Blurb: He never thought he’d become one of the agoraphobic sludges of New York City—trapped with one view of a courtyard and a head full of wrenching memories. Dumped, disconnected, and depressed, he surrenders to spying on the neighbors as his only entertainment.
Until one day, without warning, the lascivious and suspicious behavior of the closeted lawyer in the huge apartment across the courtyard leads him to a spine-tingling conclusion… his neighbor is a murderer.
Perhaps collaborating with the beautiful and fierce Detective Marzoli to catch the killer can finally breathe life back into a man suffocated by the stranglehold of a tragic past. Unless the killer across the way decides to make him… The Next.
Review: I really enjoy a good murder mystery, hot cops, and twisted, damaged characters, so I knew this book would grab my attention right away, and it didn’t disappoint!
The whole story is rather reminiscent of a good Alfred Hitchcock episode, if good ol’ Al had included some hot man on man action that is. The depressed and agoraphobic songwriter, does not so much become clear, as gets laid out for us one depressing, frustrating, detail at a time. At first I don’t’ want to see that he is so damaged, and I want to shake him out of his stupor. Thank god for Detective Marzoli, who seems to have knocked on his door at just the right time, the bottom of this neurotic songwriter’s spiral.
Marzoli seems to see where the MC is at, The Next may very well be suicide, and he’s there not only to solve a murder, but also to stop the waste of humanity. The sexual sparks are there, though the MC has had a recent breakup with his girlfriend, I had the feeling that men were not foreign to him.
Add to the twists of mental breakdown, agoraphobia, the fact that the MC has given up on socializing, cleaning his house, earning money to pay his bills, and last but not least, VERY disturbing flashbacks to his youth after receiving a call about the death of his brother. Though I’m starting to wonder if the brother was real, or if the brother is him, that’s a concept for a much longer, more rambling review…
The MC (I’ll keep calling him that because I can’t seem to remember a name, (another reason I think he’s Paul) is interrogated by Marzoli about his upstairs neighbor, only to come to the conclusion that he’s been killed, not gone missing. As Marzoli challenges MC to open his windows, and himself, to life around him, he links the neighbor’s behavior to the missing/murdered twink upstairs.
The mystery deepens, and so does Marzoli’s relationship, friendly, sexual, and otherwise, as the plot thickens. We see MC gaining strength, as Marzoli exposed his own weaknesses.
So many little twists, so many mysteries among neighbors, so many layers. That’s what I like in a good book, layers, suggestion, the planting of an idea, to let it grow and fester in my mind until I can‘t help but demand the answers. I read until I completed this story, losing hours of sleep, and pieces of my mind to plotting and puzzling.
The Next is a great mystery, thriller, and sexual twister. I highly recommend to those who love more than romance.
Series: The Light In Your Eyes,#2 (A Spy vs. Spook Spinoff)
Author: Tinnean
Genre: Contemporary/Spy/Suspense
Length: Novel (345 Pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (April 24th, 014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts
Blurb: Giving up a life as rent boy Sweetcheeks for his lover, William Matheson, was an easy decision for Theo Bascopolis. But years of selling his body and the lingering pain from being thrown out by his father leave Theo worried that Wills, who’s always had his family’s acceptance, can’t truly love him. Life has taught him love isn’t for rent boys, and he’s having a hard time tearing down the walls he built around his emotions and trusting that Wills sees beyond his past.
Despite Will’s reassurances, he leaves for an extended assignment with no contact, giving Theo too much time to think about the future. A message arrives, and as far as Theo is concerned, it proves him right. Maybe it’s too late to protect his heart, but he’s not going to hang around waiting for Matheson to stomp all over it. Theo runs, breaking all ties to his former lover.
When Wills returns to an empty apartment and no sign of his lover, he wonders whether Theo really wants to be found and if they are meant to be together after all. But they’ve been through too much, and Wills always gets his man.
Review: I must admit I fell in love with Theo (AKA Sweetcheeks) and this book is kind of like a very extended “day in the life” of Theo and Wills once they settle down. There are many bumps in the road to domestic bliss for both of them. Theo’s lack of confidence and trust issues blow up in his face when, in a monumental moment of dramaqueeniness, he draws the conclusion that Wills has cheated on him, and makes an overly dramatic exodus to Tim’s place.
Up until that very moment, I never really thought of Theo as a drama queen who was so insecure in his relationship with Wills. But truthfully, Wills hiding his real job lead to most of their problems. So when Wills lets Theo in on his day job with Mr. Vincent’s approval I’m at first relieved, and then perplexed.
Theo doesn’t seem to understand the risks, and he starts acting like a mother hen, bringing Wills and co-workers dinners at the office. That just seems warm and fuzzy but a bit unrealistic to me. Well, this is a bit of a fantasy I admit, in the vein of Pretty Woman, with spooks and spies.
We see a lot of Mr. Vincent again, though he does finish his new house with Theo’s decorating help and eventually move out of the apartment he had rented. We see Mr. Vincent sweep to the rescue again, and bring a date to a few events. He also has a cat. Cat’s are a huge part of this book, just in case you needed to know that.
As Theo and Wills’ relationship develops, both Wills’ and Theo’s insecurities come to the fore, and they reconcile them together. Wills contacts Theo’s parents and they accept him back into the fold. However when Will’s attempts to let his grandparents know about Theo, the results are much less than favorable.
Throughout the story, we see both characters hit relationship landmarks, Theo constantly questioning everything until the end. I won’t give away the big reveals, but there’s pretty much a checklist. This is a warm and fuzzy, head scratching, and often times frustrating installment. Very different from the first and though so much occurs, it could have been summed up in about 100 less pages. Entertaining, but different than I had expected.
Blurb: Two and a half years ago, travel writer Timothy O’Shay let NYPD Detective Luke O’Brien talk him into hiking into the New Jersey Pine Barrens to face down a monster.
Now Tim and Luke meet again under very different circumstances. The old attraction is still there — but so are some of Tim’s monsters. Is it too late to find their way back to each other?
Review: This book was passionate, compelling, painful, hopeful, and ripe with sexual tension that snapped and exploded in a good way! A large part of this storyline continued Tim O’Shay’s battle with alcoholism from the first book. I can practically feel his trembles as I’m reading through his temptations and encounters with friends at parties, dinners and other difficult situations that could easily knock him off the wagon again.
That ultimate sacrifice Tim made to cut his ties with his home and his friends to flee to California and seek help for his addiction was powerful for me. The fear Tim has of coming back and being confronted and tempted with his past are also huge parts of this storyline, handled beautifully and honestly. The pain, anger, heartache, and the desperate need Luke has to understand why Tim did it, why he cut him off so completely is palpable.
You need to read In A Dark Wood to get Luke and Tim’s back-story, but this book stands alone in its power, and is the stronger of the two by far.
I’m not one to easily hand out five star reviews…but this one deserved it, no question.
Title: Permanent Moonlight Series: Rough Riders, #4 Author: A. J. Llewellyn / D. J. Manly Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novella (116 pages) Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill Press (July 30, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ Hearts Blurb: When Diego Champagne realizes that he can’t live without Colby Young, he comes up with a plan that will free him from the Banni motorcycle gang forever. He’s prepared to leave everything behind and make a new life for the man he loves and the children for which Colby is now responsible. But he can tell no one, not even Colby, if he hopes to carry it off.
Colby’s having problems accepting that if he’s to remain the guardian of his niece and nephew, he must stay clear of the Banni, and that means Diego. Given Colby’s past, he’s being watched like a hawk, and not just by Child Protection Services. Then Colby’s world spirals out of control when a member of the Banni informs Colby that they found Diego’s body burnt beyond recognition, along with his vest and bike. Miserable and angry at the world, Colby ends up in more trouble, his entire world held together by a thread.
Meanwhile, Diego must fulfill a promise to the leader of the Texas Crushers, who ironically helps him escape from the Banni life. Putting miles and time between him and the man he loves, Diego sets the wheels in motion that will prepare the stage for a crime-free life with Colby and the children. Question is, how will he tell Colby he’s not dead, and will Colby ever forgive him for keeping the truth from him?
Review: I probably should have added this to my review of book 1 in the series, Artificial Moonlight, I’m not drawn to the Sons of Anarchy/ biker gang genre. That said, I’m not against the genre it’s just not usually a topic I seek out. I will say that the plotline is incredibly intriguing and it stayed that way right to the end of this one. I loved the whole idea that not only Diego and Colby but many of the supporting characters, Nuts and Jerry to name a couple, are a perfect blend of stereotypical and outside the box for bikers. Reading those inconsistencies grabbed my attention and held it right till the last page of Moonlight.
As for the writing style of the series, it could use some assistance. It’s not poorly written by any means but it definitely felt rushed. As I said in the other reviews for the series and that seems the easiest way to put it, it felt as if the authors were facing a deadline and weren’t given the time to expand certain parts. For me, that isn’t really a problem but I know that those kinds of holes can be an issue for some.
I don’t know if the authors intend to write anymore of Diego and Colby’s story but this is a perfect ending for the pair. I was pretty sure this is where the storyline was headed even before I was ½ way through the second book but expecting this outcome didn’t lessen my enjoyment of seeing how everyone got there
I will most certainly putting the authors on my “watch for” list.
Title: My Girl Series: Love Edge Author: Stormy Glenn Genre: Romantic Suspense…kinda Length: Novel (141 Pages) Publisher: Siren Publishing (April 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts Blurb: Nail polish, makeup, hair extensions, cute little skirts, a new life in a new city… What else is a guy to do when someone is trying to kill him?
Nicholas Rylander watched his best friend get murdered and now he’s in hiding…as a woman. He’s had hair extensions put in, acrylic nails applied, and a custom bra fitted to give him breasts. He’s even moved across the country and found an apartment as Nicky Ryland, a hot girl in a short skirt.
Nicky’s only problem? He’s met the man of his dreams and Seth Daniel Leighton thinks he’s a girl. Telling Seth the truth could get them both killed, but if he doesn’t Nicky could lose the best thing that has ever happened to him.
Review: This book was previously published with another publisher and has been extensively revised and expanded. Stormy has always given one hell of an awesome story. I loved this story and can’t wait to read more by Stormy. It has a serious tone but there is a hint of humor in it. There is nothing better than a love story with two sexy men but when you can make a story with a humorous side to it, I am sold.
Nicholas worked as an exotic dance and he had watched his boss kill his best friend. Now after a deadly time in witness protection, his crazy ass detective had him dressing up as a woman and living on the other side of the states. Now he was wearing dresses, had boobs, and was called Nicky. Could this get any stranger for him, well you add in a sexy man then I would say yes.
Daniel couldn’t understand how a woman, even one with an ass like hers could turn his head. He was turned the hell on, but the confusion was there. He was as gay as can be. Then the truth came out and Daniel knew the chances of him losing the man he has fallen love with were strong.
I think I spent most of my time laughing as well as biting my lip through it all. The danger coming for Nicky was strong, but Daniel knew he would do everything in his power to keep him safe. I loved this story and was amazed at it. I actually could see this happening the way it happened. It would be one hell of an awesome way to hide from those who want you.
I would recommend reading this especially if you love sexy men, dangerous mob bosses, flirty exotic dancers, deadly situations, feisty attitudes, hot sex, quirky friends, and a great story line. It gives you that and so much more. It caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end. I can’t wait to read more by this amazing author.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Beyond the Norm. 2nd edition Series: N/A Author: Shawn Lane Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novella (102 Pages) Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill Press (April 9th, 2013) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts Blurb: After closing his bar one night, Dave Johnson rescues Kyle, who is on the run after witnessing the murder of a federal agent in San Francisco. Dave knows Kyle is trouble but can’t help falling in love; Kyle loses his heart but fears he’s bringing danger to Dave’s doorstep. When Kyle’s pursuers close in, the two men are at an impasse.
They can either separate and live in safety and loneliness, or find a way to stay alive and together.
NOTE: This book was previously published under the ISBN: 978-1-61581-050-5. This reissued version of the book has been reedited.
Review: This was an amazing story and I was glad to have been able to read it.
It had a bit of humor to the story but mainly it was told with such a serious tone. I loved the guys in the story. They just come off as someone you would want to meet. If I was in a dangerous situation then these are the two that I would definitely want. Although more David than Kyle. Kyle is strong in his own way but you can tell that there is a hint of innocence there although there is probably no way he could have kept his innocence after a life like his.
Kyle had been kicked out of his home at the age of fifteen and he did what he could to survive. At one time, that had even meant selling his body for a place to stay or food in his belly. However, after a night with a rough john he had been saved by a man named Dex. Dex had been working for a drug king, but one night Dex had come to him and told him to run. Told him that he was a DEA agent and he wanted Kyle to live. Kyle had seen him gunned down and now he was on the run. He had been on the run when two men jumped him. If it hadn’t been for a gorgeous man saving his ass, again he would probably be dead.
David owned a bar in town and had just closed down when he saw two men attacking a third. He knew he had to help, but what he had not expected was the gorgeous man in front of him. Deciding to take him home and care for him, or at least that was his intent was the only way to get the kid fixed. He knew in his heart that something was up with Kyle. Now all he had to do was to get his man to trust him enough to let him know what is going on. He will do everything he can do to protect the man he had fallen in love with.
I loved this story and can’t wait to check out more by this amazing author. It was told in such a way that it flowed off the pages. I would definitely recommend this book especially if you love gorgeous men, dangerous situations, excitement, surprise, a bit of suspense and a hint of kink. The sex was so hot that I just had to turn on the air conditioner in the middle of winter. It caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end. It gave me everything I could want in a story. You have got to check out this book.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Splintered Author: SJD Peterson Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novel (220 pages) Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (October 6th 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: A string of murders targeting effeminate gay men has the GLBTQ community of Chicago on alert, but budget cuts have left many precincts understaffed and overworked. Not to mention, homophobia is alive and well within the law enforcement community and little has been done to solve the mystery.
When the FBI calls in Special Agent Todd Hutchinson and his team, the locals are glad to hand the case off. But Hutch finds a bigger mystery than anyone originally realized—seventeen linked murders committed in several different jurisdictions. Hutch’s clues lead him to Noah Walker.
Working on his PhD in forensic psychology, Noah has been obsessed with serial murders since he was a child. But coming to Hutch’s attention as a suspect isn’t a good way to start a relationship. Noah finds himself hunted, striking him off Hutch’s suspect list, but not off his radar. To catch the killer before anyone else falls victim, they’ll have to work together, and quickly, to bring him to justice.
Review: Todd Hutchinson is one of the best profilers the FBI has, and he heads up a small team of men just as good at their job as he is. Hutch along with super tech Granite and hacker Byte are known for getting results. Their current case takes them to the heart of the gay community in Chicago, and one step behind a serial killer targeting ‘twinks’. Hutch is an excellent profiler because he has a keen second sight, an ability to put himself inside the mind of a killer.
While at their most recent crime scene, Hutch goes into sensory overload when he spots someone slightly familiar in the crowd.
Noah Walker has a keen eye for details, and serial killers. After finding the bodies of his mother and sister when he was just a child, he transformed his morbid curiosity into a lifelong passion for murder.
So it comes as no surprise that Noah sort of idolizes Hutch, he has followed his cases for years, and he has a teensy crush on the brooding FBI agent. Hutch and his team are a little baffled by Noah in the beginning and his unnatural interest in the case. It doesn’t take long for Noah’s interest in the case to draw a target on his back.
Hutch has to navigate the sickening feelings he is picking up on from the killer, keep a professional persona when he is surrounded by incompetent and homophobic cops, and give a valiant attempt at ignoring his growing attraction to Noah. A few harsh words from Hutch, aimed at the killer at a press conference prove to push the man over the edge.
One of my favorite movies is Manhunter with William Peterson as the FBI profiler that captured Hannibal Lecter. This book reminded me so much of that movie. Hutch is so good at his job partly because of his ability to see through the eyes of a killer, anticipate the killer’s motives and moves. I was on pins and needles throughout this book with the twists and turns, full of suspense and intrigue, definitely a well-woven murder mystery.
And I don’t think I’ve ever read a character quite like Noah, the super smart groupie that is working on his PHD. His romance with Hutch was hard won. As I said, Hutch tried very hard to avoid the attraction. But Noah is an intelligent man who knows what he wants, he’s lusted Hutch on paper and in the media for years, he is not about to let the chance to make that a reality slip through his fingers. Psycho serial killer be damned!
If you love an intricate and imaginative with a macabre twist, and a veritable cast of gay characters, then this book must go on your must read list.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: This is Not a Love Story: the Hacker and His Hero Series: NA Author: A.E. Lawless Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novel (350 pages) Publisher: Loose Id (September 30th, 2014) Heat Level: Moderately Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts Blurb: Ever since Gran’s death, Zander’s been using his skills as an elite computer hacker to help put criminals behind bars. Surprisingly enough, there’s also another vigilante running around his city helping folks out in the more traditional way. The press likes to pretend they’re rivals, but Zander likes to think that he and the Night Angel are working together; they want the same things at least.
When a tough case forces the two vigilantes to actually work together, Zander’s insistent fascination with the Night Angel becomes powerful attraction. It wouldn’t be a problem, except Zander’s also fooling around with his boss at the day job, Reese. They both give him something the other can’t, but both of them are also holding something he needs back from him. Zander knows he has to choose, but he just doesn’t see any way to make a good choice.
A break in the case reveals not only the master plot, but also more about Zander’s true nature than he ever expected to learn. Afterwards, Zander is seeing the world in a new light and realizes he may not have to sacrifice anything he needs; he may not have to make a choice after all.
Review: I enjoyed this story. It’s a bit of a superhero concept with the hero having no real “super powers” other than pure intelligence and genius tech savvy. I love long stories and this is definitely a long story, however, I do think it would have been an even better tale if it were about 50 pages shorter. There is a lot of Zander’s inner monologue weighing in on whether he’s being too obvious about his genius that could have been shortened.
There is a plot twist that really is not that much of a twist. I was able to see it coming almost immediately but it didn’t take away from the story. For me, it was even more intriguing to see just when the characters would figure it out as opposed to whether or not my guess was right.
I definitely enjoyed the extremely well written banter/flirting between Zander and Reese, not always something easy to convey. The sex is definitely hot but just like Zander’s genius inner monologue, his thoughts during sex could have been lessened and made the scenes even hotter, especially their first encounter in Zander’s office.
Blurb: Fifty years ago, Roland Mills belonged to a violent activist group. Now, someone is willing to kill to prevent him from publishing his memoirs.
When ex-FBI agent, Elliot Mills is called out to examine the charred ruins of his childhood home, he quickly identifies the fire for what it is—arson. A knee injury may have forced Elliot out of the Bureau, but it’s not going to stop him from bringing the man who wants his father dead to justice.
Agent Tucker Lance is still working to find the serial killer who’s obsessed with Elliot and can’t bear the thought of his lover putting himself in additional danger. straight-laced Tucker has never agreed with radical Roland on much—”opposing political viewpoints” is an understatement—but they’re united on this: Elliot needs to leave the case alone. Now.
Tucker would do nearly anything for the man he loves, but he won’t be used to gain Elliot access to the FBI’s resources. When the past comes back to play and everything both men had known to be true is questioned, their fragile relationship is left hanging in the balance.
See how Tucker and Elliot’s relationship began in Fair Game
Review:Fair Play captivated my mind and kept me guessing at the puzzle throughout! I love a good mystery suspense, and this is an excellent one! Lanyon’s ability to layer in details, emotion, foreshadowing, character subtleties, and a twisting plot is why I come back again, and again.
Fair Play, as a sequel to Fair Game, knocks it out of the park! My mind was kept busy on three different levels: First and foremost, I kept trying to guess who was after Elliot and his Dad. Second, I was wondering what really happened to the rest of the Collective, were some of them really killed, are some in hiding, and what do they have to hide? Third, are Elliot and Tucker going to make it as a co-habitating couple?
There are moments where I really want to shake sense into both of them! When two very independent, hard-headed men try to tiptoe around each other’s boundaries it has to be challenging, let alone trying to find ways to define their relationship, their roles in each other’s lives.
My anxiety really amped up when there were whispers of deceit feathered in early on: Tucker staying in town, Tucker turning off his phone, Tucker becoming distant….I won’t say more but just, argh! But hey, maybe all you need is love…
About three-quarters the way through I still had three different theories as to whodunit, and I have to say that’s a great thing. I get a little disappointed when I can solve a mystery and predict the outcome right away, but this is not the case. Lanyon once again kept my mind chewing on this puzzle until the very end.
A superb mystery thriller, packed with action, suspense, some very intense sexual dominance, and I’m still wondering what is going to happen with Corian….where are those heads?
Title: Wicked Reflection Author: Hank Edwards Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novella (110 pages) Publisher: Wilde City Press (September 17th 2014) Heat Level: Mild Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts Reviewer: Tams Blurb: When Kirk Stanford moves into his new home, strange things begin to happen. Messages appear in the steam on his mirror, warning him of a nameless threat. Then someone keeps breaking into his house, looking for something Kirk can’t identify.
With the help of his boyfriend, Damon, Kirk digs into the house’s history, and discovers not just the previous owner’s brutal murder, but threatening letters written to him from someone named Sam.
As the intruder strikes again, Kirk and Damon find themselves fighting not only to solve the mystery, but also to keep from being murdered themselves.
Review: Kirk Stanford is a very happy new homeowner. The only downside is that his long-term boyfriend, Damon, can’t move in with him due to the distance between his job and Kirk’s new house. Straight away Kirk starts noticing strange occurrences in the house though. Words appear in the steam left on the mirror when he showers, but then they are gone at second glance, making Kirk think it’s just his overactive imagination. Then he meets one of his neighbours, and to say the man makes Kirk nervous is an understatement.
Days pass and the mystery of Kirk’s new home slowly unravels itself to him. There are the words on the mirror, and letters that Kirk finds written to the previous owner written by someone named Sam. Stranger still, the words on the mirror and in the letters, they are identical. When Kirk does some digging into the history of the house, he learns the previous owner was murdered and starts to feel like the killer is now coming after him.
I literally got goose bumps while I was reading this story. Very mysterious and intriguing, the way the threat was slowly revealed. The anticipation built from the start with those first words on the mirror and Edwards kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Very much, like reading a good scary movie, with all the action and suspense. I wanted Kirk to trust his instincts just a little more, and I saw the ending coming a mile away, but there were just enough twists to keep me entertained.
Take a nice little cozy mystery, throw in some steam and a dash of spooky and you have Wicked Reflection.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Hi peeps, we have a very special visit today from Haley Walsh, yes that’s right the creator of that trouble attracting blond Skyler Foxe is visiting us today and she tells us all about Skyler. So enjoy Haley’s post and then read my review <3 ~Pixie~
Desert Foxe
(A Skyler Foxe Mystery 05)
by
Haley Walsh
Skyler and his friends go to Palm Springs for the annual White Party and find murder!
Out and proud high school English teacher Skyler Foxe and his posse of friends go to the annual Palm Springs White Party for a weekend of fun, frivolity, and luscious men. But there are boy troubles of all kinds ahead. Skyler’s boyfriend and high school coach Keith Fletcher has to endure an embarrassing number of Skyler’s former hook-ups, one of the SFC might be going solo, Skyler encounters unexpected and unwelcome participants at the party, and there’s a murder on the dance floor, literally at Skyler’s feet! Both Skyler and Keith are drawn into investigating more than murder when the FBI asks Skyler to do the unthinkable.
Title: The Winter Dark Series: N/A Author: J.S. Cook Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novella (104 pages) Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 10th, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts Blurb: Veteran police chief Eli Gallagher doesn’t ask for much, but he does insist that his officers uphold the “serve” part of “serve and protect.” Conscientious young Deputy Stan Leach takes Eli’s motto to heart, maintaining a high standard of personal accountability.
When Eli’s long-distance boyfriend, Gilbert Nees, telephones from Philadelphia, Eli thinks he intends to further cement their relationship. Unfortunately, Gilbert’s news is anything but good. But Eli doesn’t have time to wallow, because a violent act results in murder in the small town of Morristown, Mississippi.
But as Eli and Stan uncover evidence, their personal lives begin to unravel. Stan, working closely with Chief Gallagher, grows increasingly attached to Eli and learns what it really means to be an advocate of justice. Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5432 Reviewer: Portia Review: This book confused me, at first. I really couldn’t get a handle on exactly whose story it was. On one hand, Stan is kinda sorta in a relationship, yet crushing on his boss. Eli is taking a trip to see some unknown man, but we aren’t sure of the nature of their relationship. But, all of that is becomes unimportant as crime hits their small town.
This is one of those books at a). I’d like to see turned into a movie and b). MADE me turn the page to find out what was going to happen. For a while, the mystery overtook the romance, but I don’t mind when that happens.
And “The Proposal” made me forgive any other issues I had with the work. It was just toooo sweet.
I would recommend this title to readers who like a bit of romance in their mysteries, grouchy lawmen, and fake Yankees.
Blurb: A home invasion leaves one man dead. Can the KCPD track down the killer before anyone else is murdered?
Detective Nick Peyton lands a homicide case involving stolen property. He finds himself with the tedious task of visiting pawnshops, showing photos of jewelry and other missing items. When he meets storeowner Rob Hewlett, Nick suddenly feels like this is the best job he’s ever had.
Nick and Rob share an immediate attraction and act on it without much thought. With his mind on other things, Nick exchanges only the most basic information with the hot stud who has captivated his heart and soul. He soon comes to realize how little they know about each other and that, sometimes, secrets can be deadly.
Review: This is book two in this series and they should be read in order. Each story talks about all of the romancing couples in future books. It also gives you a little insight into their amazing world. I have always loved stories that have men in uniforms.
A sexy cop falling in love with a man who might or might not have committed a crime. What could be hotter than that? The KCPD is now tracking down a killer. A murder of a man who just made the mistake of being home, when his home was being robbed. Or that is what they want you to think. I love the twist that comes out of mysteries, thrillers, and suspense.
Nick is a detective looking for the man who killed an older gentleman while robbing his home. It leads him to visit pawnshops trying to find the missing jewelry. What he finds instead was a very sexy young owner. He likes what he sees and wants more of it. The problem was information from those who committed the crime was saying that Rob was behind the whole thing.
Rob owned the pawnshop that Nick had walked in right along with his brother. He had fallen hard for the sexy detective and wanted to continue. Waiting to tell his man that he loved him, he ended up waiting to late. Or so he thought, he was upset about everything that was going on and ashamed that it could cost him everything he wanted.
I love this series and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book. I love romance, but when you add in suspense, a little thrill, a bit of mystery and I am sold. However, this is one of my top five in this genre.
I would recommend reading this story especially if you love two very sexy men, a man with a badge, excitement, suspense, hot and passionate sex, tender moments, angst and danger. It caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end.
Blurb: Everything was going so great for Charlie Turner…his relationship with Amos Greene took off and his brother resembled a human being again. Then all hell broke loose, and Charlie was left standing amidst the ruins of his life.
But that’s not the end of the damage. To truly heal, all the makeshift bandages Charlie applied to his hurts over the years must be ripped off. Without Amos and his family at Mountain Shadows, he might fold under the weight of all the pain.
But Charlie’s willing to stand and fight for the people who are important to him…can the same be said of them?
Review: This is book four of the Earthquake series and book 16 of the Pulp Friction. Each series can stand-alone but it’s better if you read them all in order to get the full impact.
Charlie, Damon, their mother and Amos are all in counselling after what Damon has been through. Emotions run high and feelings are exposed.
This is a very emotional story. There isn’t a lot of action. It’s mostly the family coming to terms with the past and their feelings. I liked the story but I would have liked just a little action. I really liked the surprise at the end. I can’t wait to see where this leads.
If you like ongoing series, angst, and emotional breakthroughs with a twist this is for you.
Series: Elemental Connections: IV) (Earthquake #3.5
Pulp Friction Special 03
Author: T.A. Webb
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: Novella (65 pages)
ISBN: 9781310928611
Publisher: A Bear on Books (Aug 26, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Cat
Blurb: Teenage boys are disappearing from the streets of Atlanta, and Detective Frankie Prater is resolved that, this time, one will make it out alive. The trail leads to Flagstaff, Arizona, and a man suspected of being a sadistic rapist and killer.
Brady Owens lived six years as a prostitute after his parents threw him out at the age of twelve. After surviving a vicious attack, he found a home with Frankie and his kids. Now he’s eighteen and tired of Frankie’s excuses for not taking their relationship to the next level. Perhaps a trip with just the two of them—even if it is a business trip—is what Frankie needs to see Brady as a man and not a victim.
From the hard streets of Atlanta to the Painted Desert of Arizona, the race is on for Frankie to find not only a missing boy, but also his own Knight.
Review: This is the fourth pulp friction2014 bonus book. It can stand alone but works better if you’ve been following the series.
Frankie is a detective in Atlanta. He is working on a case of missing prostitutes. The case sits close to home since his boyfriend Brady was once in that position. He is still treading on eggshells with Brady. A break in the case comes when Frankie is told that one of the boys may be alive and in the Flagstaff area. Brady insists to go along to be with Frankie and he may be of help to the boy since a sadistic serial killer too once tortured him. Will they find the missing boy alive? Will Frankie and Brady move their relationship along?
This story was awesome. I love Frankie and Brady. There are lots of tension and drama. The storyline is intriguing and fast paced. The characters are so well developed and interesting. I also loved how this ties in with the Pulp friction story of Charlie and his brother. It made me want to read City Knights all over again.
If you like ongoing series, connected stories, strong characters, suspense, drama, detectives, broken young men and a very satisfying ending this is for you.
Title: Secrets Series: Full Nelson, #1 Author: Jeff Erno Genre: Mystery/ Suspense Length: Novel (190 pages) Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 03, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts Blurb: Detective Chris Nelson and his husband Ethan are about to go on a weekend getaway to celebrate their third wedding anniversary. Instead, a case comes in for Chris. The brutally murdered body of a swim coach at the local military academy was found in the pool. Seventeen-year-old cadet Alex has already confessed. It looks like an open and shut case.
However, when Chris interviews Alex and reviews the forensics, he becomes convinced Alex is innocent. Searching for the truth behind the actual murderer and why Alex would take the fall, Chris follows a trail through a series of students. He discovers they all experienced sexual abuse at the hands of the murdered swim coach. Digging deep, Chris finds further links between the school administration and the district attorney’s office covering up the allegations. When he finally solves the case, it will blow the conspiracy wide open.
Review: Detective Chris Nelson is given a murder case to look into on the weekend of his anniversary with Ethan. After reviewing the files, he realizes that a lot of things don’t make sense so he proceeds to investigate it to get to the truth and to prove that the accused, Alex, is innocent.
Alex is a senior at a prestigious military school who admits to killing the swim coach. But further evidence shows that he didn’t do it and that something sinister is going on at the school.
Well written, intense, nonstop action into a supposed open and shut case. With twists and turns, I never saw coming. Just when you think, you’ve figured things out something else turns up to make you rethink your assumption. Loved the dedication the detective showed to finding out the truth. Then when you think it’s the end something else happens.
Absolutely amazing mystery story. I was on the edge of my seat while reading this, as I didn’t want to stop until the very end. Heartbreaking details of abused trust. Cover ups by the school, deceit by people who should’ve been protecting the students.
Blurb: Angel DeLucca is one of the most sought after gay bachelors in Virginia Beach. He’s smart successful, lethal, and more than anything he’s drop dead gorgeous. Angel has his pick of the men that come to his popular Oceanfront nightclub, but lately the one night stands haven’t been enough…Angel craves something deeper. When a one-night hook-up goes terribly wrong, Angel comes into contact with the breathtaking Maximus (Max) Strong.
Max is a firefighter for the Virginia Beach Fire Department. Max is beautiful, charming, and also very straight. One meeting with the mysteriously, sexy Angel DeLucca and a whiff of that silky, jet black hair, Max finds himself questioning everything he’s known to be true about himself. Max tries desperately to understand the new feelings he has for another man and turns to his gay, older brother…Ryker.
Ryker has always been Max’s protector and his guide their entire lives, which has left him feeling uncared for and alone to handle his own life’s problems. Ryker craves to be taken care of. He craves the attention and praise of a Master. No one knows the dark desires within him until Angel’s Chief of Security, Sebastian ‘Bass’ Bagatelli, shatters that secret with their first intense encounter.
How will Angel win the heart of the straight firefighter that was tailor-made just for him? Will Max be able to continue denying his feelings for another man? Can Ryker and Bass get through their personal issues to take and receive what they both need from each other? Or will they each give up on a happiness that appears too good to be true?
These men’s stories will unravel in a whirlwind of romance, BDSM, revelations, lots of action and very hot sex, co-starring very entertaining supporting characters.
The one consistent thing that keeps coming to mind is OH MY GOSH! This book has everything I could possibly want in a story. It is sectioned into three parts allowing you to meet each set of characters and focus on the situation at present. This set-up was new to me. However, it made the storyline flow smoothly from one to the next.
The first part was about Max, the gorgeous firefighter, and Angel, the club owner. They meet when the club has trouble and the fire department is called in. One look at each other from across the room causes sparks to fly. These two men are beautiful with their muscled bodies, six-packs, and tanned skin. They each have tattoos that represent something special in their life. Angel has hair down to his waist that he usually keeps braided, but it is thick and shiny and does something to Max when left down. Both, Angel and Max, want to find true love. They both are looking for happy ever after with a forever partner.
They find out quickly they both want the same things and it’s easy to see they are a perfect match. Their relationship takes off fast and I would consider it insta-love. So, if that is not your thing you have been warned, but I like this scenario in a story. They are very sincere and so passionate with each other.
Right from the beginning, Angel referred to Max as “his man,” and I fell in love with Angel myself. I really enjoy when an author shows the characters have passion and feelings and they are not afraid to express it. The reader is taken on a powerful journey where you really feel, at times, like an intruder. Their sex scenes and lovemaking are extremely hot and intense. The author is very good at putting you right there, in the scene, giving you a front row seat. You can see and feel what the characters are experiencing.
At times, I felt almost panicky, probably from holding my breath, as their sex scenes played out. They are so honest and open with their feelings for each other and even though it moved quickly, it didn’t take away from the story. I particularly enjoy a plot that allows the MC’s to own their feelings.
I’ve been known to get bored with a story that drags you along until close to the end for a resolution. I don’t like when the characters spend half the book in denial or running scared from each other. That is not the case here. They were beautiful together and I really enjoyed it.
The next section is about Max’s brother, Ryker, and his partner that he has a connection too. Sebastian/Bass works for Angel as his head security. So when Ryker comes to visit Max, he is also introduced to Bass. There is some BDSM in this section but it is very minor. It’s not really the focus of the story even though it is the focus of how their relationship will be. Bass is a Master Dom and Ryker has craved that type of connection and lifestyle for as long as he can remember. Bass has wanted a sub, someone who he could claim as his own, love forever, take care of and honour their relationship. They are perfect for each other, as they both want the same things.
The third part brings them all together living their lives and doing everyday things. This part has some angst and drama but it’s handled and resolved fairly quickly. Angel’s father is called in to help sort out the trouble, and he brings along his seal team for support and help.
A.E. Via has written a beautiful story, hitting on many details that I like to read. For me, it had every possible element I could want. It has humour and laughter. Tears of pain and tears of joy. We have beautiful people inside and out. There are fireman and navy seals. I mean, good grief, what else is better than that combination?
This is the first book the author has published, but since has added many more to her catalogue. IMO, being the first one, I think she done a wonderful job. There are a couple pretty amazing things that happen in the end that will have you smiling from ear to ear.
I recommend this to anyone who loves passion, great sex, laughter and every day, real life characters that will leave you breathless and wanting more.
Cat’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Angel DeLucca is a hot, sexy successful bar owner. He is tired of one offs and hook-ups. He wants to meet his one and only. A disgruntled hook-up pulls the fire alarm as he is being escorted out on a busy holiday night. The moment the hot firefighter walks in Angel knows he is the one. The trouble is Max is straight.
Max is ready to settle down and find his soul mate. He is tired of failed relationships and can’t figure out why he isn’t happy with any women he has been with. Then by chance he meets Angel and his entire world is changed with a false alarm.
This is a really good story with some awesome characters. A.E Via can really do hot, sexy, intriguing men well. In this book, we sort of have a collage of stories. The first part of the book we meet Angel and Max. This section is basically their meeting and getting together and I warn you it’s hot, sexy and sensual.
Then we get a bonus in part two with Max’s bother Ryder and Angel’s head of security and best friend Sebastian. Bass is a master Dom but he too is tired of looking for the perfect sub. After having his heart broken and the sub he that was his cheat he has remained celibate and out of the clubs until he finds his perfect sub.
In walks Ryder with Max, and Bass knows Ryder is his. But, does Ryder, tough take charge protector of max, know he is a sub?
As if all this isn’t enough in part three we get all of these relationships wrapped up in an explosive plot twist.
I will say for me the book started of slow and I was a bit unsure of all these love at first sight romances going on. But I loved the characters and the interaction and struggle of them trying to work through their issues. I would have liked a bit more of the bdsm scenes with Ryker and Bass. I thought they were smokin hot together. I loved the plot action and Angels Dad and crew. I would have loved to have seen this earlier in the book with a little more action. There were so many great men introduced near the end I am excited to see whose story is next! I can’t wait.
If you like sexy bar owners, firefighters, Dom/Sub relationships, secret agents and a twist. Oh don’t forget some sizzling hot man-sex! Someone bring out the hot firefighter!
Blurb: Wick Templeton and Ned Harris have grown quite comfortable in the life they’ve built together. So comfortable—in fact—that when Ned decided to go cross-country to check on an old friend of his, Wick can’t bear to be apart from him and tags along.
Yeah, that’s the story Wick gives. In reality, Wick doesn’t share and he just wants to make sure this old friend understands that.
Three days to spend not jealously watching over his lover’s every move—at a campground in Flagstaff, Arizona, no less. How much trouble could Wick possibly find?
Purchase Link: All Romance eBooks https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-wickedwindselementalconnectioniiiwhisperingwinds35-1588911-145.html
Review: Can I have more hearts please? I LOOOOOVVVVVVED this book.
This is the third bonus book in the Pulp Friction 2014 collection. In case you don’t know what the pulp Friction Collection is, it is four authors that each has a series that sort of blends with the others. Each series is set in Mountain Shadows campgrounds in Flagstaff. Each series can be read alone, but works better if you read the entire collection in order for full impact. Each Author has included a bonus book this year also.
Haven’s Bonus brings us more Wick. In case you haven’t read any of last year’s Pulp Friction, you should read Wicked Ways. I absolutely loved this book, but I may be biased since I adored Wick so much.
Ned is going to Mountain shadows to check on a friend. Wick is tagging along on the pretext of watching Ned’s back but in a way he may be a bit jealous since Ned isn’t divulging anything. Al he is saying is that when Banyu checked on the Cannon situation for Chance he noticed a friend was there he needed to see about.
This story is full of action, and some hot sex, from the trip to Mountain shadows, to the very end. I love how it is almost like watching a movie the descriptions are so good.
If you like sarcastic, full of them self, sexy and dangerous men, burn the page man-sex, drama, suspense, and super-secret agents this book is for you.
* I received a copy of this book free-of-charge from Mmgoodbookreviews http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/ in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own*
Blurb: Dare Buckley has come home—or at least, he’s come back to Palladian, the small town he left as a teenager. After a major lapse in judgment forced him to resign from the Seattle PD, Palladian is the only place that’ll hire him. There’s one benefit to hitting rock bottom, though: the chance to investigate the mystery of his father’s suicide.
Dare also gets to reacquaint himself with Finn Fowler, whose childhood hero worship ended in uncomfortable silence when Dare moved away. But Finn isn’t the same little kid Dare once protected. He’s grown into an attractive, enigmatic stranger who neither wants nor needs what Dare has to offer.
In fact, Dare soon realizes that Finn’s keeping secrets—his own and the town’s. And he doesn’t seem to care that Dare needs answers. The atmosphere in Palladian, like its namesake river, appears placid, but dark currents churn underneath. When danger closes in, Dare must pit his ingenuity against his heart, and find his way home the hard way.
Review: I swear this book should begin with the phrase, “A dark and stormy night…” The whole image, feel, and plot of this story had a dark, malevolent feel to it. Much like the wastewater in the river, the townspeople were toxic. The question is why, and what will wash away the evil that is lurking in the shadows on those dark and stormy nights?
From the beginning, the author makes us feel some kind of dark threat in Finn, from his lurking behavior in the parking lot, to his quite connectedness to Bill the bully.
We know that Finn is hiding something, from the reason behind his limp, to what his side work may be. But what is the big secret? I admit to thinking even darker nefarious thoughts about Finn’s connection to Dare’s father’s death, glad that wasn’t the case, but the end was still surprising.
The writing was smooth, though my favorite aspect was that the environment in the story reflected the emotional and behavioral state of the main characters. I like those layers in a good mystery, and Maxfield slips them in as more people get involved in the plot and Dare’s attachment to Finn grows stronger even though it could ruin him the same way his career was destroyed in Seattle.
All in all a dark tale, a mystery that kept me on the hook until the end, and a sizzling sexual heat between Dare and Finn that kept me on my toes the whole time. A great read, I’d definitely recommend!
Blurb: Rowen Smithe’s two worlds collide when an old friend finds his hiding spot in Flagstaff. Surprisingly enough, it doesn’t prove to be the end of him. His family at Mountain Shadows rallies around him, giving Rowen the first glimpse of hope he’s had in over a dozen years. Hope and perhaps a future that might include a sexy curly-haired man with piercing blue eyes.
Learning Rowen’s hard truths rips Mick Rutger’s heart out. Mick wants to embrace Rowen, protect him so nothing and no one can ever hurt him again, and maybe use this breakthrough as a turning point for their tangle of a relationship.
All of that will have to be put on hold, though, when the surprise guests keep showing up…and not all of them are welcome. Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/Blown-Chance-Whispering-Winds-IV-ebook/dp/B00MQJMF38
Review: This is book 4 of the Whispering Winds series. The stories are all coming to a head now and this was so worth waiting for.
I absolutely loved the mystery that is Rowen and this story sheds a lot of lot on who he is.
In the bonus story Wicked Winds, Rowen’s cabin had been broken into and trashed. Wick was in that back finding something that pissed him off and sent him and Ned on their way. Rowen’s secrets had been revealed and he was a bit worried about how Mick would take things.
He doesn’t have long to worry since things get even worse.
There is lots of action and suspense, more of Rowen exposed and a shocking twist. Then just when I really thought things were going the way I wanted it and we were going to see Mick and Rowe go at it, a very what the F? ending. Now I can’t wait or the next book
If you like super-secret agents, lots of action and suspense, twists, and a surprise ending this is for you!
Title: The Next
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