Love Wins ~ Anthology

Anthology - Love Wins CoverTitle: Love Wins

Series: Anthology

Author: Lucie Archer, Kris T. Bethke, Deja Black, M.A. Chruch, David C. Dawson, Jana Denardo, Nicole Dennis, Ravon Silvius, L.A. Marrill, Grace R. Duncan, Xenia Melzer, Jude Dunn, Julie Lynn Hayes, Tray Ellis, Troy Storm, Alicia Nordwell, Renee Stevens

Genre: Paranormal, Holiday, Contemporary, Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy 

Length: Novel (330 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 12, 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts (Combined)

Blurb:  With time comes healing, but Orlando and the LGBT community are still recovering from last June’s tragedy. To show our ongoing support for those affected by the Orlando shooting, our authors, editors, artists, and staff have volunteered their talents to create this second benefit anthology. All proceeds will be donated to LGBT organizations in central Florida. Join us as we reaffirm that no matter the obstacle, love always wins.

ISBN:  978-1-63533-429-6

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/love-wins-7898-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I think that this was one hell of a perfect gift in my eyes.  The proceeds are going to be given to the LGBT in Florida after the tragic shooting in June. It was an amazing book and for the perfect reason.  I do admit though I just couldn’t read the ones with females in them because I don’t do girly parts at all.  However the hot men in this book made up for the girly parts in spares.  

Abstract Heart by Lucie Archer ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Nick spends nearly every lunch break at the modern art museum, hoping to catch a glimpse of docent Kris. Kris has noticed the cute guy hanging around the exhibits too but never manages to approach him. It will take a matchmaking security guard to bring these two introverts together.

Thank god for friends because if it was left up to these two they wouldn’t get past hello and you can definitely see the heat between them.  It is a very cute little story about finding that one person you want to be with.  

Cats and Christmas Trees: Trouble Waiting to Happen by M.A. Church ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

What’s a half human to do when Christmas rolls around? Kirk tries ignores it, but his shifter mates Tal and Dolf, being sneaky kitties, persist in finding out what’s troubling him so they can make it better.

This was the perfect Christmas story for my favorite shifters.  I love how this author just makes these two cats, well like cats.  When I received this anthology I had not even realized that this story had been included and let’s just say I jumped for joy.  Tal is the perfect omega and Dolf is the perfect alpha, then you add in Kirk and you have got one hell of a threesome.  

A Chance for Hope by Deja Black ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

In the aftermath of tragedy, freelance writer Brad Truscott is drawn to ease Paul Bachman’s grief. But will Paul ever be ready to take another chance on happiness?

I think that this story will hit closer to home for those who suffered from this loss the most.  It shows the heartache, but it also shows hope.  A second chance at love and the tenderness found in each other.  I enjoyed reading it.

Changing Things by Nicole Dennis ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Despite his allergies, Ryan puts up with the two rescue cats his boyfriend, Seth, adores. But when an especially severe asthma attack sends Ryan to the hospital, Seth realizes something has to give—either his relationship with Ryan or his guardianship of Fili and Kili.

This was a cute little story that was a blast to read.  I think Seth picked the right choice also, but you really need to read it because I am not telling.  I enjoyed reading it though. 

Especially in Orlando by Troy Storm ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

When bighearted mover Dalton is hired to haul away a hot young guy’s belongings after a breakup, he can’t help returning to see how the good-looking older man is dealing with the transition. George is happy to take Dalton up on his offer of solace. But then George’s ex, Peter—aka Mr. Prissy Pout—has second thoughts, and while George isn’t interested in taking him back, he and Dalton are willing to share their experience—and more.

Now this one was more sexual then actually fun to me.  I didn’t much care for it but then that is me.  I hate to admit that I basically skimmed over the story and read parts of it.  Which for me was a bad thing because it just gave me an eye of what was going on.  

Free to Love by Kris T. Bethke ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Henry is tired of hiding their relationship, but Shane is afraid to risk losing his job and his parents by coming out as gay. When his worst fears prove true, Shane finds that life outside his parents’ repressive control is so much better than anything he could have imagined.

Parents can be just as cruel as a stranger it would seem.  I felt bad for Shane but the end result rocks.  I enjoyed reading this story and will definitely be checking for these guys to have a longer story in the future, with more juicy details.

Happily Ever After, After All by L.A. Merrill ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Once upon a time, Princess Aubergine dreamed of a fairy-tale wedding to the girl of her dreams. Things haven’t exactly worked out that way. Locked in a tower for ten years, Aubergine managed to scare off all the princes coming to rescue her. Now it’s up to her to do the rescuing—until a band of students from the local Ladies’ Academy happen upon her tower and devise a daring escape plan.

Now the story is a fantastic story, however I hate female characters so the story didn’t do anything for me.  I hate to admit that I just skimmed it and didn’t really read it.  When I received it I was told it was m/m or m/m/m romance so to my shock this came up and well you can guess.  

The Importance of Pride by Ravon Silvius ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

College history professor Patrick Levine is looking for a subject for a research proposal when he discovers his granduncle’s journal. To his shock, not only was Uncle Marty gay, but he’d been at the Stonewall riot in 1969. Will learning more about his uncle’s history help Patrick face his own fears about coming out?

I just can’t imagine what his uncle went through to get where we are now.  It is still a fight for the LGBT to be considered equal and I fear what the future will be like.  This is a very sweet story of a young man who is not out but finds out that his uncle was a true believer.  I don’t know if I said any of this right, but I will tell you that this was an inspiring story.

The Insomniac Sommelier by Julie Lynn Hayes ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Kirk Westmoreland dreams of owning his own restaurant someday, but for now he fights insomnia while working at family-owned Venezia with his control-freak older brother. After work he tries to de-stress at Sweeties, a small diner run by his sister and her wife. When Kirk meets the diner’s new server, Ashley, he ends up going home with him—to the best sleep he’s had in forever. If he can’t keep his life at Sweeties compartmentalized from his life at Venezia, Kirk will have to decide which one he’s willing to give up.

I definitely can understand insomnia.  This is a really cute little story if not a bit off, but was still a fun little story.  I just felt like it wasn’t for me though, because there was just something missing but I couldn’t figure it out.  Other than my issues, this is a cute story.

Looking for George by David C. Dawson ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Betty’s innocent crush on actor George Clooney became something more when he saved her from a fall at the hotel she works at in London. When she discovers her Italian holiday trip will take her only a few miles from the actor’s summer villa… well, surely fate means for them to meet again.

Now the story is a fantastic story, however I hate female characters so the story didn’t do anything for me.  I hate to admit that I just skimmed it and didn’t really read it.  When I received it I was told it was m/m or m/m/m romance so to my shock this came up and well you can guess.  

Love Over Lotto by Jude Dunn ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Craig Batson and Tom Rendelle have plenty of joy together but not so much money. Determined to improve their finances, Craig borrows a library book on the secrets of winning the lottery and empties their rainy-day fund to buy dozens of lottery tickets. Tom explodes when he finds out, leaving Craig to wonder if their love can survive.

This is a very cute story however it is a bit blown out.  I got a headache within the first few minutes afterwards.  As for the characters, they just seem a bit off to me.  Tom, who works blows at almost everything and then there is Craig who stays home and paints.  They don’t really have that much going for them until the lotto.  Other than those issues it is still a cute story but not really my idea of fun.

More Than His Scars by Jana Denardo ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Facing the anniversary of the day he lost his arm while serving in the Middle East, Aaron is understandably depressed. It’s up to his lover, Rhys, to plan a special day to help Aaron see how amazing he really is.

This story has many different aspects to it, if that is the word for it.  On one sense it has the paranormal or fantasy seeing as Rhys and his children are not human.  Then you have Aaron who is not only human but was military until his arm was taken in the war.  It is a sad story with a happy tilt toit.  I am afraid that no matter how good it was, it just wasn’t for me.

Overcoming Fear by Grace R. Duncan ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

In the year since a global pandemic ravaged their world, Duncan has done everything he can to ease Mark’s fears of losing him. When a minister and his wife seek out Mark for help, Duncan sees an opportunity to show Mark another level of commitment—if Mark will dare to take it.

One is afraid of losing another person in his life, the other wants forever.  I liked this story quite a bit, no to Christmas themed but it was a lot of fun to read.  I get a kick out zombies, apocalypse and pandemic stories.  This was a lot of fun and look forward to reading a bit more from this author.

Prevailing Zzz’s by Tray Ellis ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

After eight months together, Greg wants Win to move in with him. But how can Win agree when Greg’s snoring leaves him sleep-deprived and miserable?

Let’s just say that if I had left it up to the blurb for this particular book I would have just went on past.  I believe if you love someone deep enough, then their snoring is no big thing.  It is a fun little book if not a bit quirky to me.  

Pushing Back Oblivion by Alicia Nordwell ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Fighting a rapidly growing brain tumor, Cohen promises his partner, Jaime, that he’ll never give up. Through surgeries and setbacks, at times that promise and Jaime’s voice are all Cohen has to cling to.

Now this one was just a tease.  It is a sweet story but way too short to get any more than a hint of what is going to happen.  It went from one time, then to another, then two months after the fact that it left a good portion of the story out.  Other than that it was cute.

Reluctant Valentine by Xenia Melzer ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

A best-selling thriller novelist, Dean writes romances as a relaxing hobby. But when writer’s block strikes, sexy handyman Morgan shows up to provide all the inspiration he needs.

The first thing I have to say is I could have done without the first few lines in this story.  Even if he is the author and it was just about his book, it was well gross.  I hate anything female in my story and almost just put it down to skimming this book.  Other than that we have an author who needs some inspiration and it comes to him in a sexy man.  It is a very cute love story about finding first love.  I enjoyed it quite a bit.

Taking a Chance by Renee Stevens  ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Gabe and Toby work for the same company, Gabe in the US and Toby in London. After meeting at a convention, they spend nearly every moment of their time together, but when they both have to return home, their only option is to attempt a long-distance relationship.

This was just a teaser.  Moving away from home to be with the man you love and then that is it.  It is a cute little story but I sure do wish the author might make it a longer story later.  I would love to see how these two do in the future.  

Overall
Overall some of the stories rocked, some were just stories and then of course the girly parts but the basis for the book still stands.  This is to help the LGBT community and for that we need to pick up those books and start reading.  Or maybe I should say we need to start buying these stories.  I enjoyed reading them and was glad to have a extra from one of my favorite paranormal love stories mixed in.  I would definitely recommend it.

Love Wins ~ Anthology & Guest Post by Ravon Silvius!

ANTHOLOGY - LOVE WINS Banner

Hi guys, we have the charity anthology Love Wins and one of it’s authors (Ravon Silvius) popping in today to let you know a little about the anthology before it’s release next week. Ravon Silvius explains a little about his story so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Anthology - Love Wins Cover

Love Wins

by

Lucie Archer, Kris T. Bethke, Deja Black, M.A. Church, David C. Dawson, Jana Denardo, Nicole Dennis, Ravon Silvius, L.A. Merrill, Grace R. Duncan, Xenia Melzer, Jude Dunn, Julie Lynn Hayes, Tray Ellis, Troy Storm, Alicia Nordwell, Renee Stevens

With time comes healing, but Orlando and the LGBT community are still recovering from last June’s tragedy. To show our ongoing support for those affected by the Orlando shooting, our authors, editors, artists, and staff have volunteered their talents to create this second benefit anthology. All proceeds will be donated to LGBT organizations in central Florida. Join us as we reaffirm that no matter the obstacle, love always wins.

Full list of stories below.

Release date: 12th December 2016
Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press

Continue reading “Love Wins ~ Anthology & Guest Post by Ravon Silvius!”

Treasure Trail by Nicole Dennis

Nicole Dennis - Treasure Trail Cover sTitle: Treasure Trail

Series: States of Love 01: Florida

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short (71pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-63477-588-5

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (24th August 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Owner of Matey’s Tavern, a popular brewpub-tavern in St. Augustine, Florida, Derick Keyes loves his adopted hometown and job. He also harbors a crush on a pirate captain. 

Tour guide for the popular Pirate Pub Walking Tour, Christopher Easton portrays a pirate captain as he takes visitors on a guided tour of St. Augustine, stopping at certain taverns for a pint of grog and tales of the golden age of piracy. With a little liquid courage, Chris breaks the cycle when he talks to Derick. Things change between them. Derick wants a chance for more with Chris. 

During the Annual Pirate Festival, Derick creates a treasure hunt for Chris after “cursing” him. To break the curse, Chris must find four clues before the final battle on Sunday night. Only then can the curse be broken.

States of Love: Stories of romance that span every corner of the United States.

Purchase Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/treasure-trail-by-nicole-dennis-7375-b

Review: Derick loves owning a pub in St. Augustine but sometimes finds the crowds overwhelming, the one time he can be found at the bar is when the pirate tour is passing through because he has a crush on his favorite pirate captain. Chris is a tour guide on the Pirate Pub Walking Tour and he’s secretly admired the owner of Matey’s Tavern for a couple of years but has never had the courage to approach him, until he has a little liquid courage one night.

This is a really cute story that is fun and sweet. Derick has social anxiety and Chris finds it hard talking to people one on one, they’ve both liked the other man for years but neither man has had the courage to approach the other man. Chris liquors up so he can finally talk to Derick, and it’s the beginning of a sweet, hot courtship.

Both Derick and Chris are great characters, we get to know a little about each of them and we learn that both Derick and Chris have a lot in common. Derick surprises us with his curse on Chris, and it’s fun watching both men come together as Chris hunts for clues.

I enjoyed this story and loved the way that Derick and Chris’ courtship played out, it was fun and at times hot and it was great to see them getting to know each other in the limited time they had together. Their attraction to each other is explosive but gentle at the same time, you can see that they will have a passionate relationship that is also built on more than just sex.

I recommend this story to those who love fun light stories, great characters, sexy men, overcoming your anxieties and sweet happy endings.

Treasure Trail by Nicole Dennis Guest Post & Excerpt!

Nicole Dennis - Treasure Trail FBbanner_DSP

Hi guys, we have Nicole Dennis stopping by today with her upcoming release Treasure Trail, we have a brilliant guest post where Nicole chats about her characters and we have a great excerpt. So check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Nicole Dennis - Treasure Trail Cover s

Treasure Trail

(States of Love 01: Florida)
by

Nicole Dennis

Owner of Matey’s Tavern, a popular brewpub-tavern in St. Augustine, Florida, Derick Keyes loves his adopted hometown and job. He also harbors a crush on a pirate captain.

Tour guide for the popular Pirate Pub Walking Tour, Christopher Easton portrays a pirate captain as he takes visitors on a guided tour of St. Augustine, stopping at certain taverns for a pint of grog and tales of the golden age of piracy. With a little liquid courage, Chris breaks the endless looping dance and talks to Derick. Things change between them. Derick wants a chance for more with Chris.

During the Annual Pirate Festival, Derick creates a treasure hunt for Chris after “cursing” him. To break the curse, Chris must find four clues before the final battle on Sunday night. Only then can the curse be broken.

States of Love: Stories of Romance that span every corner of the United States. (Written by various authors)

Release date: 24th August 2016

Continue reading “Treasure Trail by Nicole Dennis Guest Post & Excerpt!”

Xavier & Devin by Nicole Dennis

81bGgYcnTvL._SL1425_Title: Xavier & Devin
Series: Storming Love: Earthquake 05
Author: Nicole Dennis
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (86 pages)
Publisher: MLR Press (July 30th, 2015)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Blurb: Tremors are a part of everyday life in big Alaska.

Bush pilot, Xavier Markovic, goes with nature’s flow and loves it. He guides guests through Denali National Park to show off his beloved state. Until health issues arise for his mentor, Daniel Chevalier, and Xavier flies him to the hospital.

An almost fatal tumble down a mountain ends Devin Chevalier’s professional mountain biking career and brings him to a crossroads. Learning his grandfather is ill, he makes a rash decision. Uprooting his life for a chance to meet Daniel, he crosses paths with a brash Alaskan.

Alaska throws them another surprise in the form of a huge earthquake. Differences put aside while they struggle to survive.

ISBN: MLR-1-02015-0434

Product Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=SLS4__ND

Reviewer: Cat

Review: Xavier isn’t sure of Devon’s motives at first of why out of the blue he wants to see his grandfather after all these years until he is sick and in the hospital. Devon has to convince Xavier he only wants a chance to know the grandfather his family has kept him from.

Devon is a thrill seeker and was a mountain bike champion until a nasty accident hurt his knee and stopped him from riding in competitions. He thinks he is qualified to help with his Grandfather’s company in mountain bike tours.

I really liked this story a lot. It is pretty much a fast paced story and is insta love or at least insta attraction between Devon and Xavier but it is good. I liked the blend of the romance, Xavier’s past romance, Devon’s grandfather’s illness and the earthquake.

If you like natural disasters, instant attraction, beautiful scenery, earthquakes and a sexy romance this is definitely for you.

banner_storming_love_earthquake

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

Storming Love: Earthquake Blog Tour, Excerpts, Review & Giveaway!

MLR Press - Storming Love, Earthquake 960x350

Hiya guys, we have MLR Press and six of their brilliant authors stopping by today with the great series Storming Love: Earthquake. We have great excerpts, a fantastic giveaway and Cat’s reviews for a couple of the stories. So enjoy the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

MLR Press - Storming Love, Earthquake 01 Cover - Ann

Gabriel & Avery

by

Ann Anderson

Loneliness has been Gabriel’s companion for since his parents’ passing, growing with each sibling that leaves home to start their own life. When a big earthquake hits Alaska, Gabriel finds himself taking in Avery, his two daughters, and their grandmother and relishes not being so alone. Yet, Gabriel feels a spark of recognition he can’t explain about Avery, but more than that, he likes the company and wishes he could have a deeper relationship with the man. But when the small family has their new home, what could make Avery want to stay?

MLR Press

MLR Press - Storming Love, Earthquake 02 Cover - Megan

Derek and Hayden

by

Megan Linden

Derek Warden is certain his boss sent him to cover the conference in the middle of nowhere, Alaska, to punish him for something. After an unpleasant phone call from his father who tries to stop him from going, Derek is ready for the whole thing to be over before it even begins.

Hayden Shaw has been looking forward to this conference for months. The problem of fracking is very dear to his heart and he couldn’t wait to spend the long weekend with like-minded people.

Neither of them expected the big earthquake, but most importantly – they didn’t expect each other. Meeting again after over a decade may result in something even more surprising that the ground trembling under their feet.

MLR Press

MLR Press - Storming Love, Earthquake 03 Cover - Diana

Rhody & Brendan

by

Diana DeRicci

Rhody Witte is on his way to Alaska for two weeks of fishing and not much else. Mountains, clean air, and all the bait he can waste. What he gets is the largest earthquake to rock the Alaskan wilds in sixty-plus years.

Brendan Skorvarski isn’t the kind of man Rhody usually finds himself attracted to, much less want to know, but there’s something in the gentle giant that Rhody can’t seem to resist.

When they’re locked up in a cabin together for days in the Alaskan wilderness, resistance seems futile when survival takes precedence. Especially their survival when Rhody sees a bear outside their window.

MLR Press

MLR Press - Storming Love, Earthquake 04 Cover - Caraway

Anders & Ujaruk

by

Caraway Carter

Geologist Anders Thorpe has sworn off relationships with colleagues, after his last one ended in a dirty little game of sabotage. Six months later and he’s preparing to camp and investigate a gold mine that might still be active. He’s joined by Ujaruk an archaeologist who fights an inner battle with the fact that he’s a native Aleut, and wondering if he’ll ever find the perfect man.

Will Anders break his vow? Will Ujaruk find the right guy? Will they survive whatever is thrown their way? 

MLR Press

MLR Press - Storming Love, Earthquake 05 Cover - Nicole

Xavier & Devin

by

Nicole Dennis

Tremors are a part of everyday life in big Alaska.

Bush pilot, Xavier Markovic, goes with nature’s flow and loves it. He guides guests through Denali National Park to show off his beloved state. Until health issues arise for his mentor, Daniel Chevalier, and Xavier flies him to the hospital.

An almost fatal tumble down a mountain ends Devin Chevalier’s professional mountain biking career and brings him to a crossroads. Learning his grandfather is ill, he makes a rash decision. Uprooting his life for a chance to meet Daniel, he crosses paths with a brash Alaskan.

Alaska throws them another surprise in the form of a huge earthquake. Differences put aside while they struggle to survive.

MLR Press

MLR Press - Storming Love, Earthquake 06 Cover - Anna

Asher and Emmett

by

Anna Lee

Celebrating their fifth anniversary, Asher and Emmett are on a romantic getaway in a cabin in Alaska. They have plans to adopt when they return home. But their paradise is destroyed when a huge earthquakes hits. Being a firefighter and a paramedic, both men put themselves at risk to save others when the tragedy strikes. Will they be able to make it home to start a family? 

MLR Press

Storming Love: Earthquake series link

Continue reading “Storming Love: Earthquake Blog Tour, Excerpts, Review & Giveaway!”

Storming Love: Blizzard, MLR Press Excerpt & Giveaway!

MLR Press Storming Love Blizzard 750x750 Template

Hi guys, today we have joined by MRL Press as they show off their newest series Storming Love: Blizzard, there’s six books in the series from six great authors and I’ve nicked an excerpt from MLR Press for one of the books *shhh don’t tell MLR Press* so check out the post and then click the Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

Storming Love Blizzard

 Storming Love: Blizzard

 by

Sara York, Neil Placky, R.J. Scott, Vicktor Alexander, Nicole Dennis, Jackie Nacht

Storming Love S2_Jens_and_ElliotStorming Love: Blizzard – Jens & Elliot by Sara York (release date: 1/23/15)

Jens Arnesen is only looking for a taste of the city, a place to experience Boston. What he finds is a sexy naked man who ends up being more than he bargained for. Elliot Matthews needs a place to stay until the storm blows over and the airports open. Being walked in on by Jens starts out as an annoyance but grows into the best thing in his life. When the skies clear and the airports open, they have no choice but to part. If only they lived closer to each other then life would be perfect.

When the storm throws them together, can Jens and Elliot make the most of the situation?

http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=SLS2_SY1

Storming Love S2_Kimo_and_MikeStorming Love: Blizzard – Kimo & Mike by Neil Plakcy (release date: 1/30/15)

Former competitive surfer and Honolulu homicide detective Kimo Kanapa’aka is in his element in his home state of Hawaii. But a ski trip with his partner, fire investigator Mike Riccardi, knocks him off balance. As a bitter storm rages outside the condo where they’re staying, one of Mike’s college buddies is feuding with his wife and the other is making sexy overtures to Kimo. Will these tensions ruin the vacation and perhaps even drive a wedge between Kimo and Mike?

http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=SLS2_NP2

Storming Love S2_Seth_and_CaseyStorming Love: Blizzard – Seth & Casey by RJ Scott (release date: 2/6/15)

The blizzard of the century has stranded teacher Casey McGuire and pupils at a country retreat. As a last resort and fearing for their lives he calls his ex, fireman Seth Wild. The same man who promised that he would always be there for Casey.

Seth is on sick leave after a terrible accident leaves him near dead. He’s wallowing in self pity and he’s already driven away the only man who cared about him. Casey. When he receives the call, he is the only person left to help and nothing will stop him.

Because if Seth can’t help, then very possibly Casey and the kids won’t make it out of this alive.

http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=SLS2RJS3

Storming Love S2_Layne_River_and_DamionStorming Love: Blizzard – Layne, River & Damion by Vicktor Alexander (release date: 2/13/15)

It has taken Damion Martin six months to finally start to get over the startling break-up from his partner Layne Haylse. They’d been high school sweethearts and blissfully in love. Then the man suddenly wanted nothing to do with him. Having to work with him at Yale University almost every day made the separation that much harder. Meeting the young marketing major, River Cunningham, may just be the ticket to helping Damion heal.

But they say that to every story there’s two sides, and the truth lies somewhere in the middle. When a harrowing blizzard crashes through Connecticut, trapping all three men inside the campus library, they will soon find that sometimes things aren’t as black and white as they seem. When the truth is revealed, it may change their lives forever.

(release date: 2/13/15)

Storming Love S2_Morgan_and_GavinStorming Love: Blizzard – Gavin & Morgan by Nicole Dennis (release date: 2/20/15)

Drained from forecasting both hurricanes and twisters, Gavin Larson, a meteorologist, accepts a request to become the head forecaster for a Philadelphia television station. He goes for a trial time during winter. A calm, quiet winter where he can recharge. Until he discovers a series of potential events ready to clash.

Taking over his family’s position, Morgan Rylee Whittaker III feels the pressure to follow their lofty attitude, he can’t stay hidden in the executive suites. He jumps into the chaos. Bumping into the meteorologist, Morgan feels a thump of arousal, but listens when Gavin locates a dangerous blizzard heading up the coast.

Together, they protect and prepare Philadelphia from the incoming nor’easter. They dance around the steady beat of attraction brewing between them as the storm rages.

(release date: 2/20/15)

Storming Love S2_Stokes_and_FordStorming Love: Blizzard – Stokes & Ford by Jackie Nacht (release date: 2/27/15)

Ford and Stokes are about to weather two storms; the blizzard coming their way and their growing feelings for one another.

Stokes has been rooming with Ford ever since the first day of college. Although his feelings had started out as friendly, over time, they have grown deeper. He’s fallen for Ford, hard, but how the hell is Stokes going to tell Ford? When college winter break approaches, Stokes decides to take Ford up to his parent’s rental to have a fun weekend  with Ford and finally let his best friend know what he feels. However, with a blizzard coming in, they will have to weather the storm outside and in their hearts. 

(release date: 2/27/15)

Continue reading “Storming Love: Blizzard, MLR Press Excerpt & Giveaway!”

When in Bloom by Nicole Dennis

wheninbloom_exlarge_PNG-210x336Title: When in Bloom

Series: Southern Charm 04

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (52K)

ISBN: 9781784304249

Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing (February 20th, 2015) Available for early download January 23rd 2015

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Could the personal challenges of a former Army doctor and a brilliant florist get in the way of a chance at life and love?

Fighting Type One diabetes since childhood, Jude Sebastian runs to prove he can live a normal life, until epileptic seizures begin to change his life. Even with Dawson, his Medical Alert Golden Labrador, at his side Jude finds daily life difficult. He owns the floral shop, Flowers in the Breeze, and designs everything from simple bouquets to elaborate themes for weddings and celebrations.

At the Shore Breeze Clinic, Jude comes across a man clearly suffering with a PTSD episode. A new arrival in the small town, Doctor Elliott Sheffield, a retired Army Ranger doctor is looking for a second chance after what he saw in the Middle Eastern deserts.

Wanting a normal relationship, Jude tries to deny his disorders, but something is happening. He can’t regulate his sugars and his disorder worsens. When he returns to the clinic, Dawson alerts him to an oncoming seizure.

Will the personal issues and challenges of both men get in the way of a chance at love?

Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes referencing PTSD, seizures and diabetes.

Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/when-in-bloom

Review: This is book 4 of the southern Charm series but stands alone just fine.

When in bloom is a beautiful romance between two men with handicaps. I loved both of these men and their fight to have a normal life and love. Jude owns the flower shop in town and has type one diabetes and seizures. He is a sweet man and very careful to monitor his health. He meets Elliott when I he is at the clinic to try to see why he is having more problems after getting an insulin pump. Elliott is coming for an interview and is caught in a storm that triggers his PTSD Jude recognizes the symptoms and he and his alert dog comfort Elliott and get him through it.

I loved that this story wasn’t about two perfect men. They both have their issues and still can find love though it is such a challenge. There are a couple twists and a really sad part with one of Elliott’s patients dying of aids. I cried my eyes out. There are lots of sweet yet emotional moments in this book and some fun, sweet and sexy ones as well. I loved getting another peek at Malcomb, too.

My only real issue is it brings up some of the unsolved mysteries from the other books, and there is another mystery connecting the others, that was mentioned then dropped. I am hoping it will all come out in the final book and I hope that’s not too soon, since I love this series.

If you like sweet romance, broken me, handicaps, cute cats and dogs, and some sexy sensual man-sex this is for you!

Walk Me Down the Middle by Nicole Dennis

71s-iIyhNSL._SL1425_Title: Walk Me Down the Middle

Series: N A

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (78 pages)

ISBN: MLR-1-02014-0339

Publisher: MLR Press, LLC (November 27th, 2014)

Heat Level: Low to Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Growing up in small town Montana, two cowboys defy the odds to find music and love.

Sage Wallstatt loves music, horses, and his family. He dreams of playing the guitar with a country-rock band. Meeting his best friend at age seven, they became inseparable. Sage’s feelings change when he never looks at girls, only Kaden. One magical night alters their paths. Two years later, as Sage scrambles to pull his life together, he has to decide to follow his dreams or stay on the ranch. Should he defy all to walk hand-in-hand with his chosen partner?

Kaden Carmody grew up with the best and the worst until he meets his best friend, Sage on a school playground. He finds solace with Sage and their cave hideout. One night changes everything until reality yanks them apart. Breaking free, Kaden returns to figure out the truth of his feelings for Sage, defy his father, and understand the gay man hiding inside.

Purchase Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=ND_WMDTM

Review: Sage is trying to start a career as a country singer and circumstance befall where he also has to save his family’s ranch. If that’s not bad enough, His best friend and the man he loves that had left his life two yours before after confessing his feelings shows back up,

Kaden has gone through a lot as a boy and was forced to go to a private school. Finally deciding to man up when he turned 18 he left the school and came back to try to see if he still had a chance with Sage.

This story has a lot going on. You have a country band, ranchers, family drama, an evil father and a romance. This isn’t a bad thing but in only 78 pages, I felt it was just too much. It was like two stories in one and like I said not enough pages. In the beginning, we started with the boys at around 15 or 16 finding themselves then bam, its two years later without a warning. A lot had happened in that time span. We only got to hear about in a bit of conversation drops. I think this would have worked in a full-length novel so we could have seen this happen or in two stories.

I also wondered how Sage was doing all this travelling at 15 or 16 for his band when there should be school, and he was in a group of boys his age and they were all travelling what seemed to be alone at the beginning of the book. Now having said that, I really liked both Sage and Kaden and the story was a good one. I loved that Kaden never gave up on his dream to be with Sage and finally turned against his father to do so.

If you like, a fast-moving story with a lot of dialogue, ranchers, country music singers, childhood romance, a sweet loving romance with a lot of twists and turns this is for you.

Minstrel's Solstice by Nicole Dennis

Minstrel'sSolsticeLGTitle: Minstrel’s Solstice

Series: Celebrate! 2014 Advent Calendar

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Holiday/European High Fantasy

Length: Short (29 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-63216-745-3

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: A wasting plague swept over the Four Quadrants, changing how folks view the traveling guilds. Most travelers now make permanent contracts and settle in villages instead of continuing on the road. Needing to alter his lifestyle, Kerryll MacGhylle rides deep into the Northern Quadrant in search of a place to belong.

The Northern Duke, Cullan Gryffyn D’Antuono, accepts the contract of the frozen minstrel arriving during a powerful ice blizzard. He nurses Kerryll through the ravages of the sickness. Though they live at opposite ends of society, they have more in common than they realize.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5841

5 of hearts logo red on black smallReview: Kerryll is a traveling minstrel hoping to find a contract for the winter solstice and hoping he can find a permanent home as well. He has been kicked out of many towns since the townspeople don’t trust travelers after a big virus outbreak. Freezing and scared he finally makes it to The D’Antuono castle barely alive. Duke Gryff accepts his contract for the Winter Solstice.

I absolutely loved this story. It was beautiful and heartfelt. I could have read more of this for hours. I loved the duke and his people as well. I loved Kerryll too. The setting is described beautifully, I felt as if I went back in time to the castles with Kerryll and Gryff.

I had one small thing issue and that was a few words I never could figure the meaning, however it wasn’t enough to take away form the story.

If you like, Knights, Dukes, traveling minstrels and a sweet romance this is definitely for you.

Unexpected Spirits by Nicole Dennis

81zVamkdJ1L._SL1425_Title: Unexpected Spirits
Series: Scare This!, #5
Author: Nicole Dennis
Genre: Paranormal
Length: Short (43 pages)
Publisher: MLR Press (October 31st, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Can ex-lovers find their way back to one another while Samhain allows a desperate person to do about anything to connect?

A reluctant medium turned writer, Dmitri Terron, hates Samhain and the spirits invading his life. He follows the Druid path, creating wards and barriers to keep out the ghosts. Even with the barriers in place, an unexpected spirit enters his home. It’s his ex-boyfriend, Zackary Kendrick, who is scared and relieved to find Dmitri.

Needing to learn what happened, Dmitri pushes past his personal barriers to help. Zack’s physical body rests in a coma. A piece of Zack’s soul needs to reunite with his body or all is lost.

ISBN: MLR-1-02014-0320

Product Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=NDUNXSPT

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Another story from the Scare This! collection, this is another standalone book. I’m going to have to admit, the blurb left me both confused and intrigued. After reading Red Lettering in this series directly before, I was left wondering if I am reading about a dead ex-boyfriend playing matchmaker. The truth of the matter is it’s actually more complicated than that.

Immediately, though worldly Dmitri seems so innocent as well, perhaps because he has a severe agoraphobia because of the spirits that haunt him. He’s been using druidic techniques to protect himself. However, that doesn’t stop the strong “spirit” of Dmitri’s ex, Zack, to come through. The twist here is that from the outset they need to figure out exactly what happened to Zack to know if he is dead or alive.

I was often not sure what to think of Zack, mostly because I couldn’t decide if he was a dick or if he was just misunderstood. Or, if he was just too dense when he had been in a relationship with Dmitri. Truthfully, the reason that Dmitri and Zack broke up ten years earlier, and the effect it had on Zack really did hit me emotionally and I was upset for Dmitri. In the end, I love both Dmitri and Zack.

I find it hard to write down what I think about this story. The character stories really got to me, particularly Dmitri’s when he thinks of his past with Zack and how they broke up. My heart also breaks for him in the beginning when we are shown his agoraphobia. This story is good, enjoyable and emotional. I love the mysticism and magic.

For anyone wanting a good horror/paranormal/Halloween story, I recommend this one. That is probably all I can say without going into too many details.

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

On the Green by Nicole Dennis

917iMMeD-iL._SL1500_Title: On the Green

Series: Southern Charms, #3

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Gay Contemporary

Length: Novel (193 pages)

ISBN: 9781784301866

Publisher: Totally Bound (September 9th 2014)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Can a flashy sous chef and a hard-working landscaper go beyond their pasts and find one another?

Homeless as a teen, Malcolm Bissette has found a new life at the Southern Charm. Flamboyant, he often changes his hair color on a whim. At sixteen, he crushed hard on the landscaper Reece Simpson.

Now all grown up, Malcolm still has a crush on Reece, but there appears to be no reciprocation from him. Malcolm watches him at work every day from the kitchen, but lets the crush disappear. He vows to forget the man—that is, until Reece changes the entire game.

Waiting for years to get his hands on the vast overgrowth around the Charm, Reece Simpson dives into the project with enthusiasm. Preferring plants to people, he sticks to just brief moments with men. There is one man he would consider staying beyond a moment with, though—the flashy, colorful sous chef at the Southern Delights. Realising his feelings, Reece is knocked off his feet by a wave of emotions. Is he in time to catch this flirty chef?

What would it be like to have Mal in bed? Would it make the summer afternoons even steamier? Is there a chance for love for both of them? Could they entertain the idea of a life together like their friends?
Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/on-the-green

Review: This is book three in the Southern Charm series. You do need to read these in order. You can find them all here https://www.totallybound.com/series/southern-charm.

On the Green Picks up with Reese. He owns a busy landscaping business. He has been dying to get hold of working the Charm and would also like to get his hands on the sexy sous chef Malcolm. He always thought he was cute but too young. Now he is a very sexy, flamboyant young man who likes colorful hair.

Malcolm was thrown out when he came out and Dakota had found him at 16, gave him a job as dishwasher and helped him rise to head sous chef. He has crushed on Reese since he first met him but Reese doesn’t seem to know he exists.

I hate to say this but I didn’t like this one near as much as the other two. It seemed a bit unconnected at times. I didn’t see where the first couple of chapters even fit in with Reese on a job elsewhere. Also, there were some places where we got scenes that had happened in other books instead of referencing back almost as if this book was in-between each of the others instead of following. So though I said this series should be read in-order you may actually enjoy reading this one on its own more. LA so the ongoing issues form the last two books ever got brought up and reconciled still.

Having said that, I do love Malcolm. Love him in all the books. He is bright and colorful (literally) I adored the reference to his hair and mood changes. I also love the energetic Dorian and cannot wait to see his story.

If you like ongoing series, charming southern towns, landscaping, cooking and some fairly hot mansex this is for you

Rules of the Chef by Nicole Dennis

81JjaWs+MpL._SL1500_Title: Rules of the Chef

Series: Southern Charm 01

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: contemporary

Length: Novel (211 pages)

ISBN: 9780857156792

Publisher: Totally Bound (March 21st 2014)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: When hotelier Samuel Ashford arrives to change things, Southern Charm chef Dakota Mitchell fights against it and nothing will be the same.

Learning about the sale of his beloved home – The Southern Charm, chef and co-owner Dakota Mitchell is having a hard time with the potential changes. He wants nothing else to alter.

Chosen by his family’s company Ashford Hotels to re-create the Charm into the latest chain of boutique hotels, Samuel Ashford enters the Deep South. Inside the overgrown, run down appearance, he learns the Charm is run by people who care and love the building, the delicious food, and their guests.

Can these two put aside differences and arguments to save the Charm? Even if it means they find a little love along the way.

Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/rules-of-the-chef

Review: Southern Charms is a quaint little bed and breakfast sitting on the gulf coast. Business has taken a major hit from the hurricanes and the oil spill. Though the spill is clean, tourists still haven’t begun the trek back to the out-of-the-way and quaint resort. The only thing keeping it alive is the restaurant that is part of the hotel.

Dakota is the chef and co-owner of Southern Charms. Charms is his life and home and he is very unhappy with the sale of the hotel half by his best friend Edward. When the new co-owner and business partner comes in, Dakota is not very accepting or helpful at all.

Samuel Ashford is sent to see if the business is worth saving and able to be the first of his Mother’s new adventures in adding smaller boutique hotels to their chain. This is his first real solo venture and he really wants to impress his father, who really thinks it’s best to let it go and shut it down.

This is the first book in the series and wow what a setup. We are introduced to numerous, fabulous potential bearing characters, a beautiful, charming setting, and plots galore. There is lots of action in this first story, a little mystery and some steaming hot man-sex. I was so into the book, the sudden ending surprised me. Good thing I already have the next! You won’t want to put it down once you start.

I will say I would have labelled this as a serial instead of series since there was a point not quite resolved. Having said this I figure it will be resolved eventually and it does help make you want to go forward. I personally would have liked this one point settled in this particular story though. Having said that, it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of the book.

I love the chemistry between Samuel and Dakota. It’s not a love at first sight story. I can’t wait to see all the other characters find love.

If you like intriguing series, sexy characters, chefs, businessmen, romance, conflict, a bit of mystery, and some really steamy man-sex this is definitely for you!

By the Numbers by Nicole Dennis

8109GvJEiHL._SL1500_Title: By The Numbers

Series: Southern Charm 02

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (219 pages)

ISBN: 9781784300319

Publisher: Totally Bound (May 29th, 2014)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Can a scruffy carpenter and a neurotic accountant find middle ground?

With permission to begin construction and repairs on the Southern Charm, Sullivan ‘Sully’ Tarleton can’t wait to start bringing the old hotel back to new life. He and his crew jump on the teardown until he overhears his friends talking about picking up the accountant at the airport. Volunteering since he needs to head that way, he doesn’t know the changes this accountant will bring to his life.

Suffering from severe OCD and additional issues after growing up with a hoarder parent, Chandler Braddock prefers to keep his surroundings neat, perfect, organized, and minimal. A reason he enjoys working with numbers. They always balance out, match up to others, and are able to be tracked. Often refusing to leave his New York office, he gives in when his best friend, Samuel, requests his presence in Florida. But what will happen when he’s met by a sexy, but very messy carpenter? And will he be able to give up his orderly life for such a man?

Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/by-the-numbers

Review: This is the Second Book in the Southern Charms Series. I think in order to really understand it you need to read them in order. There are a couple small ongoing storylines and the major storyline of the renovation really does connect the series, plus if you don’t read the first one you won’t know too much about the other characters.

In By the Numbers, Chandler has agreed to come to help Samuel organize the mess of files and help figure out what the big financial issues are, especially why the restaurant is in the red when it’s always a sell-out. Chandler has extreme OCD, claustrophobia, germophobia, asthma, anxiety, panic attacks, you name the neurosis the poor man probably has it. Though he knows it will be physically and emotionally draining on him, he does it for Samuel. He is a great friend, though I was a little miffed at how Samuel wasn’t quite as accommodating and considerate to Chandler since Chandler was really doing such a big thing flying there, accepting a ride from a stranger, not having a kitchen to prepare his own food etc. This was a major step for Chandler and I adored him for it.

What isn’t there to like about Sully. A big, sexy construction worker with a heart of gold, considerate, thoughtful loving, sexy as hell. Oh yeah, he is my kind of man. Where can I get a Sully? I loved how he caught onto Chandlers issues so quickly and was so kind and considerate to help him.

The ongoing storyline is still good though, I was hoping some things from the last one would be addressed and tied up in this one. I do like the ongoing renovation and can’t wait to see the outcome of the beautiful Southern Charm. To me she is a character as much as the people are.

I really, really liked this lot. I absolutely loved Chandler. I swooned over Sully and I actually loved his campy gay t-shirts. My only real issue is that once again there was a smaller plot that to me wasn’t ever addressed. I can’t say much more about that without spoilers. I truly love this series and can’t wait to see what happens with Reece in the next one and how the Southern Charm is progressing!

If you like ongoing series, beautiful locations, lots of sexy unique men, OCD, campy t-shirts, construction workers, a fun, sweet contemporary romance with lots of characters and the hottest hand-jobs I’ve read in a long time, plus some sweet sensual man-sex, this is definitely for you. Oh! Don’t forget the yummy food!

Stupid Cupid by Nicole Dennis

1419355Title: Stupid Cupid

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short (13K)

ISBN: MLR-1-02014-0208

Publisher: MLR Press (February 14th, 2014)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Eric

Blurb: A man who hates Valentine’s Day gets a surprise smack of romance.

With horrid Valentine’s Day experiences, Preston Larkin hates the holiday with a passion to the point he prefers to be drunk and unconscious. Heading to a club, SideWays, he plans to drink and dance until the 15th. He didn’t expect a cute admirer to alter everything. Adoring Lark from afar for over a year, Colin Gabriels finds the courage to buy the man a drink, dance the night away, and take him upstairs to the private rooms. His expectations of the man isn’t matching the reality. Things falter the next morning, but Preston changes everything.

Purchase Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=NDSCUPID

Review: I found myself wondering if this was all the author wanted to talk about. Sure, it showed the promises of a good story but I just didn’t feel like I could understand the characters. Sure, someone could be burned by the past of bad relationships but I didn’t feel like I could get to know the characters. The story didn’t seem that strong to me.

The more I read the more I felt the story getting stronger and yet by the time it was done, I felt like it had gone flat. The story had pretty much stopped when it was finally getting good. I cannot quite pinpoint what happened in the author’s mind but it just didn’t hold onto my interest.

Grant's Mechanic by Nicole Dennis

nd-bcl-grantsmechanicTitle: Grant’s Mechanic

Series: Blue Collar Lovers

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Alternative (M/M or F/F), Contemporary

Length: Novel (50,268 words)

Publisher: Siren (April, 2013)

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Heat: Explicit

Blurb: When an ass in coveralls attracts him after a dry spell, Grant Carlton wants to know more about the new mechanic at his friend’s garage. Then he finds there is more going on with the garage, the decline of his old friend’s health, and the gorgeous man in those coveralls working on his favorite car, a ’65 Mustang.

Unable to walk away, Grant finds ways to help and be around his new mechanic. Morric Donahue struggles with being a parolee, not wanting to lose control after stepping outside the prison walls, especially knowing he never committed the crime. Wary of all commitments

Which don’t include engines; he keeps a close eye on the enticing rich boy who keeps coming around. While he admires the hot muscle car, he wants to know more about the man driving it, even if it means going outside his self-imposed cell.

Product Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/grants-mechanic

Reviewer: Cat

Review: Grant pulls into his friend’s garage and the first thing he sees is the new mechanic bent over a car that’s got his interest. But, when he turns around, Grant is more than filled with lust. he will do anything to get this hot mechanic with an attitude to be his. Morric is trying to get his life back in order after being in prison for three years. He has no time for romance, and has too much baggage for relationships.  He is attracted to Grant, but wants to keep him at a distance; since he is a rich boy he sure wouldn’t want more than a quick roll in the hay with someone like him.

I really liked this book. The characters were interesting and not the run of the mill kind of men you find in romances. I like the fact each man had some issues in his past.  The storyline was romantic and sweet and interesting and easy to follow. I loved the sexual tension between Grant and Morric and the determination in Grant to prove to Morric he wanted more than sex from him. Great story

Recommendation:I recommend this to anyone that likes a story of a man determined to win another man’s heart, computer geeks, hot mechanics and sweet sexy sensual and hot mansex.

 

7 Days of Christmas by Nicole Dennis

7-Days-of-Christmas200x300Title: 7 Days of Christmas

Series: A Hamilton River Story

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Contemporary, Christmas

Length: Novella (138pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (11th December 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Heart

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Homeless after phasing out of a foundling home and losing his job, Noel Hudson finds his way to Hamilton River during his least favorite holiday, Christmas. For two weeks, Justin Llewellyn watches Noel read in his bookstore all day. Seven red envelopes hold the key to Christmas magic Noel has never experienced.

On the 7th Day of Christmas, my Safe Haven gave to me – The Warmth of the Season.

On the 6th Day of Christmas, my Safe Haven gave to me – A Fresh Start of the Season.

On the 5th Day of Christmas, my Safe Haven gave to me – Rags to Riches of the Season.

On the 4th Day of Christmas, my Safe Haven gave to me – The Wonderful Scents of the Season.

On the 3rd Day of Christmas, my Safe Haven gave to me – A Christmas Season to Believe In.

On the 2nd Day of Christmas, my One Hope gave to me – Surprises of the Season!

On the 1st Day of Christmas, my One Hope gave to me – Visions of the Season!

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1320

Or purchase the entire LET IT SNOW collection: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1354

Review: Justin has been wondering about the young man who has been hanging around his bookstore for the past week. discovering Noel’s story makes Justin determined to show Noel a different side to Christmas. Noel has never known a happy Christmas, homeless and cold he spends time in the bookstore and is amazed at the offer that the owner Justin gives him, can Justin really change Noel’s view of Christmas?

7 Days of Christmas is a wonderful story of Christmas spirit and hope. Noel has come to Hamilton River in the hopes of finding work. Unfortunately, he finds himself sleeping in a shelter and spending his days in the local book store to keep warm. Justin is interested in finding out the story of the young man who haunts his store. One morning, he gets his chance and decides to give the young man a helping hand, while also introducing him to a true Christmas. Both men take a chance on the other and they both discover over 7 days of Christmas that there could be so much more.

I truly enjoyed this gentle story of burgeoning romance. Of seeing a genuine helping hand that turns into so much more and the true spirit of Christmas being introduced to a man who had never had a decent Christmas in his entire life. Justin is an incredible man who is warm and caring. he offers a helping hand to Noel, expecting nothing in return. Noel has sheltered his heart from the world and can’t believe his luck when he is offered a job and a place to live. What amazes him even more is that Justin shows him a side of Christmas and birthdays that he has never seen before.

This isn’t a meet fall into bed and declare undying love story. This is a gentle romance that is kisses on the cheek, soft touches and a slow courtship. I loved how both men get to know each other, spending time sharing Christmas traditions and slowly acting on their attraction so both sides know it is really what they want. Both characters are genuinely nice men. Noel is such an incredible man, who has been through so much in his life, but still tries for the best. He didn’t turn to stealing or tricking when it would have been so easy for him to do. These characters together are two men that you can see being together into their old age. This story is a truly beautiful beginning to their relationship.

I will recommend this to those who love gentle romances, surviving a rough life with an honest soul, having an honest soul who wants to help people and the beginning of a wonderful relationship.

 

Professor's Keeper by Nicole Dennis

Title:  Professor’s Keeper

Series:  Silver ~ A Mind is a Sexy Thing

Author:  Nicole Dennis

Genre:   Contemporary

Length:  Novella

Publisher:  Silver Publishing (April 28, 2012)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts                                                                               

Blurb:   Professor Alistair Tarrellton knows everything about algorithms but little about relationships. After ex-Marine Rhys Blackwood rescues him from a botched robbery and a panic attack, Alistair finds himself with a new keeper, but can he afford the distraction?

Child prodigy, scientist, and, Professor Alistair Tarrellton knows research, not people. Hiding behind glasses and an overstated vocabulary, he faces panic attacks and headaches if situations become too uncomfortable. As head of the college’s bioinformatics area of study, he teaches classes and runs two labs, but he prefers to hide in his private one at home.

A stop at the grocery store on his way home one night puts Alistair in the middle of a botched robbery. While a panic attack freezes him, he watches former Marine Rhys Blackwood take command with ease, and one touch from this powerful man pushes away Alistair’s fear. Rhys quickly invites himself into Alistair’s home and life, and while part of Alistair doesn’t believe he can afford the distraction of a relationship, the rest of him wants the other man to never leave.

Product Linkhttps://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/new-release-c-1/products_id/1057/?zenid=8c9520ab3c8fee76c28aa1f3ccf7d664

Reviewer:   Portia

Review:  Alistair is the quintessential goofy professor.  He got his first college degree while kids his age were still learning to tie their shoes. He is a certified genius with zero social skills.  He may be able to map the human genome with his eyes closed, but he could really use a keeper in his personal life.  Rhys is a wounded soldier who finds taking care of Alistair is more fun than rehab.

I hate to say it, but this is the first Nicole Dennis book that I enjoyed start to finish.  She writes really sweet romances that just don’t appeal to my jaded nature.  Professor’s Keeper was sweet but not too sappy.  Alistair is the cutest thing.  He reminds me a lot of the Criminal Minds character Dr. Spencer Reid.  He uses big words when he’s nervous. (* Note: I would have given this story a higher rating, except for the fact that sometimes Alistair fell out of character and used words that were not consistent with his history or education.) Rhys may be big and strong, but since being forced to leave the military, he’s kind of lost.  Taking care of Alistair gives him a reason to wake up in the morning.  He is organized and patient and just what Alistair need.  And sexually, Alistair takes to intimacy like a duck to water.  I got a bit nervous, when after only 4 hours Rhys invited himself to move into Allister’s home.  But, while they shared a living space, Alistair asked the right questions to let me know he was not a complete codependent git.  The guys take things pretty slow and everything is not champagne and roses.  Trust me, when I say, Alistair can throw one hell of a temper tantrum. The I Loves you came early, but it wasn’t too far outside the realm of plausibility.

I also had a few hiccups with medical procedure and the whole burn rehab process, but most people wouldn’t notice.  Me…major distraction.  All in all, like I said, this is a sweet romance and I enjoyed reading it.

Ghost on a Wing by Nicole Dennis

Title: Ghost on a Wing

Series: On A Wing 01

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal

Length: Novella (139pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (25th February 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Anderson St John can’t muster the nerve to face his longtime crush, Morgan Brookes. They finally meet during the week of Halloween. This leads to dating and his school’s costume dance, where a long-dead pilot makes his presence known.

Finding the nerve to meet his crush is difficult for high school senior Anderson St John. Often, he stands in front of Morgan Brookes’ store windows during his training runs.

Intrigued by the teenager peering inside, Morgan wants to know more, and invites him inside, just to talk. This leads to dating and a decision to attend the Halloween dance at Anderson’s school. Morgan uses his considerable talents to create authentic costumes for them both… but the night of the dance, a long-dead World War II ace pilot makes his presence known.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/coming-soon-c-2/ghost-on-a-wing-ebook-p-745#!prettyPhoto

Review: Anderson has the hoots for Morgan, who owns a store that he runs past every day… okay twice a day, but he hasn’t the courage to go in and talk to the man.  Until the day that Gandalf decides to nudge them along. Morgan has noticed his *jogger stalker* and now finally has the chance to meet him, he is fascinated by the younger man.

Okay, so I was a bit thrown and concerned at first with the way this progressed, until I found out the ages of the main characters.  That put everything before in a much better light and didn’t make me feel like I was reading about a dirty old man who was perving on a school kid. Sorry had to get that out first. This is a well written story that touches on bullying in schools. Anderson comes across as older than he is because of how he pushes himself and also because he is his mother’s caregiver, as well.

Morgan and Anderson make a sweet couple; both of them get to know the other and decide to take it slow. The descriptions in this book are wonderful.  The part where Anderson is making a meal for Morgan had my mouth-watering… hmmm brownies. The ghost aspect came on suddenly and caused Anderson to act out of character although the ending was touching as two souls are reunited after many years apart and the hint that there would be heartache for Anderson in the near future.

The interaction between all the characters was really good… even that with the bullies. Anderson’s mom and Morgan’s sister added to the development of both the MCs and we saw a more relaxed and playful side to both of them.

I will recommend this to those who want a great story-line, a gentle relationship, some hot making out, a haunted jacket and a happy for now ending that has two more stories to come.

A Family Found by Nicole Dennis

Title: A Family Found

Series: Hamilton River 01

Author: Nicole Dennis

Genre: Contemporary, Family

Length: Novel (258pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (21st January 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: A promising baseball star gives it all up to raise his sister’s son. A millionaire at odds with his family searches for his own son and finds more than he thought possible.

A promising baseball star, Dimitri Michelakakis, left it all behind when his troubled sister called, begging him to raise her baby boy. Now a chef and a single father, he runs the successful catering arm of local bistro, Terra Verde. Dimitri never suspected that one of his catering jobs would lead him to a new love.

Since receiving a note about his son’s birth, millionaire Mason Harrison has done everything he can to find the baby and the man who raised him as his own. Could finding his son mean finding the family Mason has always longed for?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/a-family-found-ebook-p-707

Review: Dimitri gave everything up to help his sister out, even raising her child and adopting him. He makes a new life for himself and Theo in Hamilton River and they are both very happy. Mason has been looking for his son and the man who has raised him and has finally found them.   At first, he just wants to know them, but then he puts a proposition to Dimitri that he hopes won’t be turned down.

This is a lovely family story that has a lot of child interaction that adds to the story. Mason has finally found his son, he has had Dimitri investigated and can find nothing wrong so doesn’t want to take Theo away from him.  he tricks Dimitri into meeting him and bringing Theo along so he can meet him, he eventually explains and offers a proposition to Dimitri. Dimitri is shocked and scared; he can’t lose his beloved Theo he decides that he needs time to think but agrees that Mason has a right to get to know Theo.

These characters were brilliant and I absolutely loved Theo and Moru (his little bear). I really enjoyed this story even though it did have a Harlequin and Mills & Boon feel to it. Actually, if I am honest I loved the plot and story-line.  I loved that Dimitri made Mason wait and they got to know each other.  I loved how involved Theo and Moru were in the story.  I loved Sherlock and Watson as well.  what I didn’t love was that there was a bit too much in the way of descriptions and details sometimes and it took my attention away from the story.

The story was well written and the characters took their time with the relationship.  Yes, the attraction was there from the start, but Dimitri finding out the truth about Mason made him think long and hard about getting involved with him.  it was nice that they spent time together as a family before the relationship got off the ground. The sex between them is hot and sensual and they make a great couple.

So this one I will recommend to those who love family stories, cute little boys, a sexy chef, a handsome millionaire, hot sex and a great story line.