Hi guys, we have Will Freshwater stopping by with his release Favorite Son, we have a great giveaway and KathyMac’s review for you to enjoy, so check out the post and then leave a comment to enter the giveaway!
Favorite Son
by
Will Freshwater
Born into a blue-collar family, John Wells beat the odds and came out a winner. As chief of staff to Patrick Donovan, a US senator and aspiring presidential candidate, he enjoys all the power and privilege of a DC insider. But while riding high on a wave of success, he’s blindsided by a series of betrayals from the people he trusts the most. In the space of a single day, John’s perfect life unexpectedly unravels when his career falters and his marriage implodes. Following a final, devastating blow, John assumes a new identity as “Peter” and flees to Provincetown, where a tight-knit community of eclectic characters slowly transforms him.
Peter finds himself drawn to Danny Cavanaugh, an enigmatic carpenter who is struggling to come to terms with his own troubled past. As they work together to renovate a local landmark, the two men forge an unlikely friendship that blossoms into love and becomes the foundation for a new life they hope to build together. But when a reversal of fortune pulls John back to DC, the treacherous world of politics he thought he’d left behind threatens to destroy his chance at true happiness.
Title: Lightson Dynasty Series: N/A Author: Rhiannon Wellman Genre: Historical Romance (1700s) Length: Short (45 Pages) Publisher: Three Worlds Press (December 22nd, 2014) Heat Level: Moderately Low Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Jo has always been what he is and never what he seems. Will his grandmother force him to live a life he doesn’t want, or can he figure a way out?
Jo’s life had never been simple. But since he moved in with his grandmother, things only became worse. First, she assumes that Jo stood for Josephine not Joseph. Then she believes all young women should be suitably married, especially her granddaughter, Jo.
So now Jo’s expected to marry a man he’s never met and whose own grandmother also wants the match. But how can he when he must protect his secret?
Marcus would rather spend time with his books and the gentlemen at his club than women, let alone marry one.
With both their grandmothers working against them, will they be able to find their way out of this potentially scandalous situation? After spending time together, will they want to?
Review: One of the best feelings for a reader, IMO, is picking up a book you know nothing about, opening it up, and getting completely enraptured by its contents.
Rhiannon Wellman is a new published author, but it’s easy to tell this is not her first rodeo. Her new release titled, Lightson Dynasty, is a short story consisting of just under 50 pages, but within those pages are a thought out, well-constructed, gratifying story.
As the author tells us in the blurb, Jo, which stands for Joseph, allows everyone around him to think it stands for Josephine. Jo already carries a secret from those around him so what’s one more? What he didn’t expect, however, is for his grandmother to put to use her matchmaking skills to find “her granddaughter” the perfect man. Ohh, what a tangled web we weave. He can’t marry a man…can he?
Meeting Marcus, Jo’s potential suitor, goes much better than anticipated. Neither are thrilled that both of their grandmothers have been plotting against them. They both share the same thoughts of impending doom and gloom of their prospective partners.
Jo – “My grandmother has decided that I must marry. She has sent for some young man, a relative of a friend. I have no wish to marry, much less to a man whom I have never met and probably appears as if he was bashed against these very rocks or is as dumb as them.” Marcus – “If it is any consolation, I expected a woman as thick as a plank of wood and looking like she had been struck by one. Which I happily assure you, you are neither,” he teased good-naturedly.
They quickly form a friendship sharing their quick-wit and jovial personalities. Marcus, unbeknownst to Jo, carries a secret of his own. Realizing they may as well make the best of their situation, they decide to share secrets that they have not trusted to another soul. Once they are revealed they cannot believe their good fortune.
The story continues to move along at a fast rate. Jo will discover that he was outwitted and outsmarted by not only the staff but also his grandmother, and it’s pretty funny. It was a surprising bonus and shows the author’s cleverness and sense of humor.
This was a great story that takes place in the early 1700’s in England. Of course, none of us was around but, in my own mind, I thought the author hit the nail on the head with their speech and actions for that time period. The originality of the storyline kept me intrigued and invested, and the descriptive narrative gave me the visual I like to have when reading.
This is a romance of first loves. Their sexual experiences are nil but they have no trouble figuring out how to give each other pleasure. Jo and Marcus were a perfect combination and the secondary characters were just as vibrant lending their own humor and wit throughout the story. Ms. Wellman has written an infectious story that is sure to have you laughing out loud and, at the very least, smiling till the end.
Would I recommend this to others? Absolutely. I look forward to more books in the future from Rhiannon Wellman.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Only You Series: N/A Author: Aimee Nicole Walker Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novel (400 Pages) Publisher: Aimee Nicole Walker (December 16th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Two completely different men and one powerful attraction.
Sebastian Blake is a cynical, self-made billionaire who has only known rejection and abandonment in his personal life. Adam Johnson is a closeted gay man who works for the law firm representing Sebastian in a civil lawsuit filed against him by a former employee.
The attraction between the men is immediate and intense, but neither of them wants a relationship. Sebastian makes an offer that Adam can’t refuse and they agree to have a purely sexual arrangement.
Passions ignite and their hearts refuse to be ignored, but…
Enemies from Sebastian’s dark past begin to turn up dead and he is the prime suspect in their murders. Adam is his alibi and the only one who can save him. Will Adam risk everything and out himself to protect the man he loves?
Everlasting love or fatal attraction?
Adam soon finds himself in the killer’s crosshairs, which forces Sebastian to face his feelings for the man. If these two men are to have a future together, they must trust each other, brave adversity, and outsmart a serial killer.
Review: I love to stumble upon a book that just blows me away. I was just browsing Amazon, not necessarily looking for anything, and clicked on, Only You, by Aimee Nicole Walker. What a stupendous great find it was. It’s one of those books that within the first chapter, No, I’ll take that back. Reading the author’s acknowledgments at the beginning of the book started me on my emotional journey and you know…you just know that this book is going to suck everything out of you. I couldn’t wait to get started where I could just block out everything around me and concentrate on nothing but the story.
Sebastian Blake, is WOW, such an incredible character. He is the badass alpha, the dominant lover, the obnoxious and crude businessman. Most of all, he is the broken teenager, wronged and used, lied to and lied about. Stabbed in the back by his first love, the repercussions would forever haunt and torture his soul. His family turned their back on him choosing to believe the lies instead of their own flesh and blood.
“Get dressed you sick fucker,” my father yelled at me as he pushed me into the guestroom I’d been using. “You’ve destroyed our family, Sebastian. I…you…how could you do this to me? To our family?
Sixteen years later, Sebastian is one of the wealthiest men in the country. Driven by his own determination and fear he has far succeeded anyone’s expectations. Hell bent on destroying those that destroyed him and everything and everyone that he loved, he will confront the demons of his nightmares. With time, research, patience, and money,
Sebastian will take away everything that Marcus Appleton, his teenage lover, has. Finally, Marcus will know what it feels like to lose everyone and everything, homeless and destitute.
Unfortunately, Sebastian has more than just Marcus, out for blood. Working on his behalf to find answers that will free him from lawsuits, Adam Johnson has lusted after Sebastian since he laid eyes upon him. Sebastian is short-tempered with Adam, barely acknowledges his existence, and keeps his distance most of the time. What Adam thinks is hate and intolerance is really Sebastian trying to keep from making a fool of himself.
If Adam knew that Sebastian dreams and fantasizes about him and wants nothing more than to take him to bed, smack his ass, tie his hands, and dominate him more than his next breath, he would be beside himself. One thing stopping Sebastian from making his move…Adam is straight with a fiancé. But, is he really? Or is it just a cover-up for the sake of family? When these two find themselves alone, they seem to have an unspoken trust between them where hidden truths will be told, and sexual chemistry, so hot, it’s about to combust.
Adam returns to the living room and his hand trembles slightly when he hands me my beer. I tip the bottle back and take a drink, not taking my eyes off his glorious chest. Fuck, I want to nuzzle my nose in his chest hair. A single drop of sweat trickles from the center of his chest down towards his navel. I want to lick it off his body.
Christ, my dick is painfully hard behind my zipper. Before I can stop myself, I reach out and swipe the bead of sweat off his torso with my index finger before it reaches the elastic waist of his shorts. Adam’s body trembles beneath my brief touch.
To say everything I want to about this book would make this review ten times longer than it already is. And…I haven’t even gotten to the good parts. The best I can do is strongly encourage you to read this amazing and captivating story.
Aimee Nicole Walker is a new author, but she has shown with this book that she has honed her craft to near perfection. There is everything in this story that I love. There is passion, hot sex. I mean, really hot sex, which has a touch of dominance, on occasion.
The world around me goes completely still except for the feel of Sebastian’s hands holding my ass, his hot breath exhaling through his nose against my waxed balls, and the silky, hot glide of his tongue in and out as he slowly penetrates me, over and over again.
Nothing I’ve ever read, no gay porn I’ve watched could have ever prepared me for Sebastian Blake. Sweet Jesus, nothing has ever felt so damn good.
Sebastian and Adam complement each other perfectly. Even though Sebastian is the perfect alpha, that doesn’t mean that Adam is always submissive. He doesn’t hesitate letting Sebastian know when he is out of line or when he tries to override Adam’s thoughts. In or out of the bedroom they treat each other as equals.
One of the many things I loved in this book is the author does not pull the two MC’s apart when trouble ensues. They work together as a team to solve whatever roadblocks they face. There will be many times you will laugh at their banter. They are quick-witted, love to tease and joke, but in the next breath they can be completely serious and stir every emotion to life. They will break you down in their heartfelt moments till you wish you could just reach in and hug them tight.
Ms. Walker writes a very descriptive narrative that pulls you in the scene with the characters. There are many twists and turns with a mystery full of suspense going on throughout the whole story. People are being murdered and they don’t know why. I thought I knew who the killer was but I was wrong. You are always on edge waiting for the unknown to happen. The dialogue is fast-paced, interesting, and will definitely hold your attention. Several times I had to stop and be a productive member of my family (whatya mean you’re hungry?) and I couldn’t wait to get back to see what was happening next.
Each character has a voice allowing you to know their thoughts and feelings. The author, brilliantly, wrote the story where there were moments in the past the character would travel back to. Giving the reader recaps and catching us up on things, we were not privy at the time to see. I normally don’t like going back in time, however, the way she went about it was not only interesting and crucial to the present, and it was very gratifying.
One last thing and I’ll wrap this up since it’s really long but I have to mention the secondary characters. They play such a vital role and are just as vibrant as the main. Carolyn, Adam’s best friend, stands beside him and offers him unwavering support, no matter the situation. She is an amazing person and a great friend. Adam’s parents are super- super supportive, kind and giving, and want nothing but the best for their only son. It was so refreshing to read about parents who got it and does it right.
I can’t emphasize enough how much I enjoyed this story. I hope the author will continue to enrich us with more of her works in the future. I know I’ve left a bunch of stuff out but hopefully you’ll just go one-click and be as enthralled as I was.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Hi guys, we have Tempeste O’Riley stopping by with her newest release Caged Sanctuary, there’s a fantastic excerpt and we have KathyMac’s review for you to check out, so enjoy the post! <3 ~Pixie~
Caged Sanctuary
by
Tempeste O’Riley
Kaden Thorn, a dental surgeon who lives a quiet life, has no hope of finding the love he craves. A vicious gay bashing cost him the use of his legs and confined him to a wheelchair. He has given up hope of finding a Dom or even a nonkink partner to love him. When his best friend practically forces him to attend a dinner party, the last thing he expects is a strong Dom who can see beyond his wheels.
Deacon James is an architect and a demanding Dom, but he has spent the past couple of years without a sub or partner. When an employee invites him to a dinner party to meet his girlfriend, Deacon smells a setup but agrees anyway. He prides himself on being an excellent judge of character, and when he meets the younger dentist, he sees past the chair and finds a sweet submissive man who more than piques his interest.
Kade’s fears and demons continue to haunt him, challenging Deacon to use everything he’s learned as a Dom to earn Kade’s trust and submission. Deacon’s determined, though, willing to battle all of it to have Kade by his side and at his feet.
Title: Keeping Faith Series: Unshakable Series Author: Lexi Ander Genre: MMM Romantic Suspense Length: Novel (152 pages) Publisher: Fireborn Publishing (November 28th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts Blurb: Several months after Trent Harte was drafted into the NFL, he, AJ Barnes, and Brock Everette are settling into their new home in Miami. Christmas is approaching and they are excited to share another holiday season with each other.
Unbeknownst to them, William Harte, Trent’s estranged father double-crossed a deadly adversary and then disappeared. To draw William out of hiding, Trent becomes a target. In a horrible twist of fate, the kidnappers grab Brock instead leaving AJ and Trent scrambling to find a way get Brock back. Detectives believe Trent is responsible, and with each passing hour, the likelihood of Brock returning home alive dwindles.
Brock traded his safety to ensure his lovers were out of harm’s way. He would do it again even knowing he’d end up captured and restrained in a part of town that no one in their right mind would willingly go. The kidnappers are terrifying, but Brock is a fighter, holding onto hope with both hands. He must decide to either wait to be rescued or find a way to escape. Stuck between the wills of a ruthless assassin and an insane mob thug, something needs to happen soon or he’ll never see Trent and AJ again.
Review: Keeping Faith is the next installment in Lexi Ander’s Unshakable series. In the first book, Playing for Keeps, we met Trent, AJ, and Brock, a threesome in a committed and loving relationship. I think you could read book#2 as a standalone, however, you would miss out on the history the guys share and their story of love, commitment, and devotion.
Providing you read the first book, you already know Trent is a football player in the NFL. We get an inside look at his ruthless, scumbag of a father and the horrible things he is capable of. No love lost there between Trent and his partners. Now, they have moved to Miami where Trent will be playing football, and are ready to settle into their new home. With Christmas just around the corner, they get busy implementing their own traditions. Since Brock was passed from one foster home to the next, he never had presents and family to celebrate with. AJ and Trent are planning on providing the best Christmas ever for Brock.
As ménage goes, this story is one of the best in terms of their relationship that I have read. They all love each other equally, there is no jealousy amongst them, and they get along great. Whether it is just 2 of them or all 3, it doesn’t matter. When it comes to sex, they have some pretty creative ways to make sure each one finds pleasure and release.
No one is left out or pushed to the side as an observer. They love when it’s all three of them together and they can express everything they feel. Their sexual encounters are HOT, erotic, and very fulfilling.
The fella’s head out to a local café where they plan to exchange their small gifts with each other. Trent is always getting stared at or some kind of attention being the football player. Reporters are forever on their quest trying to get his story and constantly snooping for details about their relationship. They notice some strange guys sitting close by watching Trent but they assume it’s someone wanting Trent’s story, again.
When Brock returns to the table from the bathroom, he accidentally overhears two guys discussing how they will kidnap Trent. You can imagine how this would affect hearing such horrible details about someone you loved. Brock is so upset and scared he can hardly get out what is happening. Trent and AJ are confused, but try to understand what Brock is saying, and act on impulse.
Through the hustle and bustle of this pre-meditated kidnapping, Brock is taken by the kidnappers instead of Trent. AJ gets hurt in the debacle and is rushed to the hospital.
Wow, what a nightmare this turns out to be. All three are scared and worried and are in a panic over Brock. The police aren’t moving fast enough so AJ contacts an old Marine buddy for a favor. The only problem, this favor is going to cost AJ. And making promises to the government is not going to be something he can back out of.
As far as he is concerned, he doesn’t care. Whatever it takes to bring Brock back to them. That is all that matters. When Trent finds out this nightmare is happening because his father has stolen from the mob he is furious. He has never hated his father as much as he does right now.
Brock doesn’t know what is happening or why he was kidnapped. He does know that he can’t sit back and wait for help. He starts working on a plan to escape. His only concern is getting away from there and back to his lovers. He knows time is going to run out but to his complete surprise and bewilderment, someone, who appears to be part of the kidnapping group, helps Brock escape.
He cannot believe who came to help and has a hard time wondering if he saw what he saw. Right now, a rescue is in place and that is all he has time to focus on. The other will have to wait, for now.
This was a great continuation into the lives of Trent, Brock, and AJ. The author takes us on a fast-paced journey that will require holding on tight. We find out so much more about the guys, their pasts, how they came to be a committed threesome and it was very interesting and captivating.
The twists and turns you take through this story are brilliant. There is a lot of stuff going on inside these pages. The originality of the plot will sweep you up and having you holding your breath more than once. There is suspense and mystery with enough depth and intrigue that will keep your full attention. There is too much action going on to cover here and my best advice is to read the story. It’s a great read and shows Ms. Ander’s ability for storytelling.
I really like how the author, intentional or not, has introduced a couple of people in this story line that is worthy of their own story. So, hopefully, Ms. Ander plans to continue on with this series. I would certainly be interested to explore and discover more about these great characters.
The Gentleman, who you will meet as you read this story, is someone who has a story to tell of his own and I so hope it will be told sometime in the future. In the meantime, don’t miss out on the amazing journey of love from Trent, AJ, and Brock. They fit together so well and they do find their happy ever after. I
f you are a reader that loves MMM or maybe someone with a curiosity about this dynamic, this is a great series to start with. Lexi Ander is an author that I will continue to follow because so far, I’ve read two of her books and so far, I have loved both.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Crash Pad Series: N/A Author: Whitley Gray Genre: Contemporary Length: Novella (77 pages) Publisher: Loose Id (October 7th, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts Blurb: Physician Remy Marshall has two loves: Emergency Medicine and running. Work doesn’t leave much time to meet guys, and most seem more interested in his bank account than him. With a week off to train for a marathon, Remy plans to make the most of his precious vacation. The last thing he needs is a distraction.
Jamie Sutton is new to the area. He hopes to make a fresh start after leaving an abusive relationship with an orthopedic surgeon. He’s got a new job as a massage therapist and wants to meet some nice guys. Against his better judgment, Jamie decides the best way to meet a cute roller blader he’s seen in the park is on wheels.
With attention on his watch and not where he’s going, Remy crashes into Jamie and fractures the first-time roller blader’s ankle. Jamie has no one to help him after the injury; Remy proposes Jamie stay with him. Jamie is reluctant, but it’s a better option than staying with the odd guy in the neighboring motel room. As the two get acquainted, Jamie’s past comes calling. Remy discovers the prize he really wants isn’t a medal in a marathon, but the man right in front of him.
Review: Are you looking for a short, feel-good, story that will put a smile on your face? I believe Crash Pad, by Whitley Gray, is just the book to do that. This is not my first read by this author so I was sure I would like this one, as well. And…I did. This novella packs a lot of punch.
If two guys ever needed each other, it’s these two. Jamie Sutton is down on his luck in several categories. He left an abusive ex who continued to cross the line. In doing so, he had to leave behind his home and his job. Hanging out at the park, he sees someone that grabs his attention. A roller-blade hottie. Thinking this would put him on an even playing field and possibly an introduction, Jamie puts on rollerblades to get his attention. At 28, he should know better especially since he can hardly stand up on them, but ya gotta do what ya gotta do.
Instead of running into the hottie on rollerblades, Jamie is plowed over, literally, by Remy Marshall. Remy runs every day practicing for an upcoming marathon so coming around the curve and WHAM…he knocks Jamie over.
Remy is also an ER doctor and quickly assesses Jamie’s injuries. Feeling guilty and completely responsible, he takes Jamie to the hospital to treat his fractured ankle and then onto his own home for recovery. Remy won’t take NO for an answer to provide Jamie help when he realizes he has no one to call.
These two instantly have an attraction to each other. The only problem is Remy keeps doing things, albeit innocently, that sets Jamie off. Of course, Remy doesn’t have any idea about Jamie and his past relationship. Jamie is very skittish to trust anyone. He still has nightmares from the abusive dominating ex who would never stop no matter how much pleading Jamie done.
With so many missing facts, things are quickly headed for doom. Remy really wants to take a chance but is confused by Jamie’s behavior. Jamie likes Remy but what if he changes as soon as they start to get closer? Until they both start opening up neither one will have what they want. Who will take that first step? Is it even worth it considering they have known each other a very short time?
This is an enjoyable story with lots of humor that will have you laughing out loud at the banter between them. Jamie is a riot and quick witted and Remy usually matches him with the comebacks. There is a brief moment where angst could easily set in but the fires are put out quickly.
The author, thank goodness, doesn’t have them jumping in bed at first sight. I like sex scenes as much as anyone, however, in this short read it doesn’t feel appropriate. They do kiss and have some heated moments making each other feel good. They’re single and attracted to each other, why not?
Ms. Gray writes a very descriptive narrative that easily sets you in the scene and lends perfectly for readers, like me, who like a visual. The plot was very gratifying and closes with a happy for now, and depending on your imagination, maybe happy ever after. Definitely a recommended read if you’re short on time, like to laugh, prefer a well-rounded plot, and HFN/HEA.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Bad Boys Need Love Too Series: Bad Boys Need Love Too Author: Christa Tomlinson Genre: Contemporary Length: Novel (432 Pages) Publisher: Torlina Publishing Co (October 21st, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: “You won’t let anybody else have you, Joseph. I won’t let anybody else have you. I want you all to myself.” – Gage Mason
We’ve all had our experience with him. The Bad Boy. The one we’ve been warned about. The one with rips in his jeans and a lazy, devil may care smile on his mouth. The one who makes you do bad things that feel so good.
For me it was Gage Mason. We met when he worked on my Ducati. I knew immediately he was trouble, but something about that Bad Boy drew me in. Maybe it’s his dark eyes that study me like he wants to know everything about me. Maybe it’s the way he makes me feel; the rough touch of his hands, his possessive grip on my hair when we kiss, the way he feels deep inside me. Or maybe it’s the way he needs me, even though he won’t admit it.
For once in my life, I’m taking a risk. Despite everything that tells me I shouldn’t, I’m taking a chance to be with Gage. I don’t know if it will end well, but I do know I can’t resist that Bad Boy. Joseph Naderi
Review: Christa Tomlinson has written a very HOT, addicting, and powerful book titled Bad Boys Need Love Too. And, wow…do they ever. This is 400+ pages of excitement with crazed, explosive, and a no holds barred relationship between two men who, under most circumstances, would not fit together. But, these two do fit and they belong together. They bring out the best and the worst in each other. The entire story they will keep you enthralled and you will be cheering them on to make it work.
This book is about pretty boy, Joseph Naderi, and bad boy, Gage Mason. One- a well-dressed, well-versed, college graduate lawyer and the other- a greasy t-shirt, ripped jeans, dirty fingernails, motorcycle mechanic and shop owner. Vinegar and water, right? They meet at Gage’s bike shop when Joseph, owner of a Ducati, has problems with his bike and through a friends recommendation sends him to Gage. They immediately start off on the wrong foot with Joseph being rude not realizing Gage is the owner and not just a grunge worker.
Even with Gage having his hackles raised from this pretty boy, he recognizes his passion and he’s not put off by his attitude. As a matter of fact, he likes that Joseph has a temper lurking behind his fancy business suit. He also notices that Joseph is checking him out and there is a spark definitely simmering there to be poked.
Joseph can’t get Gage out of his mind. His work is suffering by his constant daydreaming and he knows Gage is not someone he needs in his life now, maybe ever. That doesn’t stop him from wanting him and he decides to make a move. Hearing Gage over the phone just cements his curiosity and decision to test the waters. I just hope he can swim because one night out with Gage will make him feel like he is drowning.
Gage has had a pretty rough life. He has experienced death and destruction too many times and it has jaded his personality. He is a playboy going from one bed partner to the next. It doesn’t matter if it’s male or female. Whoever is available to find his release works for him. He wants Joseph, he wants him bad, and he is going to get him. Turning him down for dinner is not even in the equation. Gage just didn’t realize that he would become consumed with Joseph. What was once normal behaviors will not work if he wants a chance with this smart and gorgeous man. Will Gage, the bad boy, be able to hold onto Joseph, the good boy, who is very pretty and in a class of his own?
Gage is a domineering, in your face, alpha male and does not apologize for it. He appears confident and cocky but underneath his brass exterior, he is insecure and carries many years of hurt and guilt over things not his fault. Joseph is a contradiction, as well, because to the folks on the outside looking in, they see an educated, 3 piece designer suit who works lots of hours hoping to make partner one day while moving up the corporate ladder. And, Joseph does love being a lawyer. He put himself through college when his father disowned him for being gay and cut off all ties to the family. For 6 years, he has been on his own and made his own success. He’s worked hard and plans to reap the benefits. However, his true passion is racing motorcycles and Gage can see the difference in Joseph. He lights up and has so much passion when he’s on the track. The lawyer world, Gage doesn’t understand. The motorcycle world…oh yeah, right up his alley. With some help and encouragement, Gage will try to convince Joseph the track is where he belongs.
One date leads to two and so on and Joseph knows he’s getting too deep. He tries to be strong willed when Gage is around but he succumbs to his dominating personality every time. The sex between them is explosive, it’s frequent, it’s raw and dirty, and it is H O T!!!!
Sometimes it seems if they aren’t having sex, they are fighting and arguing. And their fights are just as volatile and rough as their sex life. Joseph is showing Gage than he can have a partner, a love life with only one person, and a happy home. Joseph gives everything to Gage and he only expects one thing in return. Monogamy. Joseph wants to be the only one in Gage’s life, and if he’s not, then he is going to walk…away. Gage doesn’t know if he can make that commitment. He doesn’t want to lose Joseph, but he is who he is for a reason.
“Joseph, calm down and listen to me. I’m not sleeping with anyone else. I’m only with you. I like what we have. Why do we have to put a goddamn label on it? We don’t need to be official, whatever the hell that even means, for us to have fun and great sex. So what if we don’t spend the night together? Let’s just enjoy each other’s company both in bed and out for as long as we want. That’s all a relationship really is anyway, right?”
He has always been a manipulating, jealous, and possessive bastard. Those traits make many appearances throughout this story. That doesn’t bother Joseph and he admits he likes those things about Gage. Joseph, however, wants a relationship with all the attachments like sleeping and staying in the same bed, living together and love. Whether Gage will be able to give him those things, he’s not sure. This is new territory for him being devoted to only person. What Gage doesn’t seem to pick up on is he is already changing and giving those things to Joseph. Admitting it to himself is harder to do than doing the deed itself.
Gage leaned against the wall next to his friend. “So, what do you really think?” “He’s pretty like you said. I can see why you want to play with him.” Max took a drink of his beer before he continued. “But I don’t think you should.” “Why not?” “Open your eyes, Gage. That boy is into you and not just in the way, those hood rats you bang are. Besides, one look at him and it’s obvious he’s not one who’s okay with just playing around. And if that’s all you want to do, you need to let him go.”
As the story continues, both Gage and Joseph will have to cross many hurdles. There will be more fights and disagreements before a truce is made. Gage will have to reach deep within and lay his burdens down, exposing his soul to Joseph. It takes a lot of trust but he feels better for being open and honest. Joseph is a very caring and compassionate man. He will embrace Gage, faults and all, and give all he’s got to save him and help him heal. Sometimes that comes with rough and angry sex resulting in bite marks and nail scrapes but whatever it takes, he’s willing.
This is my first time reading a novel by Christa Tomlinson. I enjoyed it immensely and look forward to her other books. The story line is fast paced with a lot of action and drama that will keep you invested from start to finish. She doesn’t shy away from sex scenes that include dirty talk and visual details, which I appreciate. And, they are frequent and plentiful throughout the story. But, even so, they were placed appropriately and advanced the story forward. This was not the case of adding a sex scene for filler and word count. Each time Joseph and Gage had sex it was because their attraction and chemistry was off the charts. Or, because one or the other was hurting and needed that connection.
Ms. Tomlinson has written a very engaging story and I connected immediately to her writing style and to her characters. She writes very descriptive narrative giving you, the reader, a visual of places and events. I felt the execution of the plot was very well done and moved forward seamlessly. I never felt like the story became stagnant or back peddled. There are moments that will have you in tears because you don’t want to see or read the hurts they have been through. But more so, you will laugh and keep a smile on your face because there is humor and the banter between Joseph and Gage is hilarious more often than not. Gage may be a big bad alpha but Joseph has no problem keeping him in line.
Once you start, you will not want to put it down. There is just enough angst to give you the inside scoop but not so much that you feel like you are wiped out by the end. There are many good and exiting things that will take place leaving you with much elation. The author even closes up some past misunderstandings the guys are trying to work through and brings the situation full circle.
A much recommended read in my opinion with more than everything you could want in an erotic, romance m/m story. Trust me when I say the sex is more explosive than C4 and the feels you have when you finish will no doubt leave a big smile across your face.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Return to Me Series: N/A Author: James Oliver French Genre: Contemporary/Drama/Suspense Length: Novel (326 Pages) Publisher: Kaituhi Press (November 23rd, 2014) Heat Level: Low Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts Blurb:What would you do if the man you loved vanished without a trace?
Kyle and Todd meet at a party in their freshman year at college. They fall in lust at first sight, then deep in love. In spite of Kyle’s melancholy past, their future together looks bright. Then Kyle disappears, leaving Todd heartbroken and alone, and their dreams in ruins.
Fifteen years later, Todd is a successful but lonely psychiatrist. He still hasn’t come to terms with the loss of his first love. When a dangerous amnesiac arrives at the hospital, Todd is forced to confront the past, and is driven to find answers to the questions that have haunted him all these years.
Return to Me is a tragic love story that stands out in a genre dominated by M/M romance. It’s a story about love, loss, heartache, acceptance, and hope that will stay with you long after you’ve reached the end.
Review: The author, James Oliver French, gets it right when he says, Return to Me, is a story about love, loss, heartache, and acceptance. It’s all of those things and I’ll add determination, strength, and perseverance. This story does not have what I would call a happy ever after, but it certainly has a happy for now feel to it. Mr. French is a newly published author and thanks to the world of Facebook and bloggers, I may not have found this touching story, otherwise.
As the blurb states, Todd and Kyle, find each other during their first year at college and quickly became instant friends. It wasn’t long into the friend status that they realized they were already becoming much more than close friends. Taking their relationship to the next level just cemented what they already knew.
They were falling in love with each other. Both, virgins, take time and care with each other learning all the ways to have sex and feel good while doing it. They stumble and fumble their way through giving and receiving. It’s quite humorous and I can’t help but laugh out loud at their misfortunes trying to lose their virginity.
I lie there, patiently enjoying all the attention, but Kyle’s efforts are proving fruitless. He keeps stopping to jerk himself off, but his poor penis has deflated to a shadow of its former glorious self. It looks like he’s trying to shove a marshmallow through a keyhole. Losing your virginity shouldn’t be this hard.
Every time I read this line I get tickled, although, they probably don’t find it funny. They, eventually, work everything out but I could so relate to their distress. The nerves and fear of the unknown will play havoc with your mind but Kyle and Todd are persistent and victorious. The joy they feel is definitely contagious because you, the reader, will more than likely be smiling from ear to ear, just as they are.
The story continues from here chronicling their time together, focusing on their relationship and friends and family. Kyle, however, doesn’t have any family (none that want to see him) so he quickly forms an attachment to Todd’s family, his friends, and they to him.
Kyle is a wrestler and a good one. He travels with the team frequently and is always practicing to be the best he can be. Road trips with the team are a common occurrence so when Todd doesn’t hear from Kyle right away he’s not too alarmed. Hours later, Todd is desperate for answers. He and his friends are scurrying to find any information they can. They reach out to the police but to no avail and you just know…you just know that the story is getting ready to crush you.
The story is told in two parts…Jump ahead 15 years and Todd, now a Psychiatrist, focuses too much on his job. He has never gotten over the disappearance of Kyle, also his first and only true love. Finding dates and keeping them is not on his list of importance. He knows he needs to put himself out there but he’s not ready. If he ever will be, he doesn’t know.
I felt like the story took a slow turn at this point. The author goes into quite a bit of detail outlining the day-to-day accounts and actions of Todd, his patients, and his life, which Todd admits himself, is pretty boring. He still has close contact with Felix and Georgina, his best friends from school. They, now married to each other, are his sounding board and his voice of reason. Thank goodness, he has them both because without their help and guidance I don’t think Todd would have been as productive as he is. It’s with their encouragement and advice that Todd tries a little harder in the dating world.
The author tells us up front that Todd will have to face a dangerous amnesiac patient. You automatically assume that patient will be Kyle. I already had scenarios in my head of what would take place and how the story would play out. How I hoped it would play out. Wouldn’t that be awesome after all these years for Kyle to come back, walk into Todd’s outstretched arms, and have the life together they should have had?
Well…that would’ve been awesome but this is Mr. French’s story and he had his own ideas. The story takes on a new excitement and suspense because you don’t know, at this point, what is going to happen. Where has Kyle been all this time? What happened fifteen years ago when he disappeared? Will they eventually be able to be a couple and love each other for all eternity?
These questions will all be answered and I have to admit that even though the story fell a little flat for me in the middle it soon picked back up again keeping my attention focused solely on what was taking place. You need the answers as much as Todd does but unfortunately, just like real life, things don’t always work out, as we would hope. Todd hires a private investigator to help reach some of these answers. The author takes you on this journey with Todd and the creativity and imagination of the details as they unfold were truly mesmerizing. I felt gut-punched with the horrific accounts that Kyle, alone and afraid, had to endure.
I admire James Oliver French for writing the story as it was meant to be. It would be so easy to write Todd and Kyle a happy ever after wrapping the story up with a nice little bow. I think sometimes authors are afraid to step outside the “norm” of what is expected and do what is intended. I’ve heard authors say this as well validating my thoughts in this respect. Mr. French doesn’t conform to expectations and even though the story is heartbreaking and disappointing, at times, it was much more believable.
The overall execution of the story progressed nicely and every facet of Todd’s journey was met with consideration and care. The originality of the storyline was refreshing and unique. There were a few chapters I felt could have been left out mainly because they didn’t really add anything other than filler, but regardless, I was already hooked and couldn’t have walked away without knowing what was going to happen. The author gave the side characters such as Felix, Georgina, and Todd’s family a voice that impacted the story considerably. They all played an important and vital role in Todd’s life.
I would definitely recommend this story if you like first loves, suspense, and angst. This story is not about hearts and flowers and more than likely tears will fall. It is a story of perseverance and realizing life goes on. Maybe not as originally planned but love can be found. Todd is hanging onto Kyle, hoping for a spark, a memory to resurface, any kind of recognition, but whether that happens or not, Todd finally realizes he has a life to live. How he chooses to live, it will be up to him and I think he knows it’s time to do just that.
This is the first published book by James Oliver French and I am happy that I found it. I would definitely read more from this author. * I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Canning the Center Series: Long Pass Chronicles Author: Tara Lain Genre: Contemporary/Sports/Coming Out Length: Novel (250 Pages) Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 17th, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Six foot seven inch, 300 pound Jamal Jones loves football, so when he finds out the ultra-conservative owner of his new pro football team fired their current center because he’s gay, bisexual Jamal decides to stay in the closet and hang with the females. Then, at a small drag show, he comes face-to-face with his sexual fantasy in the form of Trixie LaRue, a drag queen so exquisitely convincing she scrambles Jamal’s hormones—and his resolve to nurse his straight side.
Trevor Landry, aka Trixie LaRue, hides more than his genitals. A mathematician so brilliant he can’t be measured, Trevor disguises his astronomical IQ and his quirk for women’s clothes behind his act as a gay activist undergrad at Southern California University.
To Trevor, Jamal is the answer to a dream—a man who can love and accept both his personas. When he discovers Jamal’s future is threatened if he’s seen with a guy, Trevor becomes Trixie to let Jamal pass as straight. But Trevor risks his position every time he puts on a dress. Is there a closet big enough to hold a football pro and a drag queen?
Review:Canning the Center, book #2 in the Long Pass Chronicles, by Tara Lain has become my favorite so far. Of course, this is only the 2nd book into the series but there are so many good things going on in this story. I’ve been a fan of Tara Lain for quite some time and I’m always thrilled when she has new release. She writes with so much passion and she is not afraid to allow her characters to feel love or express their love. Her writing style is smooth and effortlessly, or so it seems to me, the reader.
I don’t think it is mandatory to read the first book in order to enjoy this one. However, with that said, Noah and Will, from book 1 play a pretty big role in this story. They are friends with Jamal and they want the best for him and they want to help him find his happy ever after just like they did. So…
Jamal is now playing for the NFL and since he is bi-sexual, he decides it’s best to continue dating girls. His family knows all about his sexuality and are super supportive of him. They are also very close and want the best for him but Jamal knows his father is not very pleased with him remaining in the closet. Until he gets a little more situated in his new career, he wants to keep some things private. Especially if some of the rumors around the locker room are true.
He has been training hard and has had no personal time so when Will, his best friend comes to sweep him away to a nightclub, he is more than ready to go. Noah and Will have a little surprise up their sleeve for their buddy. Turns out the nightclub is having Drag Queen night and wow, when she walks out on the stage Jamal is completely smitten. She is the most beautiful thing he has ever seen.
Trixie LaRue, aka, Trevor Landry is kind of an enigma. She performs as a drag queen in order to put herself through college. She/he was kicked to the curb by his mother when his sexuality became known and he hasn’t seen her since. Trevor is super smart and doesn’t need the classes he’s taking at school. He is genius that he downplays to others. He just wants to get his education, live his life, and no fuss no muss. He is also a very private person with trust issues. He doesn’t share either aspect of his life with anyone.
Coming out onto the stage to perform he sees Jamal and immediately takes notice. He’s tall, dark, and handsome. Everything Trevor loves and wants in a man. IF he dated, which he doesn’t.
Jamal leaves the first night but can’t get Trixie out of his mind. He decides to show up one more time, by himself, just to see if, by chance, she may be performing. When he finds out she is, he takes his chance to introduce himself. She is going to be one tough cookie because she has no qualms in letting him know she is not interested. She doesn’t date nor is she going to start. Of course, these are things she tells herself as well but she really wants to see what this guy could offer.
From here, the story really takes off and will keep you consumed until the end. If Jamal plays his cards, right he may just turn out to be someone Trixie could really like. Someone also he could begin to trust and tell his secrets too. Trevor would love to find someone who accepts him for himself and as Trixie. For Jamal, it’s the perfect partner. He could still be seen with Trixie in public and his teammates would think he was dating a girl but as Trevor, he will have the man that he wants. How much better could it be?
As things begin to get heated between the two, misunderstandings will happen, and honesty and trust will become a major factor in their relationship. If they plan to have one, and they do. They may not tell the other but they both want the same thing. Hopefully, Jamal will come to his senses and put his true feelings out in the open. What started out as fun and games in the beginning will soon turn into heartache and despair as they both try to do right by the other.
This is such an enjoyable, gratifying story. There is humor and laugh out loud moments that will keep a smile on your face. But, with laughter sometimes come tears and many will be shed as they try to figure out what is most important to each of them. Will they realize they are stronger and better as a team? Will Jamar’s dreams finally come true where he has everything he wants?
Only reading this amazing story will give you those answers. As I said above, there is a lot of goodness in this story. The originality of the storyline along with Ms. Lain’s unique writing style will certainly leave you with a smile. I would definitely recommend Canning the Center, and Outing the Quarterback, to anyone who loves romance, passion, laughter, great sex, and a true feel good story.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: The Master Series: Free Men, #3 Author: Kate Aaron Genre: Historical/BDSM Length: Novel (178 Pages) Publisher: Croft House (November 22nd, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts Blurb: Being rescued was only the start.
Otiz lies in ruins. As Underlord of the region, Lysander knows where his responsibilities lie. He has an obligation to the survivors to rebuild their homes and their lives. But what about his home, his life?
Kai needs help. The damage inflicted on him goes beyond the marks left when he was tortured, but healing him might require more from Lysander than he’s capable of giving. Of one thing he’s certain: Tam and Kai will never be endangered again, because of who he is, even if saving them means setting them free.
All Lysander wants is to be left in peace. To recover from the horrors of his experience at the hands of his enemies. But with pressure piling up from every angle, peace is the last thing he’s likely to find. Suffocated by guilt, Lysander begins to spiral. How can he hold everything together, when inside he’s falling apart?
Review: The third and final book of the Free Men series, The Master, by Kate Aaron brings everything full circle allowing each person to find strength, courage, and time to heal from past wounds. We’ve read about Tam in, The Slave, and then Kai, The Soldier, and now we find out who the man is they call Master.
After they were rescued and return home, they find things are worse than they thought. The compound is in shambles and Otiz is crumbling around them. Lysander, along with Tam and Kai, take it upon themselves to help out as much as possible. The death and destruction around them is more than they can bear, at times. It leaves a foreboding impact with everyone in its wake.
At the end of the day, when it’s just the three, in the privacy of their bedroom, Lysander and Tam patiently administer soft touches, gentle kisses, and kind words to Kai in hopes of alleviating his fears and doubts. The truth surrounding his scars and damages are something they all know but refuse to speak of. Kai is hesitant and skittish during their intimate moments, but with Tam and Master, both, speaking words of encouragement and administering lotions carefully over his wounds, he begins to show signs of healing. Not just his body but his mind, also.
Kai finally makes a breakthrough reaching his climax and he is suddenly overwhelmed with tears. Immediately, he surrenders as everything he has endured comes crashing down on him. He is overcome by emotion and fear that was strangling him. Now, as Tam and Master surround him with their arms and bodies, true healing can begin.
I wrapped my arms around his waist and held him tight between us. I petted him and dropped kisses along the back of his neck, his belly surging below my hand as he fought to regain control of himself. “It’s all right,” I soothed, not letting up my grip around him for a moment. “We’re here. We’ve got you. Everything is going to be all right.”
Each new day they go into town to help restore order and rebuild better and stronger than before. Lysander spends a lot of time with Kai and he realizes how strong he really is. He has suffered so much at the hands of others yet he still carries on with renewed strength. They talk freely getting to know each other better and finding they have a lot in common, mostly their love for Tam.
Originally, the plan was for Kai to be a companion to Tam, a lover, and a friend. Someone Tam would have for himself if/when Master had to return to the courts. He is all of those things but he also wants Lysander to be there for him, not just Tam. To love and protect him. Thinking he is doing what’s best, Lysander does not encourage his way of thinking. He goes out of his way to discourage him from thinking he is anything other than a Master with a pleasure-slave. This hurts Kai, deeply, and it hurts Master, as well, he just masks his pain. As a reader, you will feel the hurt and despair it causes in Kai. To receive this rejection, so blatantly, is heart breaking.
Every day that goes by Lysander hates himself more and more. For the way he handled certain things, the way he continues to lie to his boys about matters out of his control. There will come a day, however, that the truth will come out. Decisions made years ago that, at the time, seemed the best for everyone, now, feels like failure and he is repulsed by his own actions and cowardly behavior. Will the truth set him free? Will the boys still want him once they know all of the lies he has told? Or… will he leave them thinking that is what is best for them? Tam will have Kai for support and a lover which was his plan all along. After all, it is his job to know what’s best for them.
The Master takes on a more calm and collective feel as they repair not only the damage to the compound but their inner demons, as well. The urgency and stress they were under is greatly reduced as their focus is now on rebuilding. Even though the pace is slower, there are still several breath-holding moments that will consume you as you read.
As they wonder thru Otiz looking for missing children and checking on their neighbors, Lysander and Kai come across some horrible, horrible, gut wrenching discoveries that will take them to their knees, literally. The author doesn’t skimp on details or descriptions as these developments take place. There are parts that are quite graphic and hard to read, mainly because you can feel their despair and the horror of the situation as if you were right there with them.
In these moments, guilt will suffocate and attempt to undo Lysander. It’s also in these moments that Kai will show enormous strength and fortitude. He will become the Master and Lysander the slave as he surrounds him with strong arms and feather light kisses.
They will travel many crossroads in this storyline but each one is met with strength, courage, and honesty. No more lies, only truths amongst the three as they decide their futures, who they spend it with and where. The author continues to hold you inside the story as they fight for their future. As the reader, all of my questions that I had from the beginning were answered and the story wrapped up with all parties knowing that they were where they wanted to be. An ending that will leave a smile on your face and joy in your heart.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Arctic Absolution Series: N/A Author: Lynn Kelling Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novel (240 pages) Publisher: Fantastic Fiction Publishing (December 16th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: In the frozen expanses of remote Alaska, Dixon Rowe is a good man and a good cop who keeps finding himself in bed with the enemy. After he picks up a young ex-con named Jaye Larson for stealing food,
Dixon gets seduced by the possibility of helping someone truly in need. Though he tells himself he’s assisting young Jaye out of the goodness of his heart, not because of how sexy Jaye is under all of the tattoos and defiance, the temptations of sin entangle them as their hostile environment threatens.
Both of their pasts are filled with malicious ghosts that haunt every step, and while Jaye’s demons are less tangible that Dixon’s, they are all powerful enough to put both of their lives in danger. (M/M)
Review: I get excited every time Lynn Kelling releases a new book. She has teased us with the prospect of Arctic Absolution for quite a while, but the wait is over. Lynn has a natural writer’s ability to take words, form them into sentences, and pull you into whatever world she has created. Arctic Absolution, as with all of her novels, has characters that you quickly form an attachment with. She allows both of her MC’s to have a voice, giving you, the reader, an inside connection to both. The frozen landscape of Alaska will set the scene and become a place that Dixon and Jaye will begin to heal and set their roots.
Living with many secrets, most too humiliating to share, even those closest to Dixon, has finally became too heavy for him to carry. Living with an abusive boyfriend who does nothing but degrade and demean has taken its toll on Dixon. Marcus (long-time boyfriend now ex boyfriend) took great pleasure causing chagrin in Dixon.
Marcus, a fisherman at sea for long periods of time, is gone and Dixon, no longer feeling the need to dignify his position, moves out and in with his sister. He knows when Marcus returns there will be hell to pay for his actions. In the meantime, being an Alaska State Trooper, keeps him occupied and busy.
On a late night call, Dixon responds to a robbery in progress. Arriving just in time to see the culprit flee and make a run for it, Dixon takes chase and tackles him to the ground. He is immediately taken back by the gorgeous, slim, dark-haired beauty with dark eyes staring back at him. Recognizing fear and defeat, he feels guilty for hurting him and quickly tries to analyze the situation and the predicament this kid is in.
Being alone, starving, and extremely cold are things Jaye had hoped were far behind him. He thought the small Alaska community might be the solace he was looking for. So far, it too has failed him and left him to fend on his own.
Just released from a 2-year prison sentence and being the only living relative to his deceased grandfather, he was appointed the old man’s cabin set back in the woods of the desolate Alaskan town. No food, no money, and no prospects of getting either, he steals from the local gas/food mart. More out of desperation than anything else, he runs when he sees the cop coming towards him. Jaye has been around the block a time or two and he sees the reaction the cop is having towards him. Always ready to offer his body for favors he is surprised when this good-looking, well-built cop, who btw Jaye knows is gay, orders him to the car for a ride home. Come morning, Trooper Rowe will see to it he has food, heat, electric and job contacts.
Even though Jaye is adamant he is no one’s charity case, he suffers horribly, night after night, with nightmares. Having light will go a long way in giving him some peace. He and Dixon work out a plan of you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours. The town has little to offer as far as finding sexual pleasure so this agreement should benefit them both.
They don’t want to admit what they both know, but they have a strong connection. They both are damaged souls, both suffering abuse from others, both tortured by nightmares and both feeling as though they have nothing worthwhile to offer anyone. Their attraction and sexual chemistry is immediate and the catalyst for some sex-filled nights. Their relationship is tumultuous in the beginning, always on guard, and always expecting the worst.
As guarded secrets begin to unravel the more their relationship begins to grow and strengthen. They both have been through some horrible events but together they are trying to overcome their past and work on building their future, together.
Reaching out, Jaye touched Dixon’s face, brushing the pad of his thumb over his cheekbone, the backs of his knuckles pushing gently back over his ear and hair. Fingers tangling there, Jaye asked, “Take me home? I’m yours, whatever you want, okay? Whatever you need, you can have it. You don’t have to be alone.”
They knew the day would come when Marcus would return. Now, as fear runs amuck in both Dixon and Jaye, they promise to be each other’s protector. Jaye loves when Dix takes on an authoritative, dominant, alpha, badass persona, but secretly, Dix likes to be manhandled. He likes rough and dominating sex with a bit of fear mixed in. He has been brainwashed by Marcus, a sadistic, evil bastard, who takes great pleasure forcing Dixon into humiliating, demeaning positions that make him feel worthless, and a disgusting human being.
As Jaye continues to fight his own inner demons, he has vowed to take on Dixon’s also. With skeletons still lingering in both closets, will they trust each other enough to tell all their secrets? Dixon has considered going back to Marcus in order to keep Jaye safe. How will Jaye react if he leaves him for Marcus? To Dixon, he is protecting Jaye, but to Jaye, it will only confirm his convictions of unworthiness.
This story will keep your guts twisted and in knots. There is a lot of stuff going on in the open and behind the scenes that will have your full attention. Both guys have been wronged, seen more abuse and torture than anyone should have too. Lynn, brilliantly, writes dialogue that flows seamlessly… encompassing you to the storyline. The characters consume your inner thoughts and fears and for the amount of time it takes you to read their story, they are your friends. Your heartstrings are pulled. You shed tears for their pain, but also smile for their joy and happiness.
Lynn Kelling always gives us, the readers, and an all-inclusive story full of originality, mystery and suspense, and toe curling, hair-pulling sex. Dixon and Jaye have a compatibility that works for them. They complement each other well and the 10 yr age difference is of no consequence. It’s so easy to fall in love with them and want the best. They have some rough times ahead, they still have a lot to work through, but the author doesn’t cut corners to finish up a story. She doesn’t add filler for the sake of word count.
Each and every page is relevant to the growth of the story.
The content consists of many twists and turns. The suspense has all the elements of keeping you alert and on edge. I, personally, like that in the stories I read. I like to feel as though I know something is going to happen but just have no clue as to when or what. This ^^ is why I love and connect so easily to her writing. Her style is her own, as it should be, and it’s unique in the sense that it is addicting and captivating. You soak up her words. You sink your teeth into the story, and stay there until the end. These elements keep you invested in the story and Lynn does that effortlessly.
Pick up Arctic Absolution for your very own and when you finish that, I strongly encourage you to read her other stories. They will suck you in and make you a Lynn Kelling fan for life.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Playing For Keeps Series: Unshakeable Author: Lexi Ander Genre: MMM Ménage Length: Novella (116 Pages) Publisher: Fireborn Publishing (September 22nd, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts Blurb: College running back, Trent Harte, has been living with his lovers, AJ Barnes and Brock Everett, for two years. Caught in a compromising position, rumors abound. It’s hard enough to be an openly gay football player, but gossip and snide comments only add to his stress. Threats against his partners cause Trent to wonder if he should step back from the relationship.
AJ and Brock know there is something wrong when Trent begins to pull away. A call from Trent’s father only adds to his distress. AJ and Brock refuse to let him shoulder the responsibility alone and they call for help. Will Trent find the strength to withstand the pressure and hold on to those he loves? Or will AJ and Brock be too late to convince Trent that they are playing for keeps?
NOTE: This is a previously published work. The title, author, and/or publisher may have changed.
Review: As I was scrolling through my FB feed, I noticed a book cover that immediately stole my attention. It had three guys on a football field. Guys and football automatically get my notice so I started searching for this book. It was Playing for Keeps by Lexi Ander. I already knew I was going to buy, but it turns out it is FREE. **Please note that it was free when I downloaded it but have no way in knowing if it will remain that way. It’s worth buying if it doesn’t.
There is a letter in the front of the book to the author from a reader requesting a story and this is the product of that. I am always pleased when I find these stories because the author has taken time to put into words something specifically for that reader. And, even better, the author has just released a sequel that I can’t wait to read next.
The story opens up with Brock, Trent, and AJ, already in a committed relationship. They have been together for two years, however, as far as the outside world is concerned, they are only roommates. They have too many things to consider at the present to allow their relationship to be public. Trent, a football player hoping to be drafted by the NFL. Brock is working as an intern for a sports channel, and AJ is in his junior year to be a physical therapist.
On top of these day-to-day restraints, Trent, has been taking quite a bit of verbal abuse from other players. Then there is Trent’s father, a royal jackass. He doesn’t care for Trent and hasn’t for a long time. He is only concerned with his own prestige and his future campaign to run for Mayor. He will not let Trent and his bad judgment (according to him) get in his way. He has a few demands and he expects Trent to bow down to each and every one. If he doesn’t, well…
The guys have been together long enough they can easily pick up on signals when something is wrong. Brock and AJ know that Trent is taking some abuse. When they find out just how much he has been taking they are ready to pound some heads. AJ, former marine, is ready to bring on some old-fashioned whoop-ass to anyone who looks at Trent wrong. He won’t, this time, as cooler heads have prevailed, but he never lets down his guard.
Trent is becoming distant and Brock and AJ will not let that happen. He’s been summons to attend dinner with his father so they put together an intervention to get him away from the evil man. Trent has always wanted his father’s approval. He has done everything he was told hoping that someday he would love him for the person he is and not who he sleeps with. All of these problems are piling up on Trent and he is about to cave. He’s considering leaving the two loves of his life in order to keep them safe and achieve their dreams. Not going to happen.
“Did you think we’d simply give you up? That we didn’t love you enough to hold onto you with both our hands?” Brock asked in an agonized whisper. “Oh, God, Brock, I didn’t…” “You thought we would value jobs more than…are you serious…? Jobs?
Trent finally sees the error of his judgment and realized, together, they can accomplish and achieve anything. But, they will be doing it together, not alone. You can’t help but to hurt for each one of the guys as they try to work through this setback. Brock and AJ were really hurt by Trent thinking he could just leave them and they would be okay. Trent really thought he was doing the best thing because he loved them enough to leave.
They still have things to work through, decisions for their future, and finishing school.
There is a lot of love between the three and if they hold onto that, I think they will go far and see their dreams come to fruition. Of course, fighting always leads to incredible make-up sex. AJ admits to starting fights just so they can get to the make-up part. One thing, of many, that I liked about their relationship was no jealousy or feelings of being left out. They work together extremely well in the bedroom, each knowing what the other likes, providing pleasure to each. No, trouble may be brewing outside, but inside, in their bed, they are making their own explosions.
This is my first read by Lexi Ander and I really enjoyed this story. So much so that I will be starting the follow-up next. Even though we didn’t get any history on how the three became a unit, the author does a great job showing how in love they are. The plot was executed well from the time frame involved and it was a gratifying story. The dialogue is funny but serious when the situation called for it. Lexi shows depth and meaning in her sentences allowing the reader to visualize the scene.
All in all, I thought this was a great story that I would definitely recommend to others. It was fast-paced and the angst was handled quickly, and you do get your happy ever after.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: The Soldier Series: Free Men, #2 Author: Kate Aaron Genre: Historical Length: Novel (185 Pages) Publisher: Croft House (October 26th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Three months. That’s all it took for Kai to forsake freedom and learn to love his new life as pleasure slave to a wealthy Thirskan Underlord.
Finding himself surrounded by his own people once more, Kai should have been happy: relieved to be rescued from slavery, and out of the clutches of a man who was the sworn enemy of his people. Yet his people are not how he remembers them. Distrustful of Kai, and disgusted by his relationship with not one man but two, they make it abundantly clear he no longer fits in.
Beaten, starved, and tortured, when the chance comes to escape, Kai is barely strong enough to make the journey. Even if he succeeds, how could anybody ever love the thing he’s become in order to survive?
CONTENT WARNING: This book contains scenes of an adult nature, including graphic violence. Reader discretion advised.
Review: When I finished, The Slave, book 1, of Kate Aaron’s trilogy, Free Men, I was crushed. Kudos to the author for the best executed cliffhanger I have ever read. Not knowing what was going to happen next was excruciating. But, thanks to the author and her generosity or maybe her foresight of reader reactions, book 2, The Soldier, was right there…ready to grab and delve back into once again. The Soldier is told, for the most part, in Kai’s voice. He was quiet in the first book, which was understandable considering everything he had gone through and continued to go through.
The Kai we first met was quiet and reserved. He also had an anger problem and was very cautious with handing over his trust. But, whether he trusted them or not, Master trusted him. When the soldiers were burning down their home and murdering anyone in their path, Kai was given a sword to help fight. And, fight he did.
The Granthian soldiers are on a mission of greed. Who they hurt or kill is of no consequence unless you have the information they seek. They have no compassion or sympathy for Kai even though he was one of them just 3 months ago. Granthia, Kai’s homeland, is against two men being together. Finding them in the same bedroom during the attack will only add fuel to the fire. The soldiers are too happy in their quest to throw rude insults and punches. They are crude and oafish in their behavior and nothing like Kai.
Being more concerned for the safety of his two lovers, Master and Tam, Kai takes what they pass out. Your heart will absolutely break for him as he takes abuse after abuse from the Neanderthals that were his fellow countrymen.
Each carried a bladder filled with water, from which he regularly sipped. I looked longingly at the one the man nearest me carried but received only a swift kick in the back of the knee for my trouble.
I fell with a startled cry, and the men laughed as I was jerked along behind the carriage before I could find my feet again. I scrambled to standing, spitting sand out of my mouth as best I could, the grains sticking in the gum collecting at the corner of my lips. My eyes stung, but I refused to let them see me cry.
Regardless to the amount of times Kai finds himself at their mercy, the brunt of their jokes, the insults and punches, he takes all of it. Hopefully, this part of their journey will be just a setback and not their future. With Tam and Master locked behind bars, unable to help Kai, he takes it on himself to find a solution for their rescue. When he is summons before the guards with questions of his living situation for the past 3 months he is confused and hesitant in answering them.
They are asking him things he knows nothing about. They don’t believe him and set out to torture the answers from him. The abuse that he suffers and the torment he is put through is very hard to read. His punishment is severe and will take months to erase the damage done to his body, if ever. His pain is very palpable and you want so bad to grab him in a hug and hold on tight. Throughout the entirety of this story, Kai hangs onto his convictions, his determination, and his perseverance is mind-blowing. Most would have given up in his situation but not one time did he ever consider backstabbing his lovers or leaving them to their own fate.
Before coming to live with Tam and Master, Kai didn’t know love. He had never had affection, nor had he ever been with a man sexually. He loved his best friend Maal, who had been killed on the battlefield, but he had never spoken the words to him. He really hadn’t even admitted to himself that it was love. However, in the 3 months he has been with Tam and Master, he has found something that he never thought to have of his own. He found love and passion, not with one man, but with two. He also realized as a slave he has far more freedom and choice than he ever did as a soldier.
He has never had feelings of security, safety, and contentment, but he does now and he doesn’t want to lose that. He will struggle with self-doubt and low self-esteem. He will grapple with feelings of unworthiness and nothing to offer his lovers in return. His body is severely damaged and scarred and he’s not sure if his manhood will work properly anymore. It will be up to Master and Tam to assure him they still want them to be together, all three of them.
Kate Aaron continues to weave this storyline with edge of your seat suspense. The dialog is authentic and the events that unfold, hard to read as they were, are told with details and descriptions that were easy to visualize. Every facet of Kai’s journey is hard, yet he shines through with so much strength and vitality. For him to come through this journey victorious will be something that I will be hanging onto very strongly.
This story is not only about Kai even though he is the strong one this time. Kate equally gives Tam and Master a voice, and through expression and patience, healing will begin. The three of them are forming a bond beyond the sexual equation that will become a formidable wall no one will penetrate.
This series is told with originality and an artful blend of creativity and imagination. It grabs you from the beginning and you will quickly become infatuated with each character. Just like the main characters, there are a few side characters that help to add depth to the storyline. The execution of the plot flows seamlessly and you are at the end before you realize it. The Master is the third and final book in this fast-paced gratifying story and I’m headed their now. An incredible story of love, strength, and perseverance that you don’t want to miss.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Punishment Series: Chained in Darkness, #2 Author: Nicholas Bella Genre: Erotica/Dark/Paranormal Length: Novella (47 Pages) Publisher: Nicholas Bella (November 10th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: My worst nightmare has come true. I’m one of them now, a monster… the very thing I fought against. If that wasn’t bad enough, I’ve been sired by one of the most powerful, sadistic and calculating vampire Lords in the city, Theoden. It’s just the beginning of my new life, hell, I’m not even one night old as a vampire and already I wish they had decided to kill me instead of turn me. I guess this was my punishment for rebelling against them. They’re clever that way. Theoden has promised to punish me for every offense I’ve made against him and I have no idea what’s in store for me. I do know that it won’t be pleasant. My night of pain and torment is just beginning.
Warning: This novelette series contains hardcore sexual situations between men, not meant for sensitive eyes. I’m talking crude, lewd, and full of attitude. This series will most likely either offend you or get ya revved up. This series isn’t going to be pulling any punches whatsoever, so you’ve been warned. Mature Adult Content meant for readers looking for something dark, taboo, sexy, and unapologetic in their paranormal erotica. This is NOT a romance.
Review: Punishment, Book 2, Chained in Darkness series, by Nicholas Bella, is exactly as the title says. Please read the warning above from the author before you start reading this series. Book 2 starts off where Embraced finished and with Noel recognizing he is in way over his head. The author doesn’t pull any punches with Théoden’s displeasure of Noel when he constantly seems to defy him. I don’t think Noel is doing it on purpose, well…most of the time, I think he is having a hard time grasping the situation he is in. Noel, as a human, was straight with no sexual interest toward another male. Now, as a vampire, he is getting turned on by Theoden, and his handling of him. All of this is new to him and he doesn’t understand why it is happening.
Theoden laid the rules out and went over his dislikes, what he would not tolerate, and his expectations with Noel. He is firm and does not waiver when Noel displeases him. So, what is a Master to do when his pet doesn’t listen? He is punished and quite severely.
Theoden is a sadistic vampire and has no compassion whatsoever. Your heart really breaks for Noel because he has no choice in what is happening. He is whipped, tortured, and humiliated in the worst way. He will face off with Jonah, the backstabbing weasel and the reason Noel is in this situation.
Noel’s punishment seems never ending. Theoden promised to punish him for every offense against him and he more than delivers. He puts him through many different forms of torture. The more that is handed out, the more Theoden flourishes. He brandishes the crop with force and speed and does not let up until the air is gone from Noel’s lungs and his throat is raw from screaming.
Will Noel resign to his fate and relinquish all control over to Theoden? I don’t know, but I think the prospect of accepting what is now his new life is coming closer and closer. His punishment is extreme even for the smallest offences. He is having a hard time conforming to the demands and expectations that is required of him but with each new punishment he is quickly learning that giving in is looking better and better.
Honesty and trust are two things Theoden expects and in any normal situation that is not too much to ask. But for Noel, right now – at this moment, giving those two things freely is incomprehensible.
“Excellent. Honesty really is one of the main foundations for building a relationship. Trust is another. You can trust me to take care of you, but also, you can trust me to punish you when you disobey me. You will most likely be in pain from that solution until tomorrow night, deal with it. We have one more punishment to administer.” Theoden walked over to me, stepping over my putrid mess and caressed the top of my head as if he were petting a dog. “I would much rather enjoy the flesh of my boys, my children than torture it. Oh, make no mistake, my little Bitch. I do enjoy torturing, but there is a difference. You see, there’s pain like what you’re experiencing now, and that is necessary…and then there is pain that you will come to enjoy.”
Through his pain and punishment Noel is slowing conforming to the ways of his Master. This form of punishment is something he does not want to live through again. Learning to think before he speaks will certainly work in his favor. However, one of the few things Theoden likes about him is his spirit and smart mouth. And…No, Theoden doesn’t like him at all. If he does, which at this point I’m not sure, he hides it well.
The more Noel reigns in his attitude, you see small fragments of concern and possibly understanding from Theoden. It makes you think that in time they could be real lovers with pleasure and desire. At the same time, I keep thinking maybe that is what I want to happen so I’m picking up things not really there. Time will tell for sure and I am definitely going to keep reading to see. I must admit that not knowing where this is heading or the direction it will take it just as addictive as the words the author has written. The situation is turbulent at best but that’s part of what makes it so enticing.
Nicolas Bella continues to hold me captive with his words just as Theoden holds Noel with chains. The dialogue is brutal at times to read, yet necessary. The author holds nothing back and makes it quite clear what to expect. The punishment is horrific but now that Noel is a vampire, healing happens immediately. A small consolation that you can’t help but hang onto.
The story line continues to flow seamlessly and the author has outlined this series with each novella. If you take the time to check out the author’s Amazon page or his website, he gives us a glimpse of things to come. Lessons, Book 3, is up next and I can’t help but think that Noel will have many to learn.
I’m honestly looking forward to the time when Noel relinquishes all control over to Theoden, if he does. Will they flourish together or am I just wishful thinking? I can’t answer that yet but I still haven’t given up on Theoden. For some reason, I still feel as though I’m going to love this evil, sadistic bastard. 😛
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
A Tale of Three Shorts Tour gets readers up close and personal with three late fall releases by Taylin Clavelli. The three short stories, Invisible, Sleepwalking, and DIY Delights, will take you from loss and sorrow, to tender love, to laughter, and a deep sigh when you finally reach the end of each tale. Come meet the men of A Tale of Three Shorts and their stories!
Invisible
Synopsis
What do you do when you become invisible to the love of your life?
Devastated by loss, Matthew sleepwalks through life, existing but not living. Can someone rescue him from his waking nightmare and help him to live again?
Title: Embraced Series: Chained in Darkness (Book 1) Author: Nicholas Bella Genre: Paranormal/Dark Fiction/BDSM Length: Short (36 Pages) Publisher: Nicholas Bella (October 28th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts Blurb: I’ve been betrayed by someone I trusted. Because of him, I was captured by my loathed enemy: The vampires. Right now, the sun is still high in the sky, but I know when it sets, I’m as good as dead. They can’t wait to get their fangs into me. I guess some would say I have it coming. I did raise a lot of hell with my Resistance crew, and I was planning on raising a hell of a lot more at dawn before I was sold out by Jonah. The vampires, werewolves and dragons, have been trying to track me down for months and I’d always been two steps ahead of them.
*Laughs* I guess my number is up. I just hope they make it quick. You see, the vampires in my reality aren’t the romantic lot you read about in books. They don’t sparkle or hang out at high schools with their teenage girlfriends. Hell no, vampires are brutal, calculating, sadistic and bloodthirsty. As a matter of fact, all of the monsters are! That’s how they were able to take over the world so easily and change an entire civilization to suit their needs. Whatever happens, I know it’s not going to be pretty, so I’m preparing myself for the worst. May God help me.
Warning: This novelette series contains hardcore sexual situations between men, not meant for sensitive eyes. I’m talking crude, lewd, and full of attitude. This series will most likely either offend you or get ya revved up. This series isn’t going to be pulling any punches whatsoever, so you’ve been warned. Mature Adult Content meant for readers looking for something dark, taboo, sexy, and unapologetic in their paranormal erotica. This is NOT a romance.
Review: Do you like paranormal? Vampires? Monsters and dragons? What about chains and dungeons? What about putting them together? HOT is what I think. If you like this combination together, you are gonna love Nicholas Bella’s, Chained in Darkness, series. Embraced, Book 1 starts this no/holds/barred series and you know you are going to be in for a thrill.
I had not read the blurb beforehand so I didn’t know what the storyline entailed. The cover is what pulled me in and made me want to read the book. That may appear shallow but a hot, sexy, cover gets me every time. There are going to be several books in this series and each one looks enticing and addicting.
Embraced introduces us to Noel, a human, working with a Resistance crew to extinguish vampires, werewolves, and other monsters of the same. Being double-crossed by one of his own lands him in the clutches of a very evil, sinister, vampire known as Theoden.
Noel tries to stand strong and hang onto his convictions that Vampires are the lowest form of society. The only thing he has in his favor right now is his courage and his mouth that doesn’t know when to shut-up. Unfortunately, for Noel, Theoden is not impressed with him or his attitude.
He laughed and nodded. You’ve got spirit; I like that. It’s so much more fun when I break it. Make no mistake, little boy, you are about to enter a world of pain. I am going to make you suffer for every offense you’ve given me.” His cold gray eyes scanned over my naked body and I began to really feel uncomfortable. They lingered on my dick a little longer than I’d have liked then he gave me eye contact again. “I plan to enjoy your body from sundown to sunrise. You will submit to me. Your place is kneeling at my feet; you’ll soon learn that.”
When the worst thing to happen to Noel, in his mind…happens, he is pissed. Theodon, however, has no regrets with the abuse and treatment Noel is getting. In fact, he is just getting started. He puts Noel through horrendous torment, as well as, making him do unspeakable things to his best friend.
Theodon demands respect. He demands to be called Sir, Master, or My Lord. Any of the three will do but he WILL make Noel OBEY. If he doesn’t, well…I fear Noel will be truly fucked. I don’t think he realizes the danger and the horrifying predicament he has gotten into. At an alarming speed, he is beginning to accept the blood-curdling, chilling, reality of his fate. Whether he accepts defeat or not will be up to Noel. Whether his pain will eventually turn to pleasure, I’m not sure.
What I do know is I will continue reading this series to find out. Nicholas has written an infectious first book in the Chain of Darkness series. The novelette consists of approx. 36 pages but within those pages is a lot of information. I can’t tell yet how bad the situation is going to get. I have a feeling things are just starting to get interesting.
I’m already hooked and can’t wait to start on Punishment, Book 2, to see what lies ahead for Noel. Even though Theodon is a very evil vampire and thrives on handing out pain, I can’t help but feel like I’m going to love him before this over, lol. We’ll see if my prediction holds true. This is not a love story, yet anyway. I don’t know if it will be one as the series continues, but I am more than interested to find out. I thought the author executed the plot perfectly and it flowed seamlessly giving us the introduction to the context and the characters.
If you enjoy this type of reading, don’t get turned off by cringe-worthy dialogue, go over and one-click your copy, and let’s see what happens. I think you will be just as hooked as I am. Congratulations Nicholas, I believe you have created a very addicting series. Punishment, book 2, I have a feeling is going to be quite the trip. I can’t wait.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Broken Ink Series: N/A Author: Jack L. Pyke Genre: Bisexual /Supernatural/BDSM/Suspense/Dark Length: Novel (336 pages) Publisher: Fantastic Fiction Publishing (December 9th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Carrying a tattoo on your skin no longer just comes with a risk of infection. Get the composition right, you have the latest mind-control drug on the market. It’s the sex-traders’ dream, or worst nightmare, depending on the concentrated dose of the ink—and just who’s wearing it.
For Kiyen, the ink means he’s able to strip raw the minds of the best and worst of society. He’s one of MI7’s top killers and never more driven to select and take down a target. For Falen, the ink has ensured he’s spent his early years as a willing sex slave and low-grade empath. Hiding out in a small town and trying to bury the needs running through his body, Fal’s hoping to stay under the radar of MI7 and their specialist killers.
But the ink itself has a mind of its own, wanting to ignite the natural dynamics driving a Dom and sub, so when Kiyen is forced into Fal’s small world, prejudice battles a pure need to touch. Only problem is: Kiyen’s on the run, and in a world where thought can be the worst crime of all, Fal’s in for a fight for his sanity to find out just what it is that’s making a young killer run for his life.
Review: Jack L Pyke has done it again with her newest release, Broken Ink. Every time I read one of her novels, I am blown away by her genius mind. She doesn’t write stories already told. I guarantee when you read one of her novels you will be taken to a place like no other. Have you ever read a book, that while it is very good, it’s still predictable? If you missed a page or two, you still wouldn’t have missed anything? I know I have, but those are not the stories told by Jack. If you skip a line or miss a page, you immediately go back to see what happened. Every word, every sentence, every paragraph, is vital and relevant to the story.
Broken Ink, for me, was a complex story. I had to re-read sections over so that I was positive I understood what was happening. That could be just me though because I need to understand every intricate nuance. With that in mind, this is not a story that you can breeze through or skip sections. This is not a fluffy romance story. This is mystery/suspense/edge of your seat/holding your breath, story that will pull you in and keep you completely invested. Jack writes with so much ingenuity, your imagination will be forced to take you to places unknown as you read her words.
The blurb summarizes well the basis of Broken Ink. It doesn’t, however, tell you that every emotion you have will be put to the test. From the very first chapter my heart was put on alert. Kiyen was only 5 years old when he was kidnapped by evil men. They tattooed his little body with ink containing mind-controlling drugs. He was to be sold to sex traders’ who could control the ink, by thought alone, to do anything they wanted. He was not the only child kidnapped for this insane experiment. But, he was one of only three who would be subjected to pain and turmoil, confusion and insecurities for the remainder of his childhood.
There was a small spark of hope when government officials broke in, known as MI7, and rescued the children. It was short-lived. They were not subjected any longer to the sex traffickers, but they were trained to become assassins against the worst of society. Just like clay in a potter’s hand, MI7 molded, formed, and created human weapons. But, they underestimated Kiyen, his control, and his abilities he mastered over the years.
At 18, Kiyen is on the run and in for the biggest fight of his life. His sanity and his freedom. He doesn’t remember the events that led up to and including his escape. He does know that his safety is an illusion and trusting anyone with his life will be a test of strength and endurance.
On the other side of town is a young man named Falen. He, too, was kidnapped and tattooed, at a different time and place. For 3 miserable and suffering years, he was a sex slave. Thanks to his father who never gave up the search for his only son, Falen was rescued. Allowing the ink to take control of his mind and body is something he fights every day. He was able to find ways to put his ink in a dormant existence. The ink is never completely at rest. It wants control and if Falen waivers or slacks from the restraints he has in place, the ink will win.
When Kiyen moves into a foster home across the street from Falen and their paths cross, I think they both know that their lives are about to change. The ink recognizes the other and their connection. Kiyen with his dominant personality and Falen for his natural tendencies towards submission, make them compatible. Trying to fight the ink and their own wants and desires will be harder than they think. They have a connection and they both want to explore the desires of their flesh and mind.
“Come on baby, show me what you’ve got.” Yen eased down to his side by Fal, then encouraged Fal to open his legs by scissoring one leg between his and pulling him open with gentle nudge of his ankle. The cocky smile he gave showed how Yen enjoyed just a touch of cock on hip frottage now he’d flattened his body against Fal’s side. As he let go of Fal’s hands and traced down his neck, over his abs, black vines followed his touch. It chased the light finger-play over the flat of Fal’s stomach, drawing slow circles as a gentle bite came at Fal’s nipple, just a tease, followed by a swipe of tongue.
“Please.” Fal lifted his hips slowly, wanting the touch lower.
Even though it feels like Kiyen and Falen are the only two in the world right now, danger is quickly catching up to them. There are many unknowns watching them from every angle. As Kiyen struggles to remember bits and pieces of his short-term memory loss, he must also be forever vigilant to his surroundings, the people looking for him, and the people right in front of him.
Betrayal runs deep and it is coming from all sides. When it catches up to Kiyen, he is forced to return to the place he was running from. The MI7 want answers and they don’t care who or what they hurt to obtain the information they seek. They implement some horrendous acts to bring Kiyen’s memories out in the open.
As the door started to shut, someone held him down by the shoulders as he was stripped, scissors coming in to take care of his T-shirt, jeans, and boxers. Left naked against the tile, the sound of hair clippers hit the air, the first drag came across his scalp, cutting off long black strands. His groin came next. First the clippers, then a razor as he was held down.
As he cried out, hands were bound above him, feet chained wide apart. Hot steam came next, racing around his body, his face, ass – the heat against his groin making him writhe and twist as he shouted out.
With guarded secrets, lies, and mistakes being exposed, Kiyen finds himself vulnerable and broken. Will these secrets finally push Kiyen to his breaking point? Will he be able to forgive those who betrayed him in the worst way? Kiyen is not an innocent, by any means, so the biggest test for him… will he be able to forgive himself?
It’s impossible for me to explain how complex and intricate this story line is. I have great respect and an abundance of admiration for Jack Pyke and her ability to twist and weave such fine intricate details into a plot. I am completely amazed at the depth and creativity she puts her characters through. More often than not, the perception of the story is really deception. The originality, the execution, and the elaborate details are some of the best I have ever read. There are many, many, twists and turns in Broken Ink. Every facet of the journey, whether it be Kiyen or Falen, will keep you intrigued and enamored as you read.
There is also enough mystery and suspense to keep you guessing to the final page. And, as the author works her creative genius to the edge, there will be some surprises that will have you shaking your head in disbelief.
In this story, there are parts that are beautiful and heartwarming, but also parts that are hard to read and even harder to fathom taking place. The world we live in has evil around every corner. Whether it is out in the open or hiding behind walls or back allies, it is there. Jack will expose some of these wrongdoings and yes…its fiction, but sex traffickers are out there, everyday, in the real world, kidnapping our children, selling them on the black market, all because of greed and the need for money and drugs. When I read Broken Ink, I can’t help but think about the children out there no one is looking for them. Or, maybe they are looking, but are so hidden they will never be found. As a mother, that scares the crap out of me.
My overall impression of Broken Ink: Highly recommended, dark yet captivating. It’s original and unique. Jack L Pyke is a masterful storyteller who will test your mind, break you down, and cleverly put you back together. She will take you, along with her characters, on a journey that will stick with you for a long time.
If you love this type of story, you will love Broken Ink. Grab your copy today – you won’t be sorry. Thank you Jack. Amazing as always.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Undeclared Series: SSU Boys (Book 3) Author: Maris Black Genre: New Adult Romance Length: Novel (302 pages) Publisher: Maris Black Books (November 28th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb:IN THE HEART OF THE BIBLE BELT, LINES ARE GETTING BLURRED.
Liam Rush has never ventured too far outside the fences of his family farm, so college is a pretty big deal for him. Now he can finally claim his own identity– one that doesn’t involve football, hunting, farm work, or four overbearing brothers. But when he finds himself falling for the androgynous dancer at Trybe, the nightclub where he works as a bouncer, things get confusing. He’s never been attracted to guys before. Not really… And what would the folks back home say if they knew.
Japanese-American mix Blake Himura has been on his own since he was seventeen, with no one to depend on but himself. He’s mere months away from graduating college and becoming a dance instructor. Unstable men don’t factor into his plans, least of all “straight” boys who don’t mind ruining other people’s lives to keep their dirty little secrets. Liam is exactly the kind of complication Blake doesn’t need in his life.
Review: I love the boys of SSU. They all hold a special place in my heart, but Liam and Blake, have just taken the lead. I sat down to read Undeclared, by Maris Black, Book 3 in the SSU series and couldn’t put it down. For me, this is the best one yet. Maris can take her characters and give them life. She brings out in her books a realism that has you connecting right away to the characters. They could be any of our friends in real life. They face real struggles and complications that a lot of us go through at one time or another. Not every author has the ability to grasp your full attention nor pull every emotion from you as you read. Maris can and does do that with each story she tells.
In Undeclared, we meet Liam who is friends with Dan. Remember Dan from Smitten, Book 2, when he fell head over heels for Julian? Oh yeah, I can still remember their first time. Liam, poor fella, is straight or so he tells himself. He’s a big country boy with a big heart, manners, a wicked smile, and some pretty big muscles that get a lot of attention. Men or women, they all like to look. Working as a bouncer in the club, Trybe that Jeremy and Beck have worked so hard to build puts him in front of a lot of eyes. But only one set has his attention. Being a male behind those gorgeous eyes doesn’t even factor in for Liam.
Being a dancer at the club is something Blake is really good at. He should be since he is majoring in Dance and hopes to become a dance instructor when he graduates college. He’s been on his own since he was 17 making his way. Having rules and goals he set for himself has helped him to stay on target. Once Liam comes into his sight some of the rules are about to be broken. To the outside world, Blake tries to appear confident and he succeeds most of the time. He’s known for his smart-ass attitude and mouth. Secretly, he wants a guy who will cherish him. A guy who is dominant and not afraid to take what he wants. And Liam…wow, does he fit all of those qualities.
The guys start off on the wrong foot with each other. Hate is a little strong but close to how they feel.
“I’m straight,” he blurted in that same cold tone, scooting even farther away from me on the bed if that was possible, and building an invisible wall between us.
Oh, hell no, he did not just say that.“Straight? Is that right?” I surged up out of bed and clicked on the light, spearing him with a hard glare, my body quaking with anger. “Pardon me, I must have you confused with someone else. I thought you were the same guy who was just eye-fucking me on stage a couple hours ago. Because that guy? He ain’t straight. But whatever.
I can see, clearly, Blake jumping up and saying that to Liam. He’s a little on the sassy/feisty side but he’s also smitten with Liam. He never lets his guard down and he finds himself doing that with Liam. It hurts when those same feelings aren’t reciprocated. Once they get past their confusion, brought on by their own insecurities, sparks fly between them. Literally, it is like the 4th of July with these two. They don’t hold back on what they want and even though Liam has never been with a guy, he has no trouble taking, from Blake, what he wants. Blake is only too happy to let him and the sex is explosive.
Things move at a fast pace both wanting the same thing but so afraid to admit it. You will fall in love with both of these guys. I was either smiling, laughing out loud, or crying. You can’t help but cheer for them because they need each other. They definitely complement each other and make a perfect couple. Their banter back and forth is so funny, they are quick-witted, they keep you in hysterics, and you don’t even realize how much time has passed because you are completely enamored in their world. Liam is the perfect gentleman. He has those wonderful southern manners and one of many things I loved about him…he never held back on treating Blake like he was the love of his life.
Maris Black has written an award-winning book in my opinion. This entire series, to date, has become one of my top favorites, ever. She has that special ability to create characters that have compassion and understanding. Sometimes they may be a little snarky and difficult. That’s why the characters are easy to connect with. She doesn’t shy away from the romance and it is very erotic at times. She can certainly heat up a page quickly. What I love about how she does that, however, is she only does it when it is appropriate. When we are on the edge of our seat in anticipation for those moments to happen.
The storyline has depth, the content intriguing. The execution of the plot is spot on, the story line is relatable and current, and every facet of their journey will keep you fully invested. This author is one of my favorites and hopefully will become yours also. I can’t wait to see who has a story to tell next.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Hi guys, we have Hayley B. James popping in with her newest release Undercover Addiction. Hayley is letting us have a peek at a tantalizing excerpt and there’s a stunning giveaway, we also have KathyMac’s review for you to check out. So enjoy the post and then leave a comment to take part in the giveaway. <3 ~Pixie~
Undercover Addiction
(A Secret Sin 02)
by
Hayley B. Jmes
Working Vice for the Seattle PD, Connor Bishop’s favorite part of the job is going undercover. His current assignment is to get close to Riley Drapeau, a human trafficker backed into a corner by the FBI and turned informant. Connor needs to milk him for information on his organization, but while doing so, sees an entirely different Riley than he expected.
Caught off balance, Connor relies heavily on Lucas, his outside man and only link to the real world, but he gets sucked in by Riley and his attempt to clear his name and prove his partners fabricated evidence to frame him.
Up to his eyeballs in the dark world of trafficking, Connor finds it easier to believe Riley than what the FBI is saying, especially when a leak is uncovered within the Bureau. The choices Connor has to make become even more difficult when Lucas admits he has feelings for him and promises a safe life far from harm. But Connor can’t deny the only man he wants to be with is Riley. Which forces him to decide if his addiction to the dangerous side of life can include loving a criminal.
Hey guys, we have a visit from Lily Velden now with her latest release Written in the Stars, she lets us have a brief look as an excerpt and we have KathyMac’s review for you to enjoy <3 ~Pixie~
Written in the Stars
(Part of the Bollocks! anthology)
by
Lily Velden
Who needs a holiday when your destiny is Written in the Stars?
Written in the Stars is also a part of the BOLLOCKS! Anthology
Title: Lightson Dynasty
Title: Only You
Stabbed in the back by his first love, the repercussions would forever haunt and torture his soul. His family turned their back on him choosing to believe the lies instead of their own flesh and blood.
t just a cover-up for the sake of family? When these two find themselves alone, they seem to have an unspoken trust between them where hidden truths will be told, and sexual chemistry, so hot, it’s about to combust.
Title: Keeping Faith
Title: Crash Pad
es Jamie’s injuries. Feeling guilty and completely responsible, he takes Jamie to the hospital to treat his fractured ankle and then onto his own home for recovery. Remy won’t take NO for an answer to provide Jamie help when he realizes he has no one to call.
Title: Bad Boys Need Love Too
This is my first time reading a novel by Christa Tomlinson. I enjoyed it immensely and look forward to her other books. The story line is fast paced with a lot of action and drama that will keep you invested from start to finish. She doesn’t shy away from sex scenes that include dirty talk and visual details, which I appreciate. And, they are frequent and plentiful throughout the story. But, even so, they were placed appropriately and advanced the story forward. This was not the case of adding a sex scene for filler and word count. Each time Joseph and Gage had sex it was because their attraction and chemistry was off the charts. Or, because one or the other was hurting and needed that connection.
