneath it.

Flynn accepts the job on Gabe’s ranch, knowing full well he won’t be paid until they can sell some horses. The attraction is mutual and almost immediately, these two are putting the barn to good use! But there is something missing. Gabe is very attractive and he definitely gets Flynn’s blood boiling, but the sex is almost clinical, and Flynn wants more. When an accident leaves Gabe in intensive care, he will learn the true meaning of love. Gabe stands by him through it all from start to finish, including his horrendous mood swings in the aftermath of another accident. Can they save their rocky romance AND Gable’s ranch?

There is a lot of push and pull in this book. It’s an emotionally intense read. Flynn’s love for Gable is blinding and unwavering, to a fault. From the get go his attraction to Gable will leave you unsettled. Because you, the reader, can see just how bitter and jaded Gable is so you don’t think it can possibly end well for Flynn. And when Gable goes kind of bat shit crazy after his second accident, it seems as if the writing is on the wall. But like I said, blinding and unwavering, he will love his brooding older man into submission if it’s the last thing he does!

Narrated by Paul Morey! We all know I just LOVE Paul Morey!! He captured the innocence of Flynn as well as the bitter undertones for Gable, perfectly. The written work was a solid 3.5 for me, but Morey knocked it up a notch. Owens has created such an adverse group of friends and lovers with this new series. I can’t wait to read more. I have high hopes for Hunter and Grant!! Must read for all those cowboys and cowgirls out there, and it really is a beautiful love story that isn’t full of fluff. These guys have to work for it, and it’s SO worth it in the end!

*I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*

http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Sticks and Stones by Abigail Roux & Madeleine Urban ~ Audiobook

Title: Sticks and Stones

Series: Cut & Run book #2

Author: Abigail Roux & Madeleine Urban

Narrator: Sawyer Allerde

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Length: 8 hours and 52 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (03-24-10)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Blurb: Six months after nearly losing their lives to a serial killer in New York City, FBI Special Agents Ty Grady and Zane Garrett are suffering through something almost as frightening: the monotony of desk duty. When they’re ordered to take a vacation for the good of everyone’s sanity, Ty bites the bullet and takes Zane home with him to West Virginia, hoping the peace and quiet of the mountains will give them the chance to explore the explosive attraction they’ve so far been unable to reconcile with their professional partnership.

Ty and Zane, along with Ty’s father and brother, head up into the Appalachian Mountains for a nice, relaxing hike deep into the woods… where no one will hear them scream. They find themselves facing danger from all directions: unpredictable weather, the unrelenting mountains, wild animals, fellow hikers with nothing to lose, and the most terrifying challenge of all. Each other.

Purchase link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=1750

Reviewer: Tams

Review: Book 2 in the Cut & Run series and should be read or listened to in order.

So, at the end of Cut & Run things were kind of up in the air for Ty and Zane. It’s been six months now since they squared off against a relentless serial killer and almost paid with their lives. Ty has spent time in and out of the hospital as a result of that spectacular concussion, and is in the final stretch of his forced time off. Zane has been working undercover in Miami, and not a day has gone by that he hasn’t thought about Ty. What they could have had and what he has probably lost.

When they are finally called back home to meet their new partners, both are shocked to learn it will be each other. After all, their boss isn’t certain anyone else could take on the job without serious bodily harm. They are both ordered to take a couple more weeks vacation, and Ty having Zane so close again doesn’t want to let him go. So he takes Zane home with him to meet the family. A few things you should know about Ty and Zane. Wherever they go, trouble follows. And vacation time for them is more like a real life scenario of Modern Warfare!

While hiking in the Appalachian Mountains with Ty’s father and brother they are subjected to bad weather, wild animals, the danger of the mountains themselves and a group of hikers that are up to no good. Add to that their insane attraction to each other that is causing problems within their professional relationship and this is sure to be one hell of a memorable vacation. There will be biting, an attempt at a quiet blowjob in a dark tent, and someone is kidnapped by treasure hunters. If Ty and Zane can survive their surroundings and circumstance, can they survive each other?

While the sexual chemistry was still there for this two, there was a lot more angst within this storyline that drove me a little bit crazy. Of course, it’s expected to have a minimal amount, after all these are two very strong-willed, Alpha males that are going at each other as partners in more ways than one. A little too over board though this time around. I have seriously fallen in love with these guys though. They remind me of Sam and Jory from the Matter of Time series, but both personalities are more in line with Sam.

Narration was okay, that could have been a little better as well. But overall, this is a really well written series with nonstop action and suspense. You never know where these two will end up, but there will be trouble, and the chemistry between these two is blindingly evident; passionate and sensual is what they are. This is surely a must read series, and although I didn’t quite like this installment as much as the first, I did still enjoy it very much.

*I received a copy of this audio book in exchange for an honest review from Dreamspinner Press for MM Good Book Reviews*

http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

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Wholehearted (Audiobook)

by

Cate Ashwood

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