Heart Untouched by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Andrew Grey - Heart Untouched Audio Cover ncsk47Title: Heart Untouched

Series: Hearts Entwined 03

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 38 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (27th June 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: An accident crushed Duncan’s Olympic dreams and landed him in a chair, but he knows it’s time to get his life back on track – and he has a plan in mind. Working with his friend Todd, an Olym-pic skeleton racer, on a promotional campaign will not only help Duncan regain some direction, but it’ll give Todd the financial boost he desperately needs. The sport Todd loves is draining his resources – so much so that he’s thinking of giving up racing just to make ends meet.

As the two men work together, their friendship blossoms into much more, and suddenly the future is looking brighter than it has in a long time. But just when love, happiness, and success seem within their grasp, the USOC steps in with plans to stop their campaign. That’ll mean an end not just to Duncan’s business, but to Todd’s dreams…and Duncan isn’t about to let that happen to the man who means everything to him.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK 

Review: Heart Untouched is the third book in Andrew Grey’s Hearts Entwined series. You don’t necessarily have to read the series in order. However, since the couples of the previous books feature heavily I think it would make more sense to read the series in order, but that is only my opinion.

Andrew Grey is a go to author for. I could gush for a long time about how much I love his writing. I love the knack he has to make deeply emotional characters, with equally emotional and relatable storylines. I also love the knack he has with characters which are either differently abled or single fathers – I’m truly a sucker for those types of books in general.

The audio narration was performed by Greg Tremblay. Tremblay is a brilliant narrator and I have enjoyed many of his performances of Grey’s work. I love how Tremblay enhances a book by just changing his tone, giving characters their own voices and sometimes making audio experience more relatable and easier to connect to characters than just reading the book.

Part of me was a little disappointed that I didn’t love the book as much as I normally would an Andrew Grey book, and I got no idea if there has to do with either the story itself or the narration. Nonetheless, this was still an excellent and thoroughly enjoyable read. I just hold Grey to higher standards, haha.

The story starts with Olympic skeleton racer, Duncan. Unfortunately, a major accident during competition has not only shattered his dreams of competing in the Winter Olympics, but he is also now confined to a wheelchair. Duncan is lost now, but his friend and one of his fellow skeleton racer teammates, Todd.

Being an Olympian is not an easy thing. Obviously, one has to be absolutely awesome at their chosen sport. But there is also the endless need for funding so that they can take months at a time to train and meet whatever other requires are set by the US Olympic Committee. Back home, Todd is making money but is feeling the noose of tight finances threatening his Olympic dream. Add to that his friend Duncan has had his life shattered, receiving very little help from the sport governing body that had dictated their lives for so long, leaving Todd with rather mixed feelings. But with Duncan struggling, Todd also needs to help his friend. Lucky for Todd he works as a mechanic for a man who employs both a blind man and a deaf man, so he has the support of his wider group of friends to help Duncan find his way through his new normal.

The romance between Duncan and Todd is sweet and slow-burning. The fact that these guys are friends and have great chemistry is a plus. While there were times where the story felt a little flat, it was OK because these guys felt like your normal, down to earth sort of blokes. This is a real sweet, heart-warming and generally just filled with hope.

Fire and Agate by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Andrew Grey - Fire & Agate Audio Cover 45yy5Title: Fire and Agate

Series: Carlisle Deputies 03

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs, 9 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (18th April 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: When Chris Anducci is moved off jail duty and into the sheriff’s office, he doesn’t expect his first assignment to be protecting a witness against a human-trafficking ring. Knowing the new sheriff doesn’t abide screwups, Chris reluctantly agrees to work the case.

Pavle Kasun has spent the last four years of his life at the mercy of others. When an opportunity presented itself, he took it, resulting in his rescue. Now, the safe houses he’s placed in are be-ing threatened, and he needs protection if he is to have any sort of chance at a life.

Chris opens his home to Pavle, but he doesn’t expect Pavle and his story to get under his skin…and stay there. Soon, they discover they have more in common than either of them thought. Slowly, Pavle comes out of his shell, and Chris finds someone who touches his heart. But as the men looking for Pavle close in, they will stop at nothing to get him out of the way. Even if Chris can keep him safe, he might not be able to protect his heart if Pavle moves back home.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK 

Review: Fire and Agate is the third book in Andrew Grey’s Carlisle Deputies series. You don’t need to have read the previous book in the series. I’ve read and listened to the two series Carlisle Cops and Carlisle Deputies completely out of order. And while the characters from previous books pop up and you know that they are together, there is nothing vital mentioned that I found difficult to put together on my own. That being said, it probably would be easier to start from the beginning and work your way through.

I really looked forward to the audio of this book. I am a massive fan of Andrew Grey’s writing. I connect to his writing style and I love the complex storylines which he weaves together, delivering well developed characters, relatable romances and of course a HEA.

The narration of this book was performed by Greg Tremblay. It seems like it’s been ages since I’ve heard an audio narrated by Tremblay. He is a very skilled narrated, giving the two MCs distinctive voices, in particular tackling the accent and broken English of Pavle. In fact, while I connected to his narration enjoyed how he conveyed the emotions of both Pavle and Chris, I adored Tremblay’s portrayal of Pavle who has gone through so much trauma in the space of four years.

Chris is one of the deputies for the Carlisle area. The sheriff’s office is going through a period of tension after one of their own was given the position of interim sheriff before being replaced with a man that was chosen on political grounds. Chris has recently been taken off of duty at the jail, something that he is more than happy about, with his first major assignment being far from simple. He needs to protect a witness to a human trafficking ring. Pavle, who ingeniously was able to get help which had the Carlisle cops release him from the hell he has lived since being trafficked from Serbia to the US, is now in danger from the traffickers. Pavle can identify the people involved in the trafficking ring, although the fact that his English is not too good is a barrier for the investigation.

The story tackles a very complicated issue. I feel that my explanation doesn’t do the book justice, but it is excellent. The story seems to have a simple premise, but this is an adventure that is fraught with danger and mystery. The cops are the good guys who need to save the day and capture the bad guys. But there is something really sweet about the relationship that develops between Chris and Pavle. Despite how life has panned out so far for Pavle, he is a strong and intelligent man. Love doesn’t always come into one’s life at the best of times, but Pavle knows what he wants and isn’t about to let Chris go because Chris has nothing but good intentions.

I loved how much these characters grow throughout the course of the book. They also have great chemistry and a gentle love story that happens in between the danger. Pavle is an amazing and strong character, despite being a victim, he is far from being the damsel in distress. Chris is also an awesome character, I just love Pavle more (haha).

Fire and Flint by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Andrew Grey - Fire and Flint Audio Cover 364t3lTitle: Fire and Flint

Series: Carlisle Deputies 01

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary, Men in Uniform

Length: 6 hrs, 8 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12th June 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Jordan Erichsohn suspects something is rotten about his boss, Judge Crawford. Unfortunately, he has nowhere to turn and doubts anyone will believe his claims – least of all the handsome deputy, Pierre Ravelle, who has been assigned to protect the judge after he received threaten-ing letters. The judge has a long reach, and if he finds out Jordan’s turned on him, he might im-pede Jordan adopting his son, Jeremiah.

When Jordan can no longer stay silent, he gathers his courage and tells Pierre what he knows. To his surprise and relief, Pierre believes him, and Jordan finds an ally…and maybe more.

Pierre vows to do what it takes to protect Jordan and Jeremiah and see justice done. He’s willing to fight for the man he’s growing to love and the family he’s starting to think of as his own. But Crawford is a powerful and dangerous enemy, and he’s not above ripping apart everything Jor-dan and Pierre are trying to build in order to save himself….

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: I love almost anything written by Andrew Grey. The man has a way with words and romance that I absolutely love. So, I’m not going to spend time gushing over how much I love his characters and how well they develop over the course of the book, and the chemistry, the sexual tension between the MCs. He also does wonderful stories with kids, who don’t steal the show but are often as sweet and as lovable as their fathers. I basically love everything.

Greg Tremblay performs the audio for this book. I know his narration from other Andrew Grey audios, particularly from the Senses series. In this book, his voice is absolutely perfect for tone and suspense in the stories, as well as providing the perfect tone for the individual characters.

Fire and Flint is the story of Carlisle Deputy, Pierre Revelle, and Jordan Erichsohn, the assistant to Judge Crawford. The judge has been receiving some threatening letters lately which is what brings the two men together. Jordan, finds it difficult to trust the deputy and scared to do anything that could jeopardise his adoption of a sweet little boy who needs love and parent. The situation is dangerous because Jordan is sure, or at least suspects, that there is something crooked with this boss. Pierre is instantly attracted to Jordan, but he is a professional and he is intent on finding out what the hell is happening. Love comes organically as Jordan helps Pierre try to discover the truth of who and why the judge is being threatened.

Fire and Flint is a fast paced suspense, romance. This is good for people that love a good romance where the sexy cop comes riding in like a knight in shining armour and a strong lawyer who has so much love to give. They aren’t a conventional family but their chemistry together is perfect.

Return of the Chauffeur’s Son by Tara Lain ~ Audio Review

Title: The Return of the Chauffeur’s Son

Title: Movie Magic Romances 01

Author: Tara Lain

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs, 28 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (28th September 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: Luca McGrath may be returning to Napa Valley, California, as a promising chef with dreams of starting his own restaurant and winery, but his heart still lives with the bad-boy son of a billion-aire James Armstrong. Luca spent his childhood playing games with the golden boy of California society, so blinded by James he barely noticed the dark, quiet lure of his conservative older brother, Dylan Armstrong.

But now Luca’s home, and his own powers of attraction are enough to make James question his dedicated heterosexuality and his promised marriage to a wealthy and powerful businesswoman. The obvious attraction between Luca and James spurs Dylan into action – but he’s fighting a huge secret. While Luca dreamed of James, Dylan dreamed of Luca. When Luca gets caught in the struggle between the brothers and gets accused of culinary espionage, he’s ready to chuck the fairy tale – unable to even imagine Dylan’s power to make his dreams come true.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: The Return of the Chauffeur’s Son is a standalone book by Tara Lain. Tara Lain is a great author and is so close to becoming a new automatic read for me. It’s sweet and charming and had me engrossed from start to finish. It’s one of those books that I think just about anyone could listen or read this book and enjoy their escape from reality.

The title of the book says it all really. Luca McGrath was raised in Napa Valley by his father after the death of his mother. Luca grew up on the Armstrong winery estate where his father was the family chauffeur and the Armstrong family were kind enough to all Luca to live with his father on the family estate instead of losing their trusted employee. As a result, Luca grew up alongside Armstrong boys, more so James who is Luca’s best friend and Luca’s first crush. He leaves the estate for some years as he makes his way in a culinary whiz, which leads him back to Napa Valley where he can work for some of the most prestigious chefs.

And while he has been pining away for James, he then realises that he quite missed something when it comes to James’ older brother, Dylan. Luca’s homecoming is joyous but things are complicated when it comes to the Armstrong brothers. Dylan is helping Luca with just about everything but doesn’t know how to communicate his feelings. He is the strong and stoic type. While James is a playboy, who is now engaged and seems keen to now suddenly explore his sexuality. Dylan is frustrated because he is attracted to Luca, but his parents are dismissing James’ behaviour as James continued hero worship of his out and proud, gay older brother.

There’s something of a love triangle going on and the story is predictable, however, it is still completely enjoyable. So much fun and so damn romantic!

Overall, this is a fun, sweet and sexy novel that shows us that sometimes a HEA is right in front of us and with the person least expected. I’m quite familiar with Greg Tremblay’s narration and it hit the mark in terms of tone of and giving voice to the two MCs.

Fire and Granite by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Title: Fire and Granite

Series: Carlisle Deputies 02

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary, Crime, Mystery, Suspense

Length: 6 hrs, 2 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (1st November 2018)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: The heat is growing from the inside, but danger is building on the outside.

Judge Andrew Phillips runs a tight ship in his courtroom. He’s tough, and when he hands down a sentence, he expects to be obeyed. So when a fugitive named Harper escapes and threatens his life, Andrew isn’t keen on 24/seven protection…especially not from Deputy Clay Brown. They have a past, one that could cause problems in their careers.

But with Clay assigned to Andrew and the two of them together every minute, there’s nowhere to hide from their attraction – or from the fact that there’s much more than chemistry blooming between them. As the threat intensifies, Clay knows he’ll do anything it takes to protect the peo-ple who are taking their places in his heart: Andrew and his young niece and nephew.

Purchase Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Fire and Granite is the second book in Andrew Grey’s Carlisle Deputies series, which is a spin off of his Carlisle Cops series and has the same naming convention in that each book from both series is called “Fire and…”. I really enjoyed Carlisle Cops series. I’ve only read all of Carlisle Cops books and have heard the audio narration for half of the series. I’ve also read the first book of this series but again, have not heard the audio. Fire and Granite does work as a standalone book, although I do remember back to other books when we meet up with the various people on the Carlisle police force. To be perfectly honest, I don’t really remember the first book of this series all that well, but I remembered the names when I came across the characters in this book.

Granite and Fire is the story of Deputy Clay Brown and Judge Andrew Phillips. The two do not get along well at all, although Clay has no idea why the judge is a bit of a dick to him. Especially since they encounter each other in the courtroom when Clay needs to give testimony it can make for slightly awkward times and it makes a certain deputy very grumpy, but it’s a sexy kind of grumpy so I’m all good with that. They are thrown together when a prisoner transport goes wrong and sees two deputies in hospital and Clay uninjured when his no-good cousin (no love lost between the two men) is broken free and the deranged man goes after the judge he swore revenge on the last time he was in a court room. Now Clay is keeping guard on Andrew and the two men have no choice but to sort out their differences. However, in a pleasant turn of events their differences aren’t really differences at all. But the stakes are ramped up when Andrew, in the middle of being threatened by a criminal, needs to go out of state and then make a home for his niece and nephew as his sister struggles with mental illness. Clay is by his side every step of the way and the two men are quickly coming to realise just what that means to them and their hearts and their futures.

Narration for this book was by Greg Tremblay. I’ve heard Tremblay’s narration a number of times in the past, including a few other Andrew Grey books. I find Tremblay’s tone and timbre well suited to the characters that Grey writes and all in all, I have no complaints. I was really happy with how well paced the narration was and the voices and emotions given to the characters, particularly the kids. Grey tends to write kids into a lot of his books and sometimes narrators miss the mark with the little ones, but Tremblay was on point in my opinion.

This is perfect for those that love to read or listen to cops falling in love as they try to solve the crime, get the man they want to put in gaol and get the man that they want in their life and their bed.

Heart Unheard by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Title: Heart Unheard

Series: Hearts Entwined 02

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs, 2 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (8th March 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: The attraction between Brent Berkheimer and Scott Spearman peels the wallpaper, but Brent is Scott’s boss, and they’re both too professional to go beyond flirting. Their priorities realign after Scott is badly injured in an accident that costs him his hearing, and Brent realizes what is truly important…. He wants Scott.

Scott pushes Brent away at first, fearing a new romance will just add to his problems, but perhaps he will find unexpected strength and solace in Brent’s support as he struggles to communicate with the world in a new way.

Just as they decide the chance of a happy future together is worth the risk, Scott and Brent discover darker challenges in their way – including evidence that the “accident” Scott suffered may not have been so accidental.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: As I always say at the start of every Andrew Grey book review I write – I love Andrew Grey’s books. I find it so easy to connect emotionally with the words on the page (or in my ear in the case of audiobooks), as well as with the wonderfully flawed characters Grey introduces us to.

Heart Unheard is the second in the Hearts Entwined series. Heart Unheard is everything that I have come to expect from Grey’s books. This is a slow burn, sweet romance that is totally relatable. One thing that I really love about this series is that one half of the featured couple has some sort of physical disability, once again lending towards my thought that all the heroes are perfectly flawed.

Heart Unheard is about Brent and Scott, Brent is the manager of the garage where he and Scott work. They’ve been attracted to each other for years, however, Brent has worried over the fact that he’s Scott’s boss and that he is older. All that changes when fate steps in. Scott is injured in a car accident. He is lucky to be alive, getting away with only a brain injury that has caused Scott to become deaf. This brings Brent to his senses and what follows is a wonderful little romance of two ordinary guys dealing with a less than ideal situation. Scott is a survivor and he needs to learn that even though he doesn’t see himself as whole anymore, Brent doesn’t want to lose his chance for a happily ever after.

I’ve become familiar with Greg Tremblay’s narration through his work on a few other of Andrew Grey’s books. The timbre of his voice really does suit Grey’s writing and I like how he manages to get the tone of the characters, especially when they are going through trauma.

As I said, this is a sweet romance, there is plenty of emotion and love without the need for melodrama or unnecessary angst. I’m not a fan of books that make a song and dance out of age gaps (to me 10 years or less is not a big deal) and that is just another thing for me to like about this book. My only criticism I have of this book is that sometimes I thought the pace dropped off a little and I found my attention wandering. However, I feel that the narration made up for this and enhanced the slower sections.

Ebb and Flow by Andrew Grey ~ Audio Review

Title: Ebb and Flow

Series: Love’s Charter 02

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 48 hrs

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (18th October 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts 

Blurb: To achieve happiness, they’ll have to find the courage to be their own men.

As first mate on a charter fishing boat, Billy Ray meets a lot of people, but not one of them has made him as uncomfortable as Skippy—because he’s drawn to Skippy as surely as the moon pulls the tides, and he’s almost as powerless to resist. Billy Ray has spent his life denying who he is to avoid the wrath of his religious father, and he can’t allow anyone to see through his carefully built façade.

Skippy is only in town on business and will have to return to Boston once he’s through. After all, his father has certain expectations, and him staying in Florida is not one of them. But he doesn’t count on Billy Ray capturing his attention and touching his heart.

Billy Ray doesn’t realize just how much he and Skippy have in common, though. They’re both living to please their fathers instead of following their own dreams—a fact that becomes painfully obvious when they get to know each other and realize how much joy they’ve denied themselves. While they can’t change the past, they can begin a future together and make up for lost time—as long as they’re willing to face the consequences of charting their own course.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Ebb and Flow is the sequel to Andrew Grey’s Setting the Hook, the first two book in Love’s Charter series. Although this story is about a different couple’s courtship I recommend going back to listen to the first book, Setting the Hook, first to get a feel for the world, characters and overarching themes. One of the more fun aspects is that we get to catch up with the lives of William and Mike who we met in Setting the Hook. Those two guys have wonderful chemistry.

That said, Billy Ray (I know, sounds so hillbilly) and Skippy, the MCs of Ebb and Flow, also have wonderful chemistry. There is a lot of uncertainty on both sides and a boat load of emotion, but these guys work together so well, they have hot chemistry and they are just so damn sweet together.
Billy Ray is first mate to Bubba on a fishing charter boat (FYI and totally not a spoiler, Bubba got a promotion at the end of Setting the Hook). Billy Ray is stuck in a bad situation that he cannot help – his father is a small town preacher who is all about fire and brimstone. His father is over bearing, not only to his son but also to the locals (though no idea what the locals feel about that), and Billy Ray is resigned to the fact that no matter how hard he tries he will never meet his father’s lofty expectations.

On a charter, Billy Ray is drawn to Skippy (aka Harcourt Anson III, so snobby!). Skippy is in town from Boston for business, but he wants to make it fun. As a partner of his father’s law firm, his father works him all hours to the point of exhaustion and having zero time an actual life. And so we start, with instant sparks of attraction, the story of two guys unfortunately has to deal with the pressure of trying to please their impossible (and homophobic) fathers.

There is some slow burn and maybe some low key angst as Billy Ray and Skippy wallow in unrequited love. The guys are both worried about what would happen if they even thought of making a life together. Both of them expect retribution from their fathers, they do occur in different circumstances but overall, the story line for Billy Ray and Skippy is the same. Nonetheless, it was a joy to listen to them as they overcame their individual obstacles. I think that shared element both enhanced the story for me.

Greg Tremblay has done a tremendous job narrating both books in this series. His tone had me ensnared from the start. He conveyed the turbulent emotion of these troubled men so damn well.

For lovers of Andrew Grey, this story is another fantastic reason to love the man’s writing. If you started with Setting the Hook, you’re going to love Ebb and Flow. For me listening to the audio has enhanced the whole experience and enjoyment of this series for me.

Heart Unseen by Andrew Grey ~ Audiobook

Title: Heart Unseen

Series: Entwined Hearts 01

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 10 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (10th August 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: As a stunningly attractive man and the owner of a successful chain of auto repair garages, Trevor is used to attention, adoration, and getting what he wants. What he wants tends to be passionate, no-strings-attached flings with men he meets in clubs. He doesn’t expect anything different when he sets his sights on James. Imagine his surprise when the charm that normally brings men to their knees fails to impress. Trevor will need to drop the routine and connect with James on a meaningful level. He starts by offering to take James home instead of James riding home with his intoxicated friend.

For James, losing his sight at a young age meant limited opportunities for social interaction. Spending most of his time working at a school for the blind has left him unfamiliar with Trevor’s world, but James has fought hard for his independence, and he knows what he wants. Right now, that means stepping outside his comfort zone and into Trevor’s heart.

Trevor is also open to exploring real love and commitment for a change, but before he can be the man James needs him to be, he’ll have to deal with the pain of his past.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I first read and reviewed this book when it was first released. I absolutely fell in love with the characters and their stories. Firstly, Andrew Grey is one of those authors I will read and/or listen to anything he writes. I love his relatable and perfectly flawed characters. I also enjoy that he often adds a kid into the story. His romances are sweet and well paced, no insta-love to be seen. To put it simply, he embraces the everyday differences, not everyone is perfect and that is the attraction. Part of these everyday differences is also that we have an MC in this book who is blind. I love reading these types of stories because the disabled characters are quite often the most strong and resilient and inspiring characters. Or they may be wallowing in self pity about some tragedy that happened to them, but as a reader we get to see them grow as love takes hold.

The story is about James and Trevor. James is the blind the MC. He’s fine with who is but being blind for most of his life meant, for him at least, that his social interactions with “sighted” people has been rather limited. The story highlights wonderfully just how dependent on touch James’s world is. James’s world is always ordered because that is the only way James can get by independently – nothing can be moved, he needs to accept help when he enters a new place, etc. Trevor, I suppose in my mind he is something of a gentle giant. He has his own sad story which makes his wary of love – his parents divorced when he was young, his mother died when he was still a teen. However, he has an awesome stepdad, Larry. I totally love Larry and his plotline!

Both guys are reticent in their own way, but it’s Trevor that needs to step up and make the first step. This is where I have to applaud Greg Tremblay’s narration. His voice is so natural and nails both James and Trevor’s story. This isn’t an angsty story or some quick insta-love story, this story has deeply developed characters and plot. I felt every moment and didn’t want the book to end! Trevor and James are wonderfully realistic and relatable – and they chemistry is off the charts. Any Andrew Grey fan will love this story. It’s full of heart, with a good dose of suspense and drama to go along with it.

Setting the Hook by Andrew Grey ~ Audiobook

Title: Setting the Hook

Series: Love’s Charter 01

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Grey Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 6 hrs, 22 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (26th June 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: It could be the catch of a lifetime.

William Westmoreland escapes his unfulfilling Rhode Island existence by traveling to Florida twice a year and chartering Mike Jansen’s fishing boat to take him out on the Gulf. The crystal-blue water and tropical scenery isn’t the only view William enjoys, but he’s never made his move. A vacation romance just isn’t on his horizon.

Mike started his Apalachicola charter fishing service as a way to care for his daughter and mother, putting their safety and security ahead of the needs of his own heart. Denying his attraction becomes harder with each of William’s visits.

William and Mike’s latest fishing excursion starts with a beautiful day, but a hurricane’s erratic course changes everything, stranding William. As the wind and rain rage outside, the passion the two men have been trying to resist for years crashes over them. In the storm’s wake, it leaves both men yearning to prolong what they have found. But real life pulls William back to his obligations.

Can they find a way to reduce the distance between them and discover a place where their souls can meet? The journey will require rough sailing, but the bright future at the end might be worth the choppy seas.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I will listen to or read anything by Andrew Grey, his stories make me laugh and/or make me cry and always have a whole lot of heart. All his characters are realistic with very human flaws and it’s always a pleasure to read and see them develop throughout the course of a story. To put it simply, he embraces the everyday differences, not everyone is perfect and that is the attraction. That being said, while I loved Setting the Hook, it wasn’t my favorite book by Grey. However, since I rate them all so highly, this is still pretty damn good. I enjoyed it from start to finish, devouring every single word hungrily.

William Westmoreland books the same fishing charter in Florida twice a year. He needs to get away from the hustle and bustle and the stress that comes from his life in Rhode Island. His parents – who at first are very unreasonable people with stupid high expectations – practically rule his life because of his devotion to the family business and always wanting to make them happy. He loves Mike Jansen’s fishing charter because it is the place he feel he can relax and be himself, at least for a little bit, while enjoying the beauty of being out on the water. He’s definitely attracted to Mike but not about to make any moves.

Mike on the other hand is a very stoic character. He supports his mother and daughter, not allowing any room for being himself – he fears that stepping out of the closet would ruin him. (Seriously, William’s father gives him some awesome advice to put things into perspective regarding this).

For me it is the narration that makes all the difference and makes me need to give this book a 5 star review. I’ve not heard an audio by Tremblay that I do not like and this was no different. Greg Tremblay does an absolute fantastic job, particularly of the tone and voice he gives to the character of William. He gives whole lot of feeling to the story, which I think I missed when I read the ebook of when Setting the Hook was first released.

There's This Guy by Rhys Ford ~ Audiobook

Rhys Ford - There's This Guy Cover AudioTitle: There’s This Guy

Author: Rhys Ford

Genre: Contemporary

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Length: 7 hrs 30 min

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (10th April 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Narration: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: How do you save a drowning man when that drowning man is you?

Jake Moore’s world fits too tightly around him. Every penny he makes as a welder goes to care for his dying father, an abusive, controlling man who’s the only family Jake has left. Because of a promise to his dead mother, Jake resists his desire for other men, but it leaves him consumed by darkness.

It takes all of Dallas Yates’s imagination to see the possibilities in the fatigued art deco building on WeHo’s outskirts, but what seals the deal is a shy smile from the handsome metal worker across the street. Their friendship deepens while Dallas peels back the hardened layers strangling Jake’s soul. It’s easy to love the sweet, artistic man hidden behind Jake’s shattered exterior, but Dallas knows Jake needs to first learn to love himself.

When Jake’s world crumbles, he reaches for Dallas, the man he’s learned to lean on. It’s only a matter of time before he’s left to drift in a life he never wanted to lead and while he wants more, Jake’s past haunts him, making him doubt he’s worth the love Dallas is so desperate to give him.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK  

Reviewer: Gigi

Review: This heart-string tugging story starts out with the cold, hard violence I’ve come to expect form a Rhys Ford story, and let’s face it, I like the gritty, painful crime she writes…because she tempers it with such strong passion and love! The opening is gut wrenching and makes me cringe even now…. Fair warning, this story contains subjects of physical and emotional abuse, and suicide. 

Each character was interesting, however I feel like I’ve been dropped into the middle of a series. There are strong dynamics and a ton of history between Dallas and Celeste, and I feel like I need that back story first. I want to know how Dallas got to this point in life. How is he independently wealthy? Why is he opening this club, what exactly is Bombshells & Babes? There was a segment that went into his past relationship and why it’s so important when considering Dallas and Jake’s future….but again, it feels like I’m missing an entire novel. It’s like Star Wars…I think there may be a prequel soon. 

While the story is passionate, and the topic bone chilling and dark, the layering of descriptive words can get a bit overwhelming. The love scenes, before Dallas and Jake get to full penetration, the brief touches, the kisses, the chemistry as they build is great! It was hard for me to figure out how all the elements of the story were tied together. There’s not a lot of mystery here, more of a story about one overly optimistic ray of sunshine helping a beaten down, abused, disturbed creative genius find reason to keep on ticking. Love and hate, tenderness and violence; there’s not a lot of in between here. 

If you enjoy those things, like I do, you’ll enjoy this story. Tremblay’s narration brings this story to life. I don’t think I’d enjoy this book as much just reading the text. Greg brings softness, passion, and drama, blunts some of the rough edges and heats up the passionate scenes. 

Love Comes To Light by Andrew Grey ~ Audiobook

andrew-grey-love-comes-to-light-cover-audio-sTitle: Love Comes to Light

Series:  Senses 06

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Contemporary, Arts

Length: 6 hrs, 4 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press LLC (11th August 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Artist Arik Bosler is terrified he might have lost his creative gift in the accident that left his hand badly burned. When he’s offered the chance to work with renowned artist Ken Brighton, Arik fears his injury will be too much to overcome.

He travels to Pleasanton to meet Ken, where he runs into the intimidating Reg Thompson. Reg, a biker who customizes motorcycles, is a big man with a heart of gold who was rejected by most of his family. Arik is initially afraid of Reg because of his size. However, it’s Reg’s heart that warms Arik’s interest and gets him to look past the exterior to let down his guard.

But Arik soon realizes that certain members of Reg’s motorcycle club are into things he can’t have any part of. Reg can’t understand why Arik disappears, until he learns Arik’s injury was the result of his father’s drug activity. Though neither Reg nor Arik wants anything to do with drugs, the new leadership of Reg’s club might have other ideas.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I absolutely adore Andrew Grey’s Senses series. This series can be read as standalone or in order. It’s just that some of the couples we encounter throughout have already had their own fantastic story. This series is about men who have lost/ or had a major injury that weakens one of their senses. Some of the characters being artists are a bit of a recurring theme, but all in all, these are intense stories that are really nice and sweet. Love Comes to Light is no exception to any of this praise and is a fantastic addition to the series.

Here, we meet artist Arik, who has a major injury to his hand which means that he has lost his ability to paint and produce the beautiful pieces of art he had started to build a reputation for. Before the injury he had entered a piece into a contest for famous artist Ken Brighton whose story is actually book 1 of the series. Now Ken wants to collaborate with him and despite knowing he would be sent one soon after making the drive from Michigan to Pleasanton and Ken saw that he could no longer paint.

Lucky for us, Ken is ready to pick up the mantel of mentor to give Arik a chance to rediscover himself. (If you want to have a good cry and have a HEA you should really go back to Love Comes Silently if you haven’t already.) Arik has his reasons for being jumpy, especially around big men like Reg, but from the start these guys are just wonderful. Reg is a gentle giant and more than ready to show Arik that he doesn’t need to be scared and that Ken is right, Arik can still be an artist. In the end, it’s all up to Arik, can he take a risk to start over a new life in a new town, with a new man?

Everything about the story and the narration is wonderful. The narration by Greg Tremblay really lends to the heartfelt plotline of the story. If you love the Senses series – or if you like your men brimming with inner strength, this story is all heart. In fact, I’d love to go back through this series in audio, although I have read through the series 3 times so far.

The Servant by Mary Calmes ~ Audiobook

Marcy Calmes - The Servant Cover audioTitle: The Servant

Series: N/A

Author: Mary Calmes

Narrator: Greg Trembly

Genre: Fantasy, Fairytale Redux

Length: 5 hrs 10 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (18th March 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: After saving his younger brother’s child, Daemon Shar is cursed by a witch and runs far from home, a stray who will seemingly never be anything more. But destiny is hard to outrun, even for a man who is now more cat than man beneath his robes and cowl.

A chance battlefield meeting between him and Ehron, a foreign lord, gives him purpose amid the darkness of his accursed life. Soon Daemon finds that his true nature cannot be corrupted no matter the form he inhabits. As Ehron’s consul, Daemon plots and plans to shape his new lord’s future so that he may leave it blessed when he runs away yet again. But he never counted on his soul hungering for Ehron’s brother, Gareth, or for his past to catch him by the tail at last.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK | Audible AU

Reviewer: Gigi

Review: As I recall reading this book from 2011, it was part of a collection of stories where authors rewrote a classic fairytale and made the MC’s both men. A fun collection to read for sure! The Servant seemed loosely based upon The Master Cataa, or Puss in Boots

Daemon hides his secret away after being cursed by a witch, sacrificing family and brotherhood to live out his life in the shadows, serving the best causes he can find. So he makes it his life goal to do whatever needs be done to promote the wellness and advancement of Ehron. Much like the prince who was shoved in the river with no clothes to gather the attention of passing nobility in Puss In Boots, Daemon does many fantastical things to ensure Ehron gets noticed by important people too. 

There is plenty of adventure, fantasy, and action in this book and the plot diverges enough from the old fairytale to become an original. I enjoyed the romance, the humor and the nail-biting tension in this story. I also enjoyed the steamy connection between Gareth and Daemon, that would have changed this childhood favorite for sure! 

The only downside, which did slow things down for me, was the extensive list of proper nouns. The plot could have been much smoother if some locations, country names, unnecessary character names, could have been generalized. There were too many to keep track of. I think a quarter of this book was spent introducing names, ranks, and country names of characters and places that really did not hold a significant role in the plot. But that is my only complaint, so if you can speed read/listen past those stagnant introductions and just pay attention to the main characters, you’re going to love this. True fantasy romance! Swash buckling, superhuman feats, and bonds of love that stand the test of time and turmoil! What more can I ask for? 

Oh yes, I can ask for an amazing narrator! Did I mention Greg Tremblay is a rock star? He gives wonderful variations to each character and breathes much passion into the dialogue. I’ll listen to any project he works on! 

Clockwork Tangerine by Rhys Ford Audiobook

Rhys Ford - Clockwork Tangerine audio CoverTitle:  Clockwork Tangerine

Series: N/A

Author: Rhys Ford

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Dystopian, Steam Punk,  MM Romance

Length: 2 hours and 10 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12th May 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: The British Empire reigns supreme, and its young Queen Victoria has expanded her realm to St. Francisco, a bustling city of English lords and Chinese ghettos. St. Francisco is a jewel in the Empire’s crown and as deeply embroiled in the conflict between the Arcane and Science as its sister city, London—a very dark and dangerous battle.

Marcus Stenhill, Viscount of Westwood, stumbles upon that darkness when he encounters a pack of young bloods beating a man senseless. Westwood’s duty and honor demand he save the man, but he’s taken aback to discover the man is Robin Harris, a handsome young inventor indirectly responsible for the death of Marcus’s father.

Living in the shadows following a failed coup, Robin devotes his life to easing others’ pain, even though his creations are considered mechanical abominations of magicks and science. Branded a deviant and a murderer, Robin expects the viscount to run as far as he can—and is amazed when Marcus reaches for him instead.

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/clockwork-tangerine-by-rhys-ford-7109-b | http://amzn.to/28OELcK

Reviewer: Tams

Review:  What happens when you not only rescue, but fall in love with the man that inadvertently caused your father’s death? Well, Marcus Stenhill is about to find out. Marcus is running an errand for his grandmother one afternoon when he stumbles upon a group of men literally trying to beat another man to death. Upon learning that the man he rescued is Robin Harris, Marcus is confused more than anything else. Robin is so young, far younger than Marcus thought him to be. Over the course of the several weeks it takes Robin to heal from his injuries, Marcus stands vigil by his side and learns there is so much more to Robin than he’d thought.

Robin Harris was only fourteen years old when he was used as well as his designs, which were meant to help people, for a darker purpose. He has paid for that decision a hundred times over. When he finds himself in the company of Viscount of Westwood, Marcus, Robin finds himself attracted to the man that should hate him, but he doesn’t. The attraction is mutual, but a friendship is secured first. The only problem from there is convincing Marcus’s family, some of who are still quite bitter over their father’s death, that Robin was a pawn and he truly is a kind man with a brilliant mind. 

If you follow my reviews then you already know how much I enjoy it when Greg Tremblay takes Rhys Ford’s novels and brings them to life. This book is no exception. I was intrigued by the world and era that Ford created, a mixture of Steam Punk and Dystopian edge. Tremblay took care to guarantee that every character had their own voice and persona; sometimes the voice itself gave me a feel for the character that tied in with the way they were written.

The story was short, just a few hours in length, but there was a lot of content and character development in those few hours. I think Marcus’s grandmother stole the show though. She cracked me up with her need to break ugly porcelain animals and maneuvering the hovercraft thingy while giggling and clapping like a happy child. 

I think anyone that enjoys the Steam Punk and Dystopian style of stories will enjoy this one for sure, but there is a lot more to the story than just that distinction.

Highly recommended by me!

Dirty Heart by Rhys Ford ~ Audiobook

dirty-secretTitle: Dirty Heart

Series: A Cole McGinnis Mystery, #6

Author: Rhys Ford

Narrator: Greg Tremblay

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Length: 7 hours and 19 minutes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (04-01-16)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: 5 Hearts

Blurb: Former LAPD detective Cole McGinnis’s life nearly ended the day his police partner and best friend Ben Pirelli emptied his service weapon into Cole and his then-lover, Rick. Since Ben turned his gun on himself, Cole thought he’d never find out why Ben tried to destroy him.

Years later, Cole has stitched himself back together. Now a private investigator and in love with Jae-Min Kim, a Korean-American photographer he met on a previous case, Cole’s life is back on track – until he discovers Jeff Rollins, a disgraced cop and his first partner, has resurfaced and appears to be working on the wrong side of the law.

As much as Cole’s fought to put the past behind him, he’s soon tangled up in a web of lies, violence, and death. Jeff Rollins is not only trying to kill Cole’s loved ones, he is also scraping open old wounds and long-forgotten memories of the two men Cole loved and lost. Cole is sure Rollins knows why Ben ruined all their lives, but he isn’t looking for answers.

Now Cole is caught in a cat-and-mouse game with a cold-blooded killer with the key to not only his past but his future.

Product Link(s): https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/dirty-secret-by-rhys-ford-5229-b

http://amzn.to/1YdM8B2

http://www.audible.com/pd/Fiction/Dirty-Heart-Audiobook/B01DMUE6ZO

Reviewer: Tams

Review:  Tams’ 5 Heart E-book Review (March 2016)

Every really good Author has their proverbial ‘Murphy’s Law’ coupling. Diana Gabaldon has Claire and Jaime, Mary Calmes has Sam and Jory, Abigail Roux has Ty and Zane, and Rhys Ford has Cole and Jae. Cole and Jae have been through so much, both as a couple and on their own before they even met. It’s taken a very long time for Jae to live his life openly, to admit he loves Cole and to own his sexuality. Whereas Cole has always worn his sexuality like a badge.

As this story starts, it looks like Cole is still up to his finding trouble no matter where he goes antics, but it also looks like he and Jae are finally settling into a comfortable relationship with no boundaries or barriers.

Well, if you know Cole and Jae, you know that them being happy is like a homing beacon for trouble. You also know Cole will stop at nothing to protect those he loves. Everything is about to come full circle for this unlikely duo. Someone in Jae’s estranged family reaches out to Cole and Jae for help, which is laughable, considering what said family have put them both through.

And then another ghost from Cole’s past decides to start wreaking havoc and putting bullet holes in anyone or anything standing still. Is it just an unhappy coincidence that these things are happening simultaneously? Or has the grim reaper finally come to collect the debt Cole squirmed his way out of when he survived the shooting that took his former lovers life?

I think what has drawn me to this series with each new story is not only watching Cole and Jae struggling with issues both as a couple, and as individuals. Watching their bullet riddled love story unfold. I think it’s the way their feelings, emotions and thoughts have been described in such meticulous detailing that I feel I can almost see inside them. Ford could possibly make a sociopath feel with the way she vividly describes the characters and their emotions.

Another fantastic aspect of Ford’s stories, not just this series, is how she creates these secondary characters that are as vital to the story as Cole and Jae are. Then there is the dry, witty sarcastic sense of humor Cole embodies.

Jae goes off on Cole at one point in this story, having had enough of his pleas with Cole to “not get hurt” or “not get shot” ignored quite long enough. It is hysterical. I laughed so hard I think I peed my pants just a bit. Claudia deserves mom of the year y’all! And Bobby, that man cracks me up. One of my favorite lines in the book came from Bobby, talking to Cole.

“Get out of my truck so I can go home and fuck your brother.”

Definitely a must read story for fans of the Author and/or the series. If you don’t grab a copy you will never know exactly what drove Cole’s former partner on the police force to shoot Cole and his then lover, leaving one of them dead before turning the gun on himself. I’ll admit that I have had a couple of theories since the first book.

And I was surprised when the truth is revealed. If you like action packed, non-stop, thrill a minute stories with flawed, three-dimensional characters and these absolutely insane story lines… I would wonder why you haven’t read this series yet.

Tams’ 5 Heart Audiobook Review (June 2016)

Rhys Ford and Greg Tremblay… a more perfect union could not be found I tell you. Between Ford’s immaculate attention to detail and the way she can shape and mold words, and Tremblay’s ability to breathe life into any character he voices… its chocolate for my ears! I couldn’t be more pleased that Tremblay carried the torch from start to finish for this series. I came to feel like the characters I was listening to were old friends, and every year or so we would have a visit, bullet proof vest and riot gear required, of course.

Everything comes to a volcanic head in this last book, and when it finally blows, no one is safe. I think that Cole is pretty much done. The man has more holes in him than a slice of Swiss cheese, and the constant worrying for every single person he loves and holds dear. He’s just ready for some semblance of a normal life with Jae, growing old and fucking like bunnies until they can’t see straight. Being an uncle, brother, best friend and son (to Claudia of course, not that SOB father of his).

But there is one more bad guy to take down before Cole can rest easy.

I highly recommend this series… well, this Author and Narrator in fact. I believe Rhys Ford had some water bottles at GRL one year that read “Murder – Mystery – Mayhem” those three words aptly describe this series, with a metric ton of passion and just a little bit of angst. You can read, listen or do both as I did.

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

Desert Tryst by Susanne Saville ~ Audiobook

6181M7aZj-L._AA300_Title: Desert Tryst
Series: N/A
Author: Susanne Saville
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (July 9th 2015)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: The cat-and-mouse game between professional assassin Dmitri Dzerzhinsky and FBI Special Agent Thomas Dalton may be developing into something more, at least for Dmitri. Blurring which side Dmitri’s on can’t continue. Hoping to get rid of his desire for Thomas, Dmitri goes to 1Night Stand for help.

Unaware of the assassin’s interest, Thomas is attracted to Dmitri as well. So, discovering Madame Eve has given the Special Agent a night with the man of his dreams seems too good to be true.
Sometimes it’s dangerous to get what you wish for.

Can two men on opposite sides of the law find common ground beyond their mutual attraction?

Product Link: http://amzn.to/1oZPyK8

Reviewer: Tams

Review: FBI Agent Thomas Dalton and Hired Gun Dmitri Dzerzhinsky are on opposing sides of the law, and justly so, they should despise each other. Not so much though. Since the day Dmitri saved Tom’s life a mutual attraction formed, and now they seem to have found a way to scratch the shared itch. Madame Eve from 1Night Stand to the rescue.

Each man asks for one night with the person that has filled their dreams and almost every waking thought. For Thomas, that’s Dmitri… and Dimi is so taken with agent that he risks everything for just one night. But what will happen when the sun rises?

Short, sexy and oh so steamy. Narrated by Greg Tremblay, the first time I’ve listened to an English/British type of accent from him, me likee!

Very well written and put together. and even though the story was so short, there was still enough of the story to pull me in and get me invested in these two characters. The attraction and anticipation were magnificent.

If you’re looking for a deliciously dirty little snack, this should be right up your alley.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Sleeping 'til Sunrise by Mary Calmes ~ Audiobook

SleepingtilSunriseAUDLGTitle: Sleeping ‘til Sunrise
Series: Mangrove Stories, #5
Author: Mary Calmes
Narrator: Greg Tremblay
Genre: Interracial Romance
Length: 2 hours and 12 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (01-26-2016)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Everyone in Mangrove, Florida, knows Fire Chief Essien Dodd is a saint. He took care of his ex-wife until she died, is raising his teenage daughter alone, and is the kind of man who pulls kittens from trees. All in all, the man’s a catch. But Roark Hammond has sworn off getting involved with a man who’s been hurt before because he can’t guarantee he won’t hurt his prospective love again. If only he could get Essien out of his mind long enough to focus on anyone, or anything, else.

Strong emotions are in play. Essien is lonely but determined to focus on Ivy; Ivy wants her father to have a new life so much that, to his horror, she’s trying to find him a man; and Roark is so scared of the present and past, he won’t allow himself to commit.

To have any chance of sleeping ’til sunrise and greeting each new day together, Essien and Roark will have to rethink how they’re living their lives and focus on what’s most important.

Product Link(s): http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7473

http://amzn.to/1XCJPFq

Reviewer: Tams

Review: Essien Dodd stood by his ex-wife when she fell ill with cancer, living up to his vows, even after the promise had been rendered null and void. He took the job as Fire Chief in Mangrove hoping to start a new life for himself and his daughter, away from the city and the reminders of the mother Ivy misses.

Essien and Ivy quickly made friends and were brought into the “family” circle that is the warm, welcome and loving atmosphere of the small town. Es vowed to remain single and devote all his attention to his daughter until she goes off to college. There is one person in particular that is making that vow very hard to keep, town doctor Roark Hammond.

Roark has sworn off relationships as well, be for a far deeper reason. He’s loved the towns gorgeous Fire Chief from afar for a while, but refuses to put any more pain on the man’s plate. Too bad that Ivy, Essien’s fourteen year old daughter turned match maker for her lonely daddy, didn’t get the memo.

Lord love a duck, the sexual tension between these two was palpable. The scene at the coffee shop, yow-za! I could feel the chemistry between these two through my ear buds. Tremblay truly brought these characters to life in my mind. I could completely understand why both men hesitated, they each had valid reasons.

It doesn’t take them long to realize that the heart wants, what the heart wants, and neither of them are strong enough to resist the pull. As usual, Tremblay does an amazing job at bringing the various characters to life while bringing all the voices he has given characters in the previous books over into this story.

While this story is a little heavier than the previous books in the series, there is still that light-hearted air and slightly comical approach to the situation.

I can’t recommend this series, Author or Narrator enough.

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

Easy Evenings by Mary Calmes ~ Audiobook

EasyEveningsAUDLGTitle: Easy Evenings
Series: Mangrove Stories, #4
Author: Mary Calmes
Narrator: Greg Tremblay
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 2 hours and 24 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12-18-15)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Lazlo Maguire doesn’t do relationships—he does transactions. Six months of the year, he’s an expensive rent boy in Manhattan, and he moves so fast that settling down could not, would not, ever enter his mind… except for once.

Britton Lassiter he meets man to man, not as hustler and mark, and it’s too good to be true when the lawyer wants to keep Lazlo even if he has to share him with the job.

But Lazlo has his reasons to walk away from the man he’s grown to love. The other six months of the year, he is laid-back Laz, a shopkeeper in the sleepy coastal town of Mangrove, Florida, where the artist he never allows himself to be in the Big Apple shines through. He lives for his time by the ocean, the place he hides his secrets and nurses his broken heart.

Then fate intervenes, and Laz gets the surprise of his life when he spies Britton in Mangrove—but it’s not meant to be… not until Britton sees the change in him and wants to be a part of Laz’s new life so that every evening can be easy… together.

Hopefully the secrets that tore them apart won’t come back to haunt them.

Product Link(s): http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7307

http://amzn.to/1mN5QE0

Reviewer: Tams

Review: Lazlo Maguire’s mother put her son out on the streets turning tricks when he was barely a teenager, making him the financial supporter of her and his sister. Several years later Laz is splitting his time between that life, and his life in Mangrove. He has no regrets, well, only one… walking away from Britton Lassiter. The two met in the city when Laz was doing his six months with clients, making the big bucks so mama could sit her worthless ass at home on the couch and drink herself into oblivion.

Anywho, so when Britton shows up in Mangrove, Laz thinks he is getting a second chance. Until he’s slapped with a restraining order. Britton is still smarting over what he assumed was Lazlo choosing that life over him, and Lazlo is trying to figure out how to get back in Britton’s good graces. Both of them have to rethink all their priorities when Lazlo gets the surprise of his life.

If you are in the mood for a fun, hysterical, series of short stories, that are all set in the same town around this close-knit group of friends. Stories that have a lot of content for so few pages. Moonlight, romance, side-splitting family dinners… then this series is a must. Anytime I want to smile and listen to a well written story with fantastic narration, it would be the Mangrove Stories.

Mary Calmes and Greg Tremblay make a dashing couple, him bringing her words to life. Fans of the series will recognize both characters from previous books. They’ll even remember the encounter that spawned the restraining order. Britton does tend to overreact a bit, ya know. I loved how he and Laz looked past their own personal issues and concentrated on what was important.

Definitely a must listen series. Seriously, listen! Trembaly is absolutely splendid voicing all these different characters. And from one book to the next the group of characters grows, but they all carry their voices so you always know who’s speaking. One of my very favorite go to series when I need to laugh, smile or just say “awwwwwww”!

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

Any Closer by Mary Calmes ~ Audiobook

AnyCloserAudLGTitle: Any Closer
Series: Dreamspinner 2011 Daily Dose – First Time for Everything
Author: Mary Calmes
Narrator: Greg Tremblay
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 1 hour and 51 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (01-18-2016)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts
Blurb: Part of the First Time for Everything Daily Dose 2011 collection.

Charlie Ryder has a colorful past, painful memories, and an embarrassing secret. After three years working for Leo Foster’s construction company, Charlie’s worst fears are realized, and Leo finds out what Charlie has worked so hard to hide.

When Leo meets the revelation with absolute love and acceptance, Leo has to trust that Charlie’s love isn’t just gratitude, and Charlie has to learn to trust again, period.

It’s going to take a lot of work for these two men to get any closer.

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7430

http://amzn.to/1mN6x0d

Reviewer: Tams

Review: Charlie Ryder has been working for Leo Foster for four years. In the early days, Charlie was skittish, scared of his own shadow. The poor guy would flinch if Leo blinked, withdrew if confronted. Leo did not treat him with kid gloves though, explaining to Charlie he had to get a grip and deal with whatever it was that haunted him.

It was that honesty and the push from Leo to come to terms with his demons that helped Charlie make a life for himself after what had happened to him.

When Leo hears about Charlie’s past as a Gay porn star, there is no judgement, more resentment to the people in Charlie’s life at that time for betraying him. When Leo’s ex shows up in town, Charlie decides it’s time to stop sitting quietly in the shadows. The dependable, shy, hard worker becomes a demanding little sex kitten. And Leo is at a loss, what to do with the man.

This is not a light-hearted read guys, but it’s not dark either, somewhere in the middle. Intense and emotional, especially when Charlie is re-living the past. As soon as Leo’s friend starts telling him the story, Leo feels sick to his stomach, as did I. But Leo’s no-nonsense attitude and faith in Charlie over the last three years has given Charlie strength he thought long gone. When Charlie decides to stake his claim, it gets a bit funny.

Narrated by Greg Tremblay, have I mentioned I love his voice? Well, I love his voice, all six hundred of them. Seriously, he manages to give every character their own distinct tone. Early on, I could still hear hesitation and regret in Charlie’s voice when he talked. But by the end he knew exactly what he wanted and went after it by god. Leo was described as really tall and perhaps menacing looking, but getting to know him you would see he was assured not mean. He was exasperated a time or two and Tremblay captured that in his voice, it was hilarious.

I really enjoyed listening to this story, my only issue would be, and the ending was a little anticlimactic for me. Again, I can understand why Leo would hesitate given Charlie’s past. But it’s been four years, come on now. I needed a steamier ending. Not necessarily porn on paper, but a skoch bit more than was given.

Otherwise, fantastic story, definitely recommend it.

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