Tag: Self-published

Abandoned by Silvia Violet

18375465Title: Abandoned

Series: Galactic Betrayal 01

Author: Silvia Violet

Genre: Science Fiction, Action, BDSM

Length: Novella (88pgs)

Publisher: Silvia Violet Books (23rd August 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit/Scorching

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Lark left Derek in the hands of alien torturers. Derek refused to believe Lark could be innocent. But desire still burns between them, and they need each other to survive Can they overcome the lies and betrayal of their past?

Lark Zaccaro and Derek Carlson were partners and friends. Lark wanted more. Then someone at the Intergalactic Investigations Bureau sold them out to enemy aliens. Lark was forced to abandon Derek to the enemy, and Derek bought the IIB’s story that Lark betrayed them all.

When Lark’s deep cover mission and Derek’s new job in search-and-rescue collide, the desire simmering between them explodes. Lark needs Derek’s help to escape a new enemy, and Derek needs to discover the truth about what really happened on that alien planet. Can they overcome lies and betrayal and find the love and comfort they seek, or will their past forever keep them apart?

CONTENT ADVISORY: This title contains scenes of dubious consent.

Purchase Link: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-abandoned-1271251-147.html 

UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Abandoned-Galactic-Betrayal-ebook/dp/B00ERACBNI

US: http://www.amazon.com/Abandoned-Galactic-Betrayal-ebook/dp/B00ERACBNI

Review: Lark has no choice but to leave his partner behind when his partner got captured, he has lived with the guilt for six months but he tried everything he could to get his partner out, now six months later Derek is his prisoner and Lark tries to get Derek to face the truth. Derek doesn’t know what to believe but he knows that he has to try to resist the man he loves and escape out of the hellhole he is in.

This book is well written and is extremely intense from the beginning till the end. Lark knows the truth of what really happened six months ago while Derek believes what he has been told by the Intergalactic Investigation Bureau now they are face to face and both men are bitter and angry and it is directed at each other. This is a very emotional explicit story as we see both men struggle with their feelings of anger, betrayal, and guilt for different reasons.

There are unexpectedly numerous explicit, erotic sex scenes, which have a BDSM kink but nothing really heavy. All the scenes are intense as we progress through the book and we get an overview of what happened to separate the two men in the first place and we see the progression of the relationship as they admit their feelings to each other but it isn’t an easy ride for either men as they try to sort out their doubts, escape and to admit that they had both changed since they last saw each other.

The storyline is good and I really can’t wait for the next book in the series as I really want to see how the plot will unfold, we get the beginning in this book as Derek finally realizes just where the betrayal came from and Lark knows beyond a doubt that he was left on Lancarina in deep cover to die, now with both men back together anything is possible ;-). We also have some dark areas where torture and rape are alluded to and the brutal treatment that Derek suffered and Lark had to dish out while undercover are spoken or thought of.

I have to recommend this one to those who love science fiction, brutal worlds, deep betrayal, lies, truth, really hot erotic sex, two men looking for the truth and a happy ending. 

Out of the Woods by Amelia Bishop

18336816Title:  Out of the Woods

Author: Amelia Bishop 

Genre:   Contemporary Romance

Length:  Novella (116 pages)

Publisher:  Amelia Bishop (August 12th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   Harrison is a botanist, working in the forest. Jackson is a man with a secret, hiding there.
By luck, or fate, they cross paths and form a fast friendship. As their relationship grows more serious, they each see in the other a chance for real happiness.
But Jackson’s past mistakes are not easily overcome, and it will take all of Harrison’s love and patience for them to find a happy ending

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/Out-of-the-Woods-ebook/dp/B00EIR7LJ4

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Out of the Woods is a short and endearing story about love, life, and consequences. Harrison is a botanist and teacher trekking through the woods while researching his book. Jackson is a loner and a recluse who finds solace within the woods. He’s built a home and has cut off all contact with the outside world. That is until Harris stumbles into his life.

There is a mutual attraction that only grows over weekends spent together in Jack’s cabin surrounded only by nature, and each other. But Jack is afraid to let the real world become a part of his everyday life again, no matter how much he wants to be with Harris. The couple has no secrets as Jack told Harris about his past from the start. But the past has a way of catching up with you, especially when you run like hell trying to escape it, rather than face it. Ultimately, they find a way to build a life together centered on compromise and love. Jack is really thrown for a loop when his past catches up not so much with him, but with Harris.

This was a delightful and endearing story that brought tears to my eyes a couple of times. Jack is perfectly happy wallowing in his self-pity until Harris comes along and pulls him out of his stupor. Harris was patient, kind, and gentle as Jack learned how to live again, with him. Although this is a short story, it was quite in-depth following the lives of these two men over roughly a two-year time frame, as they only grew closer over every page. Definitely a must read for fans of a HEA ending that is based within reality with a little bit of a struggle to achieve that happiness.

Gay Honeymoon by Susan Reaves

81f5+WiPNqL._SL1500_Title: Gay Honeymoon

Series:  None

Author:  Susan Reaves

Genre:   Contemporary/Erotica

Length:  Novel (249 Pages)

Publisher:  Amazon Digital Services, Inc. (July 19th, 2013) 

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts       

Blurb:   Ever wonder how gay men in sparsely populated rural areas find love and romance? Kismet, serendipity, synchronicity, faith?

Toby lives in the remote reaches of California’s Lost Coast in Humboldt County. He tends a country store, post office, and fishing resort in Honeydew with his Uncles Butch and Jimmy, a married couple. Toby turns twenty and comes out to his uncles on his birthday- just before Halloween 2012. Together they all scheme to find him a boyfriend.

Along comes twenty-five-year-old Jacob, college grad and a former LDS missionary. Jacob is a delivery driver out of Eureka, newly assigned to ride in once a week with merchandise for their general store. The four men become fast friends and Jacob reveals that he had fallen in love with his missionary companion who dumped him at the conclusion of their mission in order to marry his high school sweetheart. Jacob came out after finishing college, was disowned by his parents and left the church. After grieving his losses, he is looking for true love.

The country gentlemen woo Jacob as a suitable suitor for Toby and sparks fly.

A first kiss at Thanksgiving leads to a whirlwind romance, a Christmas Eve engagement, a community coming out on New Year’s Eve and a Valentine’s Day wedding in New York.

Join Toby and Jacob both in and out of the bedroom. Watch their romance unfold while the nation is poised to start the tidal wave of LGBT Marriage Equality state by state that began with the 2012 election.

18+ for homoerotic content along with a sweet romance and coming of age love story.

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/Gay-Honeymoon-ebook/dp/B00E1VTTTC

Reviewer:   John

Review:  Oh my God! I absolutely loved this novel! Gay Honeymoon stars Toby. Now, Toby lost his dad at the World Trade Center in 9/11 and his mom a few years later. He was left all alone, but his Uncle Butch took him in and raised him as his own along with his loving partner, Jimmy. Toby, now twenty, is looking for the love of his life and he finds it, the amazing and incredible Jacob.

I loved Toby. He was very shy and quiet, but really loving and caring. I was left heartbroken after reading about his parents. That was just so tragic and sad. However, I was so happy that his Uncle Butch and Jimmy took him in. Those two were just so amazing and loving, the coolest uncles walking the face of the planet! Now, Jacob was the bomb! I fell for him instantly and I was saddened by his past as well. I was so glad that Toby and Jacob found each other because those two deserved each other.

What I liked the most about this novel was the fact that it was so realistic. There wasn’t any bizarre plot or crazy storyline that made you turn left and right, losing your way. The writing was perfect and engaging. It really showed that the author took her time doing her research and editing it thoroughly. Another thing that I loved was how religious and united the characters were. Yes, life has been hard with them, but they still kept pushing forward. I must warn you though, this novel is steamy hot. There are so many sex scenes that they will leave you at the edge of your seat.

All in all, this was an amazing little read. I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read a very loving story about family, friendship, love, religion, life, and hot steamy sex.

60 Percent Proof by Taylor V. Donovan

17847451Title: 60 Percent Proof

Series:  By Degrees (A By Degrees Interlude, By Degrees #1.5)
  
Author: Taylor V. Donovan
  
Genre:  Romantic Suspense

Length: Short Story (7k)

Publisher: Taylor V. Donovan

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:  Note from the Author: This is a free interlude to celebrate Mac’s birthday, and will be available for download on May 15, 2013.

Sam Shaughnessy knows what he wants from Mac O’Bannon: monthly, uncomplicated casual encounters.

Mac is on the same page. For two months, they have been enjoying each other’s company, never forgetting that their agreement leaves zero room for long-term commitment.

But a visit to a local gay club during a weekend getaway in South Beach tips the scale, and it isn’t long before Sam starts showing how much he really doesn’t like to share.

Firmly placed rules get suspiciously bent, and by the end of the night, only two things are clear: body shots are conducive to extreme displays of arousal and possessiveness, and anything can be blamed on tequila.

Product Link: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-60percentproof-1214228-145.html

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: This little story is just a snack to satisfy our appetites for Sam and Mac while she wiles away on Six Degrees of Separation. We get a bit more insight into Mac and Sam’s relationship shift, and the denial, hurt and new understanding that goes with it. Any by the way, I love Sam’s possessive streak! There are more details revealed about the other characters in Mac and Sam’s life too. It’s a good appetizer, don’t miss it! You do however have to read book one, Six Degrees of Lust first.

Broken Bonds by Lex Valentine

tmp_60c5ab107f12f2f29cc1c3d8ccb417b0_vg6QLP_html_792e8d1Title:  Broken Bonds

Series: Souls in Bondage, Book #1 

Author:  Lex Valentine

Genre:   BDSM

Length:  Novella (84 pages)

Publisher:  Lex Valentine (December 24th 2012)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   The one thing Haven Noel wants for his Christmas birthday is for his master, Kellen, to love him. But the wonderful Christmas Eve Haven plans for his master goes awry and instead of receiving his master’s love, Haven ends up on the street without his collar. Heartbroken, Haven heads to the club where he and Kellen originally met, only to find it closed.

With a blizzard descending and nowhere to go, Haven curls up on the club doorstep, courting death. Hopeless and shattered, on the verge of losing consciousness, he makes a wish for Kellen to find happiness some day. Two angels with a vested interest in Haven and Kellen’s happiness hear his wish and conspire with Kellen’s family to save Haven’s life, bring love back to Kellen’s heart and give them both the best kinky Christmas ever.

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ASZC00U?ie=UTF8&tag=httpwwwgoodco-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00ASZC00U&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  It’s the M/M version of A Christmas Carol, complete with the deceased lover turned Guardian Angel.

Kellen is a Dom with a broken heart. He hasn’t been the same since his longtime partner died several years ago. He took Haven in as his submissive almost a year prior to this Christmas, but he has never fully opened up in the relationship. His partner died just during the Holidays so Kellen refuses to celebrate. When Haven plans a surprise Christmas Eve dinner Kellen is furious and throws Haven out in a blizzard in a fit of anger.

Kellen is visited by an angel, his dead angel, who takes him on a journey of Haven’s life. The road Haven travelled that lead him to Kellen. It doesn’t take long for Kellen to realize his heart is no longer broken, it actually belongs to Haven.

In Valentines ‘Souls in Bondage’ series, Doms are meant to love, protect and shield their subs. It’s written to be a give and take relationship with the dominant in control, needing to control and the submissive relenting, needing to be controlled. Kellen is cruel and hateful at the start, but when he realizes just what’s at stake he quickly changes his tune. I don’t usually read the BDSM because the harshness isn’t my style, but this book and this series is a nice departure from the norm. If you’re looking for something short, heartwarming, and a little bit sexy, then Broken Bonds is a good choice.

 

Taming Tristan by Silvia Violet

18219491Title: Taming Tristan

Series: Wild R Farm, 03.5

Author: Silvia Violet

Genre: Shifter, Cowboys, D/s

Length: Short (62pgs)

Publisher: Silvia Violet Books (3rd August 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Wild R Farm 3.5, A Wes and Tristan Short Story

Private Detective, Wesley James, and horse shifter, Tristan Hayes, have spent the last few weeks adjusting to living together in Wes’s house in Nashville. Night after night with a demanding stallion is wearing Wes out, but he doesn’t mind. He loves Tristan more than he ever imagined, and he’ll do whatever it takes to show him, even if that involves a spanking, some handcuffs, and a visit to the gun range. Wes almost lost Tristan once, and no matter how difficult Tristan makes it, he’s determined to teach his man how to protect himself in his more fragile human form.

Purchase Link: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-tamingtristan-1252214-145.html

Review: This story is part of a series and must be read in order, especially after Embracing Need. We reconnect with Wes and Tristan as Wes tries to gain a little bit of control over Tristan. Wes is determined to get Tristan to slow down a bit but Tristan keeps driving Wes to the edge of his control, so Wes decides to take a leaf out of Tristan’s book and if it includes handcuffs, ties and spanking to get Tristan to relax then Wes is all for it.

This is a great short story where we see demanding stallion Tristan finally get just what he needs off Wes. Wes is still worried about Tristan’s safety and is determined to get Tristan to the shooting range. Tristan is taking great joy of breaking Wes’ control though by tempting him constantly with hot sex and Wes has the idea to make Tristan take it slow instead of instant gratification and they come to a mutually satisfactory deal.

This is one hot short story as we see insatiable Tristan pushing Wes buttons and making Wes lose all control, we also see Wes taking control of Tristan’s satisfaction and taking him to heights of pleasure as he reassures Tristan of his love. Wes and Tristan are an incredibly hot couple and the sexual tension and sparks between them is incredible, there are still some fears of safety after the kidnapping in Embracing Need but the main focus in this short is of Tristan’s need to rush sex. The way that they both react to the handcuffs and spankings is mind blowingly hot with Wes finally getting the upper hand in their sexual games.

I recommend this to those who love hot sexual encounters, teasing, love and doing anything to please the one you love.

 

 

Cocksure by Berengaria Brown

Half nude dancer isolated on whiteTitle:  Cocksure 

Series: N/A  

Author:  Berengaria Brown

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Short Story (12 pages)

Publisher:  Self-published (January 7, 2013) previously published by Scarlet Harlot Publishing

Heat Level: Explicit  

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3 Hearts

BlurbLloyd is a loner. He doesn’t believe he will ever find a partner he can love. So he spends his evenings drinking in gay bars, either getting drunk or going off with a stranger for a fast fuck. But then he meets KC and his world changes.

KC’s not about to let Lloyd harden his heart to the possibilities between them. KC knows Lloyd’s the man for him and he’ll use whatever hot, dirty, and sexy persuading he has to on order win his man over.

Product Link: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-cocksure-1039688-145.html

Reviewer:  Cat

Review: Lloyd has had a hard past. He has built a wall around him, and trust issues. But he also longs to have friends and a lover. He spends a lot of time getting hookups in a gay bar.

KC sees him one night and makes a pass at him. The go to KC’s and have hot sex.

Is it more than sex or just a hook up? You will have to read and see.

This was another short and sweet romance between two men. A good choice if you want to kill a few minutes waiting at an appointment or just to relax and enjoy a good short story with lots of hot mansex. The sex is very hot and very explicit. The only thing I didn’t really like is that they moved so fast that I found it a bit unbelievable. 

 

I recommend this to anyone who likes hot sex, secret pasts, and pickups in a bar.

The Unwanted series 1-4 by Westbrooke Jameson

Westbrooke UnwantedSeries: The Unwanted

Title: 

Book 1 Shannon’s Solace. Length Short (38pgs)

Book 2, Derek’s Bliss. Length Short (30pgs)

Book 3, Joel’s Protection. Length Short (45pgs)

Book 4, Ambrosia’s Worth. Length Short (32pgs)

** Note that book 5 is due out in July and at that time Jameson is going to combine all 5 books into one, The Unwanted. **

 

Author:  Westbrooke Jameson

Genre:   M/M and Alien Romance, Kink, Transgender

Publisher:  Westbrooke Jameson (Various Dates)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb:   Three years ago, a race of aliens called Narsoreal made contact and gained asylum on Earth. In exchange for technology and medical advancements, the United States government allows the Narsoreal to collect and bond with the country’s “unwanted” citizens. In one city, a Narsoreal bond-matcher has set his sights on a small band of male and female prostitutes in desperate need of salvation. Each of the five has unique needs, but it just might be that there is a Narsoreal ready and willing to meet every one of them.

Shannon’s Solace: Every day is a struggle for survival, and Shannon often feels like everything is out of his control. He longs for someone to come into his life and offer him some peace, be the one he can lean on, and maybe someday forgive him his past and love him anyway.

Derek’s Bliss: His every breath a struggle, Derek attempts to live out the remainder of his life with some measure of dignity while also preparing his little family of misfits for a time when he won’t be there for them. Then the alien bond-matcher who swept Shannon off his feet has a proposal for Derek: Bonded Narsoreal have been known to cure their matches of just about everything. Is Derek willing to bond with an alien to save his own life?

Joel’s Protection: The baby of the family at just eighteen, Joel feels useless, adrift, and like everyone’s the boss of him. He jumps at the chance to match with his fairytale prince and live happily ever after. But though he’s matched just like Shannon and Derek, Joel is still treated like a directionless kid. An opportunity for a hot public display of affection during a party just might guarantee that no one will ever think Joel’s a kid from now on. He just has to step up and take one more chance.

Ambrosia’s Worth: Ambrosia is all woman despite being genetically male. She likes who she is, how she looks, and she’s not changing for any man. Not even for an alien who’s supposed to love her forever—if that’s even real. To save herself from being alone and sinking even farther down the poverty line, Ambrosia consents to a match…only to have him turn tail and run at the sight of her. Proven right again about love being the real fairytale here, she decides to live a great life one her own. But then he comes back, determined to make their connection work, and Ambrosia has to decide if her stubborn pride is more important than maybe—just maybe—falling in love.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: This is the first story in a 5-part series available individually and as a whole sold under the title “The Unwanted” which will be available by the end of 2013. Reading each story in order is recommended.

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_athr_dp_sr_1?_encoding=UTF8&field-author=Westbrooke%20Jameson&search-alias=digital-text&sort=relevancerank

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Living on the fringes of society, they are ‘The Unwanted’ and this is their story.

This series is centered around an unusual group of friends that consider themselves a family.  And an alien race, Nasoreal, that have taken solace on our planet. The aliens traveled light years from their planet to ours because they were gay and thus not allowed to bond on their planet. They are allowed to look for a bond mate among earths unwanted and forgotten members of society in exchange for their knowledge and medicines that can cure most human diseases.

Shannon aka Shots, is a gay male prostitute that sells himself in order to provide for himself and his family. One of his clients turns out to be not only a Narsoreal, but the one that is in charge of matching bond mates. Alimund is immediately taken with Shannon and knowing they are a match, he begins the bonding process. Will Shannon accept the bond, or reject Alimund and the prospect of a life where he doesn’t have to turn tricks to put food on the table?

Derek, the head of this family of misfits, is dying. He has VIS one of the few diseases that the Nasoreal were not able to provide a cure for. While attempting to secure a residence for his family he was raped by the previous owner, thus contracting the disease. When Alimund meets Derek he brings him back to his home with the hopes of finding him a Nasoreal mate that can possibly prolong his life through the bond. Enter Joss. The tall, dark and handsome alien that is the angel of Derek’s dreams.

Joel is the baby of the family. Everything that Shannon and Derek have done is to protect and shelter him, to ensure he would never have to endure the pain they have on the streets. The elder men can’t move forward with their bond mates unless they are assured that the rest of their family will be given the opportunity as well. Alimund has found Joel’s match, a gentle giant. Joel quickly learns that not only does he like to watch, but he likes to be watched as well.

Ambrosia is a full on diva bitch wrapped up in a man’s body! Derek, Shannon and Joel have to all but twist her arm, but she finally concedes and comes to Alimunds home so she can meet her match. Things don’t go quite so smoothly this time around when a gay alien that has traveled a long way to be able to mate with a man thinks he’s been mated with a woman. I really don’t recommend pissing off the diva, but that is exactly what Ambrosia’s mate does. Her fight or flight instinct kicks in and she is going to make a run for it. Unless her intended pulls his head out of his ass.

I love the concept of the world in these stories. It’s so commonplace in our society to put labels on people like ‘unwanted’ and assume they don’t deserve anything. It was such fun to read each installment and see the relationships unfold then grow. My favorite part was Alimunds key to knowing who was bonded, through the eyes. I’ve always said the eyes are the window to the soul, so I like Jameson’s twist on soul mates in this story. I also liked the transformations that a couple of the aliens took on to please their mate.

I highly recommend this series of short stories. Jameson is descriptive not only with the sex (which is hot, steamy, passionate and sometimes corny, but good) but with each character and their story. How they got where they are and how they are overcoming it. My personal favorite so far is Joel’s story, but I can’t wait for the final installment, Renzo’s Redemption in July!

Six Ways From Sunday by Mercy Celeste

17727309Title: Six Ways From Sunday

Series: N/A

Author: Mercy Celeste

Genre: MM / Contemporary / Erotic Romance

Length: Novella

Publisher: Beg For Mercy Press (April 12th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Take one NFL tight end, and one Marine, add one week and watch the sparks fly.

Bowen Murphy craved two things, football and Dylan. After high school he had football but he lost Dylan.

Dylan Sunday walked a different path, one laid down before him by his father and his grandfather. Losing Bo one day after discovering they shared more than football wasn’t part of the bargain.

Six years of missed connections and finally Dylan is able to come home to the man he left behind. The spectacle of the biggest game in the NFL is only the beginning of one sizzling week. After that time and fate would decide if Bo and Dylan would walk the same path, or if one of them would make the ultimate sacrifice.

Warning: bittersweet tale of two hot men, making up for six years of separation. May not be suitable for sensitive readers. Contains scenes of male/male sexual practices.

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/Six-Ways-from-Sunday-ebook/dp/B00CBP5SOA

Review: Oh my God, I really do think after this read that Mercy Celeste is a wicked, wicked woman. She cannot possibly have pulled this incredible story.

You just know from page one, from first paragraph, hell from first line that this story is going to be intense and is going to rock you. The pace is set and it’s fast. You need to keep running along with the story and you need your wits about you.

Long time friends Bo and Dylan not only take separate paths when Bo goes to college and Dylan hits the Marines, but that day they realize that both are attracted to each other and their feelings are reciprocated. Many years of friendship seem a bit lost when they could have had more and now they are going to be apart for who knows how much time…

So at this point you think nice start and nice little characters. You see the temper Bo has. You see the love he harbors for Dylan and vice versa, and you get one hell of an intense first time between the two young lovers. So, the question remains, what is the author going to do with that? And Celeste does not disappoint delivering one hell of a week with our heroes six years later.

Both characters are more mature. Dylan has already become someone in the Marines. He is no longer the young boy who left, rather a man who is absolutely delicious to read about. Surprising Bo at his Super Bowl game, he is in town for one week. Bo has changed too, he has come to realize that that friendship they had is not only the same, but rather stronger and the love he once harbored for Dylan is right there simmering under his skin waiting for Dylan to come back to him.

What follows is a week of hot, steamy, incredibly erotic sex between them. And I do mean incredibly erotic. Perhaps it was that shadow of desperation in the air, the fact that after six years all they have is a week and it seems so little time for those two. The text does manage to convey everything and while doing that you get so engrossed and caught up that you completely forget that something is coming up. That twist in the plot catches you off guard and hits you full force.

It’s a roller coaster of emotions and feelings, their intensity growing higher and higher, leaving you breathless and shocked. Personally, when Bo lays eyes on Janine, Dylan’s mother, I had to take a break and stop to get my brain in order. It was heartbreaking and after all that good time the pair spent this was like cold water splashed in your face. Cruel in so many ways, I can’t begin to describe or even hope that I could find the words to do so. You see, up until this point, this book was a four hearts rating for me. Because, while sexy and sensual and erotic, it was just that. With this twist, it made a full five hearts and while I was cursing the author all the time I could see the brilliance of the twist. She made it real. And then, while trying to come to terms with the text, while trying to make the end and get a hold on my dispersed thought she does it again.

I mean really? Really? What on Earth woman. How twisted can you be? I don’t know what was more cruel, the first twist or the second? Of course, I couldn’t be happier with the result. I looooved it. The impossibility that a novella, with a limited space for development could turn you upside down like this was the best surprise ever and if my enthusiasm didn’t show it, and if you need me to spell it loud and clear, people do read this book. It’s not to be missed.

Young Pim and the Goblins by Corey Michael Smithson

2940044353053_p0_v1_s260x420Title: Young Pim and The Goblins

Author: Corey Michael Smithson

Genre: Dark Fantasy, Epic Adventure

Length: Super Novel (324pgs)

Publisher: Corey Michael Smithson (2nd March 2013)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: An unusual and thrilling adventure story, set within a self-contained universe of competing cultures and dangerous magic, “Young Pim and the Goblins” explores the unexpected consequences of freedom, through the eyes of a former slave on the cusp of adulthood. The world of “Young Pim” is balanced between three ancient Great Houses, a semi-industrialized human town, and an underground society of misunderstood creatures. Sold at birth into slavery and raised by sadistic overseers, an adolescent boy named Young Pim narrowly escapes from the horrors of Old Buttertub, a training school for ritual concubines, only to find himself lost in an unfamiliar and menacing landscape. He is captured by the Goblins, an aggregate civilization of monsters and warriors, and he is introduced into their complex social networks. During his time among the various clans and species, he learns to overcome superstition with curiosity, prejudice with love, and fear with valor. But in liberating himself, Pim has inadvertently set into motion a chain of events that will eventually lead to the destruction of the Goblins’ way of life, and the rise of an oppressive human religion. “Young Pim and the Goblins” is aimed at a target audience of curious, imaginative readers who enjoy provocative and challenging fantasy.

Purchase Link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/291490

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/young-pim-and-the-goblins-corey-michael-smithson/1114796326

UK: http://www.whsmith.co.uk/eProducts/Young-Pim-And-The-Goblins+eBook+KB00106361344

Review: Young Pim was sold into slavery at birth. Since then he has been trained to withstand pain and torture for the future use of his owner. it is a life that all the boys at Buttertub are facing. Young Pim follows a rat one day and finds a secret door to the outside. Fleeing from his future, he finds himself falling into the hands of the Goblins. Living with the Goblins, Young Pim learns the meaning of family, love and glimmering hope. But, his escape has set in motion a turn of events that will change not just the Goblin’s destruction, but also the destruction of the known society of the humans.

This is a dark fantasy that digs deep into how easily societies can rise and fall and how just one or two people can create change that can cause the destruction of a way of life. In this fantasy world there are three Great Houses that control the land, Buttertub, Barnaby and Crugghaberra and each are as cruel as the last. Young Pim escaping has repercussions that are far-reaching. Young Pim’s adventure takes him deep into the bowls of the mountain, seeing incredible creatures, making wonderful friends and facing devastating enemies.

Although this story isn’t a typical M/M there is a childlike innocent love which develops between Young Pim and Young Jym (a broken boy). This story follows Young Pim on his journey. it is a difficult path that he finds himself on with many obstacles and with some joy, danger and loss. There are many wonderful creatures that we come across and a community that pulls together welcoming those that find their haven. But, there are also horrors that we come across, depravity and unnecessary suffering and a talking sorcerer rat. This story isn’t for those that are faint of heart. It is dark, dangerous with many pitfalls. There is little true joy and it doesn’t have a miraculous happy ending.

This is a well written story that pulls you into a fantasy world that will make you cringe in places. the settings that are described come alive in your mind and there are characters that you cheer for and characters that you take joy in their destruction no matter how grisly the demise. Corey Michael Smithson has created a world that brings you the best and worst of civilization and he also brings a world where sometimes there just is no happily ever after.

I have to recommend this to those who love dark fantasy, adventure, cruel characters, wonderful characters and an ending that leaves you wondering what might be next.  

Icicle by Natalie Vale

icicleTitle: Icicle

Author: Natalie Vale

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Short (31pgs)

Publisher: Natalie Vale (21st December 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥3½ – 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Haunted by a recent breakup, compulsive traveler Sean finds himself trapped in a sudden blizzard. Near death, he’s rescued by a man for whom the cold holds no danger. A man with losses of his own and memories he’s never been able to share. For one night, in a tiny cabin deep in the woods, these two lonely souls will find refuge in each other. Contains explicit sexuality and some violent war imagery.

Purchase Links: US: http://www.amazon.com/Icicle-ebook/dp/B00ARY1H24

UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Icicle-ebook/dp/B00ARY1H24

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/267026

Review: Sean just can’t seem to settle.  He has a feeling that there is something out in the world just waiting for him.  leaving his lover Zach isn’t an easy choice, but it is one that he has to make. Stranded, alone and freezing, Sean is rescued by a man who is lost himself.  What Sean and Ezra share that night has them both finding home.

This is a touching, slight paranormal with a touch of historical element. Sean is searching for something, but he just doesn’t know what.  Leaving his boyfriend, Zach, he sets out to wander the country and find what is missing from his life.  But, stranded and freezing, he fears that Zach’s last words to him may come true. Ezra has also been searching for something, but he knows what it is.  He just can’t seem to find his way, saving Sean and bringing him back to his humble cabin, leads him to find his way home.

This is quite a poignant little story, which is brimming with heart clenching emotion.  Sean at first seems to be selfish.  He has a man who adores him and will travel with him when the urge hits Sean.  But, he throws Zach’s love back in his face, because he has a feeling that there is something or someone out there that would just be right. When Sean finds himself freezing under a tree I couldn’t quite quench the little spark that wanted to shout ‘Karma’, but the following scenes touch your heart as he comes to realize that what he was looking for was right in front of him the entire time. Ezra has also been looking for something and spending the night with Sean shows him the way, their coming together is beautiful and isn’t a quick fix, it is a joining of souls, a sharing of lives that will blow you away.

I will recommend this to those who love slight paranormal stories, historical flashbacks, sweet loving, finding the way home and a very happy ending for all involved.

Asylum by Piper Vaughn

asylum_750x500Title: Asylum

Series: N/A

Author: Piper Vaughn

Genre: MM / Contemporary

Length: Novelette (17,000 words)

Publisher: Piping Hot Books (February 23rd, 2013)

Reviewer: Thommie

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥3.5~4Hearts

Blurb: Johnny Cairo is known as the Scaremaster. He works for Fear Asylum, his father’s traveling haunted house, and makes his living terrifying people. But Johnny has never frightened easily himself. That is, until he wakes up in the middle of the night and finds his best friend’s younger brother in his bed. Naked.

Johnny’s fought against his attraction to Brennan for years, worried that giving in to it will lead to losing the friendship he shares with Brennan’s older brother, Eddie. As much as he fights it, though, the lure of having Brennan in his bed proves too hard to resist. They start an affair that’s supposed to be no-strings-attached, but Johnny’s persistent denial of the growing feelings between them leads to a rift that might not be mendable. Then an accident at Fear Asylum nearly costs Johnny the one thing he holds dear, and he learns that while his nickname might be the Scaremaster, he knows next to nothing about real fear.

Product Link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/288931

Review: This very quick story is perhaps a study in seduction. Loved it and mostly loved Brennan. His insistence was hilarious having poor Johnny scrambling for some semblance of sanity.

Johnny has crushing on Brennan for years, but Brennan being his best friend’s younger brother complicated things. Johnny has no intention of jeopardizing his friendship due to lust. While working on the Fear Asylum and keeping an eye on Brennan for his friend’s sake, Johnny fails to realize how much Brennan has really grown up. That is until one night he finds Brennan in his bed. So yes, Johnny is shocked and that keeps him from reacting and turning Brennan down… the first night. The second night he’s determined to do so, but Brennan kisses him and well, his brain melts and the third and the forth…

But eventually Johnny gets a grip in his sanity that seems to be escaping him lately and turns the young man down.  A bit harsh, admittedly, but the result is the same. Problem is Johnny never thought that he’d be missing Brennan this much and the very idea of losing him forever hits the target when an accident occurs and the very possibility that Brennan with leave forever knocks on the door.

The story was very sweet and sexy. As I said I loved Brennan. He was cute and persistent even when it hurt him. And Johnny, oh dear, poor guy lost his mind. It happens, of course, but reading it just brought memories and made me smile.

Problem is that it was too short of a story and left some questions behind. First off, I have no idea how old Johnny is. Brennan is twenty and calls Johnny “old man” at some point, but I’d love to have a clearer view. And the story being so short left no room for emotions to develop. Yes, the lust was almost tangible and the intensity of the guys’ lovemaking nearly there, but that desperation for me was due to a long longing and the fact that nothing was secure between them. I’d have loved if this story was a bit longer and gave us some more “quality” time with the guys.

As it was, it was sexy and fun enough and a quite enjoyable read. The writing was easy-going and I literally inhaled it. If you’re up for this kind of read I totally recommend it.

p.s.

This is definitely one of those stories I’d love a sequel to come by and give us a bit more. It’d be such a shame for Johnny and Brennan to end here.

 

—

Tormented Discovery by Jayson James

17290632Title:  Tormented Discovery

Series:  Finding Our Way Series Book Two

Author:  Jayson James

Genre:   Young Adult

Length:  365 Pages

Publisher:  Amazon Digital Services, Inc. (January 27th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Low

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts

Blurb:   Justin and Derrick have a secret that they revealed only to their closest friends. They are gay and are now a couple. The story of Justin and Derrick continues as they learn more about being a gay couple in their senior year of high school and the complications that arise from it. Some friends will have their backs while others simply stand on the sidelines. Other friends will be accepting and others will ridicule them.

Sometimes love is almost not enough to save a relationship and both Derrick and Justin begin to have their doubts as they watch relationships around them rise and fall. Justin and Derrick both want to have new experiences, new choices and make new friends, which leads to them questioning their own relationship. They soon discover that some of the people they consider friends have their own secrets, some darker than others. The couple begins to see how people react towards homosexuality and just how people want to deal with it and them.

Will Justin and Derrick be able to hold onto each other while their lives and secrets spiral around them?

Or will they decide to step back and give up on themselves and each other?

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/Tormented-Discovery-Jayson-James/dp/1480246433

Reviewer:   John

Review:  Oh no! Oh yes! I loved this novel. This story is told in three points of view, Hayden’s Derrick’s and Justin’s. To some, that might be a little confusing, but it’s not. When there is a skip of one point of view to the other, the story flows smoothly. It does not go back and retell what you just read. At first, I found it hard to know in whose point of view I was, but when I catch on, I loved the story from beginning to end.

My favorite character was Hayden. I loved the little kid. He was straight and friends with the gay guys in school. His best friend Ryan has a little crush on him. A little? He falls for the guy! Who wouldn’t? He was awesome! At first, Hayden freaks. Name a straight guy that wouldn’t, right? After he calms down, he seeks Ryan and tries to fix their friendship which he does. Those two stay as friend and I liked that.

Derrick and Justin were awesome. I liked their love story, but Hayden stole the show. I hated Kristian. He was mean and unlikeable. I hope he gets what he deserves in book three. The plot was good, but the story was a little too long for me. I liked the fact that I felt like a fly on the wall throughout the novel. I truly felt like if I was eavesdropping on their conversation and a part of the gang by the end of the book.

In a nutshell, the story and characters were great and likeable. I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read about a group of friends as they make their way through life.

 

Arresting Love by Silvia Violet

arresting-love-400x600Title:  Arresting Love

Series:  Wild R Farm Series   

Author:  Silvia Violet

Genre:  Contemporary/Cowboy

Length:  Novella (130 Pages)

Publisher:  Self-Published (December 30, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb:  Billy Lawson is jealous. Every day he watches his boss, Cole, and his boss’s lover, Jonah, prove again and again how deeply in love they are. Billy’s never had a real relationship, and he didn’t believe true love existed until Cole proved otherwise. Now, he longs for what Cole and Jonah have.

When he meets Levi, a scared, wounded shifter who needs his help, he ignores the chemistry that flares between them, thinking he’d be taking advantage of Levi at a vulnerable time in his life. Before Levi can convince Billy they were made for each other, his past catches up to him, and both men must fight for a chance at love.

Product Link:  http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/269683

Reviewer:   Cat

Review: Billy is forced to go on a vacation by his boss, a wolf shifter. Billy’s been content to just have random sex, but now watching Cole and Jonah, he wants more.

Levi is a scared young boy, lost and alone on the streets, and on the run. Though looks can be deceiving; he is also a mountain lion.

I think the story is pretty good, though I didn’t initially realize this is a second book in a series, and was lost for a chapter or so. Eventually the backstory was filled in, sometimes in big chunks almost like dropping back and reading another book. I also find it a bit hard to believe how the shifters all live together: like Jonah being a horse, and his lover being a wolf, then bring in poor, sad, young Levi as a mountain lion to work and live on the. But, this is fiction after all, and when you set that aside and don’t overthink these things, the story is sweet and loving. I am always a sucker for hard-fought true love, so I like that the seemingly meeker Levi is more dominant in private with the more controlled Billy. I will be getting the first, and look forward to the third!

I recommend this to anyone liking unusual shifters like horses and mountain lions, or werewolves, mystery, and hot mansex.

Way Off Plan by Alexa Land

AlexaCoverBlogTitle: Way Off Plan

Series: Firsts And Forever

Author: Alexa Land

Genre: Contemporary, Crime, Mafia

Length: Novel (346pgs Amazon count)

Publisher: Alexa Land (19th December 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Jamie Nolan is a young cop on his first undercover assignment, sent to investigate Dmitri Teplov, a suspected major player in the Russian mafia. Jamie knows better than to get involved with the gorgeous, charismatic nightclub owner. But right from the start, the spark of attraction between the two of them is undeniable.

Everything about Dmitri is just so unexpected. He’s sweet and kind, and has a nerdy side that Jamie finds irresistible. Can this man really be a criminal?

No matter if Dmitri is guilty or innocent, Jamie’s big Irish Catholic family of cops and his police captain are never going to accept this relationship. Dmitri’s dangerous and manipulative gangster uncle is also none too thrilled that these two are together, and wants Jamie out of the picture. On top of that, Jamie’s still reeling from a recent breakup, and Dmitri is unavailable anyway. Isn’t he?

No way should this thing between them be happening. Getting involved with Dmitri Teplov was never part of the plan. But sometimes, the best plan is the one you make up as you go along.

Purchase Link: US: http://www.amazon.com/Way-Off-Plan-ebook/dp/B00AQP65GW

UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Way-Off-Plan-ebook/dp/B00AQP65GW

Review: Jamie is handed his first undercover assignment, infiltrate a nightclub and get close to the owner, Dmitri Teplov, a suspected player in the Russian Mafia. But, things don’t go quite as planned when Jamie finds himself strongly attracted to the man, and Dmitri is nothing like a hardened criminal. Dmitri does what he has to so he can protect his family, but meeting Jamie throws him in a tailspin, getting involved with a cop could be a mistake, but falling for that cop could be deadly.

Alexa Land is a new author and I have to say that for a first self-published book this is great. It isn’t a heavy dark story of mafia vs. cops, it’s a more lighthearted story that you take with a pinch of salt and a bit of a reality check. Jamie and Dmitri meet when Jamie is sent into Dmitri’s club undercover.  The attraction between them is instantaneous and it isn’t long before they are madly in love. But, nothing is ever easy and Jamie’s family are far from happy, his boss thinks he’s lost his mind and his ex thinks he’s doing it for attention. Dmitri is stuck between a rock and a hard place. He’s the name behind the Russian mafia, his uncle is forcing him to marry and his family is in danger if he doesn’t do what his uncle wants.

These characters are not what you would expect a cop and a mafia boss to be like; in fact I kept forgetting what their roles were. Dmitri is so sweet and gentle, shy and slightly submissive, he is a gem of a character, he puts his game face on when he has to, but with Jamie he is a darling. Jamie is still reeling from a break up when he meets Dmitri, but Dmitri wipes the other man from his mind.  Dmitri shows Jamie a side of himself that not many people see and Jamie will take a chance on him, willing to put aside everything else for even a few months with the delectable man.

This story is cute and sweet with a touch of action, not what you would expect from a mafia, crime story, but it’s a completely great read if you want something light and enjoyable with some hot man on man action, as well as sweet loving. I recommend this story if you want a light enjoyable read.

William by Anyta Sunday

13568245Title:  William

Series:  Enemies to Lovers #03

Author: Anyta Sunday

Genre:  M/M Romance

Length:  Novel (223 Pages)

Publisher:  Self-Published  (May 26, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:  William needs to learn to think before he speaks. He accidentally outed his last boyfriend to his bigoted family. Looking to make a new start, he escapes to the most distant place he can think of: New Zealand. There he boards with a substitute mom and her too-hot-to-be-real son, Heath, but Heath and his homophobic friend Rory want William to leave before things “crash and burn,” whatever that means.

Unfortunately, traveling to the end of the world isn’t far enough for William to lose his runaway mouth.
But is it far enough to lose his loneliness?

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/William-Enemies-to-Lovers-ebook/dp/B0086POVJM/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1357862972&sr=1-3&keywords=anyta+sunday

Reviewer:   Leary

Review:  This story delves into the heartache and heartbreak of losing a younger family member, and lies people tell themselves in order to keep going. It illustrates the tangled webs we weave, and how the reactions of one person can bring our card houses tumbling down. I was sucked in from the beginning, and stayed up all night to read it. William became my hero. An enjoyable read with a believable cast, it is full of hilarious one-liners that had me rolling my eyes. Definitely worth your time.

The F Words by Anyta Sunday

16057880Title:  The F Words

Series:  Enemies to Lovers #04

Author:  Anyta Sunday

Genre:  Contemporary

Length:  Novel (227 Pages)

Publisher:  Self-Published (October, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:  Rory A. Phillips is sick of being haunted. Sick of hurting. Sick of being so fucking lost. Whenever he ‘sees’ his best friend William, he’s packing up his motorbike and on the move. But is there a place he can run to that will ever be free of William? A place where he could ever learn to love? A place he can call home?
After losing his last living relative, Eric Graham moves to Wellington to start a new job and a new life. Alone—save for his grandpa’s ashes he can’t bring himself to scatter in the sea. The only guy in the city he knows is a homophobic prick that he’d rather have nothing to do with—but he just can’t stop running into him.

Rory and Eric, both grieving and alone, are searching for a way to move on.

And maybe the best way to do that is together.

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/The-Words-Enemies-Lovers-ebook/dp/B009L9F2LS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1357883233&sr=8-1&keywords=The+F+Words

Reviewer:  Leary

Review:  Another poignant story from Anyta Sunday, this delves more into the grief and loss of losing people who are close to you. We met Rory and Eric in William’s story, and Rory is plagued by that same loss. Hiding in the closet, from everyone, especially himself, Rory has a difficult path to follow. He can choose to deny himself and his memories, and live in constant misery, or he can choose to face himself and his fears, and embrace life. An ally from an unexpected quarter got me teary-eyed. Uninhibited acceptance is something we all seek, no matter the orientation. Now if only Rory can trust his instincts.

Eric is William’s best friend, and an out gay man. Having just lost his last relative, his grandfather, he is having trouble letting go, and carries his grandfather’s ashes around in an urn, contrary to what was requested. He has so much guilt for one so young, but that allows him to see what is going on with Rory. Despite Rory having been a right homophobic jerk to him in the past, something makes him want to help him. Now, if only he can let go of the past and trust Rory.

Sock It To Me, Santa! by Madison Parker

Sock-2Title:  Sock it to Me, Santa!

Series:  None

Author:  Madison Parker

Genre:   Young Adult

Length:  Short (55 Pages)

Publisher:  Madison Parker (Amazon)

Heat Level:  None

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   Ryan is assigned to Jamie Peterson for his class’s secret gift exchange. If word gets out that he has to make a handcrafted gift for flamboyant and openly gay Jamie, Ryan will be the laughing-stock of the school. It’s a good thing no self-respecting boy would be caught dead in a craft store, because otherwise he’d be at risk of being spotted when his mom drags him to her weekly craft workshops. He hopes Jamie will appreciate all the trouble he’s going to for this assignment. Finding the perfect gift is gunna be tricky. Jamie deserves something good, though, after all the crap he has to put up with at school. At least, Ryan tells himself that’s the reason he’s putting so much thought into the gift. It couldn’t be that he has feelings for Jamie, could it?

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A6JN95I

Reviewer:   John

Review:  Ryan is a closeted gay teen who has been living in the shadows all his life. In high school, he keeps hiding because he fears the retribution of his peers, since being gay is not acceptable by them. He tries to go under the radar and live a normal life, like everyone else. Jamie Peterson is the opposite of Ryan. He is the most flamboyant gay kid in school. His sexual orientation makes him the center of every joke and prank by his classmates. When Mrs. Keats assigns Jamie for Ryan’s secret Santa gift exchange program, their paths intercept and we get to see a new side of these two boys.

I love Ryan. He is a normal gay kid trying to survive an environment where being gay is totally unacceptable and lands you a spot on the hot seat. He has to hide who he is in order not to be the center of brutal jokes. When he has to make three gifts for Jamie for the secret Santa gift exchange program, he begins to let loose and gets to know the flamboyant boy. Jamie was as sweet as sugar. Even though he was the center of attacks by his classmates, he did not let them get to him. The kid fought back. That was something that Ryan could not do. He could not come out as a gay kid and tell the world to screw off. After following Jamie around, he falls in love with him. Yes, he messes up sometimes, but he quickly does something that makes you continue loving him. I loved the ending since Ryan got the courage to tell everyone how much he loves Jamie and what he means sot him.

This is one of the sweetest and shortest stories that I have ever read and I hope that there is a sequel to it because I want to read more about these two characters. Madison Parker is a fresh voice to the writing community and I know that great things will come her way if she continues writing sweet little stories with happy endings. I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to treat their eyes with a loving story about love, acceptance and courage for this Christmas season.

Midnight Clear by Mercy Celeste

midnightclearTitle:  Midnight Clear

Author: Mercy Celeste

Genre:  Contemporary Holiday Romance

Length:    Novella (20,600 word)

Publisher: Self-published (November 29th, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Blurb: Jake has lusted after his college roommate for four long years. Undeniably straight, Logan was out of reach. But was he? After the loss of his first love, Jake discovers that maybe Logan wasn’t as straight as he seemed.

Jake Benefield knows he has to let go of the crush he’s had on Logan Riley for four long years. He leaves to pursue a graduate degree only to discover love and loss. Home again, the last thing he expects is for Logan to confess his feelings for him. Can their friendship survive a cold Christmas one night stand or is Logan looking for more than Jake is ready to give him?

Note from author: Midnight Clear is a re-release formerly titled Need You Now. Other than title there are no significant changes to the story.

Product Link: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/260138

Reviewer:  Showme

Review:  Jake Benefield takes a job teaching in his home town after a tragedy forces him to make a change in his life. He just wants to work and try to go on with his life, but his friend Logan has plans for him. Logan throws a welcome home party and all the usual friends are there.  Jake has changed, but everyone else seems the same. Although Logan and Jake are still “friends”, a sexual encounter with a female friend years before caused a rift in that friendship and things have never been the same since. So, it’s a little awkward when Logan begs Jake to stay after and talk.

Luckily for us, the boys work through their issues and Jake finds out his secret about being gay is something Logan has already figured out. Jake has wanted Logan since the moment he saw him and had no idea Logan might feel something similar. Will giving into their lust mean ruining their on again friendship?

As always Mercy Celeste can write some hot sex. There was almost too much sex since the boys had a lot to work through, but they managed to have discussions between the teasing and biting. The ending was a little easy, but the boys didn’t really need more angst. There was plenty! I actually enjoyed some of the sappier moment from Jake’s former lover and that isn’t always well done. If you’re in the mood for a sexy holiday read with just a little heartache I’d recommend this.

Written in the Stars by Victoria Zagar

writtenTitle: Written In the Stars

Series: Culture Wars 01

Author: Victoria Zagar

Genre: Science Fiction, Futuristic

Length: Novel (172pgs)

Publisher: Victoria Zagar (Self Published) (6th June 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: The year is 2243. Mankind has reached for the stars, creating colonies on Titan and the cold, distant Nereid. Where man goes, war follows, and now two factions warring on Earth have taken their cultural and religious war into space in hopes of dominating Earth’s global government, the Assembly. On one side stands the Moral League, a loose grouping of religious nations and moral conservatives whose aim is to destroy the Freedom Alliance, a group of progressive nations who they claim are leading the human race towards destruction.

Rejected by his family for his 
homosexuality, Samuel Walden finds himself joining the Alliance’s Space Force. Posted to the fleet’s flagship, the Northampton, Sam meets the ship’s crew officer, Major Tom Averay, and the two embark on a relationship that will change their lives. Love, war, humanity, friendship, sacrifice and death weave through this action-packed romantic novel. Will Sam and Tom work out their feelings in the midst of darkness and uncertainty? Will the Alliance survive against crushing odds to preserve the human rights it stands for?

Purchase Link: USA: http://www.amazon.com/Written-Stars-Culture-Wars-ebook/dp/B008BC28PY

UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Written-Stars-Culture-Wars-ebook/dp/B008BC28PY

Review: Many years into the future war starts on Earth and ends in space. Two factions are fighting for control; the Moral League, a group of religious fanatics who want a moral world and the Freedom Alliance, who just want progression and to love whom they wish. Sam joins the Alliance Space Force when his family throws him out for being gay. When he meets Tom, an officer on the Northampton, the Alliance’s flagship, and they embark on a relationship that will change their lives.

This is a well put together science fiction story that is filled with danger and love. Sam embarks on a life change when his family throws him out for being gay. He joins up with the Alliance to fight for the right to love whomever he wishes. When he arrives on the Northampton and sees his commanding officer, Major Tom, for the first time, the man takes his breath away. Tom fights his attraction for the new recruit, Sam, but before long they both realize that what they feel cannot be pushed to the side and together they fight for freedom and love.

I really enjoyed this story of a global war that was taken into space.  a religious fanatical group deciding that the world should worship God to extremes and denying many of the things that had progressed throughout the years, like gay rights and on the other side we have a group that doesn’t want to return to the dark ages and who continue to fight even when the losses are great and the future looks bleak. When I first met Sam, I really wasn’t sure of him as a character. He seemed too easily star struck, but as I got further into the book he seemed to mature rather quickly and became a man of strong character. Tom is a character who has already lived through love and loss, through war and devastation so he has a character that is rock solid.

Although this has a strong storyline of fighting for basic human rights, throughout the entire story there is also the story of friendship and love. Each plot compliments the other weaving a strong story of standing up for what you believe, but with also the small tale that no matter what, there are some things that never change and you will see that in Gracie’s situation. There is lots of action of space fights, death, captures, escapes, reunions and love, and it lulls you into a sense of devastation before rescue comes from a very unlikely source… this is a story that eases you in and then won’t let go.

I recommend this to those who love science fiction, fighting for freedom, fighting for love, space fights, escapes, danger and a very happy ending.