Blyd and Pearce by Kim Fielding

Title: Blyd and Pearce

Author: Kim Fielding

Genre: High Fantasy,  Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (210pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (July 24, 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Born into poverty and orphaned young, Daveth Blyd had one chance for success when his fighting prowess earned him a place in the Tangye city guard—a place he lost to false accusations of theft. Now he scrapes out a living searching for wayward spouses and missing children. When a nobleman offers him a small fortune to find an entertainer who’s stolen a ring, Daveth takes the case.

While Jory Pearce may or may not be a thief, he certainly can’t be trusted. But, enchanted by Jory’s beauty and haunting voice, Daveth soon finds himself caught in the middle of a conspiracy. As he searches desperately for answers, he realizes that he’s also falling for Jory. The two men face river wraiths, assassins, a necromancer, and a talking head that could be Daveth’s salvation on their quest for the truth. But with everyone’s integrity in question and Death eager to dance, Daveth will need more than sorcery to survive.

ISBN-13: 978-1-64080-669-6

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Other booksellers

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Great story about the differences between populations, mystery and romance. I loved both Daveth and Jory. They both fascinated for different reasons. Daveth’s determination to do better for himself inspired me. Jory’s a mystery that had me from the start. I enjoyed reading about him immensely.

While they are getting to know one another they are both caught up in a mystery that they desperately try to understand. While some of the story had me scratching my head it fit with the overall setting. Nothing is as it seems and trust is something both men need if they are to survive.

Twists and turns are around every corner in this fascinating tale. I truly loved the dynamics as Jory and Daveth fought to keep ahead of the surprises that awaited them. Great cast of characters that added to an already good story.

Great read.

On Duty by A.R. Barley

Title: On Duty

Series: Smoke & Bullets 01

Author: A.R. Barley

Genre: Contemporary 

Length: Novel (245pgs)

ISBN: 9781488079221

Publisher: Carina Press (December 18 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Aerin

Blurb: Number one rule for a firefighter: never take your eyes off the flame. Male/male author A.R. Barley is back with a new contemporary romance series.

Former marine and seasoned firefighter Troy Barnes has always kept his sex life on the down low, until he takes back-to-back hits: physically injured in a suspicious warehouse explosion and emotionally blindsided when he’s ditched by his boyfriend. When a flirty young paramedic offers him a place to crash, Troy’s not so willing to give in. He’s never needed help before. But if anyone can break through his tough-guy act, it’s Alex Tate.

Alex has crushed on Troy since the minute he saw him. Now here he is, stripped of his turnout gear and recuperating in Alex’s bed. The tattooed hero may be a fantasy-come-true, but Alex wants more than rebound sex—and he’s not sure Troy’s ex is gone or forgotten.

As each night brings them closer together, Troy realizes there’s more to Alex than he’d ever imagined. And with an arsonist loose in Manhattan, neither he nor Alex realizes just how combustible things are going to get.

Purchase Link: Carina Press | Kobo | Amazon USAmazon UK

Review: I loved this book even though I went in it totally blind and had no idea what to expect. When I requested this book for review, there was no summary available, no genre, no cover, nothing but a title! I’m not that brave usually, but I thought I should give this book a chance, and I’m so happy that I did!

So….. do you (like me) love FIREFIGHTERS and PARAMEDICS in your books, especially when there’s a romance happening between the two? If yes, then you should definitely read this book, because it’s really good!

Troy and Alex both work at the same fire station, Alex as a paramedic and Troy as a firefighter, but that’s all the connection these two have with each other. Troy is pretty much closeted at work and in a secret relationship/friends-with-benefits situation with his best friend and police officer Ian. Alex is out and proud and has been crushing on Troy for a long time, but he knows better than to hit on straight guys.

After battling a dangerous wearhouse fire and rescuing a teenager by taking a dangerous jump out of a window, Troy is beat up all to hell and wants nothing more than a relaxing night at home with Ian. But Ian has a nasty little surprise in store for Troy, and Troy finds himself homeless and without a boyfriend. Alex offers to let Troy crash at his place (with no ulterior motives except maybe ogling tha’ ass) and a beautiful friendship is born between these two.

Troy is determined to include Alex in his group of friends because he truly likes Alex as a person. The chemistry between them is the real deal and once they make it in bed together….phew! So hawt! But Troy is not looking for another friends with benefits relationship, and Alex wants nothing to do with serious relationships after being burned in the past. Something’s gotta give!

There’s lots of action happening in this book, and there’s a sense of mystery to the story due to an arsonist who’s determined to hurt Troy’s team. There’s no dull moment and there’s no disbelieving factor about this story, which is great. The only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is that Troy constantly got hurt. I know it comes with the job, but did he always have to be the only one from the whole team to be constantly beat-up and cut-up (not to mention shot)? There’s only so much a guy can take and I felt like Troy was punished by the author for some unknown reason.

I’m so happy I chose to read this book, it really is a well written story! And…… FIREFIGHTERS!!!! I can’t wait for the next book!

The Mature Man’s Guide to Surviving Change by Chris Scully

Title: The Mature Man’s Guide to Surviving Change

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Chris Scully

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 6, 2017)

Length: Short Story (59 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: In the sunny playground of Palm Springs, growing up was something confirmed bachelor and bad-boy chef Joel avoided at all costs—until a close friend’s death made him reevaluate his priorities. Ever since, he’s been dedicated to helping his widowed friend Perry get back on his feet by teaching him to cook and providing a shoulder to cry on. But when Perry announces that he’s ready to start dating again and then begins receiving gifts from an anonymous secret Santa, Joel is forced to confront the feelings he’s suppressed for so long.

As Joel struggles with jealousy and guilt amid the holiday season, he must decide if he’s ready to grow up and reach for what he’s always wanted but never thought he could have.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-293-3

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: When Dale passed away it left his husband lost. With Joel’s help Perry was getting back to normal. However he also started seeing Joel in a different light. So he decided after two years it was time to start to date again, now all he had to do is to convince the one man he wanted.

This was a very cute story about love and loss, and love again. Friends to lovers type of story. How it felt like Joel was competing for Perry’s heart with a dead man. However you can tell that is not what is going on. I actually found myself smiling and enjoying this story quite a bit. I would recommend it.

Junkyard Heart by Garrett Leigh

Title: Junkyard Heart

Series: Porthkennack 07

Author: Garrett Leigh

Genre: Contemporary 

Length: Novel (195pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-62649-549-4

Publisher: Riptide Publishing (4th December 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Aerin

Blurb: Tired of the London rat race and the heartbreak that comes with it, photographer Jas Manning returns to Porthkennack, the Cornish seaside town where he spent every childhood summer on his father’s farm. Resigned to year-round rain, wind, and homemade jam, he’s sorely unprepared for the impact that artsy carpenter Kim Penrose has on his heart.

Kim’s free-loving reputation precedes him, and he’s as generous with his inked-up body as he is with his time. The sex is hot, the easy friendship even better, and Jas’s time with him building his family’s new farmhouse canteen is everything Jas was missing in his empty city life.

But Kim’s carefree existence isn’t as simple as it appears. He’s worked hard to vanquish his demons and build his dreams, but the devil on his shoulder is ruthless, and when it comes to call, their happy bubble bursts like it was never there at all. The canteen opening looms, but Kim is gone in more ways than one, and it’s down to Jas to shore up Kim’s soul and convince him that he deserves his place in Jas’s heart.

Purchase Link: Riptide Publishing 

Review: I’ve admitted long ago that Garrett Leigh is like crack to me, but unlike some addicts, I don’t have any desire to get clean. I love Leigh’s brand of angst, love how it rips my heart and makes me bleed, love feeling the angst like a physical blow while I fear it at the same time. Junkyard Heart is definitely Leigh’s creation and I feel like I could tell who wrote it even if I had to guess.

We know Kim from the previous Porthkennack book written by Garrett Leigh. Kim is a bisexual man whose open relationship with his long-time girlfriend made me skeptical about reading his book. Kim is battling his own demons in the form of alcohol addiction and a sometimes fragile mental health. His need for Jas runs bone-deep; Jas a that one person that Kim needs to have in his life in whatever way possible.

Jas has been a player all his life, a serial cheater who has always dated both men and women at the same time. That is until karma caught up to him, and the person Jas fell in love with and has dedicated 5 years of his life to was revealed as a married man. Jai’s broken heart drove him all the way to Porthkennack, where his father, step-mother and brothers all live. Jas believes he’s no relationship material and he’s done falling in love with men or women both, but his chemistry with Kim turns his world upside down. Staying away from Kim is simply not possible, no matter how complicated their relationship is.

I loved Jas and Kim together, their relationship and chemistry is intense and passionate, pretty much everything I could hope for. What didn’t work for me, and the real reason this book only gets 4 hearts from me, is Lena and the weird part she plays in Jas and Kim’s relationship. I get who she is to Kim, I understand their friendship, but…. why the fuck would Jas desire to see Lena and Kim fuck? I didn’t feel like Jas and Kim’s relationship had any room for a third, even if that third person is only hypothetical. I disliked that Lena watched Jas and Kim fuck, and it creeped me out that she kissed Jas’s head in the middle of it. I was half expecting her to guide his dick as well! *Lena did not have any actual sex with either of them and there was no cheating!*

Aside from the awkwardness that is Lena, I love everything about this book! Great read!

Junkyard Heart by Garrett Leigh Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Garrett Leigh - Junkyard Heart TourBanner

Hiya peeps! We have Garrett Leigh visiting today with her new release Junkyard Heart, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and Aerin’s review, so check out the post and leave a comment to enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~

Junkyard Heart

(Porthkennack 07)
by

Garrett Leigh

Tired of the London rat race and the heartbreak that comes with it, photographer Jas Manning returns to Porthkennack, the Cornish seaside town where he spent every childhood summer on his father’s farm. Resigned to year-round rain, wind, and homemade jam, he’s sorely unprepared for the impact that artsy carpenter Kim Penrose has on his heart.

Kim’s free-loving reputation precedes him, and he’s as generous with his inked-up body as he is with his time. The sex is hot, the easy friendship even better, and Jas’s time with him building his family’s new farmhouse canteen is everything Jas was missing in his empty city life.

But Kim’s carefree existence isn’t as simple as it appears. He’s worked hard to vanquish his demons and build his dreams, but the devil on his shoulder is ruthless, and when it comes to call, their happy bubble bursts like it was never there at all. The canteen opening looms, but Kim is gone in more ways than one, and it’s down to Jas to shore up Kim’s soul and convince him that he deserves his place in Jas’s heart.

Continue reading “Junkyard Heart by Garrett Leigh Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!”

Tap-Dancing the Minefields by Lyn Gala

Title: Tap-Dancing the Minefields

Author: Lyn Gala

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novel (334 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (November 14, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Sometimes the fiercest battle a man faces is against himself.

In the hidden alleyways of New York City, George “Tank” Tankersley defeated what he believed were demons. But the victory cost too much. Tank joined the Army in the hope of outrunning the guilt haunting him—only to stumble into a vast and deadly conspiracy, the enemies he’d hoped to never encounter again, and the arms of the brilliant, eccentric scientist tasked with saving humanity.

In a world where the line between dark magic and alien science is thin, Dr. Lev Underwood must reverse engineer recovered alien technology to give humans a fighting chance against the extraterrestrial beings who consider Earth nothing more than a petri dish. His old friend, Colonel Clyde Aldrich, wants to protect Lev from entanglement with the scarred and emotionally volatile young soldier, but Lev cannot help the pull he feels toward Tank. Still, his first loyalty is to the secret government program, and love might have to take a back seat to protecting the world. But if he can find a way, Lev wants both.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-762-4

Product Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/tap-dancing-the-minefields-by-lyn-gala-422-b

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Tanks life takes a turn when he is thrust into a secret alien base. Not one who is new to the strange Tank learns that everything he thought he knew was wrong. I liked the story. It has all sorts of twists and turns that delve further into the aliens and what they are up to.

The aliens themselves are not that different from humans. You have your good ones and bad ones. The slave ships were horrifying for the humans they had captured. These things were mentioned but not in deep detail.

Overall I found the characters in the story complex at times yet intriguing. They all added to the story in some way or another. The biggest shock was about Tank himself. But, I won’t spoil what all happens for the readers. Needless to say it was an adventurous, action packed, and mysterious story that captures your imagination and attention from the start.

Good read.

Fireman’s Pole by Sue Brown

Title: Fireman’s Pole

Series: Dreamspun Desires 44

Author: Sue Brown

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (220 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15 Oct 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: The flames of passion rise for the lord of the manor.
It’s springtime in Calminster village, but things are already heating up. Sexy firefighter Dale Maloney is new to the local station. When Dale backs the company fire engine into the village maypole, he attracts the ire—and attention—of Benedict Raleigh, the Baron Calminster.
Soon after meeting Dale, Ben breaks off his relationship with his girlfriend, and the sparks between Ben and Dale are quickly fanned into flames.

Unfortunately the passion between the two men isn’t the only blaze in the village. An arsonist’s crimes are escalating, and it’s up to Dale and his crew to stop them. Meanwhile, as they investigate, an unscrupulous business partner attempts to coerce Ben into marrying his daughter. The May Day parade is around the corner, but they have plenty of fires to put out before Ben can finally slide down the fireman’s pole.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-655-9

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-firemans-pole-by-sue-brown-8862-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I have a soft spot for books set in England – I think it stems from my love of regency MF romances and it kind of just holds over to everything else. I don’t know why, I’m just weird. That was what initially attracted me to Sue Brown’s books and after that I just fell in love with her writing and the sweetness of her stories. For me Sue Brown is definitely a go to if I see a new book come out.

Fire fighter Dale Maloney is the newbie at the village of Calminster’s fire station and he is having problems making a good impression. Life just doesn’t seem to like him at the moment because he seems to be doing everything wrong, especially when it comes to the Baron of Calminster, Benedict Raleigh.

For the most part, what you read in the blurb is what you get in the book.
Dale is indeed the hot firefighter who is trying to fit into small town life and is making a few mistakes along the way. He also comes with baggage. He’s moved for a fresh start. He’s decided to take charge in his life. He no longer wants to live in the closet and he doesn’t want to be someone’s dirty secret. Despite his bumpy start with the Baron of Calminster, Ben, the two men actually do hit it off. So much so, that Ben knows that if he wants anything to be real in any sort of relationship with Dale, he has to make some major changes in his life.

This is a sweet story that feels real. The emotions feel on point and the chemistry between the characters is explosive. I also like the fun of playing off the whole “lord of the manner with one of the commoners” type of story (I think this again goes back to my initial love of regency romances).

The Supers by Sean Michael

Title: The Supers

Series: Dreamspun Beyond 06, The Supers 01

Author: Sean Michael

Genre: Paranormal, Ghosts, spirits

Length: Novel (242 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15 Oct 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Hunting ghosts and finding more than they bargained for.
Blaine Franks is a member of the paranormal research group the Supernatural Explorers. When the group loses their techie to a cross-country move, newly graduated Flynn Huntington gets the job. Flynn fits in with the guys right off the bat, but when it comes to him and Blaine, it’s more than just getting along.

Things heat up between Blaine and Flynn as they explore their first haunted building, an abandoned hospital, together. Their relationship isn’t all that progresses, though, and soon it seems that an odd bite on Blaine’s neck has become much more.

Hitchhiking ghosts, a tragic love story forgotten by time, and the mystery of room 204 round out a romance where the things that go bump in the night are real.

ISBN: 978-1-63533-890-4

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-supers-by-sean-michael-8860-b

Reviewer: Prime

Review: For me, Sean Michael is one of those authors where I can take it or leave it. I love the writing style, but it completely up to the plot line itself and substance of the story as to if I finish and enjoy a book. Probably not explaining myself properly, that is true of every book, but put it this way: there are some that I love and some that I don’t.

The Supers is a really cool book about a group of ghost busters, looking to make their big break. Blaine loves being a part of the group. Hard times on the family farm means that he had to put on hold his plans of moving away to help his parents. His parents are overly impressed by his second job but they don’t make a fuss. It is basically Blaine’s unwinding time. He just happens to chase after ghosts and trying to capture them on audio or camera. After losing their usual tech person who monitors cameras, recordings, etc. their group manager hires Flynn, who is a newly graduated sound technician. Flynn fits in, as the blurb says, but he especially hits it off with Blaine.

These guys are super sweet and have instant chemistry. An underlying story, as hinted in the blurb about the mystery of room 204, really adds to their budding relationship. However, I am not about to spoil a moment of that because to be perfectly, the mystery of room 204 is THE highlight of this story. I totally loved it!

This book is great for anyone who loves watching those ghost hunter type of shows (I’m a Most Haunted addict myself). I love the underlying story which emerges at the end; it really added a certain spice to the story that was both sad and perfect. I’m intrigued and excited to find out that this one is the first in a series.

Murmuration by T.J. Klune ~ Audiobook

T.J. Klune - Murmuration Cover AudioTitle: Murmuration

Author: TJ Klune

Narrator: Kirt Graves

Genre: Historical, Mystery

Length: 12 hrs, 11 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (16th January 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: In the small mountain town of Amorea, it’s stretching toward autumn of 1954. The memories of a world at war are fading in the face of a prosperous future. Doors are left unlocked at night, and neighbors are always there to give each other a helping hand.

The people here know certain things as fact:

Amorea is the best little town there is.

The only good commie is a dead commie.

The Women’s Club of Amorea runs the town with an immaculately gloved fist.

And bookstore owner Mike Frazier loves that boy down at the diner, Sean Mellgard. Why they haven’t gotten their acts together is anybody’s guess. It may be the world’s longest courtship, but no one can deny the way they look at each other.

Slow and steady wins the race, or so they say.

But something’s wrong with Mike. He hears voices in his house late at night. There are shadows crawling along the walls and great clouds of birds overhead that only he can see.

Something’s happening in Amorea. And Mike will do whatever he can to keep the man he loves.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: It’s no secret. I absolutely love and will devour each and every TJ Klune book. Whether that book is in written or audio form, I will love it either way. He makes me laugh and he makes me cry, sometimes at the same time. I tell you, the man is evil, because his writing touches the soul speaks to every fiber of my being. Sounds a bit melodramatic, right? I know but seriously, I am having problems conjuring the words to describe why I love his writing and the stories he weaves with the most wonderful characters. However, Murmuration is a bit different in that despite having some light hearted moments it was more intense and full of mystery than anything else.

I heard Murmuration off the back of listening to TJ’s book Wolfsong. Both audios have the same narrator – Kirt Graves – who absolutely get the characters and the emotions on point.

Right I’m trying to keep this short because I think every time I write a TJ Klune review I go on and on and just gush about how much I love his writing and the book in question. I don’t want to give too much away either, so I really need to keep it brief.

This is a slow burn story between Mike and Sean in the very familiar theme of friends becoming lovers. In Murmuration we’re going back to 1950s small town America, an idyllic time for kids playing out on the road, people keeping their doors unlocked and generally tight communities where everyone knows each other and takes care of one another. I felt a bit of trepidation, though, because of the historical setting and what this could mean for a gay relationship. However, as you read and get hooked on the plot, it had me wondering if you can call it a historical as indicated by the blurb. It certainly gave us a setting and a starting point but there is so much more going on than the time/year that the book is set in. There is definitely a sense of mystery as odd things occur in the quiet small town.

Klune weaves together a complex story with many layers and I’m convinced he does it just to fuck with our minds. Because seriously that ending, was not expecting, seriously massive mind fuck. I can’t even say what book it immediately made me think of because for fans of Klune [and have followed his blog and Facebook] you will probably know what book I’m talking about! It’s one of those endings that have stuck with me and makes me keep on thinking. But ultimately I am happy because it was a HEA.

If you’re looking for a pure romance, I’m not sure what to say about it. It is a very romantic and very sweet story woven in between the darkness and intrigue of the surrounding world. This about a guy trying to find himself in a world that seems dark and scary, but it is the romance that gives us the sense of hope and light.

The Dom's Way by Sean Michael Guest Post & Excerpt!

Sean Michael - The Dom's Way Banner

Hi guys, we have Sean Michael popping in today with their new release The Dom’s Way, we have a super guest post from Sean and  a great excerpt, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Sean Michael - The Dom's Way Cover

The Dom’s Way

(Iron Eagle Gym 05)
by

Sean Michael

Neal and Way from The Closet Boy are back, only now they’re Dom and sub, and exploring their relationship through the lifestyle. Way is eager to learn everything, and more in love with his master every day. For his part, Neal can’t believe how lucky he is to have found such an innocent but sensual boy.

As they learn what works best for them both, Way has trouble obeying some of the rules Neal imposes. Like the no touching himself rule. Neal wants Way to learn control, but Way, after so long holding back, has trouble not indulging. The two men must work together to find the balance that brings them each the most satisfaction and happiness.

Release date: 23rd June 2017 

Continue reading “The Dom's Way by Sean Michael Guest Post & Excerpt!”

Lion’s Mate by Shannon West & T.S. McKinney

Shannon West & T.S. McKinney - Lion's Mate CoverTitle: Lion’s Mate  

Series: Hell’s Creek 01   

Author: Shannon West & T.S. McKinney

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Publisher: Painted Hearts Publishing (May 9, 2017)

Length: Novella (103pgs)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: When Julian Montague rolls into a small mill town on the back side of nowhere, he isn’t looking for any trouble. He’s broke and fallen on hard times—but his idea to run from a license check on a main highway has backfired. He went off road on his motorcycle and now he’s hopelessly lost and almost out of gas. Stopping at the only station in town, he’s confronted by bullies with a gun who insist he’s on the “wrong side of the line” and then proceed to attack him. Fighting them off, he heads for the dubious safety of the “other side” when he’s attacked by a wild animal and crashes, almost killing himself. Waking up tied to a bed, he’s startled to find his injuries are being tended by a large, handsome man named Leo who bosses him around, showers him with affection and insists on calling him kitty. Something is going on in this strange town called Hell’s Creek, involving the large paper mill and the strange inhabitants who live in separate territories and answer only to the Company. Julian needs to find out what it is before he finds himself the “mate” of another man—and the main problem with that is that he’s beginning to like the idea way too much.

ISBN: 978-1-946379-25-2

Product Link: http://www.paintedheartspublishing.com/lionsmate

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I came across this author a couple of years ago and found her stories intriguing.  However I also remember that they didn’t stand out in my head like they should have.  So when I was given this story, I was interested in seeing how the author’s work had grown.  

When Julian was five years old his parents had been killed and he was raised in foster care.  Now if you know about foster care they take care of certain needs but not a lot of love goes around.  When he decides to take off, there are many obstacles for him to get through.  He is flat broke and his bike doesn’t have the proper tags.  So trying to get away from a road block leads him right into Hell’s Creek.  It actually takes him right into Dogtown.  What he doesn’t know or understand is that Dogtown is actually a town full of canine shifters whereas Cat’s town is for Felines.  His life is about to be torn into and twisted.

Leo is the leader of the felines but life is not as calm as one would think.  There is much fighting between the felines and canines.  He was to mate with another, but to his surprise Julian is his true fated mate.  The problem is the man has no clue what is going on, nor what he really is.  Things are about to get interesting.

Now the story has great potential and the characters are strong enough to keep the fight going on.  However for me, this story was more detail and descriptions, which is a drag.  Leo might be the leader but in fact he doesn’t really seem like it.  The reason for these two towns and the separation is because of some company.  For me an alpha would not listen to the company but take care of his pride or pack.  The connection between these two men is somewhat questionable.  There is heat there but something is really off about them both.  It is a long winded story that just did the opposite of what it should have done.  As a reader my attention waivered quite a bit with the story. 

Like I said above the story had great potential but for me failed to deliver.  I normally won’t read the next books because I don’t have a great reaction to the first book, however I am interested enough to see what the next story will be like.  I just could have done without the amount of descriptions and the use of kitten.  So far this story is not giving me a great impression, but will leave my final feelings for the next book.

Bonfires by Amy Lane

Amy Lane - Bonfires CoverTitle: Bonfires

Author: Amy Lane

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (280 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (March 24 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Ten years ago Sheriff’s Deputy Aaron George lost his wife and moved to Colton, hoping growing up in a small town would be better for his children. He’s gotten to know his community, including Mr. Larkin, the bouncy, funny science teacher. But when Larx is dragged unwillingly into administration, he stops coaching the track team and starts running alone. Aaron—who thought life began and ended with his kids—is distracted by a glistening chest and a principal running on a dangerous road.

Larx has been living for his kids too—and for his students at Colton High. He’s not ready to be charmed by Aaron, but when they start running together, he comes to appreciate the deputy’s steadiness, humor, and complete understanding of Larx’s priorities. Children first, job second, his own interests a sad last.

It only takes one kiss for two men approaching fifty to start acting like teenagers in love, even amid all the responsibilities they shoulder. Then an act of violence puts their burgeoning relationship on hold. The adult responsibilities they’ve embraced are now instrumental in keeping their town from exploding. When things come to a head, they realize their newly forged family might be what keeps the world from spinning out of control.

ISBN: 9781635333411

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/bonfires-by-amy-lane-8304-b

Reviewer: Aerin

Review: Amy Lane is the only author who could play with my heart this way; no matter what she writes, be it vein-slashing angst or light, fluffy romance, Amy’s books never fail to engage my feelings to the max. Gah! Bonfires is so much more than a book! Bonfires is a story about life, with real life characters who deal with real life problems; I know this book is fiction, but it felt like the real deal.

The MCs are both mature characters with families of their own, both in their 40’s with grown kids who learn that happiness comes in all shapes and forms. There was something so real about Aaron and Larx, something so easy to relate to, I couldn’t help but fall in love with them both. Aaron is a deputy sheriff and Larx is a high school principal, they’re both bisexual and both have known love and loss in their lives, even if it was in different contexts. But what I loved the most about them was that they were both amazing fathers who’s love for their children was easy to see.

There’s a lot going on in this book… high school drama (because we deal with a school full of teenagers, DUH!) and Larx’s fight to make ALL kids feel safe and protected; a case of attempted murder that might or might not be a hate crime, a body floating in the lake, and a plot that ties it all together perfectly. Despite the fact that Aaron and Larx’s romance was not the only focus of the entire book, their relationship carried the undertones of maturity and solidity. I was perfectly content with the way their romance was handled; there might not have been fireworks and explosions, but the comforting, everlasting slow burn was fitting for them both.

The secondary characters were outstanding on their own, from the town bitch and resident evil, to the amazing kids like Larx’s daughter Christiana, Aaron’s son Kirby, and Larx’s new ‘adoptee’ Kellan. There’s a secondary romance we got to witness for a very short time, one that’s fragile and vulnerable. I am dying to read more about those two particular characters in the future!!!! I need to read their story like I need air to breathe!

This book was amazing, I can’t recommend it enough!

When The Dust Settles by Mary Calmes

Mary Calmes - When The Dust Settles CoverTitle: When the Dust Settles

Series: Timing 03

Author: Mary Calmes

Genre: Contemporary 

Length: Novella (107 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 16, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate  

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Glenn Holloway’s predictable life ended the day he confessed his homosexuality to his family. As if that wasn’t enough, he then poured salt in the wound by walking away from the ranch he’d grown up on, to open the restaurant he’d always dreamed of. Without support from his father and brother, and too proud to accept assistance from anyone else, he had to start from scratch. Over time things worked out: Glenn successfully built a strong business, created a new home, and forged a life he could be proud of.

Despite his success, his estrangement from the Holloways is still a sore spot he can’t quite heal, and a called-in favor becomes Glenn’s worst nightmare. Caught in a promise, Glenn returns to his roots to deal with Rand Holloway and comes face-to-face with Mac Gentry, a man far too appealing for Glenn’s own good. It could all lead to disaster—disaster for his tenuous reconnection with his family and for the desire he didn’t know he held in his heart.

ISBN: 978-1-61372-092-9

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/when-the-dust-settles-by-mary-calmes-7779-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  Now even though this is book three in the series, I do believe that you can read it by itself.  However I would suggest reading the books in order, because there are just a few spots that can get confusing without knowing a bit more about the other stories.  However once again it is not needed though.

It has a serious tone to it but the humor is even matched.  The story is fully developed and the characters were a blast.  For such a shorter story then I have seen from this author, I was quite pleased with just how full it seemed to be.  It was not drawn out and very nicely paced for her readers.  The guys made it seem even better to me.  I was also glad to see Stefan and Rand again.

Stefan calls Glenn for just a bit of help.  His eyes set on Mac and let’s just say you can feel the heat coming from these two.  Glenn has his life the way he wants it, with success with his restaurant and life is going good.  He was just missing that special someone in his life, and Mac is it for him.  However if you want to see the chemistry, you must read the book.  Let’s just say, smoking hot.

Now as much as I loved the first two, this one gave me a bit more even though it is a smaller story.  I was very glad to have found that it was going to be about a new character and not the same ones from the first two books.  I don’t really care for characters that are the main thing from one book to the next.  So for me this new couple rocked it perfectly.  However you must read the book if you want to find out just how hot these two were.  I have to admit that I would have loved to have both guys POV’s, however Mary wrote it just right. 

It was a lot of fun to read and can’t wait for another one. 

Spell Cat by Tara Lain Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

tara-lain-spell-cat-banner-s-spell-cat-book-blast

Hi guys, we have Tara Lain stopping by with her new re-release Spell Cat, we have a great excerpt, some fantastic teasers, a briliant giveaway and Lisa’s review, so check out the post and click that giveaway link <3 ~Pixie~

tara-lain-spell-cat-cover

Spell Cat

(The Aloysius Tales 01)
by

Tara Lain

When Killian Barth, history professor, meets Blaine Genneau, quantum physicist, they ignite their own big bang. But Killian can’t pursue a physics professor—or a human. As the most powerful male witch in ten generations, Killian must bolster his dying race by reproducing—despite the fact that he’s gay.

Even a fling with Blaine is out of the question, because Killian has been told sex with humans drains his power. But if that’s true, why can young human Jimmy Janx dissolve spoons with the power of his mind? If Killian can sort through the lies he’s been fed, he’ll still face his biggest obstacle — convincing rational scientist Blaine to believe in magic.

With his ancient and powerful cat familiar, Aloysius, on his shoulder, Killian brings the lightning against deceit and greed to save Blaine from danger and prove love is the greatest power of them all.

Continue reading “Spell Cat by Tara Lain Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!”

Raven's Rest by Stephen Osborne

stephen-osborne-ravens-rest-coverTitle: Raven’s Rest

Author: Stephen Osborne

Genre: Paranormal, Ghosts, Spirits, Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (200pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-63477-701-8

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (23rd September 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Michael Cook has left his abusive lover and settled in the small town of Banning, Illinois. Having nowhere else to go, he checks into the Raven’s Rest Inn and soon learns that the haunted reputation of the hotel is well deserved. Michael gets a job at a local café, where he meets Trey Ramsey. Though Michael has misgivings about starting up a new relationship, Trey seems to be the complete opposite of Michael’s controlling ex, so he decides to give Trey a chance.

Life at the Raven’s Rest becomes increasingly frightening when the ghost of Coleman Hollis appears in Michael’s room. Coleman seems to want something from Michael, and the mystery deepens when Michael discovers he’s the spitting image of Coleman’s lover from years ago. Together, Michael and Trey must discover why Coleman’s spirit is drawn to the Raven’s Rest—and to Michael.

Purchase Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/ravens-rest-by-stephen-osborne-7550-b

Review: After five years Michael has left his psychologically abusive lover and is hiding out in a small town. Staying at the local Inn, Raven’s Rest, he’s told the story of its ghosts and becomes fascinated by one of them especially when he sees the ghost of that past resident, Coleman, a young man who disappeared many years before. Michael decides to stay in town and stumbles across a job in a small café as well as Trey, a laid back guy who sparks Michael’s interest.

Michael and Trey begin to look into Coleman’s story after an altercation with the ghost and they discover a sad story of young love torn apart and destroyed. While getting to the bottom of the mystery of the ghost Michael still has to deal with his ex when Kevin comes hunting for him.

This is brilliant story where a man running from his ex-lover stumbles across a ghost story that leads to a decades old mystery. Michael has suffered from mental abuse from the man who was supposed to love him for years, Michael’s finally found the courage to leave him but he knows Kevin will follow him so he heads for a small town. It’s the beginning of a ghostly adventure of mystery and murder, and discovering new love.

I really enjoyed this story, it flowed really well and Michael and Trey connected from the instant they met, their romance moves quickly but fits them perfectly. The mystery part of the story was excellent, with Michael determined to get to the truth and discover just what happened to Coleman. It’s a terrible tale of bigotry and murder.

Both Michael and Trey are excellent characters and there are also one or two other jewels floating through the story like Jesenia (who wears a badge labelled ‘The Town Witch’) and Gloria Ramsey (Trey’s mother), they both add to the story and bring some lightness to the story as well. I also liked the fact that Michael got some closure with Kevin as well, there is a confrontation where Kevin loses it but he does finally accept that his actions drove Michael away and hopefully he’ll learn a lesson from losing Michael.

I recommend this to those who love ghost mysteries, finding peace with yourself, discovering new love, dodging danger and an excellent ending.

Taming the Wyld by Lucie Archer

lucie-archer-taming-the-wyld-cover-sTitle: Taming the Wyld

Series: States of Love 04: Alaska

Author: Lucie Archer

Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance 

Length: Novella (101 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 21, 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: The Witness Protection Program dumps JD Smith practically at the ends of the earth—in Two Pines, Alaska—to protect him until he can testify against a dangerous gang. He tries to stick to his story and keep his head down, but it’s impossible to ignore bush pilot Jake Wylder, a sexy loner with quite a reputation around the small town.

Flying medical supplies around Alaska suits Jake’s wild streak and love of freedom. He’s perfectly content to keep his romantic encounters casual—at least until he meets JD. Something about the nurse makes Jake think settling down might not be such a hardship. Now he just needs to convince JD he’s serious—which won’t be easy, given his past.

For a relationship to stand a chance, JD must testify so he can return to Two Pines as the man he really is—and Jake must grow into the man JD needs him to be.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-590-8

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/taming-the-wyld-by-lucie-archer-7543-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Lucie Archer is a new author for me so I wasn’t too sure what to expect. I have never really been a fan of new authors works but only because I have a certain type of book that I like. When I read the blurb it sounded so good and a bit mysterious to me. I have to admit that when I saw Witness Protection Program I was kind of hoping for love, bad guys and danger. However it doesn’t even come close to the bad guys and danger.

JD Smith is a nurse in Alaska, but in real life he is actually a doctor. A doctor who worked for some pretty bad guys and got caught in a raid. Now he was to spend most of his time in Alaska till the trial. He had not expected to come across a very sexy Jake, nor did he have a clue what to do.

Jake was pretty much a man slut and had slept with both men and women. He had never found that one person to make him want something permanent. That is until he came across JD. Too bad JD is hiding something big from them all. 

Now it is a very cute story but it comes off very stiff, dry and didn’t flow as easy as it should have for me. There was just something missing to make it a great story but not too sure what it was. I read most of it but did skim over parts of it, because the pace of the story was just too slow to keep my interest for long. I was hoping for more action, suspense and danger, however it wasn’t there. I am afraid that this story was just not for me.

Dog Days by T.A. Moore

T.A. Moore - Dog Days Cover sTitle: Dog Days

Series: N/A

Author: T.A. Moore

Genre: Erotic Romance, Paranormal, Dystopian

Length: Novel (200 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 9, 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 3, & 4 ½ Hearts

Blurb: The world ends not with a bang, but with a downpour. Tornadoes spin through the heart of London, New York cooks in a heat wave that melts tarmac, and Russia freezes under an ever-thickening layer of permafrost. People rally at first—organizing aid drops and evacuating populations—but the weather is only getting worse.

In Durham, mild-mannered academic Danny Fennick has battened down to sit out the storm. He grew up in the Scottish Highlands, so he’s seen harsh winters before. Besides, he has an advantage. He’s a werewolf. Or, to be precise, a weredog. Less impressive, but still useful.

Except the other werewolves don’t believe this is any ordinary winter, and they’re coming down over the Wall to mark their new territory. Including Danny’s ex, Jack—the Crown Prince Pup of the Numitor’s pack—and the prince’s brother, who wants to kill him.

A wolf winter isn’t white. It’s red as blood.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-577-9

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/dog-days-by-ta-moore-7489-b

Reviewers: Lisa & Pixie

Lisa’s Review: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

This is the first book by this author that I have read and I hate to say it probably the last. The blurb made the book sound a bit more interesting but the story itself was just creepy as hell. The tone was dark and twisted with characters that I wouldn’t save if the world was going to hell except for Danny.

Danny had left his home so many years ago and now taught students for a living. He had a nice life even though he was a dog shifter. That was until the storms starting hitting the world and the cold took the lives of those not prepared. He had been born into a wolf pack and had only his mother left there, a mother not worth calling even on a good day. They say that the weather is a prediction of what is to come.

Jack was the crown prince of his pack, but had also been kicked out for being gay by his father. Times were changing and not for the good. He was going to make a new home for himself, but had not expected to find someone he had spent time with living over the wall. To top it off there is murder going around and they needed to find out who was behind it.

I couldn’t get into this book very well. I basically skimmed over parts and it felt like I had not missed a damn thing. This book was not what I had expected and left me more disappointed than anything. I can say that I did not care for Jack and could not connect with any of the characters, although I did like Danny. I am afraid that if this authors other stories are similar to this one then I will probably skip those also. I just could not get interested in this story. 

Pixie’s Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 ½ Hearts

I have to admit that I do disagree with Lisa on this one, I loved it. The dystopian setting as the Earth rebels against humanity is a stunning setting; it adds a more desperate feel to the situation as the town becomes isolated and something is stalking in the shadows.

Jack is a tough bastard, he has no intention of his banishment killing him and as he travels towards England he catches a whiff of a scent he knows well. Danny has a good life among the humans and when the storm hits he has no intention of leaving his new home, and then Jack finds him.

This isn’t a sweet fluffy shifter story, it’s a rough world the shifters live in and it’s a bit complex. As the wolf winter comes to fruition and the shifters plan to bathe in blood something else is lurking in the background, something so dark and twisted that neither humans nor shifters are safe.

I loved this story for the beautiful way that it was executed, it’s darkish and bloody and although Danny and Jack are what I’d loosely call a romantic pair there really isn’t any romance or really a relationship, it just is.

So I’d recommend this to those who love darker paranormal stories, who love the cold winter setting and lurking shadows, who adore gritty stories and happy for now endings.       

Take Two by Shira Anthony

shira-anthony-take-two-coverTitle: Take Two

Author: Shira Anthony

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (214pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-63477-385-0

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (9th September 2016)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Shiver me timbers! When Professor Wesley Coolidge accepts a summer job as a historical consultant to a pirate movie being filmed in North Carolina, the last person he expects to bump into is his soon-to-be ex, movie star Sander Carson. Just like the flamboyant pirate he’s playing, Sander, aka Sam Carr, is used to getting what he wants, and he makes it clear he wants Wesley back in his life.

Sam acknowledges it’s his fault they split up. He lost Wesley when he left their life in New York City behind for a career in Hollywood. But Wesley has finally managed to put the pieces of his heart back together, and he isn’t interested in Sam and Wesley: The Sequel. Sam soon realizes that convincing Wesley to give their relationship a second chance will take much more than apologies and reminders of good times past. If he wants Wesley back, Sam will have to show Wesley that they really can sail into the sunset together—a real-life happily-ever-after that won’t end once the final credits roll.

Purchase Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/take-two-by-shira-anthony-7477-b

Review: When Wesley accepts a summer job on a pirate movie he has no idea that he has been neatly maneuvered by his soon to be ex-husband Sam. Wesley wants to move on with his life, he has a new promotion, a new boyfriend and he is being seriously considered for a huge grant. But being confronted by his ex, the movie star, has Wesley confused and more determined than ever to put Sam behind him.

Sander (aka Sam) sacrificed the one thing he never wanted to lose in his bid for Hollywood fame, determined to get a second chance he puts his plan to win his husband back in motion but Wesley is a harder nut to crack than he thought. Flowers, romantic home cooked dinners and sailing at sunset just doesn’t seem to be enough, Sam will have to pull the big guns out and open his heart if he hopes to have a chance with the man he’s never stopped loving.

This is a wonderful story that is nicely paced and keeps your attention with the ‘will he/won’t he’ storyline. Both Wesley and Sam are wonderful characters, their relationship slowly fell apart as Sam spent more time in LA and Wesley was in New York. Wesley is a history Professor and loves his job, he never really stopped loving Sam but the strain of never seeing him and being ignored for weeks and months at a time took its toll. Sam is the big movie star whose career just took over, he’s left devastated when he gets divorce papers. We can see both sides of the story and we soon begin to root for Sam and hoping Wesley will give him a chance.

Wesley and Sam are wonderful together, their easy camaraderie shows us right off the bat that their feelings for each other are still strong, we watch as Sam tries to woo Wesley and fail miserably. We watch as Sam stumbles around trying to win Wesley over and we watch as Wesley tries to convince himself that he’s over Sam. It’s a fantastic story that just pulls you in as you become invested in their relationship.

I can’t say it’s all easy for Wesley though, he gets disappointing news and then he walks in on his new boyfriend ‘entertaining’ a colleague, he has a rough few moments and his head is a bit of a mess at times. Poor guy just can’t seem to catch a break. Although the story is all about their relationship we do have some great moments with some of Sam’s colleagues, and there’s also a fantastic sea rescue.  

The story is beautifully written, it has some interesting tidbits on pirates, Wesley and Sam’s relationship builds up throughout the story and is nicely paced, they have a couple of hot moments and boy are they hot! We fall in love with the characters and become invested in their lives, this really is a sweet, lovely romance of reconnecting and finding the love that was nearly lost.

I recommend this to those who love sweet romances, who love a man determined to get his lover back, who adore characters who pull out all the stops, who love dashing rescues and a wonderful ending.