Hi guys! We have R.J. Scott stopping by today with the tour for her new release Love Happens Anyway, we have a great excerpt, a fantastic $10 Amazon GC giveaway and my review, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~
Love Happens Anyway
by
R.J. Scott
Hiring a boyfriend for Christmas; what could possibly go wrong?
Derek is facing yet another Christmas where his life feels out of control. He has a new career that doesn’t feel like his, and parents who would just love to see him settled down. All he needs is a temporary buffer for the parties he has to attend, and for his parents to leave him alone. Enter, Luke.
Luke is twenty-thousand dollars short for the renovations on Halligans; his family’s bar in New York’s Financial District. A favor for a buddy has him agreeing to play the part of boyfriend to a guy with more money than sense.
But when the spirit of Christmas works its magic on the two men, and they begin to fall for each other, Derek runs scared, and Luke needs space.
It doesn’t matter what obstacles you throw in the way of love, or how much you run in the other direction, because, when you’re least expecting it, whether you want it or not, love happens anyway.
Publisher: Gone Writing Publishing (18th October 2017)
Heat Level: Low – Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts
Reviewer: Pixie
Blurb: O’Malley Ramsey, math aficionado, grew up next door to Garrison Rook, All-American athlete. While O’Malley dreamed of numbers and kissing Garrison, Garrison’s tastes ran to home runs and hot chicks. During a family celebration the night before both young men were heading off for college, O’Malley joyously discovers that Garrison isn’t quite as straight as the star athlete had been pretending to be. Vows to return to each other quickly followed a few clumsy kisses in the old treehouse in the Rook’s backyard.
O’Malley came home to Garrison. Garrison never returned to O’Malley.
Four years later, the two ex-friends meet up at a summer camp where O’Malley is serving as a counselor. Garrison is desperate to make things right with his childhood friend, but can O’Malley, still nursing the pain and mistrust of Garrison’s betrayal, ever forgive or love Garrison again?
Review: O’Malley had a huge crush on his next door neighbour Garrison, just before they both went off to college he thought his dreams came true when Garrison kisses him and promises that they can be together… but Garrison never came back.
Four years on and O’Malley is happy with the way his life is going, he’s serving as a counsellor at a girls Math camp when he’s stunned to see Garrison turn up, a Garrison who wants his forgiveness and a new chance at love.
This is an enjoyable story of two men trying to put the mistakes of the past behind them and starting anew.
I’ll be honest and say first of all that this book ended up not being my cup of tea, while I thought the storyline was good and the last part of the book was great a lot before that either annoyed me or just felt lacklustre.
First off I thought (based on timelines) that O’Malley and Garrison were supposed to be 22yrs old but based on how O’Malley acted in his own mind I’d say he was 16yrs old, Garrison I’ve given a little more leeway as he’s been struggling with his sexuality but his past actions still miffed me off a bit. O’Malley’s lack of empathy for Garrison’s situation really stuck in my craw and I wanted to tell Garrison he was better off looking for someone else.
Garrison is terrified of coming out and it shows in his actions, but I can’t decide if he really was gay like he finally declared or bisexual (he still liked sex with girls), I think that could have been handled better rather than just the final declaration that Garrison made.
I did end up liking both characters and the situation they found themselves in, but the story did seem to get drawn out for longer than it needed to in the middle. There is some excitement involving homophobes that adds a little action to the book and it ends up bringing O’Malley and Garrison fully together and Garrison more out in the open.
I’d recommend this story to those who love friends to lovers coming out stories, tension and conflict, a dash of angst and a very happy ending.
Blurb:How can you trust the man who tried to kill you?
Undercover cop Deacon Shepherd lost everything trying to maintain his cover – the man he loved and the future he craved. He walked away and never looked back because it was the only way to keep Rafael alive.
The last thing he needs is to be dragged back in that world, but an attempt on Rafael’s life is enough to make him risk his heart again.
Rafael ‘Rafe’ Ramirez wakes up in the hospital, the victim of a hit and run. He’s horrified when the first face he sees is that of the man who betrayed him and left him for dead three years before. Witness protection had stripped Rafe of his family and friends, and now it seems his sacrifice to bring his Uncle to justice was for nothing.
Someone wants Rafe dead, and the only way he can stay alive is to go with the murdering drug dealer who broke his heart. But how can he ever trust Deacon, and how can Deacon protect Rafe without falling in love all over again?
Review: This is another fantastic addition to the Heroes series and the characters are an excellent addition to R.J. Scott’s hot, sexy and dangerous men.
When Rafe tries to find the truth behind his mother and father’s deaths he discovers just how truly evil his mother’s family is, but as his uncle orders him killed he stares into the eyes of the man he’s fiercely attracted to, a man he wishes would help him… but who is the one holding the gun aimed at him.
Deacon is undercover trying to find the evidence to put some truly evil people behind bars for life when an innocent comes to visit, as Deacon tries to hide his attraction to the younger man he has to keep his persona intact… even if it means shooting Rafe and ending his life.
This is a great story that has unresolved tensions and an escaped madman hunting for the man he hates.
Rafe just wants the truth and for the man who caused his heartache to pay, but he falls head long into danger with no way out. Starting a new life knowing that the people responsible for his parent’s deaths are locked up or dead, helps him move forward but when the man who killed him turns up swearing to protect him he has no idea if he would ever be able to get past the fact that Deacon shot him.
Deacon can only pray that Rafe will forgive him and trust him to keep him safe, with an escaped madman wanting revenge and Rafe just surviving a hit and run ‘accident’ that Deacon doesn’t believe was an accident it would be hard enough but with Rafe hating the very sight of him Deacon knows he has an upward battle in getting the man to trust him never mind love him.
I really enjoyed this story and loved both Rafe and Deacon, both men are in a difficult position with Rafe not quite able to trust Deacon and Deacon hating the fact that he shot Rafe but knowing it was the only choice he had.
It’s not an easy journey for either man as Rafe has to try to find it within himself to forgive the man who both shot him and saved his life, while Deacon has to have patience as he protects Rafe again while trying to break through Rafe’s walls and get him to open his heart to Deacon.
This is quite an exciting story as Rafe’s pulled in all directions by his emotions and Deacon fights to break through the walls of the man he loves. R.j. Scott has yet again written a story that pulls you in and refuses to let go, we are treated to some amazing writing with interesting characters and a storyline that adds danger and love.
I recommend this to those who love stories that are filled with action and danger, who adore characters who soul search and discover forgiveness, who love two men falling in love during extreme situations, and a fantastic ending that has you hungering for more.
The Earth is in a state of collapse, with wars breaking out over resources and an environment pushed to the edge by human greed.
Three living generation ships have been built with a combination of genetic mastery, artificial intelligence, technology, and raw materials harvested from the asteroid belt. This is the story of one of them—43 Ariadne, or Forever, as her inhabitants call her—a living world that carries the remaining hopes of humanity, and the three generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers working to colonize her.
From her humble beginnings as a seedling saved from disaster to the start of her journey across the void of space toward a new home for the human race, The Stark Divide tells the tales of the world, the people who made her, and the few who will become something altogether beyond human.
Humankind has just taken its first step toward the stars.
Review: The Stark Divide throws you into the stars as Earth races towards extinction. Humanity takes one last grasping chance to save themselves even as the world dies around them because of their stupidity, and even in the dying last breaths they continue throwing nuclear missiles at each other and condemning the entire species.
J. Scott Coatsworth has written an amazing science fiction novel that sends shivers down your spine because of the ring of truth to it.
The setting of the story is a living world/ship that’s an amazing combination of organic/technology with an artificial intelligence that is more than it seems.
The story starts from the very beginning of Forever’s life when she’s still a seedling and the amazing crew who first ‘plant’ her. The Dressler’s crew, Captain Colin McAvery, Anastasia Anatov scientist and creator of the seedlings (Forever) and Jackson Hammond ship’s engineer, have the important task of ensuring that the seedling is planted on an asteroid so it can begin growing so it can save a portion of humanity. The problem is something’s wrong with the Dressler and it’s a race against time.
The story then jumps in time with Colin, Anastasia and Jackson’s son Aaron meeting as Forever is being colonised for human habitation. It’s a fraught time as truths come out and Forever doesn’t forget grudges.
The final segment in the story is 30 years on from Forever’s birth, while Forever still isn’t quite big enough or ready for mass human habitation the Earth is failing, and refugees are flocking to Forever.
This really is an amazing story and while it has gay, lesbian and Trans characters I would actually say that this is a more mainstream story. There’s no romance and no one character to focus on, the story is about Forever’s journey with the stories of some of the humans who are important to her survival coming through.
The world building is absolutely amazing; we get to see a new world emerging through determination and survival instincts, we get to picture through the authors words exactly what a new world for humans might be like, living inside that world… it’s just amazing.
The characters each come to life, their hopes, dreams, fear, anger, desperation and shame comes through brilliantly, we are left in no doubt as to what the characters are going through.
This isn’t your usual science fiction story, there’s no danger other than that brought on by humans stupid actions, there’s no aliens racing to help humanity, there’s no devastating natural world event, there’s no nicely timed rescue of Earth. It’s a story of amazing ingenuity, characters connected by the beginning and shear survival instincts.
I recommend this to those who love deep science fiction stories, who adore a storyline that pulls you along in its wake, who love interesting characters, and an ending that is also a brand new beginning.
Hi guys! We have V.L. Locey stopping by today with the tour for her new release Improper Fraction, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and my review, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~
Improper Fraction
by
V.L. Locey
O’Malley Ramsey, math aficionado, grew up next door to Garrison Rook, All-American athlete. While O’Malley dreamed of numbers and kissing Garrison, Garrison’s tastes ran to home runs and hot chicks. During a family celebration the night before both young men were heading off for college, O’Malley joyously discovers that Garrison isn’t quite as straight as the star athlete had been pretending to be. Vows to return to each other quickly followed a few clumsy kisses in the old treehouse in the Rook’s backyard.
O’Malley came home to Garrison. Garrison never returned to O’Malley.
Four years later, the two ex-friends meet up at a summer camp where O’Malley is serving as a counselor. Garrison is desperate to make things right with his childhood friend, but can O’Malley, still nursing the pain and mistrust of Garrison’s betrayal, ever forgive or love Garrison again?
Hi guys! We have R.J. Scott stopping by today with the tour for her new release Deacon’s Law, we have a great new excerpt, a fantastic giveaway and my review, so check out the post and enter the $10 Amazon GC giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~
Deacon’s Law
(Heroes 03)
by
R.J. Scott
How can you trust the man who tried to kill you?
Undercover cop Deacon Shepherd lost everything trying to maintain his cover – the man he loved and the future he craved. He walked away and never looked back because it was the only way to keep Rafael alive.
The last thing he needs is to be dragged back in that world, but an attempt on Rafael’s life is enough to make him risk his heart again.
Rafael ‘Rafe’ Ramirez wakes up in the hospital, the victim of a hit and run. He’s horrified when the first face he sees is that of the man who betrayed him and left him for dead three years before. Witness protection had stripped Rafe of his family and friends, and now it seems his sacrifice to bring his Uncle to justice was for nothing.
Someone wants Rafe dead, and the only way he can stay alive is to go with the murdering drug dealer who broke his heart. But how can he ever trust Deacon, and how can Deacon protect Rafe without falling in love all over again?
Hi peeps! We have J. Scott Coatsworth visiting today with his brand new release The Stark Divide, we have a fantastic interview with J. Scott, a great excerpt and my review, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~
The Stark Divide
(Liminal Sky 01)
by
J. Scott Coatsworth
Some stories are epic.
The Earth is in a state of collapse, with wars breaking out over resources and an environment pushed to the edge by human greed.
Three living generation ships have been built with a combination of genetic mastery, artificial intelligence, technology, and raw materials harvested from the asteroid belt. This is the story of one of them—43 Ariadne, or Forever, as her inhabitants call her—a living world that carries the remaining hopes of humanity, and the three generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers working to colonize her.
From her humble beginnings as a seedling saved from disaster to the start of her journey across the void of space toward a new home for the human race, The Stark Divide tells the tales of the world, the people who made her, and the few who will become something altogether beyond human.
Humankind has just taken its first step toward the stars.
Blurb: Cory’s had a rough year struggling with severe depression. He’s desperate to rebuild his shattered life and break away from his demanding family. When his therapist encourages him to do something for himself, he knows exactly what he needs. I want to see Asher again. The best friend Corey ever had who, at fifteen, held Cory’s heart in his hands without knowing it.
Asher’s had a troubled relationship with his father since he came out. Now that Pops is sick, he’s fighting for his right to help or even find out about his father’s health. Then there’s the complication of an ex-boyfriend unwilling to let go.
When Cory and Asher meet again after sixteen years, Cory’s feelings are as strong as ever. But does Asher feel the same?
Review: After living the life his family wants him to Cory has reached rock bottom, struggling with severe depression Cory decides to follow his therapist’s advice and looks for the best friend he’d left behind sixteen years before. Asher is worried about his father’s health but the old man refuses to have much to do with him since he came out to him. Asher’s surprised when Cory walks back into his life and the easy friendship the pair had years ago falls back into place, but with something more between them.
This is a wonderful sweet story that is an easy and enjoyable read. Cory is a wonderful character who has been worn down by the demands of his family and a job he hates, pulling himself out of the deep depression has been hard for him but the one thing that sticks with him is the happiness he once felt when he had him best friend by his side. Returning to that boy has Cory once again glimpsing happiness and he finds a backbone to finally get his family off his back.
Asher is an incredible man who has fought hard to stay in his father’s life, with his dad sick he does what he can but he feels the distain and hate with every gruff word uttered by the man. Asher finds happiness with Cory and he also finds so much more when Cory refuses to let Asher’s dad chase him off.
I really enjoyed this story, Cory and Asher make a wonderful couple, their romance is sweet and their support for each other is fantastic. They are both there for the other as they deal with their families, and while one is a lost cause the other gives Cory and Asher hope.
There are some moments of tension in the story with Asher’s ex-boyfriend providing one moment, Asher’s dad one or two more and Cory’s family… well let’s just say they should be dumped in the ocean because I doubt that a bigger bunch of control freaks and snobs who couldn’t give a damn about what their son and grandson wants exists.
I recommend this story to those who love fantastic characters reconnecting and discovering love, who adore stories of overcoming limitations and moving forward, who love sweet romances with a dash of sexy, and who love men who refuse to turn their backs on a challenge and face it head on.
Blurb: With Haven on an extended honeymoon with Sammy, bad guys around the world are breathing a lot easier. No one is better at permanently removing these lowlifes who target children—and the brutal murder of two teenage girls makes clear it’s past time to return to work. Haven’s first assignment back results in a new family member and a renewed sense of urgency to protect and avenge the innocent.
There is nothing ‘usual’ about the business of hunting predators, but when several of Haven’s fellow agents are killed, a pattern emerges. The hunters have become the prey, tools in a bitter vendetta for a perceived wrong.
Despite years of working alone, when the target shifts to someone unexpected, Haven calls in reinforcements—a friend to stand between the family he loves and a ruthless killer. Teamwork may be the only way to win this fight—unless it’s already too little, too late.
Haven tries to approach this as he would any other assignment. Find your enemy and make sure they suffer before you eliminate them. But when a member of his team goes off-book and ends up dead, everything changes. It’s no longer a battle.
Review:This book is part of a series and must be read in order.
Haven and Sammy have been taking it easy and Haven is wondering if he’ll ever be ready to return to work. Saving the innocent is something Haven’s been driven to do and with Sammy there to support him he knows that what he does is necessary. There’s something heading their way, someone is slowly picking agents and their family members off and it’s up to Haven and his friends to put a stop to a deranged killer before it’s too late.
Holy damn, Parker Williams has outdone himself this time around. Haven’s War takes a very personal turn as Haven and the guys are targeted, and even Haven wonders if he can keep them all safe.
We are compelled by the opening scenes to keep reading this story, right from the onset it grabs you by the throat and drags you along as you keep turning page after page… all the while a sense of dread and danger build up as you realise the very real danger Haven, Sammy, Kelly and Rook face this time around.
Reading this story isn’t easy, Parker Williams sends us on an emotional roller coaster from happiness, despair, anger, glee and frustration. Our hearts are torn out by what Haven and Sammy face, we shake our fists at the authors sadistic muse and we feel a secret glee when the baddie gets just what he deserves.
We find ourselves fascinated by the characters as they become real in our minds, they are so fully realised that the depth to them makes their journey your journey. We see the continuing love between Haven and Sammy; their relationship is just perfect for them. And we see the growth in their little family as Kelly settles in more as the father figure.
There are some scenes that are tough to read, I mean really tough, there isn’t the level of danger to the innocents like in Haven’s Creed but by God the level of danger that heads straight Haven’s way is astounding. Yes there is quite a bit of blood and gore, devastating loss and senseless violence but damn this is one fantastic read.
I can’t delve into the story because this is really something that you need to read yourself (make sure to read Haven’s Creed first though), and yes there will be times that you shake your head in pure *what the fuckery* and seethe as you wonder how quickly you can hunt down the author and skin him alive (although, he does need to write more books in this series first).
I recommend this to those who love darker grittier stories, who adore damaged characters who manage to find their way in life (even if it is as a killer), who admire characters who come to life, and a shocking storyline that won’t let you take a break.
After Micky O’Neill is remanded in custody for breaching his court order, his already tempestuous relationship with Dan Peters is tested to the limits.
Having to battle their way through a court case that could end with Micky in jail, social workers breaking up the family home, and the return of Micky’s deadbeat father, it seems everything is set to destroy their relationship before it even had the chance to start.
With such high stakes involved, not just for Micky but for once-burned, twice-shy Dan, they both have to learn that falling in love isn’t always responsible.
Review: This story is part of a series and must be read in order.
After the startling end to Misdemeanor we have an explosive beginning in Hard Time, Micky’s been arrested and is facing a police sergeant who has it out for him. Micky has a lot to lose if the Courts throw the book at him; it’s dodgy now with Flynn being placed in emergency foster care but it’s lucky for Micky that he has Dan in his corner.
In this new addition in the Responsible Adults series we see some huge dangers that Micky faces, he has decisions to make and Micky learns he can’t always rely on his fists to sort his problems out. Micky’s dangers aren’t physical they are mainly mental, because Micky could lose everything he’s working towards if he doesn’t break the cycle of his reactions.
Dan is an amazing support for both Micky and Flynn, he’s there for Flynn while Micky is locked up and he’s also there for Micky as Micky struggles to keep control of his life. Dan is just amazing and his family are just wonderful, Dan is so lucky to have such a supportive family.
Micky’s and Dan’s relationship grows in leaps and bounds, while they might have only been together a short amount of time their feelings for each other are solid. They face a lot in the short time line of this book, you have Micky’s impending court case, social services sniffing around Flynn, Micky’s dad pushing his luck and Dan’s decision regarding his job.
I really enjoyed this story; C.F. White doesn’t just give us the rosy view of Flynn’s disability C.F. gives it all in technicolor so we end up taking Micky deeper into our hearts as we see just what he has dealt with by himself for years. We also get to see Jason (Micky’s best friend) again and we can also see the huge change in him as well, there’s a lot of growing for several characters in this story and it’s a pleasure to see.
I recommend this story to those who love great characters who develop and grow, two men supporting each other through thick and thin, loving and supportive parents and friends, an adorable little boy who will steal your heart, and a great ending that hints at more to come.
Hi guys! We have Heloise West visiting today with her Heart and Haven series, we have my reviews and a fantastic giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~
Hitting Black Ice
(Heart & Haven 01)
by
Heloise West
ER physician’s assistant Hunter guards his heart carefully, but that doesn’t stop him from falling for Shawn, the front desk clerk. He keeps his distance from relationships for a reason, but just can’t help himself when it comes to Shawn.
Shawn is on the run from the law and love to protect himself and anyone else involved. One man is dead because of him, and his life now is simple and easily thrown into a bag at any hint of danger. Until he meets Hunter, and he no longer wants to run.
Forced into a hostage situation, buried passion explodes in the aftermath, and sex in the supply closet brings their hearts back to life. Tentatively, step by step they begin to explore a relationship together until the past catches up with Shawn.
FBI agent Nick Truman has finally found his man, but when Shawn escapes, he focuses his attention on Hunter. Shawn returns, even though it means sacrificing himself to save Hunter from the man who framed him for murder.
When Hunter and Alex (formally Shawn) are given the vacation of a lifetime, it’s a chance for them to pay attention to romance and get out of the path of danger. The tiny Caribbean island of Saba is gorgeous, the first to have marriage equality, and the Sabans are the nicest people on earth.
There’s lots of rum poolside for relaxing and a room with a mirror on the ceiling for passion. Hot karaoke nights, cold beer, and new friends.
Their new friends Orfeo and Max, and Max’s sister Talisha, share a troubling secret. Alex and Hunter want to help. As a hurricane bears down on them, a dead body surfaces, and a purple backpack loaded with stolen jewels leads a gang of dangerous men to the island.
Alex would rather poke his own eyes out with a pointy stick than call on his old enemy Nick Truman for help; he’d also do anything to keep Hunter out of danger. But even his old nemesis can’t reach them now.
Once again, they only have each other to depend on as their paradise is about to become hell on earth.
Hi guys! We have C.F. White stopping by today with the tour for her new release Hard Time, we have a great excerpt, a fantastic giveaway and my review, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~
Hard Time
(Responsible Adult 02)
by
C.F. White
Love isn’t always responsible.
After Micky O’Neill is remanded in custody for breaching his court order, his already tempestuous relationship with Dan Peters is tested to the limits.
Having to battle their way through a court case that could end with Micky in jail, social workers breaking up the family home, and the return of Micky’s deadbeat father, it seems everything is set to destroy their relationship before it even had the chance to start.
With such high stakes involved, not just for Micky but for once-burned, twice-shy Dan, they both have to learn that falling in love isn’t always responsible.
Hiya guys! We have Nell Iris popping by today with the tour for her new release Cinnamon Eyes, we have a great excerpt, a brilliant giveaway and my review so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
Cinnamon Eyes
by
Nell Iris
Cory’s had a rough year struggling with severe depression. He’s desperate to rebuild his shattered life and break away from his demanding family. When his therapist encourages him to do something for himself, he knows exactly what he needs. I want to see Asher again. The best friend Corey ever had who, at fifteen, held Cory’s heart in his hands without knowing it.
Asher’s had a troubled relationship with his father since he came out. Now that Pops is sick, he’s fighting for his right to help or even find out about his father’s health. Then there’s the complication of an ex-boyfriend unwilling to let go.
When Cory and Asher meet again after sixteen years, Cory’s feelings are as strong as ever. But does Asher feel the same?
Hi guys, we have R.J. Scott stopping by today with the tour for her new release Gabriel, the second book in her Legacy series. We have a fabulous excerpt, my review and a fantastic $15 Amazon GC giveaway so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
Gabriel
(The Second Legacy)
by
R.J. Scott
Trapped in darkness, can an escort find a man to help him into the light?
Gabriel Reyes never gave in. He fought and was hurt, was abused but escaped with his life. He made his way in the world using the one thing he was good at: sex. He earned a place with a man who controls everything but Gabriel is safe; he’s made it.
Cameron Stafford hires Gabriel for a night, needing nothing more than a pretend boyfriend to get his dysfunctional family off his back. With the money he has in the bank and his own hotel, why won’t they just leave him alone? It doesn’t matter that a degenerative disease has stolen his vision, or that his last boyfriend was a bastard who tried to steal from him; for now he has purpose.
When Gabriel and Cam fall for each other, can they find real happiness and, maybe, a forever that will save them both?
A new story set in the world of Jack and Riley Campbell-Hayes and the Double D Ranch, Texas.
Please be aware: emotional and physical abuse are depicted on the page in this book
Blurb:Trapped in darkness, can an escort find a man to help him into the light?
Gabriel Reyes never gave in. He fought and was hurt, was abused but escaped with his life. He made his way in the world using the one thing he was good at: sex. He earned a place with a man who controls everything but Gabriel is safe; he’s made it.
Cameron Stafford hires Gabriel for a night, needing nothing more than a pretend boyfriend to get his dysfunctional family off his back. With the money he has in the bank and his own hotel, why won’t they just leave him alone? It doesn’t matter that a degenerative disease has stolen his vision, or that his last boyfriend was a bastard who tried to steal from him; for now he has purpose.
When Gabriel and Cam fall for each other, can they find real happiness and, maybe, a forever that will save them both?
A new story set in the world of Jack and Riley Campbell-Hayes and the Double D Ranch, Texas.
Please be aware: emotional and physical abuse are depicted on the page in this book
Review: Cameron is nearly blind and while he can manage his life just fine, his family have a different opinion and are forever plaguing him with their thoughtless comments and trying to manage his life. When he decides he needs a date to his half-brother and half-sister’s engagement party he decides to hire an escort to help him out.
Gabriel accepts the life he has as the best that he can get and thinks that being controlled and beaten is all he can get. With his past still haunting him he can’t accept the help that he’s offered from Legacy Ranch turning his back on it and staying with an abusive, controlling asshole. When he’s approached by a man in a life with an escort offer he begrudgingly accepts and it leads him to finding acceptance and hope for the future.
This story is an amazing addition to the Legacy series. We are introduced to Gabriel who was one of the poor men who were systematically abused at Bar Five Ranch; Gabriel is now living as an escort under the thumb of the thoroughly controlling and nasty Stefan. His situation is much more dire than he leads himself to believe, but you can understand why he’s terrified of rocking the boat.
Cameron is such a lovely character; he’s losing his sight but is determined to live his life his way without interference from his family. When he resorts to hiring Gabriel he discovers a young man who he feels a connection to and he’s determined not to let Gabriel push him away.
Both Gabriel and Cam are excellent characters, we watch as they get to know each other and both become more to each other as their strange relationship progresses. Gabriel opens Cam’s eyes to something going on within his own family and Cam supports Gabriel as Gabriel finally accepts the help he desperately needs.
I really enjoyed this story, we are given a treat as we follow Gabriel and Cam’s story because not only do we get their building love but we also see into some troubles in Cam’s life which adds to the overall story. R.J. Scott has yet again created a wonderful love story that emerges from tragic circumstances. There are some harrowing moments for Gabriel that can cause triggers to readers affected by sexual and physical abuse but those moments are important to the story.
I recommend this to those who love damaged characters who emerge from the ashes to rebuild their lives, who love men who are determined to hold onto love, who love a dash of trouble that is firmly smoothed over, and who love having their hearts filled with love as they read the last pages.
Blurb: Damien Fitzgerald has lived through hell and is determined to never let anyone get close to him again. A fervent reporter, he throws his life into his work and doesn’t care whose toes he steps on. But someone else does. He’s got a stalker, and the messages are growing increasingly threatening. He turns to his best friend, Justin Warfield and his lover, Private Investigator Marcus Drummond. Seems like a good idea until Robert Wyler becomes part of the package.
Robert Wyler, the manager of the bar at the Warfield Inn, has always been misunderstood. Sure he takes care of his body, wears his hair long and likes tatts, but that doesn’t mean he’s domineering. A cold exterior hides the more passionate man inside. Men like Damien Fitzgerald get on his nerves. Too good looking. Too arrogant. But when Justin and Marcus needed his help to guard the man from a stalker, Robert couldn’t say no.
Damien and Robert have a history. Whenever they are near each other sparks fly. Can Damien and Robert get past their prejudices to find the real men hiding underneath. Will they find love before the stalker gets to Damien and their chance at happiness is destroyed forever…
Review:This story is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Damien has a problem, someone seems to be stalking him and he’s not sure who it is. In Damien’s line of work he’s made a lot of enemies and a personal one he daren’t even think of, but as the messages get more threatening he turns to Marcus for help. As Marcus investigates who is after Damien he insists that Damien stay at the Warfield Hotel where Damien meets bar manager Robert a man who Damien can’t help but provoke.
Robert might be big, strong and covered in tattoo’s but he’s not interested in dominating anyone, tired of being mistaken for a Dom he stays clear of relationships but Marcus and Justin’s friend sneaks under his skin, especially when Robert has to talk Damien down from a panic attack. Asked to help keep Damien safe Robert can’t refuse but Damien doesn’t make it easy.
I have to admit to not having read either Drifting Sands or Crashing Waves and while there are mentions of what has happened in previous books it doesn’t have an impact on reading this book as a standalone… although it has made me extra curious about the previous stories which I’ll be reading very soon.
Damien comes across as a bit of a control freak at first until you learn his backstory and then you understand his need to be in control of everything he does. Robert seems to be a gentle man for all his size and strength; he has a heart of gold and will help any of his friends if he can. When these two are together sparks fly with both of them needling the other without them at first recognising their attraction to each other. The relationship between them is a slow progress throughout the story with the danger to Damien taking precedent and damn it’s a dozy of a danger.
This is a great story that has you hooked from the first pages, Damien’s fear jumps out at you from the pages and his bewilderment and then denial of the situation speaks clearly of a man hoping the truth is something very different than what it is. Robert’s patience and understanding is amazing to see, these two guys need each other desperately they just need to get to the same page.
The mystery and danger that stalks Damien is slightly chilling and if you’ve ever had a stalker you’ll know what I mean. C.J. Baty has woven the danger perfectly and while you have a clue as to who is involved it’s a bit of a shock to find out the extent of one person in particular’s involvement. I will give a warning to those who have been victims of domestic violence and abuse that there are some flash backs that may cause distress.
I have to recommend this to those who love mystery and danger, a brilliant storyline, two men finding love during a tense and difficult time and a wonderful happy ending.
Hi guys, we have C.J. Baty popping in today with her new release Roaring Waves, we have a great excerpt, my review and a fantastic giveaway so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
Roaring Waters
(The Warfield Hotel Mysteries 03)
by
C.J. Baty
Damien Fitzgerald has lived through hell and is determined to never let anyone get close to him again. A fervent reporter, he throws his life into his work and doesn’t care whose toes he steps on. But someone else does. He’s got a stalker, and the messages are growing increasingly threatening. He turns to his best friend, Justin Warfield and his lover, Private Investigator Marcus Drummond. Seems like a good idea until Robert Wyler becomes part of the package.
Robert Wyler, the manager of the bar at the Warfield Inn, has always been misunderstood. Sure he takes care of his body, wears his hair long and likes tatts, but that doesn’t mean he’s domineering. A cold exterior hides the more passionate man inside. Men like Damien Fitzgerald get on his nerves. Too good looking. Too arrogant. But when Justin and Marcus needed his help to guard the man from a stalker, Robert couldn’t say no.
Damien and Robert have a history. Whenever they are near each other sparks fly. Can Damien and Robert get past their prejudices to find the real men hiding underneath. Will they find love before the stalker gets to Damien and their chance at happiness is destroyed forever…
Publisher: Hostile Whispers Press (13th June 2017)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3 ½ Hearts
Reviewer: Pixie
Blurb: Welcome to Brawlers Bar…
If there was a way to destroy his life, Hunter Black could do it. He was a catastrophe waiting to happen. Survival was his only priority and having to leave his old life behind that meant a job of the legal variety. He’d found one as a bartender at Brawlers Bar and a safe place in a huge house with the rest of the bar crew who quickly became the family he’d never had. The one thing Hunter didn’t need was his old life tracking him down.
Deputy Wren Gramble hated his job and his weekend assignment of staking out a bar in the middle of nowhere waiting for drunks. Although he’d heard the homophobic and racist jokes going around about the crew and customers, he kept his head down and stuck to his job and nothing else. He despised being driven back into the closet, but he’d reached the end of the line and what he’d do if he earned another transfer he didn’t know.
Linus Trenton was considered the normal one in his family and according to the weird ones that meant he should be punished daily. He never came out one way or another, if he found someone attractive he was attracted. His life was complicated enough having a crush on the sweet and awkward Hunter but now he had to throw Wren into the mix. Linus didn’t have time for dating or romance, most of the time he didn’t even think about having a sex life, although, Wren and Hunter were ruining his calm.
Hunter was in lust with the handsome deputy the minute the man pulled him over, but a man like that wouldn’t give him the time of day. His friend, Linus, was another matter altogether. Hunter wanted both. His bosses made it work with their man, why couldn’t he? Could Hunter prove he wasn’t as much of a screw up as he appeared or would he have to call in backup to claim his men?
Review:This book is part of a series and is best read in order.
Hunter is quiet, he doesn’t think much of himself and he is very accident prone so when Wren shows an interest in him he hasn’t got a clue what he should do. Wren has been watching Hunter from afar, he plucks up the courage to ask Hunter out and he discovers that there’s another man who has his eye on Hunter. Linus has wanted Hunter for a couple of years but has held off approaching him, now with the deputy sniffing around Hunter Linus needs a dash of Dutch courage to break the cycle of just being friends with Hunter.
This is a great story that has a dash of danger. Hunter is a really sweet character who has no confidence in himself and thinks of himself as a fuck-up. Wren seems like a stand up type of guy, he likes being a deputy but could live without some of his colleagues. Linus is the more normal one in his family, he doesn’t believe in monogamy but he’s wanted Hunter for some time he’s hidden his interest thinking that Hunter isn’t interested in him.
What we have with this story is three men who desperately need to be loved, finding each other and forming a relationship between the three of them. They all have their own worries especially with Linus’ really dangerous job (you’d think the deputy’s job would be more dangerous but you’d be sadly mistaken). Their relationship sparks quite quickly once they get over that there are three of them interested in each other, but insecurity still plagues Hunter.
Danger comes in the form of the Sheriff, who has a hard-on for the Brawlers; the Sheriff is a bigot and hates the rough Brawlers and targets them as much as he can. We get a bit of excitement when Linus is asked to work his magic and help the State police investigate the corrupt Sheriff.
This story really should be read after reading the Twirled World Ink series and the other Brawlers stories believe me, this is the first book that I’ve read by J.M. Dabney and for the first couple of chapters I felt kind of lost as there were a lot of characters from the first three books and then in later chapters from the Twirled World Ink series so I felt really lost because I didn’t have a clue who these people were of what connection they had to each other.
The actual story is interesting; we get some danger and a touch of action. We also have a great ménage romance between Hunter, Linus and Wren which is pretty hot. I must admit that there wasn’t a great deal of relationship building but it was still good. While the title is Hunter, I actually felt it was more about Linus. I mean while we get a general overview of Hunter we actually find out more about Linus and seem to spend more time in Linus’ view point than Hunter’s.
I recommend this to those who love characters who need hard loving, a great storyline and a really happy ending.
Blurb: The Rowe Brothers are famous hockey hotshots, but as the youngest of the trio, Tennant has always had to play against his brothers’ reputations. To get out of their shadows, and against their advice, he accepts a trade to the Harrisburg Railers, where he runs into Jared Madsen. Mads is an old family friend and his brother’s one-time teammate. Mads is Tennant’s new coach. And Mads is the sexiest thing he’s ever laid eyes on.
Jared Madsen’s hockey career was cut short by a fault in his heart, but coaching keeps him close to the game. When Ten is traded to the team, his carefully organized world is thrown into chaos. Nine years his junior and his best friend’s brother, he knows Ten is strictly off-limits, but as soon as he sees Ten’s moves, on and off the ice, he knows that his heart could get him into trouble again.
Can Tennant show Jared that age is just a number, and that love is all that matters?
Review: Tennant is happy moving to the Harrisburg Railers even if his older brothers’ think it’s a stupid move, it’s his chance to prove that he’s just as good as anyone else and he can make it on his own. Mads is one of the coaches for the Harrisburg Railers and seeing Ten again knocks him for six, Ten isn’t the little boy he used to know but starting a relationship with the stunning man is out of the question… not least because he’s friends with Ten’s older brother.
This is a fantastic start to a new series for both R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey. I have to admit that sport’s isn’t my favourite genre, but there’s something about Ice Hockey that just rocks.
Ten is a great character who has his life spread out before him and he plans on grabbing on to what he wants with both hands. Mads has settled into coaching after his Ice Hockey days were over, he’s got a great teenage son and an interfering infuriating ex’s father to contend with. Throw Ten and Mads together and we get a passionate story that has a touch of angst, lots of roaring arguments, some excellent skating and a great storyline.
While both Ten and Mads are brilliant characters the supporting characters are just as good, from Ten’s brothers to the Harrisburg Railers team they are an interesting mix and fully entertaining. I have a secret hope that Stan will one day get a story because that Russian goalie is just one excellent character!
I recommend this to those who love sports stories, love a dash of angst, who adore characters with explosive temperaments, and who love watching two men overcoming fears and embracing their love for each other.
After his mother tragically dies and his deadbeat father goes off the rails, nineteen-year-old Micky is left to care for his disabled little brother, Flynn.
Juggling college, a dead-end job and Flynn’s special needs means Micky has to put his bad-boy past behind him and be the responsible adult to keep his brother out of care. He doesn’t have time for anything else in his life.
Review: Micky has had a difficult life but now at nineteen he has begun to turn his life around, he’s just got a half decent job, he’s studying for his exam re-takes and he’s desperate to keep his little brother Flynn out of care. He hasn’t got time for relationships and then he meets his new manager Dan.
This is a wonderful story that shows a more true to life living than is usually seen in books. Micky is a guy who has been handed a crappy life, he’s determined to turn it around though for his little brother but life keeps throwing up obstacles that threaten to destroy everything he is working towards. Dan has had a pretty easy life and although he’s working a job that he never thought would be permanent he’s pretty happy except for the lack of a boyfriend.
When Micky and Dan get together, it isn’t easy for either of them. Micky can’t just throw himself into a relationship, not just because he’s in the closet, but also because he’s worried about Flynn. Flynn is an absolute darling, he has Williams syndrome and you just want to snatch him up and snuggle him to death for his sweetness. Dan has his own small demons from previous relationship break-ups so he feels like he’s on rocky ground especially when Micky pushes him away.
The characters in this story are brilliant written, they jump off the page with their vitality and I’m not just talking about Micky, Dan and Flynn, I mean all the characters. They have an air of realness to them, I know that I myself was reminded by some of the characters to friends I’ve had over the years. They really do remind me a lot of my teenage year’s friends… and I now find that really creepy LOL.
This storyline is an amazing one; it brings the simple mundane life to the forefront and shows the struggles against a system and snobbery by a young man just trying to improve his lot in life for his younger brother. I dare anyone not to fall in love with Flynn, to admire Micky, and to hope that Dan can continue to wear Micky’s walls away.
My only niggle at this story was the ending, the abrupt way it cut off on a cliff-hanger had me gritting my teeth and cursing the author out… come on did you have to end it just there?
Anyway, I recommend this story to those who love more lower class real life stories, who adore young children who are cherubs, who want to see two young men find each other and the beginnings of love, and who want a story that has you hooked from the first couple of pages.
Title: Gabriel
Title: Roaring Waters
