Blind Side by Josh Lanyon

Josh Lanyon - Blind Side Cover ty48jTitle: Blind Side

Series: Dangerous Ground 06

Author: Josh Lanyon

Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novella (138pgs)

ISBN: 9781945802157

Publisher: JustJoshing Publishing, Inc (30th January 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’– 4 1/2 Hearts

Reviewer: Maya

Blurb: The boys are back in town–for one last adventure!

It’s a good problem to have: more business than they can comfortably handle on their own.

But with resources already overstretched, the last thing former DSS agents and newbie security consultants Will Brandt and Taylor MacAllister need is another client—and the last thing Will needs is for that client to turn out to be an old boyfriend of Taylor’s.

Sure, Will has always known Taylor had a wild past, but he was kind of hoping he’d never have to sit down and have a beer with it. But golden boy Ashe Dekker believes someone is trying to kill him, and Taylor is determined to help, no matter the cost.

It’s a bit of a jolt to have Taylor for once totally disregard his feelings, but Will is equally determined that “the cost” won’t be their relationship—or Taylor’s life.

Purchase Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords | Kobo

Review: This is the last book in long running series and the boys certainly go with a bang!

I regretted not rereading previous books, because book throws reader in at the deep end from the beginning. Our heroes are at odds. Outwardly, they should be happy. Their business is finally getting of the ground they are in same place and together. Except a ghost from Taylor’s past seems liable to spoil everything. His old ex asks for his help, and he is resolved to give it, no matter his partner’s justifiable reservations. Their client is lying to them, they are short on manpower, the contract they signed needs to be fulfilled. They are both resenting the other one and the situation they are in, which doesn’t bode well for them: It’s possible that someone is gunning for them.

For most of the book the men are dealing with relationship woes. It was spurred into action by reappearance of Taylor’s ex, but exposes secrets and insecurities they both have, so the ground they are on is seriously rocky. They are trying to plod through trouble and it doesn’t look promising!

Then the villain gets revealed ( and up to this point I was ignoring suspense subplot, so I was shocked at twisty turn My congratulations to the author, definitely wasn’t expecting that). It’s another shake up for Will and Taylor.

It leaves them in bad place, which allows for everything between them which simmered during the book to get out in the open and for them to have happy ending.

It’s a fitting end to interesting series. Loved the book!

Complications by Tinnean

Tinnean - Complications Cover 74rh7Title: Complications

Series: Mann of My Dreams 05

Author: Tinnean

Genre: Suspense

Length: Novel (436)

ISBN: 9780463807668

Publisher: Tinnean (18th June 2018)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’– 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Maya

Blurb: In 2002, Mark Vincent, onetime senior special agent, ran into John, a troubled little boy, at a local McDonald’s. Concerned, although it wasn’t his business, he gave the kid his business card and left.

Three years later, Mark is director of his department at the WBIS and married to Quinton Mann, the former CIA spook who now writes spy novels. They’ve settled into a life of quiet domesticity and are even considering adopting a cat.

All this changes when John, now using another name, barrels into Mark’s life with a secret no one expects and on the run from an organization that wants him despite the collateral damage.

What will Mark, the man known as “the best” in the intelligence community, do when he learns what this secret is? Will it affect his relationship with Quinn? And how complicated are things going to get when Mark decides to get involved?

Purchase Link: JMS Books | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Kobo | Smashwords  

Review: This is the last book in this series and it was somewhat of surprise for me. Considering the last three books, I was expecting mellow and sappy story. It did have such elements, but it resembled the book one the most as it brought action and mystery into plot once again.

It also managed to scrounge several plot ends mentioned in previous books and brings them to a close in rather surprising and twisty end. The plot is a little over the top, but all its parts are covered and decently explained.

It has a truly evil villain emerging from the shadows and Mark and Quinn trying to get a hold of surprise from the past that will bring serious changes in their lives. Quinn takes in all in stride as befitting his moniker of Ice Mann, while Mark has moment of what-the-heck?

It does end on a high note and it’s a charming end to the the series!

You Were Made For Me by Tinnean

Tinnean - You Were Made For Me Cover 78e4yrhTitle: You Were Made For Me

Series: Mann of My Dreams 04

Author: Tinnean

Genre: Suspense

Length: Novel (376pgs)

ISBN: 9781370817863

Publisher: Tinnean (8th October 2017)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: đź’–đź’–đź’– 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Maya

Blurb: Quinton Mann has resigned from the CIA, but they aren’t happy about that and want him back. To do that, they’ll not only have to convince Quinn that’s a good idea, but Mark Vincent, Portia Mann, and Gregor Novotny as well, and that isn’t going to be easy.

Meanwhile, friends and family need help, and neither Quinn nor Mark will turn them down.

It’s going to be a long year and a half.

Purchase Link: JMS Books | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords | Kobo

Review: Of all the books in the series, this one deserves the romance title the most.

It’s sappy and dreamy and it’s a lovely happy end for our two heroes. The contrast from beginning is especially noticeable here, since they are in established relationship, they already cleared the hurdles facing them and now they are settling to enjoy the rest of their lives. It’s unashamed piece of fluff, with their family and friends playing prominent roles.

There is a lot of difference in both characters, as Quinn, once known as Ice Man, is comfortable in his relationship with Mark and the direction his life has taken. Mark is also softer – being with Quinn dulled his edges and made him less hesitant to show people in his life he cares.

It’s happy and relaxing read.

Just the Thought of You by Tinnean

Tinnean - Just The Thought of You Cover w323m3Title: Just the Thought of You

Series: Mann of My Dreams 03

Author: Tinnean

Genre: Suspense

Length: Novel (416pgs)

ISBN: 9781310124310

Publisher: Tinnean (18th May 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: đź’–đź’–đź’– 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Maya

Blurb: Quinton Mann and Mark Vincent – still as dangerous, intelligent, and perceptive as they were when they started playing mind games with each other, and still in love. With Quinn having inherited the Mann family estate in a state of serious disrepair, he and Mark with the help of their family and friends decided to fix it up and then live there, together. But when a mystery from the Mann family past intersected with the death that led to Quinn inheriting the estate, Mark and Quinn were determined to solve it, and see Quinn’s cousin DB and his ladies safely married. But there are always eyes watching two such dangerous men. Would they be able to continue their relationship without nosy, judgmental people trying to put an end to it?

Purchase Link: JMS Books | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords | Kobo

Review: This is third book in series and it shows. This time we got both Quinn’s and Mark’s POV as the story continued from where previous book left off.

The story focuses heavily on Mark’s and Quinn’s interactions, through other characters weave their way in or out. While I liked the story, I didn’t enjoy it as much as previous books. The plot was loose – the story changed tracks several times and while events had their own charm I wasn’t hell bent of getting to the end the way at was with previous book. The impression I got is mostly of placeholder in the series – it deals with leftover ends from previous books and sets a stage for the next one. There is also more humor in this one. It’s more relaxed and easy-going.

It’s hard to give summary for this one, as it mostly focused on characters. Mark’s and Quinn’s banter is lively as ever, and their charm kept my attention on the book. It’s perhaps somewhat of a break from previous books, which bridled with action.

It’s a nice interlude in the series.

Things Happen That Way by Tinnean

Tinnean - Things Happen That Way Cover 84u5rhfn sTitle: Things Happen That Way

Series: Mann of My Dreams 02

Author: Tinnean

Genre: Suspense

Length: Novel (466pgs)

ISBN: 9781311775979

Publisher: Tinnean (31st March 2015)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’– 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Maya

Blurb: Quinton Mann and Mark Vincent are settling into a relationship that shouldn’t be possible. After all, Quinn is CIA, while Mark belongs to the WBIS, an agency labeled by others in the intelligence community as being staffed by sociopaths. Somehow, in spite of that, they seem to be making it work.

Surprisingly, it isn’t work that separates them but family matters and a friend’s plea for help when his partner is kidnapped. Quinn is off to London, while Mark heads for Los Angeles to solve the kidnapping. Then Mark gets called to Paris by Femme of the Division, where things are not as they seem. Quinn, thinking to meet Mark in Paris, ends up coming to Mark’s rescue. Back in the States, Mark fights taking time to recover from being shot while events are happening at the CIA that could endanger both Quinn and his best friend, DB.

Between family, friends, and Mark, how will Quinn make the opportunity to talk to Mark about moving in together and even starting a family?

Purchase Link: JMS Books | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords | Kobo

Review: Well, I can safely say this was an interesting experience. The story this time is from Quinton’s POV, which brought a change of pace. It should be read immediately after book one, because half of it covers previous events – just from Quinn point of view. Despite repetition, the story held my attention as there were bits and pieces I hadn’t known, and surprisingly, Quinn’s voice is quite different from Mark’s – the book had different vibe. Yes, Quinn is a spy, same as Mark, but his background is completely different and it shows.

This story is softer, gentler and focuses a little bit more on their relationship than the previous one. Maybe part of it was Quinn’s worldview: he knows he wants Mark and is not letting him go, while Mark, while in love, is wary of the future and insecure. There is one matter where Quinn is as ruthless as Mark is: no one is allowed to hurt Mark and he will move heaven and earth to make sure he is safe. He doesn’t flinch at Mark’s actions, which Mark finds baffling.

Once again, there is a whole slew of secondary characters from this series and others and they play important part in the story.

There is a hook up for the next book in series, so if it follows the pattern, there will Mark’s view of what happened in second half of the book, so I’m impatient to see what happens. (Or Tinnean will cook up something else – this was rather unusual experience for me!)

This is not a standalone, the books have to be read in order and hopefully with the next one already sitting on e-reader!

If You’re Going Through Hell Keep Going by Tinnean

Tinnean - If You're Going Through Hell Keep Going Cover 64hf7fcTitle: If You’re Going Through Hell Keep Going

Series: Mann of My Dreams 01

Author: Tinnean

Genre: Suspense

Length: Novel (308pgs)

ISBN: 9781310203404

Publisher: Tinnean (14th June 2014)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’– 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Maya

Blurb: Mark Vincent and Quinton Mann have finally kind of, sort of, exchanged promises. Mark has returned from an assignment on the West Coast, and he’s looking forward to spending some quality time with his lover. After all, it’s the St. Patrick’s Day weekend. What could be better than a little beer, a little corned beef on rye, and Quinn in his bed?

However, on Monday it’s back to the grind — this time to an almost empty department. Matheson is away on assignment and Ms. Parker, Mark’s secretary, is taking sick time, something she never does. But these aren’t the only signs of something unusual, well, more unusual than normal, going on. Gradually, Mark uncovers a series of events going back to the previous spring and involving not only his senior special agent but Theo Bascopolis, a former rent boy who is Mark’s friend.

While Mark unravels the threads of the Gordian knot the WBIS has become, he realizes how deep his feelings for Quinn have grown. But can a spy like Mark ever hope to be “the one” for a spook like Quinn?

Purchase Link: JMS Books | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords | Kobo 

Review: This story is nearly 6 yrs old, but the story itself is new to me. I’m very glad I discovered it, since it’s very good and I enjoyed it.

It’s one of several books this author has in the same universe which is the only sticking point with the story. It relies heavily on previous books, references past events and characters from others books pop up constantly. I was lucky because I did read Houseboat on the Nile, which is part of another series, but it it’s chronologically before this one. That series is not republished yet in its entirety and I would definitely recommend reading it before this one.

Otherwise, I had a blast with the book. It’s fast paced, dialogue heavy and believer in instant gratification, as in, the bad guys are dealt with swiftly and decisively.

The whole story is in first POV from one of its main characters. Mark Vincent works for shadowy Agency and is unapologetic about his worldview. He is willing to do everything for his friends and those he trusts, and his enemies tend to have radically shortened lifespans. It’s simple and ruthless worldview, and the reason why everyone else in intelligence community considers him a sociopath. It also makes his fumbling on romantic front even more endearing. The romance story is more of a background, as he and Quinn are in established relationship. Mark has no problems risking his life and killing others, but he is shy when it comes to asking his lover to move in with him. It’s sigh worthy and now I’m curious as to what will happen in other books of the series.

Sincerely recommended, but I’d suggest reading other books in this universe first. I think it will make this one even better!

When Death Frees the Devil by L.J. Hayward *Pre-release Review*

L.J. Hayward - When Death Frees The Devil Cover snab7ehbTitle: When Death Frees the Devil

Series: Death and the Devil

Author: L.J. Hayward

Genre: Suspense

Length: Novel (337pgs)

ISBN: 9780648446064

Publisher: L.J. Hayward (17th January 2020)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’– 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Maya

Blurb: Ethan is finally free. He’s left the Cabal behind and embraced a civilian life with Jack, the man he loves. The only problem is that the Cabal isn’t willing to let him go. A call in the middle of the night and a threat to Jack’s family, and Ethan is back in the game. The only way out is to take on the organization that spent years warping his life.

Jack’s boyfriend has a way of vanishing on him, but this time Ethan’s disappearance is more frightening than ever. A trail of mysterious clues, a hit against his family, and the handprint of the Cabal on everything means the greatest test of love and determination Jack has ever endured.

Torn apart by forces greater than they are, Jack and Ethan must fight harrowing battles to get back to each other. The Cabal is the greatest foe either of them has had to face. Ethan is willing to throw away everything to bring an end to the Cabal’s evil. And Jack is willing to do the same to make sure Ethan comes out the other side alive.

CW – teen suicide, suicidal thoughts, child abuse, graphic violence.

Purchase Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Kobo | Smashwords | B&N

Review: Jack and Ethan are back!

It’s as much a treat for me as the previous books have been, even though I was feeling like yo-yo during much of the book – dangling on a string.

It’s not just the plot– which is very good, it’s the way the narrative unfolds– we get only pieces of information, layers upon layers forming what’s attention grabbing, hair rising and heart melting story.

It was outstanding!

This time we get introduced to big evil just hinted at in previous book – namely Cabal, which is trying to regain their control of Ethan. Jack is standing in their way, determined to help his lover. The story is jumping from point to point in time, each piece giving different view of situation, underscoring just how desperate Jack and Ethan’s position is. I kept reminding myself there is a happy end and my fingers itched to jump pages. I couldn’t tear myself from the story. It was brimming with twists and turns causing adrenaline rush. It’s ultimate thrill ride!

Despite unrelenting action, there is emotional component to the story. Cabal is part of Ethan’s past and the story doesn’t stint on his reaction to shadowy manipulations that ruined so much of his life, we do find out more about Jack. It seems like all the ghosts from his pasts aren’t buried and they started popping up. While Ethan and Jack are separated through good part of the book their relationship only grows stronger as they risk everything for each other. The ending was really, really sweet and I hope we see what author teased in following books (notice I’m hoping for plural).

The plot ends are all tied up nicely (and boy, does Hayward have a devious mind – surprises abound!) but the ending allows plenty of opportunity for Jack and Ethan to get into more trouble.

Fingers crossed the new book is soon!

Devil’s Hour by Aimee Nicole Walker Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Aimee Nicole Walker - Devil's Hour BT Banner

Hi guys! We have Aimee Nicole Walker stopping by today with the tour for her new release Devil’s Hour, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and Maya’s review so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~

Aimee Nicole Walker - Devil's Hour Cover 78r54jkf

Devil’s Hour

(Zero Hour 02)
by

Aimee Nicole Walker

Devil’s hour, noun: the hour when the demon or devil who leads hell is at its strongest.

Born on the wrong side of the tracks, Royce Locke is no stranger to scrapping and fighting for the things he wants. What he desires most is Sawyer Key—his partner on the force and the man he’s falling in love with. After asking Sawyer to take a chance on him, Royce will need to back up his pretty words with fearless action instead of being his own worst enemy.

Someone is harassing the mayor of Savannah, and Locke and Key are tasked with finding out who. The investigation quickly takes a twisted turn, leading them to an enemy who thinks purification by fire is the only way to save the city. Scarier than The Purists’ elusiveness is their ability to turn public opinion in their favor, creating unrest and threatening anarchy by fanning flames and fear. When you play with fire, someone is bound to get burned.

When menace becomes murder, the two detectives will race the clock against the devil to save their beloved city from becoming a raging inferno. Royce will need to draw on his grit now more than ever if he hopes to realize the dreams that are finally within reach. The rag is lit, the Molotov cocktail is tossed, and the zero hour is upon them. Challenge received and accepted.

Devil’s Hour is the second book in the Zero Hour series, which follows Locke and Key’s investigations and evolving relationship. This is a series that must be read in order. Devil’s Hour has a happy-for-now ending with no cliffhanger. It contains mature language and sexual content intended for adults 18 and older.

.•.•.**❣️ Amazon US | Amazon UK ❣️**.•.•.

Continue reading “Devil’s Hour by Aimee Nicole Walker Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!”

Devil’s Hour by Aimee Nicole Walker

Aimee Nicole Walker - Devil's Hour Cover s aqkl90laTitle: Devil’s Hour

Series: Zero Hour 02

Author: Aimee Nicole Walker

Genre: Suspense, Romance

Length: Novel (261 pages)

ISBN: 978-1948273169

Publisher: Chasing Rainbows Press LLC (16th December 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’–đź’– 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Maya

Blurb: Devil’s hour, noun: the hour when the demon or devil who leads hell is at its strongest.

Born on the wrong side of the tracks, Royce Locke is no stranger to scrapping and fighting for the things he wants. What he desires most is Sawyer Key—his partner on the force and the man he’s falling in love with. After asking Sawyer to take a chance on him, Royce will need to back up his pretty words with fearless action instead of being his own worst enemy.

Someone is harassing the mayor of Savannah, and Locke and Key are tasked with finding out who. The investigation quickly takes a twisted turn, leading them to an enemy who thinks purification by fire is the only way to save the city. Scarier than The Purists’ elusiveness is their ability to turn public opinion in their favor, creating unrest and threatening anarchy by fanning flames and fear. When you play with fire, someone is bound to get burned.

When menace becomes murder, the two detectives will race the clock against the devil to save their beloved city from becoming a raging inferno. Royce will need to draw on his grit now more than ever if he hopes to realize the dreams that are finally within reach. The rag is lit, the Molotov cocktail is tossed, and the zero hour is upon them. Challenge received and accepted.

Devil’s Hour is the second book in the Zero Hour series, which follows Locke and Key’s investigations and evolving relationship. This is a series that must be read in order. Devil’s Hour has a happy-for-now ending with no cliffhanger. It contains mature language and sexual content intended for adults 18 and older.

Trigger warning: Part of the storyline involves coming to terms with a friend’s suicide, which may be difficult for some people to read.

Purchase Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: I did a happy dance when I heard the second book is being released, since I enjoyed the first so much.

It’s as good, nerve-wracking and scorching hot as the first one but the differences made it even more engaging story.

It’s from Royce’s POV and I was surprised at how much I loved it, since honestly, in the first book Royce came off as a bit of a jerk. Now however, we get to see just how much he loves Sawyer and what is it that makes him tick. It’s obvious how much Sawyer presence in his life changed him for the better, since he is calmer and more confident. It makes him better at his job and his relationship with Sawyer moves by leaps and bounds. It’s gorgeous story!

Unlike the first one, Devil’s hour has only one case they are working on, in addition to continuing investigation in Royce’s first partner. They build the case slowly as leads are scarce on the ground, and it ends up overlapping with Royce’s investigation into partner’s suicide. The ending is a bit cliffhanger-ish in that respect, I’m itching to know what will happen next!

But as for the current case and maybe more importantly, the relationship between two men it ends in a good spot. They are solid. They were solid through the book. We already knew Sawyer was crazy for Royce, now we realize Royce is returning his feelings. The pace is excellent and the story isn’t slacking on either romantic or suspense plot. The story culminates in heart stopping end.

Sign me up for the next one!