Lasting Damage by R.G. Green

LastingDamageLGTitle: Lasting Damage

Series: Beckett Investigations 02

Author: R.G. Green

Genre: Contemporary, Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (200pgs)

ISNB: 978-1-62798-225-2

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (9th December 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Seven months after the recapture of Miles Trubett, a new murder grabs headlines in Wheaton City, IL. The police believe the case is closed—or would be if they could find their suspect. However, the victim’s brother, Kyle Overstreet, claims the police are pinning the murder on the wrong man, and he uses The Wheaton Brigade to make his views known. Fearing slander that could butcher the department if Kyle is right, Lieutenant Danny Baxter asks close friend and private investigator Tyler Beckett to look into the case.

Then threatening messages to Tyler’s lover Sean St. Claire interrupt Tyler’s investigation. With Trubett locked away and Tyler’s ex out of the picture, no suspect is apparent. Caught between helping a friend and protecting his lover, the pressure on Tyler mounts—until surprising information reveals the true danger behind the messages, and an unexpected confrontation with Kyle enables an act of revenge that could cost Tyler everything.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4431

Review: This story is part of a series and is best read in order. Tyler is surprised and wary when he is approached by Lieutenant Danny Baxter to help investigate a murder. The police believe they know who the killer is, but the victim’s brother is convinced they are wrong. He puts pressure on them through The Wheaton Brigade and Madison Huff. When Tyler takes the case, he finds himself back in the sights of Huff and he gets distracted when Sean starts to receive unwelcome messages. Trying to work out who is targeting Sean fizzles out when there are no suspects but Tyler knows the threat is real. But danger comes to both of them when the murderer sets his sights on Tyler and the man who threatens Sean acts.

This story picks up about six months after the end of When Past Becomes Present with Tyler and Sean happily living together. Tyler is drawn into a murder investigation when Danny asks him to have a look, discreetly, at the victim’s brother’s claims of the suspected killer’s innocence. When investigating the murder brings him to Huff’s attention again, he is furious, but has other concerns when someone seems to be targeting his beloved Sean. As you might remember Tyler is very protective of Sean and he will do anything to keep his man safe especially after the events in When Past Becomes Present, Sean is again in the background but brought to the forefront when danger lurks from someone who is bitter and seeks revenge.

The second you start reading this story you are thrown into an erotic love scene between Sean and Tyler, it reminds us just how deeply these two men love and how they love showing each other that love. Their relationship is still very much front and center throughout this book with the hot sexy phone calls and their inability to be in the same room without the need to touch and love on each other. Their care and concern are on every page and the sweet moments between them are to be cherished. While the hot moments are to be drooled over. Their relationship is the best thing about this book with the mystery of the murder and the stalker coming in a tight second. Huff’s involvement in the story will have you grinding your teeth and thinking Tyler should get a medal for not killing her.

You get pulled into this story from the first page, lulled by the erotic sensuality before being introduced to the dark side of Wheaton City and a murder that is based in jealousy. Tyler is again our star with his supporting cast being put to good use when they are needed most, Danny, Mark, and Scott making this story more filled out while Sean adds the hot spice and terrifying worry. The investigation itself is interesting but Tyler keeps getting distracted with what is happening with Sean and Huff’s irritating interference. There’s danger that comes from two fronts, one of which you know is coming as you see through this persons eyes as they plot and plan.

I recommend this to those who love established couples going forwards with life, who loves mystery and danger, who love sensual passion, who love great characters and adore happy endings. 

 

 

Find a Way by R.G. Green

FindaWayLGTitle: Find A Way

Series: Prince and Trader 02

Author: R.G. Green

Genre: Fantasy

Length: Novel (214pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (22nd July 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Passion has blossomed from the lifelong friendship between Kherin Rylle, the second prince of Llarien, and Derek Resh, a trader employed by the crown. But left on his own in the border city of Gravlorn, Kherin soon draws the anger of the Defenders and his own brother as charges of cowardice and treason are thrown at his feet. Meanwhile, the increasingly dangerous attacks of the northerners bring more than the threat of war to Llarien’s border. Rumors of an ancient northern magic promise a danger far greater than war, and Kherin can’t say the rumors aren’t true. 

Only now, he has to learn the truth on his own.

Derek left Gravlorn in search of answers for the unexpected happenings at the border, and although Kherin is determined to keep what they found together, growing tensions, hidden jealousies, and unforeseen revelations about the northern lands threaten to take away everything he has worked to gain. As the border grows more dangerous, Kherin faces the reality that courage and honor may not be enough to end the northern threat, and love may not be enough for Derek and Kherin to find happiness.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4025

Review: This story is part of a series and must be read in order. Kherin, the second prince of Llarien, is left behind in Gravlorn to continue his duty as a Defender against the threat of the Northerners when Derek, the Royal Trader, sets off for the port town Dennor to discover more about the Akhael and the Northerners. Kherin is left alone to face dissent in the ranks of Defenders, the malicious rumors of cowardice and treason and anger from his own brother, while facing increasing attacks from across the river. Derek discovers the truth about the Akhael and the Northerners and brings Dar, the scholar, back to Gravlorn with him but growing tensions, jealousy and visions of revenge makes the border a dangerous place.

This is a great conclusion to the Akhael magical threat and Kherin and Derek’s relationship dilemma. Kherin finds himself wading through trouble caused by jealousy and self-preservation after Derek leaves, he still isn’t sure what will happen with Derek in the future but he clings to their brief moments together and Derek’s words of wisdom to see him through the trouble. Derek realizes that what he has with Kherin is worth fighting for, but first they have to put an end to the Northern threat and his time in Dennor makes him realize the threat is greater than any of them thought. The revolutionary stirrings in Dennor are trying to pick up speed and Tristan, ex-royal stable lad, has revenge on his mind.

I loved this story not only because of the Akhael storyline but also because Kherin has to look his past in the face and accept his faults and actions, and learning how to appropriate blame to those who deserve it. The world building to this story was laid down in So It Begins, but the storyline is built upon with us finding out the horrifying truth about the Akhael. Derek and Kherin resolve their feelings for each other, Kherin knowing what he has always wanted and determined to get and Derek knowing that now he has had a taste of bliss no one will keep him from his happiness, not even the Kings disapproval. We see the Defender’s splitting into factions as Kherin puts his foot down, and we see the bitterness as certain people cause trouble and dissent.

We see this story from both Kherin and Derek’s perspective, it is split between them as they are separated doing their duty. We surprisingly see growth in Kherin as he begins to accept that his actions don’t just affect him and we see his maturity develop with his interaction with others. The bond between Kherin and Adrien is still very strong even as they become at odds, their brotherly love is exceptional, and there are scenes between them that take your breath away. The relationship between Derek and Kherin is where Kherin gathers most of his strength; Derek has managed to temper Kherin without even really trying. Their love for each other is strong and they are magnificent together and not just in bed.

I recommend this story to those who love fantasy, danger, discovering the truth, deep love, accepting ones actions, jealousy, revenge, some hot sex and an ending that is both wonderful and well deserved. 

When Past Comes to Present by R.G. Green

WhenPastComesToPresentLGTitle: When Past Comes To Present

Author: R.G. Green

Genre: Contemporary, Suspense

Length: Novel (200pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (25th January 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Three years ago, private detective Tyler Beckett gained unwanted fame when he found evidence that sent murderer Miles Trubett to prison. Now, three years later, Tyler enjoys a successful business and a happy home life, even if he can’t quite make himself ask his lover, Sean St. Claire, to move in permanently. But when a pushy journalist comes to him with the case of a gay man’s apparent suicide, Tyler finds himself stuck between a rock and a hard place. The ultimatum: investigate or risk losing the support of the gay community. His reluctant acceptance of the case is only the beginning of the difficulties he will face, however, as he soon discovers Trubett is on the loose and intent on revenge—and Tyler is not his only target.

Soon, unforeseen circumstances bring Tyler’s ex, Scott, back into his life. The disruption Scott causes in his relationship with Sean leaves Tyler struggling with more than the risk of retribution. As the physical and emotional threats mount, Tyler must figure out how to protect Sean without losing him—to Trubett or the emotional upheaval that occurs when past comes to present.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3531

Review: Tyler is a private investigator with a successful business, he is in a great relationship with his lover Sean and things are going well for him. When a pushy journalist forces Tyler’s hand to get him to investigate the apparent suicide of a young gay man Tyler is less than pleased, but discovering that the man he helped convict three years before is on the loose terrifies him, especially when all the evidence points to him hunting Tyler. Sean is upset when circumstances drag Tyler’s ex-boyfriend into their lives, especially an ex he had no idea about, an ex who Tyler kept love letters from and Tyler is reluctant to talk about. Can Tyler keep the people who mean the most to him safe with a killer on the loose? And can his relationship survive the insecurities that crop up?

This is a very good suspense story that slowly draws you in and keeps you reading. The opening scene of the book is very *cough* steamy, Tyler and Sean are a very passionate, teasing couple and that shows throughout the book whenever they are together (or on the phone). Tyler and Sean have been together for nearly a year and although Tyler wants to make it more permanent, he is unsure if Sean wants the same thing, but broaching the subject has to wait when the past interferes. The escape of Trubett has Tyler on tenterhooks, but when evidence starts to point to Trubett coming after those close to him, he fears for Sean’s safety.

I must admit that the storyline is very good, even though you can see all the simple mistakes that Trubett makes in his arrogance, it doesn’t detract from the suspense, it actually adds to it. Most of the book is from Tyler’s POV and I liked that we could see how Tyler worked, although the sub-plot of investigating a young gay man’s death seemed pointless when it fizzled out the way it did. I wish we could have seen some of the story from Sean’s POV, as we didn’t get to know him that well at all, I actually learned more about Mark (Tyler’s business partner) than I did about Sean. We also get brief POV from Turbett and let me tell you he is a very disturbed man, his arrogance in himself is shocking.

Sean and Tyler’s relationship is very beautiful, they are a perfect match and strike sparks off each other, coming into an already established relationship is always wonderful and these two are no exception. They go through quite a bit in this story, but they come out stronger and the better for it. They are also very hot together and have a relaxed happy relationship.

I will recommend this to those who love suspense, escaped killers, revenge, ex-boyfriends, hot sex, a great storyline and a very happy ending.

 

And So It Begins by R.G. Green

AndSoItBeginsLGTitle: And So It Begins

Series: Prince and Trader 01

Author: R.G. Green

Genre: High Fantasy

Length: Novel (240pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (24th June 2013)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: For hundreds of years, the kingdom of Llarien has maintained a defense against the barbarians. Now, activity at the border draws attention from Kherin Rhylle, the less-favored younger son of the king. Kherin suspects a deeper purpose behind the attacks, but his father refuses to grant permission to travel to the border, despite Kherin’s obligated tenure as a Defender. Not even unprecedented deaths or the serious injury of Kherin’s brother, the crown prince, can change the king’s mind.

Then Derek Resh, kingdom trader and Kherin’s closest friend, convinces the king to allow Kherin to travel with him, and an unexpected journey to the border proves the threat real—while an unexpected intimacy with Derek makes Kherin realize that his feelings go deeper than the friendship they have shared for most of his life. But even that turns devastating, as Derek won’t pursue anything more intimate when the king’s disapproval is certain.

Grasping at straws, Kherin is caught between a danger he doesn’t understand and the desire for a deeper relationship he can’t have. And then there’s the magic that threatens to return after being banished hundreds of years ago….

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3974

Review: Kherin is the second son of the King of Llarien. His relationship with his father is tenuous and filled with anger. Kherin was injured just before he was to take his tenure as a Defender of the kingdom and now he is nearly recovered. He is itching to head out, but when Kherin’s older brother, Adrien, is injured by Northerners during his tenure as a Defender Kherin’s father refuses to let him go. Derek is a kingdom trader and Kherin’s closest friend. He knows that Kherin will fall into a cycle of self-destruction because of resentment and angel. He convinces the king to allow Kherin to travel with him. On the journey, Kherin realizes that his feelings for Derek go much deeper than friendship, but Derek refuses to act on his own feelings for Kherin knowing the disapproval both will face from the king. Arriving at the border, they discover Adrien’s injuries are puzzling and the threat from the Northerners is very real and they both decide to act.

This is a great beginning to what looks like a very involved high-fantasy story. There is a lot of world building and background information being built into this story. We get an incredible feeling for what Kherin’s life is like including his non-relationship with his father, although we are left wondering just why they seem to hate each other so much. Kherin’s relationship with his brother is incredibly strong and his fear for his brother is clear to see. Kherin’s relationship with Derek is one that will cause them both great difficulties in the future, even though being together is what they want; thwarting a king is never easy.

The emerging story involving the Northerners and the Akhael keeps you on your toes as the information we receive is given to us in trickles and we begin to see the danger that Llarien is heading towards because of the ignorance of its people. Although this story is mainly from Kherin’s perspective, we do also get brief views from others who will be playing important parts in future books; a scholar with an expertise in Akhael history and a stable-hand who is bitter and resentful of his treatment by the royals. Derek’s and Kherin’s relationship is nicely done throughout the story and there are one or two intense scenes between them with some incredible hot sex. But, just remember this is a relationship that will be far from easy, especially if the king finds out.   

This isn’t a story that you will be able to read and say ‘that was wrapped up nicely’ because this is only just the beginning of this story. We have a long way to go until we are truly satisfied with everything that is going on in Llarien. We still have a lot to learn about what is really going on with the Northerners, the Akhael and between the king and his youngest son. And then we have Adrien’s mysterious injury and I have to admit that I really want to know what is really going on in Llarien.

I recommend this if you want a high-fantasy story that is only just beginning, great characters, great world building, some hot sex, a difficult relationship, and lots more of this story to come. 

Jumping at Shadows by R. G. Green

Title: Jumping At Shadows

Author: R.G. Green

Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (200pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (21st November 2011)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Detective Eric Geller just saw his case against crime boss Victor Kroger thrown out of court. Convinced there’s more to the dismissal than contaminated evidence, Eric shifts from investigating Victor to investigating the judge, determined to bring Victor to justice. But when a package of photographs appears on his doorstep, it sets into motion a series of events that begins to threaten his personal life as well as his professional career.

T.J. Briscoe has been married to Eric for seven years, and he knows the stress of the job can lead to jumping at shadows.  While initially supportive of Eric’s decision to pursue Victor, T.J. nevertheless grows wary as Eric’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic. He may have married Eric with the intention of forever, but if Eric crosses the line between caution and paranoia, their relationship may be the first casualty.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=2631&osCsid=360rluc6sv2j41ire7vanfh1b2

Review: Well, I have done a search on this author as I was sure that she must have other books published but I wasn’t able to find anything… so could this be her first published work??? If it is then my hat is off to her because it is brilliant.

Eric has just watched the case he worked on for a year get thrown out of court and he’s not taking it well, with his Captain’s approval he starts to investigate the judge who dismissed the case and a series of events start him to suspect everyone around him. T.J. supports Eric and tries to believe in him as his behavior becomes erratic but it becomes harder to believe as time goes on.

This is a well written story that has good characters, a great story-line and plot with plenty of hot sex thrown in. This book is really, really well written because it pulls you in and makes you believe that, yes, Eric is right.  There is something behind what he thinks.  You can see all the connections that lead him to believe what he does and the doubts that he has. With T.J., you do think that he takes everything too calmly and that he should be a little bit worried about what is going on but his belief in his husband is that strong that he just doesn’t believe that he has anything to worry about.

These two characters are so perfect for each other that it is amazing that they don’t combust when they come together.  They are a well-established couple of eight years who still love each other to death and the spark is still there. This story is also very much a psychological thriller as Eric starts to jump at shadows. The way T.J. is written is really good as you begin to believe that he is deliberately trying to make Eric look paranoid.  When if he had been wrote differently, then you would have believed that Eric was being paranoid, brilliantly done R.G.

I will have to recommend this to everyone as I really do think that this story is too good to miss.