Hi guys, we have Mia Kerick stopping by today on the first day of her blog tour for Love Spell, we managed to pin Mia down to answer a couple of questions for you, we have a great excerpt, there’s a fantastic giveaway and we have Cat’s review for you to enjoy, so check out the post and click that Rafflecopter link
Love Spell
by
Mia Kerick
Strutting his stuff on the catwalk in black patent leather pumps and a snug orange tuxedo as this year’s Miss (ter) Harvest Moon feels so very right to Chance César, and yet he knows it should feel so very wrong.
As far back as he can remember, Chance has been “caught between genders.” (It’s quite a touchy subject; so don’t ask him about it.) However, he does not question his sexual orientation. Chance has no doubt about his gayness—he is very much out of the closet at his rural New Hampshire high school, where the other students avoid the kid they refer to as “girl-boy.”
But at the local Harvest Moon Festival, when Chance, the Pumpkin Pageant Queen, meets Jasper Donahue, the Pumpkin Carving King, sparks fly. So Chance sets out, with the help of his BFF, Emily, to make “Jazz” Donahue his man.
An article in an online women’s magazine, Ten Scientifically Proven Ways to Make a Man Fall in Love with You (with a bonus love spell thrown in for good measure), becomes the basis of their strategy to capture Jazz’s heart.
Quirky, comical, definitely flamboyant, and with an inner core of poignancy, Love Spell celebrates the diversity of a gender-fluid teen.
Hi guys, we have James Comins stopping by with his brand new debut novel Fool School, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway so enjoy the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~
Fool School
by
James Comins
In the year of our Lord 1040, fourteen-year-old aspiring jester Tom is en route to Bath to begin his studies in the art of being a Fool, following in the footsteps of his father, and his father before him.
Along the way he meets Malcolm, a fire-haired boy with eyes green as forest glass. A Scotsman who’s escaped from the ravages of the usurper Macbeth, Malcolm elects to join Tom at school. Though the journey to Bath is hazardous, it pales in comparison to what they face at the austere and vicious Fool School, where all is not as it seems. A court jester must aim to be the lowest rung on the ladder of life, and the headmaster will not abide pride.
As they journey through life’s hardships together, Tom and Malcolm find they only have each other to depend upon.
Hi guys, we have Jude Sierra stopping by today with her debut novel Hush, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and Cat’s review. So enjoy the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~
Hush
by
Jude Sierra
Wren is one of “the gifted”—a college sophomore with the power to compel others’ feelings and desires. He uses his power as a game of sexual consent until Cameron, a naïve freshman, enters his life. As Cameron begins to understand his sexuality and gain confidence under Wren’s tutelage, Wren grows to recognize new and unexpected things about himself. Can their game become a relationship as the power shifts from teacher to student?
Hi guys, we have Mia Kerick popping in to show off the cover to her upcoming release Love Spell, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway, so check out that cover and excerpt and then click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~
Love Spell
by
Mia Kerick
Strutting his stuff on the catwalk in black patent leather pumps and a snug orange tuxedo as this year’s Miss (ter) Harvest Moon feels so very right to Chance César, and yet he knows it should feel so very wrong.
As far back as he can remember, Chance has been “caught between genders.” (It’s quite a touchy subject; so don’t ask him about it.) However, he does not question his sexual orientation. Chance has no doubt about his gayness—he is very much out of the closet at his rural New Hampshire high school, where the other students avoid the kid they refer to as “girl-boy.”
But at the local Harvest Moon Festival, when Chance, the Pumpkin Pageant Queen, meets Jasper Donahue, the Pumpkin Carving King, sparks fly. So Chance sets out, with the help of his BFF, Emily, to make “Jazz” Donahue his man.
An article in an online women’s magazine, Ten Scientifically Proven Ways to Make a Man Fall in Love with You (with a bonus love spell thrown in for good measure), becomes the basis of their strategy to capture Jazz’s heart.
Quirky, comical, definitely flamboyant, and with an inner core of poignancy, Love Spell celebrates the diversity of a gender-fluid teen.
Sixteen-year-old Skylar is witty, empathetic, sensitive–and mute. Skylar hasn’t uttered a single word since his mother died eleven years ago, a senseless tragedy he’s grateful he doesn’t have to talk about.
When Skylar’s father mysteriously vanishes one summer afternoon, Skylar is placed in the temporary custody of his only remaining relative, an estranged grandmother living on an Indian reservation in the middle of arid Arizona.
Adapting to a brand new culture is the least of Skylar’s qualms. Because Skylar’s mother did not die a peaceful death. Skylar’s mother was murdered eleven years ago on the Nettlebush Reserve. And her murderer left behind a son.
Review: Gives Light is a very touching story. This novel stars Skyler St. Clair, a half Native American boy who lost his mom when he was six. His mom was murdered at their home and he was attacked by her attacker that slit his throat, rendering him mute. I really liked this story, but it just wasn’t for me.
After Sky father’s disappears one day, he goes to the police and he’s put under the protection of his grandmother at a Native American Reserve. Skyler and his dad left the reserve many years ago after the murder of his mother. It is there where he meets Rafael, the son of his mom’s murderer and that’s where the story takes off.
I really liked this novel. I just don’t know why it didn’t appeal to me. The story was well written and planned out. It instantly pulls you into a very rich and cultural world. My respect goes to the Native Americans in the USA. Their culture is rich and very inspirational. Sadly, this novel was not for me. I did appreciate the culture portrayed in this novel though. It was really sweet and a learning experience.
I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read a very detailed and cultural novel about friendship, love, family, and forgiveness.
Publisher: Amazon Digital Services, Inc. (January 27th, 2013)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts
Blurb: Justin and Derrick have a secret that they revealed only to their closest friends. They are gay and are now a couple. The story of Justin and Derrick continues as they learn more about being a gay couple in their senior year of high school and the complications that arise from it. Some friends will have their backs while others simply stand on the sidelines. Other friends will be accepting and others will ridicule them.
Sometimes love is almost not enough to save a relationship and both Derrick and Justin begin to have their doubts as they watch relationships around them rise and fall. Justin and Derrick both want to have new experiences, new choices and make new friends, which leads to them questioning their own relationship. They soon discover that some of the people they consider friends have their own secrets, some darker than others. The couple begins to see how people react towards homosexuality and just how people want to deal with it and them.
Will Justin and Derrick be able to hold onto each other while their lives and secrets spiral around them?
Or will they decide to step back and give up on themselves and each other?
Review: Oh no! Oh yes! I loved this novel. This story is told in three points of view, Hayden’s Derrick’s and Justin’s. To some, that might be a little confusing, but it’s not. When there is a skip of one point of view to the other, the story flows smoothly. It does not go back and retell what you just read. At first, I found it hard to know in whose point of view I was, but when I catch on, I loved the story from beginning to end.
My favorite character was Hayden. I loved the little kid. He was straight and friends with the gay guys in school. His best friend Ryan has a little crush on him. A little? He falls for the guy! Who wouldn’t? He was awesome! At first, Hayden freaks. Name a straight guy that wouldn’t, right? After he calms down, he seeks Ryan and tries to fix their friendship which he does. Those two stay as friend and I liked that.
Derrick and Justin were awesome. I liked their love story, but Hayden stole the show. I hated Kristian. He was mean and unlikeable. I hope he gets what he deserves in book three. The plot was good, but the story was a little too long for me. I liked the fact that I felt like a fly on the wall throughout the novel. I truly felt like if I was eavesdropping on their conversation and a part of the gang by the end of the book.
In a nutshell, the story and characters were great and likeable. I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read about a group of friends as they make their way through life.
Series: The Haven Coffee House Boys Series Book Four
Author: Stephani Hecht
Genre: Young Adult
Length: Novella (80 Pages)
Publisher: Extasy Books (January 15th, 2013)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts
Blurb: Sometimes the ones you love can hurt you the most of all.
Devlin is used to others thinking that he’s a jerk. He likes it that way. It makes it so, nobody ever expects too much of him. Only his close friends really know that soft side of him, and, that he’s never exposed enough so he can get hurt. Then Christian, Devlin’s boyfriend, needs him more than ever. Will Devlin be able to let his guard down enough, or will he risk losing Christian forever?
Review: No Tea No Shade is the fourth book The Haven Coffee House Boys Series by Stephani Hecht. The story revolves around Devlin and Christian and their group of friends. If you have not ready the previous novels, you might feel a little lost in this one.
Christian is suffering from depression and has been hiding it from his boyfriend Devlin. Devlin could be such an asshole sometimes and I don’t see why Christian would even consider him as boyfriend material. But, Christian does bring out the best in Devlin and I like that. One thing I didn’t like was the fact that this novel was too short and consisted of only one plot. Christian’s depression. That’s it. There is nothing more. I would have loved if the plot was extended into something more interesting.
I must admit, Mrs. Stephani Hecht dealt with a very important issue here. Depression is something serious that has been affecting a large percentage of our youths. I think that the message was clear. Get help and let other help you.
When it is all said and done, the novel was okay. If another plot was added to this very serious issue, it would have made the story ten times better and interesting.
Blurb: Bart van Andren, aka Spider, has been running away from life with a lot of chemical help. When he wakes up in a hospital, he discovers he’s picked up a champion. Duane must see something in Bart no one else ever has, because he finds Bart a job at Laughton Farms, where the people show Bart kindness and patience. He might even kick his drug habit with a little help from his new friends Geoff, Eli, and especially Tyrone.
Tyrone Jackson works at the farm despite the disapproval of his traditional black family, who find it suspicious that he works with gay men. Tyrone knows he’s gay, and until now, he’s kept his home and work lives separate.
Though Tyrone resists his feelings for Bart as long as he can—he’s seen enough of the drug culture to last a lifetime—he can’t deny their attraction forever. But before he and Bart reach for more than friendship, Tyrone has to face his family and Bart has to close the door on his past—a past that could put Tyrone, the farm, and everyone he’s come to care for at risk.
Review: Love Means… No Limits is book nine of the Farm Series by Andrew Grey. The story stars Bart van Andren, aka Spider, and Tyrone Jackson who meet at the Laughton Farms. And that’s where the story takes off.
I loved Spider, sorry, Bart. He was a scared little kid that has been running away from reality and his life with the help of several drugs. After passing out in a motel, he wakes up in a hospital and meets Officer Duane. Duane sees a lot of potential in Bart and gets him a job at the Laughton Farms instead of serving jail time. It is there that he meets Tyrone. I loved Tyrone. He was sweet, dedicated and the best brother around. He has been living in the closet all his life because he is afraid to tell his family about his sexual orientation and I don’t blame him. His family is very racist and believes that gays are going to burn in hell. I personally think that Bart and Tyrone are perfect for each other. Tyrone brings out the best in Bart and Bart brings out the courage in Tyrone. And it is that courage that gives him the strength to tell his family that he is gay. There is a huge plot involving Bart’s past, but I won’t say it. You have to read it to find out. That little tragedy helps them to become closer and a happy couple.
In general, this is an amazing little read. You will laugh, cry and feel happy just reading this novel. A recommend it to everyone. Happy reading!
Blurb: Having left New York and their old lives behind them, Mark and Bill are settling into their new home in California, their jobs, and their college courses. At least Mark is, but when Bill’s acting career takes off, Bill leaves college – and Mark – behind to film around the world. Learning to live together was hard – being the boyfriend of a budding superstar is almost inconceivable. Though it’s a struggle to stay relevant to each other when they live in different worlds, Mark is committed to Bill and their relationship.
When Mark gets an unexpected long weekend, he decides to surprise Bill on location in Maui. After all, it’s Mark’s birthday, and he wants to spend it with his boyfriend. But when he gets there it is Mark that is surprised when he finds Bill and his costar in bed together. The combination of fame, fortune and infidelity seems to spell the end for Bill and Mark – until a personal tragedy drags them back to New York, where it all began, and reminds them what really matters.
Review: Okay. I don’t know how to start this review. A Star is Born is book three of the Most Popular Guy in the School Series. I loved book one and two even with their flaws. Many would have given up on the series and moved on to something else, but I kept holding on. The story continues with Mark and Bill. I loved Mark and started to dislike Bill in book two. For some reason, I didn’t believe or trust him. Now, I disliked Mark so much.
I love him as a person, don’t get me wrong, but I just can’t understand him sometimes. In book two, rumors surfaced about Bill cheating on him and Mark went psycho on his ass. Now, in book three, he caught him cheating and he takes it so…easily. He goes and has a blast with his credit card? What? I would have burned Derrick St. James’ house to the ground along with them and threw their remains into a volcano. That’s just me though. I have no idea why Mark stayed with him, but I don’t blame Bill for cheating on him either. What Mark got was coming since book two. He was not giving Bill what he wanted so hefound it elsewhere. That still DOES NOT give him the right to cheat on Mark. He should have kept his dick in his pants. I guess,those two are meant for each other after all.
All in all, this was an awesome read. Yes, I hated the characters, but that just shows that Mr. Robbie Michaels got what he wanted. To have people on both sides, loving and hating the main characters. That to me; makes an awesome read. Another thing that I loved was the fact that I couldn’t find any plot holes. Maybe there were some, but I didn’t found any. That was a huge improvement from the previous novels.
Blurb: “The Most Popular Guy Trilogy: Book Two” A few short months ago, Mark Miller was a shy nerdy kid who kept his head down and stayed off the radar. He had nothing in common with the in-crowd. But then he got snowed in with Bill Cromwell and learned not to judge a book by its cover. One thing led to another, and now Mark has a boyfriend. A “popular” boyfriend. A boyfriend who wants to go to prom with him. But Mark worries that Bill is risking too much-his popularity, his friends.
Then there’s graduation: caps, gowns, and a whole new world awaiting Mark and Bill in faraway California. They rent an apartment, join the workforce, and start college. It’s the beginning of the journey of their lives, and they should be enjoying it-but amid uncertainty, temporary separations, and bad communication, Mark and Bill have to struggle to hold on to the fledgling relationship that grounds them when the outside world seems to move too fast.
Review: The second installment of Robbie Michaels’ the Most Popular Guy in the School Series is better than the first. The story continues where the first book left off. It starts with Bill’s birthday and continues with their journey in California. Just like the first, this one suffered from one or two plot holes that left me wondering. Also, sometimes the scenes and dialogues appeared to be a little too unrealistic. But guess what? It’s fiction! I do however; want to know what the hell happened with Sue and the jocks? Did they end up in jail? Did they get away with it? I read that chapter twice and couldn’t find my answer so I moved. Maybe, I missed it. I still do want to know though.
In California, I liked Mark and Bill together as a couple. They seemed perfect and meant for each other. Mark was awesome and geeky, just like how I like them. I started to dislike Bill after the rumors about his affair with Derrick St. James. I disliked Derrick St. James. I don’t know why, but I knew he was trouble the moment he walked into the picture.
Overall, I loved the story since it was the tale of a couple trying to make it work in life. That seemed very realistic to me. In life, there are so many trials that push couples to the breaking point. Some stay together, some, walk away. I liked that these two stuck together and proved their love to everyone even against me.
Blurb: Best Selling Gay/Lesbian Erotica Author brings you…
When Mike found out he would be sharing a dorm with a former football star, he was terrified. He’d been bullied by jocks all his life for being scrawny and weak and didn’t have high expectations of how it would go. To his surprise, Brett was a great guy that was easy to get along with and seemed to enjoy his company. When Mike learned that Brett was gay, it was a shock but it also explained the threatening letters that Mike had been receiving. Was Mike really at risk because of a jealous ex? Was there even anything to be jealous of?
*** Warning: Contains graphic descriptions of gay sex ***
Review: Let’s start with Cover Love! It is simple and sexy, and completely fits the story it’s wrapped around. I grabbed a copy from Amazon as a free read, but I would gladly have paid good money for this book.
Mike is in his first year of college in a foreign state, away from his family and friends. Having spent much of his young life being picked on and bullied, the scrawny more academic than athletic type, is justifiably anxious to meet his new roommate.
Brett is the typical jock, the same kind of person that had picked on and bullied him in the past. Imagine his surprise when he meets Brett and he’s not only friendly and easy to get along with, but he’s gay.
His Undoing is the story of Brett’s hidden attraction to Mike, who is none the wiser in the beginning. As the story progresses Mike makes friends and even grabs himself a “girlfriend”, sadly, he also becomes the unwitting victim of a stalker that results in him being brutalized as the result of a hate crime. Brett and Maggie both are there for him through the ordeal and the aftermath and as his relationship with Maggie progresses to the next level, Mike realizes that he’s not quite as attracted to her as he thinks he should be.
Grace does a phenomenal job of squeezing a lot of content into this short story, as well as conveying Mike’s emotional journey while adding depth and realism to it. I loved the reality of the conversation he and Brett have when Mike is telling him how he feels. This is the first book I’ve read where one page had me saying “Awwww, they are just so damn cute!” then the next had me fanning myself from the steam radiating off the pages when Brett and Mike finally get together.
My only complaint was the way the situation was handled when they discovered who it was that had attacked Mike. I thought there could have been a better outcome, aside from that this was a well written, coming of age, gay love story with some Fantastic guy on guy action!
Blurb: Out jock Tommy Johnson and former bully Jason Strummer have settled into a surprisingly comfortable routine. They’re even planning a special camping trip for just the two of them for their one-month anniversary. Tommy doesn’t think things can get any better—until Jason’s past catches up to them.
Jason’s stepdad will stop at nothing to put Jason back in his place. As Jason spins out of control, Tommy tries desperately to hold the edges of their world together. But the pressure of dealing with Jason’s increasingly erratic behavior and keeping a growing number of secrets under wraps may prove too much for Tommy to handle.
Then Jason blows it and their comfy world falls apart. When he finally texts Tommy for help, they both learn some secrets aren’t worth keeping.
Review: This book is part of a series and must be read in order. Tommy and Jason are coming up to their one-month anniversary and they have plans to celebrate. But, Jason reacts badly when his step-father confronts him. As Jason reacts to his pain, Tommy is left to pick up the pieces and trying to be supportive, but just how much of a burden can a seventeen year old take?
This story continues with Tommy and Jason’s relationship from Heartless. We see how the two boys are handling their relationship and the horrors of Jason’s past. Things are going well between Tommy and Jason and they are planning some alone time for their one-month anniversary, but Jonathan (Jason’s step-father) wants Jason back and it sends Jason on a course of self-destruction that Tommy is desperate to contain and stop. The burden becomes too much when Jason turns to Tommy and Tommy feels used and just when they begin to get back on an even keel Tommy has no choice, but to tell the adults what has been happening.
J. Roman has yet again written a story that tries to rip your heart out. She has written a story that gives us the hardships that these two young adults are facing, the pressure they are under and the heartache that they suffer. This story is all from Tommy’s point of view, so we see the true pressure he is under as he tries desperately to be the rock that his boyfriend needs; to keep a devastating secret that is destroying the one he loves and trying to corral his boyfriend before he self-destructs. Jason acts out, driving the ones who want to help and support him away, refusing the help he needs and he ends up placing himself back in the way of danger.
I have to recommend that everyone reads this book; it is filled with anguish, angst, fear, heartbreak, love, and hope. It has two young adults who are trying to deal with a secret that would bring adults to their knees, but it also shows that it is better to place a secret that devastating into the hands of the ones who can do the most good.
Publisher: Amazon Digital Publishing (August 25, 2012)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Todd Hoffman, age sixteen, doesn’t have an easy life. Not only does he live with his alcoholic mother in a rundown mobile home, but he’s also a bit of a social outcast at school. He doesn’t have the nice clothing, shoes, and car the other students have. He has only one really close friend, Shannon, but even she doesn’t understand him completely. He knows he can never confide in her his deepest secret. He can’t tell anyone, not even his favorite teacher.
But Todd finds a way to express his feelings when he learns about fan fiction. Being a gifted writer, Todd begins to write stories–gay stories–about another boy he’s secretly crushing on. He posts the stories on a fan fiction website.
When the object of Todd’s affection one day notices him and asks him out, Todd feels like he is suddenly living a dream, that his literary fantasy is becoming real. Soon, however, he realizes that reality and fantasy are two different things, and he has to determine if Galen, the high school soccer team captain, is the boy of his dreams or just another dumb jock.
This is book three of the Dumb Jock series, and the story is linked to the previous books by featuring several common characters. Jeff and Brett are present as are Adam and Trevor. Book three is a continuation of the first two installments, but also serves as a standalone read.
Review: I love a good nerd/jock novel. I find them fresh and interesting even though some people claim that they have been retold a hundred times. But have they? If you go looking for them, you could only come across one or two. So, when Jeff Erno came out with the third installment of the Dumb Jock series, I had to read it.
The story starts with Todd Hoffman. He has had a pretty rough life since his mom is an alcoholic and they basically live in a trailer park. He is an outcast of life who finds comfort in writing gay fan fiction. His life completely changes after he wins an essay contest at school and his secret crush, Galen Caulfield, notices him and asks him. Galen is the local high school soccer team captain and heart robe. Sparks fly and soon, they find themselves madly in love with each other. But, things are not perfect since their relationship is forbidden by several factors. You have to read this story to find out what they are.
I loved the fact that several previous characters of the series are featured and are linked perfectly well. The one think that I didn’t like was the ending. It was just too sudden. I was expecting a few more chapters, but that left me wanting to read part two of this tale. Overall, Dumb Jock 3:Appearances Matter was an amazing read. I highly recommend this novel to everyone who has read the previous book in the series and for those who enjoy a good nerd/jock theme novel.
Blurb: Alex thinks he has the perfect relationship with boyfriend Gary. When Dexter moves in next door to Alex, things start to get complicated. Everyone Dexter meets seems to develop feelings for him, and even though the new boy is straight, Alex can’t help but start to fall for him. These concerns he outlines in his brutally honest diary, while also dealing with his psychotic best friend Andie and his parents’ divorce.
Review: Alex thinks that his life is perfect with Gary, even though Gary can be very manipulating. His world is slowly coming down, as their relationship crumbles and he has to deal with his parents divorce. But wait, something is shinning a positive light over him. Could it be the new boy next door? Yes. Dexter is the opposite of Gary. He is funny, understanding and very extrovert. He is the life of the party and the guy you want to have around. The main idea of the story is beautifully told by Maddy Linehan since she is a new fresh voice in the YA world. On the down side, there were a few mistakes, but nothing that would make your eyes bleed. I would recommend this story to anyone who wants to experience High School drama, first true love, more drama and coming to terms with your own sexuality.
Blurb: When Daniel Webster returns to Nashville after two years of hell, he doesn’t go back to his dad’s house. After an amazing rescue he ends up at Mama Sasy’s diner and finds out that it’s a safe place for young gay guys in trouble. He certainly fits that bill.
Daniel has problems mentally and physically after all he’s been through, and it’s going to take a lot to get him back to any form of normal. He finds a great ally in Benny Adams and they begin a relationship. He’s so thankful for Benny, but why can’t he embrace Mama Sasy and her group of happy helpers who throw love at him left and right? Maybe because she’s so close to his dad, the one Daniel ran away from two years ago because he was so cruel upon hearing that Daniel thought he was gay. Benny makes him believe in love, and the broad spectrum of characters at Mama Sasy’s eventually make their way into his heart. As time moves forward, Daniel gets an idea about what he wants to do with his life. Benny helps him and they set forth a bold plan. It’s gonna get better, but he’s got to get them all to understand that he needs to take it slow.
Review: Take It Slow by A.K.M. Miles is a very touchy coming-of-age novel with one of the sweetest messages ever. The story revolves around Nick Webster and his son, Daniel Webster. After revealing to his father that he is gay, Nick explodes and tells him the most hurtful words that any human being could bear. Daniel leaves and walks out of his life with only the clothes on his back and few dollars in his pocket. Upon realizing his mistake, Nicks goes after his son, but it’s too late. And so begins two of the worst years of Nick and Daniel’s lives. Daniel goes from being the rich kid on the block to basically living in the streets. He runs into amazing and kindhearted individuals to mean and repulsive bastards. While Daniel endures pain and suffering, his father goes through the same as he vigorously searches for his son. Destiny takes him to Mama Sasy’s truck stop where she gives shelter to homeless gay boys in Nashville. She is the one that supports Nick and helps him rescue Daniel from an abusive bastard that has him living in fear. Daniel chooses to stay at Mama Sasy’s place since he is still hurt by his father’s words and confuse by his sudden change of heart. After this, the story really takes it slow.
There is no doubt that A.K.M. Miles is terrific writer and the message in this story is very sweet, loving and caring. I loved Nick Webster even though I should have loathed him with all my heart. I instantly fell in love with Jeff and Robb after they were introduced towards the end of the story and I quickly found myself wanting to learn more about them. But, little was said about their love story. Somehow, I couldn’t connect with Daniel or his love of interest, Benny, a gay boy who is living at Mama Sasy’s. I found that strange since they were two of the main characters in the story. Something about this story wasn’t right for me. I found myself becoming inpatient and skipping a few pages which clearly showed that this was not the book for me.
Don’t get me wrong, Take It Slow was not a bad read but it wasn’t satisfying one either. I would recommend this novel to family oriented readers who want to read a beautiful story about a father and son as they try to mend their lives by seeking forgiveness and love. It would be fun for them, but not for the thrill seekers like me.
Publisher: JMS Books (July 8th, 2012 ) first published 2008
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Sixteen-year-old Jacob Smithson has a temper. He’s picked on because he likes boys, and fighting gets him kicked out of public school. As a last resort, his parents place him in St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Boarding School for Boys.
At his first mass at St. Thomas he sees Avery Dendritch, a senior who serves as altar boy during the service. When they meet, the attraction between them is hard to deny. The two become fast friends, and as the school year progresses, their friendship deepens until Jacob feels he’s found a place where he belongs.
But the other students gossip about their growing relationship. Avery can ignore them; Jacob can’t. As the rumors and slurs start up again, can he curb his temper, or will his fighting get him expelled from St. Thomas, too?
Review: Without Sin by J. Tomas is very touchy Young Adult romance novel that is very well written and beautifully told. The story revolves around Jacob Smithson and Avery Dendritch. Jacob is a rebellious boy that whenever he is teased or provoked, he fights back with fists in the air. His parents, instead of finding what’s wrong with their son, decide to send him to an all boy Catholic school. (I wish my parents would have done the same.) Avery is the oldest and a senior at their high school. He is the type of guy that is comfortable with his sexuality, but does not go around flaunting it to everyone. It is evident that being himself gets him bullied around by his classmates. As soon as these two meet at an early school mass, parks fly and their journey takes off. Without giving the story away, it starts off as a beautiful friendship and soon blossoms into tender romance and love.
These two go through a lot during their time in St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Boarding School. I completely fell in love with the two lead characters and found myself loving every page of this book. The way their love story was told, kept me jumping from page to page and gave us insight into their minds. Their hardship, love, insecurities, and fears are told in ways that keeps you reading and wanting more.
I would recommend this story to anyone who wants an easy read or wants to read a very well written coming-of-age novel where the hardships that the characters endure are real, captivating and exciting.
Blurb: Outtakes of A Walking Mistake chronicles the romantic entanglements of an ‘out’ gay 16 yr. old boy named Tyler Morris, who auditions for a student film to win the heart of Billy Greske, the school’s celebrity thespian. The plan seems promising until Tyler’s bipolar best friend Jenny offers love advice and a local skater takes interest in Tyler as well. Furthering complications, Tyler’s estranged mother, a clairvoyant circus clown, returns home to win back the love of her family.
Review: Outstanding, amazing and seriously funny! Outtakes of a Walking Mistake by Anthony Paull is fresh, new and exciting. The story revolves around Tyler Morris an ‘out’, gay, 16-year-old who is in love with Billy Greske, the heart-throb of his high school. In order for him to win Billy’s love (even though Tyler is not sure if Billy is gay, but does he cares? No.), he auditions for a student film. And so begins the story of Tyler and Billy as they begin to accept who they are.
I absolutely loved Tyler! He is interesting, outgoing and seriously funny. He reminded me a lot of Lola from Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen. He had that little spark that got me laughing from page one. Billy was the bomb! He was the type of guy that anyone would want to have as their boyfriend, because he had a very generous and kind heart. The secondary cast was amazingly good as well. I loved Tyler’s dad, even though he did not approve of his son being gay. What I loved about him was the way he protected Tyler, because at the end of the day, it was his son. Jenny, Tyler’s best friend, was surprisingly real. She brought the element of realness to the story, since her life was tragic and sad. However, the girl was fun to have around especially when she was high on meds. I know I should have hated Tyler’s mom, but I absolutely loved her! She was a very surprising character and I instantly fell for her free-spirited personality. My heart broke whenever Tyler rejected her. I know he had his reasons, but the woman was amazing to me. Eric was a very peculiar character. He was the bad boy that everyone should stay away from, but can’t keep their hands off! He was a complete d-bag, but I found him to be hot, interesting and luring. The one thing that I didn’t like was the ending. I still don’t know who grabbed Tyler’s hand! It all indicates that it was Billy, but it left me with doubts. This novel needs a sequel and fast!
I would recommend this novel to anyone who wants a fun read or have a very random sense of humor. You will laugh, cry and laugh some more.
Publisher: Prizm (Torquere Press) (13th June 2012)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts
Reviewer: Pixie
Blurb: Gareth’s life is violent, frightening, and lonely. Abandoned by his parents and left to a series of harsh foster homes, he becomes as tough as the scar on his cheek. Death and destruction follow him. Sometimes, it actually seems like people are trying to kill him. By the time Gareth is in high school, friends are a luxury he can do without.
But deep inside, Gareth is tender, compassionate, and very gay. The only living soul Gareth lets into his heart is a silent young man who keeps saving his life. Every time Gareth gets a good look at his guardian, the man mysteriously vanishes. Does he even exist? Gareth isn’t sure, until the day at school when his world implodes. Teachers suddenly know way more about him than they should. His secret guardian lies wounded on the darkroom floor. Before Gareth knows it, he and his guardian are on the run. Not only is Gareth more important than he ever dreamed, but the future of an entire planet depends on him. It’s going to take all the courage and love Gareth has to face his destiny.
Review: Gareth is eighteen and has had a rough life. He soon learns that nothing is quite as it seems and there is nothing he can do about it, no matter how much he wishes otherwise. Gareth also has a guardian and he was never quite sure if he was really real. But, now he is lying bleeding in front of him and Gareth is called on to help him escape. But, he finds out a startling truth and finds himself running for his life to a time and place he never imagined.
This is an excellent combination of science fiction, young adult and romance. Gareth really has been through the mill throughout his life and at odd occasions there has been the appearance of his savior. Always there when he needs him most. But, as things start to emerge, Gareth must help his savior, Aranth and they must both get to safety before those who are after them catch up. Aranth is Gareth’s protector and until Gareth was old enough he kept his distance. But, now they have to get Gareth home so he can take up his rightful position, but the way is fraught with danger, double-dealing, doubts and suspicions.
This is a wonderfully written story that is quite fast paced and suspense filled, with dramatic about faces, startling betrayal and a thread of love woven throughout. Gareth and Aranth are two young men who are drawn to each other, but with everything that is going on and the actions that have to be taken it is a complex relationship that might be doomed to fail. The characters are well-rounded and the storyline fast paced. It keeps you gripped, as you find out more and more information about the truth of what Gareth is and where he comes from. And the reasons why he is running for his life will send a shiver down your spine at the callousness of humans of the future.
Aranth is a great character and you love him more as the story unfolds. Although, at one point there is some serious cursing of his name and wanting to throttle him (but don’t let that put you off). Gareth is very level-headed and not even really all that bitter about his past, but it is his future that scares him as he realizes the full extent of what is expected of him. A truly great young adult story that is very enjoyable. I have to say that the ending, no sorry, the entire book left me wanting more from these characters and this new world, to see how they grow and progress in a world that has to make changes.
So, if you love Young Adult stories, science fiction, some contemporary thrown in, action, danger, young love, betrayal, intrigue, political agendas and a happy ending that leaves you wanting more, then this is the book for you.
Blurb: Evan Harris and Cole Morgan couldn’t be more different. Evan is a lonely, abused Emo who longs for a better life, while Cole is the popular quarterback of his high school’s football team.
Unbeknownst to Evan, Cole is gay and has had crush on him for years. Evan wants nothing more than to graduate and leave his current life behind him. When he finds he is failing math, his teacher gives him a second chance in the form of a tutor, who just so happens to be Cole Morgan.
Cole and Evan quickly grow close, and before they know what hit them, they seem to be falling in love. Little do they know Charlie, Cole’s jealous ex-boyfriend, is spending his time scheming to break up the happy couple. Stalking and watching Cole’s every move, he wants nothing more than to have the jock become his again, whatever the price.
Review: Everyone knows that I’m a sucker for these types of novels and that maybe the reason why I was expecting so much more from The Emo and the Jock. Yes, I loved the plot since in this case; the jock was the smart one while the emo needed the help to pass math. The love story instantly pulled me in and soon I found myself loving the characters and story line.
There are just two things that I didn’t like about this story. One was the fact that the writer referred to Evan and Cole as the emo and the jock so many times. I wondered why she chose to do that, since it did flow with the story well. Another thing I dislike was the fact that we never found out why Evan’s father abused him the way he did. Evan was the last reminiscence of his wife. He should have treated him like his most precious possession. Why the abuse?
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I would totally recommend it since it does not follow the traditional nerd/jock love story which I happen to love. It is spanking new and fresh and very well written by N. Phillips
Blurb: While mostly physically healed from a gay bashing that almost left him dead, Taylor is still an emotional mess. Not only does he have to deal with the fact that his own brother was one of the attackers, but Taylor has been disowned by his father as well. The only bright spot in Taylor’s life is his small group of friends, but even they have their own issues. Christian is now angry all the time. James is having to deal with his own homophobic father. Devlin is wondering if he’ll ever be able to measure up to other’s expectations. Worst of all, Andy seems to be walking down a path that will only lead to his destruction. Can the Haven Coffee House Boys overcome all their obstacles? Or will the darkness overcome them?
Review: Left in the Darkness is the second installment of Haven Coffee House Boys series by Stephani Hecht. The first novel, if you have not read it, focuses on Christian, Taylor, Devlin, Andy and James as they try their best to overcome the bullying that Taylor endures at home and school. At the end of the first novel, we see that Christian and Taylor suffered a brutal attack by Tommy, Taylor’s twin brother, and a group of jocks. Taylor got the worst of the attack and ends up pretty bad.
Left in the Darkness deals with the aftermath of the attack as the Haven Coffee House Boys try their best to piece their lives back together. Taylor moves in with Christian, Christian deals with his mixed emotions, James with his homophobic father, Devlin with his insecurities over his relationship with Christian, and Andy with the lack of attention. Each storyline develops as the book progresses and the cliffhanger at the end leaves you wanting more. That’s the only negative thing about the book, the dreaded cliffhanger.
Stephani Hecht did an impeccable job when piecing this story together since it is full of friendship, drama, love, and suspense. I cannot wait for the third book in this amazing series where we will find out what happened to Andy and what will happen to the Haven Coffee House Boys as their lives shift and turn for the better or worse.
