Hi guys! We have Beryll & Osiris Brackhaus popping in today with the tour for their new release The Pet and his Duke, we have a fantastic exclusive excerpt and Shorty’s review so check out the post and enjoy! ❤️ ~Pixie~
The Pet and his Duke
(a Virasana Empire novel)
by
Beryll & Osiris Brackhaus
Robert is a pet, a human pleasure slave, and well past his prime.
So when teenage Duke Thomar of Aylian buys him via mail order, Robert first suspects a dreadful misunderstanding. The duke is young, handsome and headstrong, and the very last thing he needs while struggling to secure his reign over his planet is an aging bargain bin pet by his side.
Only, the more time Robert spends with Thomar, the more he learns that the young duke rarely makes mistakes. Unless, of course, Thomar dashes off on one of his mad adventures, which Robert increasingly becomes a part of…
‘The Pet and his Duke’ is a standalone m/m romance novel in the ‘Virasana Empire’ universe. Written by Rainbow Book Award winners Beryll and Osiris Brackhaus, it is a story of self-determination and love, and Happily-Ever-Afters in the most unlikely places.
Dianne Hartsock has a new MM fantasy romance book out, The Karthagans Book One:
Belega.
The Karthagans have regained their ancient powers of manipulating nature, but at the price of madness. In their lust for control they’ve destroyed their island and most of their race. They come now to Belega where one of them, Camron, seeks domination over the known world.
The Mage has come from the northern continent of Sennia to bring peace, but finding his strength no match for the coming struggle, he passes his abilities on to Natan, who only desires a simple life. Now only Natan has the ability to stop Camron, but the personal cost is more than he imagines.
It is only with the combined strength of his friends, his Karthagan lover, Kavi, and his deep desire to bring peace to the earth, that he finds the courage to overcome Camron and restore balance to the world. The power of the mind is immense.
In this world, mankind has learned to gather the energies of creation to use at their whim. But absolute power corrupts absolutely.
Hello! I’m Dianne, author of Belega, and today I’d like to bring you a deleted scene involving my gruff Captain Bryon. It’s not mentioned in the book, but as a youth Bryon fell in love with the daughter of the richest man in Amara. He courted her, as did all the young men of age, one day taking her to his cabin in the woods. Gathering his courage, he asked her to marry him. As you might suspect, she scorned him, laughed at him, declaring she could never call such a hovel a home.
Heartbroken, shamed, Bryon never brought another woman to his cabin. That is, until he meets Kirstin. In this scene, he’s anxious for Kirstin to visit, doubting she’ll come, knowing he and his home were not good enough for her. And yet he hopes…
~~
Bryon leaned on the handle of his scythe and looked critically at the cabin. He’d gotten there the day before and had set his plans at once into motion. He laughed wryly to himself, remembering the sweeping and dusting and airing out of empty rooms. His mother wouldn’t have known him for the boy she’d had to threaten to pick up after himself.
His smile dimmed at the weather-beaten look of his home. At least it was clean. He picked up the scythe and worked on the hillside until the sweat poured down his body and the ache had worked its way out of his heart.
The afternoon passed into evening before he quit. He’d reached the bottom of the slope and had even begun on the sides of the path. He felt pleasantly tired and was thinking of supper when a step on the path startled him. He watched in disbelief as Kirstin walked around the corner. She stopped when she saw him and Bryon remembered to breathe.
“What are you doing here?” were his first blunt words, but then he recalled himself and set the scythe carefully against a tree. He went to the girl and took her hands. She smiled timidly, and it amazed him that she seemed nervous of him. He couldn’t keep from touching her golden hair. Then he laughed, feeling ridiculous, and broke the spell.
“Come on, girl.” He put an arm around her and led her up the slope. “You can tell me all about it over super.” His steps faltered as they neared the cabin. What did he have to offer the girl after all but an old shack and a lonely heart? He swore bitterly under his breath.
Kirstin looked at his averted face in surprise then pressed her lips together.
“Bryon,” she chided and touched his cheek. Her fingers covered his eyes. “You’ve seen your home for far too long through her eyes. Look with your own.”
She removed her hand and Bryon cried out. His mother’s flowers sprawled in a mass of color against the gleaming white walls of the cabin while pines towered in the background. The well Father and he had dug close to the house for his mother sat in a lush field of grass. He caught a glimpse of the generous garden at the back. He walked up the porch steps and looked in awe at a home with polished floors and hand-carved and cared for furniture. Mother’s rugs and blankets added color everywhere.
“Thank you,” he whispered hoarsely. He looked into Kirstin’s clear eyes and without thought bent his head and kissed her. He drew back sheepishly and motioned to the open front door. “Won’t you come in?”
~~
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Author Bio
Dianne grew up in one of the older homes in the middle of Los Angeles, a place of hardwood floors and secret closets and back staircases. A house where ghosts lurk in the basement and the faces in the paintings watch you walk up the front stairs. Rooms where you keep the closet doors closed tight at night. It’s where her love of the mysterious and wonderful came from. Dianne is the author of paranormal/suspense, fantasy adventure, m/m romance, the occasional thriller, and anything else that comes to mind.
She now lives in the beautiful Willamette Valley of Oregon with her incredibly patient husband, who puts up with the endless hours she spends hunched over the keyboard letting her characters play. Dianne says Oregon’s raindrops are the perfect setting in which to write. There’s something about being cooped up in the house with a fire crackling on the hearth and a cup of hot coffee in her hands, which kindles her imagination.
Currently, Dianne works as a floral designer in a locally-owned gift shop. Which is the perfect job for her. When not writing, she can express herself through the rich colors and textures of flowers and foliage.
Blurb: .The Karthagans have regained their ancient powers of manipulating nature, but at the price of madness. In their lust for control they’ve destroyed their island and most of their race. They come now to Belega where one of them, Camron, seeks domination over the known world. The Mage has come from the northern continent of Sennia to bring peace, but finding his strength no match for the coming struggle, he passes his abilities on to Natan, who only desires a simple life. Now only Natan has the ability to stop Camron, but the personal cost is more than he imagines. It is only with the combined strength of his friends, his Karthagan lover, Kavi, and his deep desire to bring peace to the earth, that he finds the courage to overcome Camron and restore balance to the world. The power of the mind is immense. In this world, mankind has learned to gather the energies of creation to use at their whim. But absolute power corrupts absolutely.
Review: Belega is a story about the Karthagan people with great powers who were forced out of their homes by others were terrified of them to the isle of mist. But the isle causes strife between them splitting them into two groups and war. They are all but decimated until Natan, who I really never understood who he was, retrieves them.
This story starts out fast with hardly any descriptions or background of who the many characters are throughout. I found myself lost trying to figure out who was who and what exactly was going on. It was not until almost halfway through that I understood.
Kavi was a very confusing character to me. He ran hot and cold through the story which irritated me immensely. I honestly didn’t like most of the characters in this book. I will say the powers the Karthagans had were intriguing.
Fast paced, action packed with twists and turns but not enough character details. The reader is thrown into the story without any lead ins. I felt like i was missing something from start to finish.
Blurb: The truth is rarely seen on the surface, and getting to it might mean digging deep….
After a devastating accident and a long stay in the hospital, the last thing petroleum engineer Sean Wilkinson wants to deal with is the settlement the oil company tries to force on him. He’ll never be able to work in his field again, his education is all but useless, and his surgeons are pessimistic about whether he’ll ever walk again. He needs someone in his corner, but most lawyers take one look at his tattoo-covered father and turn their backs. It’s just Sean’s luck that the one attorney willing to give him a chance is also the hottest guy he’s ever seen.
As a trial lawyer, Nate Delany has a lot to prove—to his father, the world, and himself. Sean intrigues Nate, and he struggles to reconcile the gifted tattoo artist he can’t stop fantasizing about with the quiet, brilliant engineer. His investigation reveals facts left out of the accident report—including an illicit affair, greedy coworkers, and a vicious corporation that will do anything to protect its bottom line. When Sean’s life is threatened, winning Sean’s case, and his heart, becomes a lot more dangerous.
Review: An intriguing read about Sean and how he copes after an accident leaves him in a wheel chair battling the company he worked for over a settlement. In steps Nate Delaney to negotiate the terms of the settlement.
These two men are not without their struggles in life but they grow closer amid a wide variety of suspicious things going on around them. I found both characters to be interesting. I liked the way they interacted with each other and others.
This story will draw you in and not let go until the very end. I enjoyed this story and it’s characters. Well written with the right amount of mystery and romance.
Blurb: Never promise a life that isn’t yours to give.
New York City is decked out for the holidays, and Special Agent Patrick Collins is looking forward to a reunion with his old team when he gets assigned a new case. A human child is missing, and the changeling left in her place causes a prominent witch family to demand justice from the fae.
Meanwhile, continued harassment from the New York City god pack forces Jonothon de Vere to formally establish his own with Patrick. Doing so will mean a civil war within the werecreature community—a war they risk losing from the start without alliances. Making bargains with the fae is never wise, but Patrick and Jono have nothing to lose when a fae lord comes asking for their help.
The Summer Lady has been kidnapped from the Seelie Court, and if they can find her, Patrick and Jono will cement an alliance with the fae. But the clues to her disappearance are found in Tír na nÓg, and the Otherworld has never been kind to mortals.
Venturing past the veil, Patrick and Jono risk losing territory, time, and their very lives while searching for answers. Because the Queen of Air and Darkness knows they are coming—and the ruler of the Unseelie Court has an offer for them they can’t possibly refuse.
A Crown of Iron & Silver is a 107k word m/m urban fantasy with a gay romantic subplot and a HFN ending. It is a direct sequel to All Souls Near & Nigh. Reading the prior books in the series would be helpful in enjoying this one.
Review: Jono and Patrick are getting even closer as a couple as the series continues. There is no shortage of adventure or action in this edition. A lot happens that throws Patrick and Jono’s lives at stake but also establishes them as a pack.
I loved that the pack was not only wolves. The diversity was welcome as the pack grew.
Patrick’s determination to solve each case was inspiring. I loved everything about this story from the action to the mysteries to everything in between.
The story keeps you on the edge of your seat as each clue is revealed. Fascinating book.
Blurb: In deepest space the ruthless Federation lays waste to one rebel colony after another, leaving comrades-in-arms Van Orskey and Tayn Kassik without family, without a home, and without hope.
With nothing left but each other, they run contraband and smuggle fugitives from the safety of their ship, the Cormorant—with the occasional clandestine mission for the rival Coalition thrown in. Their heists have not gone unnoticed, though even the bounty on their heads doesn’t prevent them from being a thorn in the enemy’s side at every opportunity.
Pissing them off? Big mistake.
From the day of his birth Prince Jorvik of Akiak learned duty, wisdom, and honor from his father, leaving him ill-equipped to withstand betrayal by his Federation-puppet uncle. He has no love for the greedy off-worlders who plunder his world’s natural resources and enslave his people. To defeat his foe, he needs the cunning, fearlessness, and touch of treachery only outlaws can offer.
Two off-world mercenaries make unlikely partners in Jorvik’s quest for vengeance, but the more he learns of them, the more common ground he discovers. In each other’s arms they find passion, heat, and maybe, a reason for living—until their common enemy threatens to tear them apart.
To survive, they must take on the corrupt Federation.
And win.
A standalone novel based in The Sentinel universe.
You have Tayn and Van who are mercenaries that work for the coalition. But Tayn is confined to the ships circuitry due to his body being destroyed. Jorvik is a prince of sorts who is set to rule after his father which happens much sooner than they planned due to betrayal and the deaths of many people. Jorvik meets Van during the upheaval and escapes to plan his vengeance.
This story had so many interesting twists and turns as well fascinating characters. Jorvik’s home world is wanted by others due to the crystals the planet has. but these are no ordinary crystals. I was spellbound by the way the story unfolded. The many layers to it just blew my mind. It’s a tale about three men battling against the odds to set things right.
I just don’t know what to say without giving away to much about the book. I really hope there will be another one as with the way this one ended it seemed incomplete given some questions went unanswered. Nevertheless it was an intense story with adventure, suspense, action and love.
Blurb: With the help of technomage and hacker Theo, rare snake shifter Robbie escaped his mother and clan, who planned to use him as breeding stock. While still working to break through the conditioning and mind control of his past, Robbie is enjoying exploring a new relationship with the worldlier Theo.
But their fight isn’t over yet.
A trip to his aunt’s house for Thanksgiving is highjacked by political intrigue, leaving the couple wondering who their friends really are. They cannot help but be drawn into larger plots while trying to find justice for Robbie at his mother’s trial. When clan rivalries turn deadly, they’ll need their allies—and each other—more than ever.
Review: Robbie and Theo are settling in their new lives together when they are pulled into politics that neither are interested in. I liked that Robbie got justice for the way he was treated by his mother. I really did not like that woman and wanted to slap her most of the time.
It was nice seeing Robbie’s family in a different light without the constant tension as in the previous book. It was cute watching Robbie and Theo together. They are an adorable couple.
This book was a dramatic story with a satisfying conclusion though had some unnecessary drama near the end. Despite that I enjoyed reading it.
Blurb: For sheltered Robbie, one week of freedom leads to sexual awakening and adventure… but when his world intersects with Theo’s, they’ll need all their wits and Theo’s magic to fight for their future.
Rare male weresnake Robbie has had his whole life decided for him down to his meals. But when the time comes for him to perform an unspeakable duty to his clan, he runs.
San Francisco Pride is in full swing when technomage Theo spots a scared-looking young man with brilliant emerald eyes. He’s only looking for a hookup, but before he knows why, he’s taking Robbie home and introducing him to champagne and enchiladas. He doesn’t have any intention of falling in love.
Robbie doesn’t want to return to his clan, at least not without trying to fit a lifetime of experiences into a week, but every day he stays puts Theo in more danger.
Review: Robbie is a rare snake shifter that his family has plans for despite what he wants. he decides to take some time to himself and escapes. He sets off and meets Theo, a technomage during a pride parade. Theo wants Robbie but decides to back off some due to Robbie’s innocence, The two strike up a friendship until Robbie’s family comes for him.
I liked this story. Robbie had a lot of growing to do and finding himself considering how his family treated him. I liked that he finally took a stand. Theo was not what I expected but he eventually started to change for the better.
An intriguing story full of drama and some tense situations. All in all it was an intriguing book.
Blurb: Shifters and Paranormals face extinction if they do not begin to mate and begin having children again. The problem is if this happens the Gods will become extinct right along with them. A plan is formed and part of that plan is to switch powers between mates until they claim each other. The changes have been made now the rest is going to be up to them.
Waking up to find out you’re a panda instead of the god you have been raised to be is shocking. Discovering your powers have been switched with your mate’s is a major reason to panic especially when your shifter mate is destroying everything around you with earthquakes and tornados. Can Loki convince Gaby that they were meant to be or will the man destroy them all from his fear.
Review: This story was different from anything I’ve ever read. I found it intriguing that mates switched their abilities with their mates before they found them. To say it was mind blowing is an understatement and one I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Loki along with Gaby were a riot when their powers switched.
I loved the shifters mentioned that I had never heard before in a shifter book. I am looking forward to reading more about the new council members and them finding their mates as well.
Amazing story with plenty of drama and chaos to be had. I’m thrilled with the beginning of this series and look forward to reading even more.
Genre: Young Adult, Dark Fantasy, Dystopian, Fantasy
Length: Novel (349pgs)
Publisher: Alex Stargazer (February 5, 2020)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts
Blurb:From a successful crowdfunder, Fallen Love comes action-packed with flying cars, dark magic, and fallen angels.
Upperclassman Conall is rich, impeccably dressed, and set for a prestigious career in the Party hierarchy. He doesn’t lack for anything—except, maybe, love.
When he finds Mark, alone, abandoned and hurt, he doesn’t expect one act of kindness to alter the course of his life forever. There is more to Mark than Conall can even dream of. The beautiful, vulnerable boy Conall knows is not human. A dark power lies within Mark. It can make him immortal… but love might be the price.
Discover why readers are calling this book “nothing short of amazing” and “superb”. If you’re a fan of Cassandra Clare or Lauren Kate, you don’t want to miss this.
What readers are saying…
★★★★★ “To say this novel took me by surprise is a total understatement. This story surprised, astounded, and made me so happy that it is right up there with the top ten books I have read this year.” —Sharon, Blogger
★★★★★ “The writing is polished, even compelling in spots. If you’re looking for an entertaining read with ambitious world-building, give it a try.” —KD Edwards, author of the Last Sun (Pyr)
★★★★★ “This book was nothing short of amazing. I loved the characters, the action, it’s safe to say I loved everything about this book. I hope to see more in this series because I’m hooked.” —Ashley Tomlinson, author of Becoming Grim
★★★★★ “The world-building in this book is superb.” —Rion, Goodreads Reviewer.
Review: In a Dystopian world where there is a great mix in mutants, creatures, love, darkness and a variety of characters to make for a tale of two young men trying to survive in an uncertain world. I loved Conill and Mark. For all their differences, and there are many, the two want to find love.
It’s a dangerous environment these two find themselves in time after time. It’s not the first time I’ve read a dystopian story and this was an interesting tale. Fast paced, action packed and plenty of twists and turn that kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what in store next.
A truly great read that I was transfixed by. I am looking forward to reading more in the series as it continues.
For fifteen hundred years Lucan has waged war with the greatest enemy the world has ever known
…and fought the ancient curse that means loving someone with all his heart and soul might be the reason they die.
Tom wasn’t supposed to be born… twice.
How, as a young child, had he even heard the monsters at all?
How, as an adult, is he caught up in a deadly battle to fight evil, but cannot get one stubborn man to even acknowledge he exists?
Time is running out, not just to unravel the secrets of Tom’s destiny, but for Tom to show Lucan that loving someone with all that they have doesn’t mean breaking their heart.
Review: This is the second book in the series with Tom and Lucan as the MC’s.
I was blown away by the detailed explanations regarding clues about Tom’s heritage and the aspects leading up to his role in the events. The twists and turns just kept coming as I was immersed in a world where magic, knights, creatures and evil plots were front and center.
Lucan for his part kept Tom at arms length and as such Tom suffered and was taken at least once during the story. But Lucan always went to the rescue.
Tom is sweet yet determined to play his part no matter the risks. I found his ability intriguing and fascinating.
I am looking forward to reading more about the knights and seeing what happens when they find their other halves.
This is a magical story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Blurb: A snowstorm in the South—on New Year’s Eve—is a perfect recipe for a catastrophe. After two soul-crushing bad breaks, Kirk’s waiting for disaster number three to strike when, naturally, two stray cats arrive on his doorstep during the storm and decide to make themselves at home. Tenderhearted Kirk lets them stay even though there’s something decidedly odd about his overly friendly felines.
Out of the punishing weather and full of tuna, Dolf and Tal are happy to be snug in Kirk’s house. But then their human goes outside for firewood and suffers a nasty fall that leaves him unconscious. Now the two cats have no choice but to reveal themselves.
Kirk wakes up to find the two kitties are actually Dolf and Tal. They’re cat shifters—and his destined mates. Being part of a feline threesome is enough for Kirk to grapple with, but soon he learns they come from a clowder that doesn’t believe humans and shifters should mix. Kirk knew those two cats would be trouble. Little does he know the real trouble lies ahead.
**Second Edition, Previously Published** This book has been previously published. The cover has changed, but the title, author, and story content have not changed from the first version originally published in 2014. If you have that version in your library, please do not purchase again.
Review: Dolf and Tal both cat shifters meet their mate Kirk, a human in a hardware store. From there it’s getting permission from the alpha and elders to Dolf and Tal staying with Kirk in their shifter forms until they can introduce themselves. When Kirk gets hurt that speeds up the process of introductions.
After getting to know each other better they move Kirk into their house. But not everyone is happy with a human in their midst and someone attacks Kirk and Dolf at different times. The mystery deepens until Dolf and his clowder get involved with tracking down the suspect. After a harrowing encounter the culprit is revealed.
I really loved the plot of this story it was sweet and tender yet had it’s hilarious moments as well as hair raising scenes. It was wonderfully written and well balanced all around.
According to the rules, Simon Osborne should ignore the children’s cries for help. After all, they’re werewolf cubs, and he’s an apprentice mage. But for once in his life, Simon breaks the rules and rescues the cubs, saving them from a demon intent on draining them of their magic.
Of course, all actions have consequences, and Simon’s bold move earns him the displeasure of his peers and the attention of the cubs’ alpha, a man named Gray Townsend.
The last thing Gray needs is a mage in his life, but Simon did save his son. Since Simon is now a friend of the pack, Gray doesn’t have much choice about it—or the forbidden attraction that goes along with it. Unfortunately for the alpha, he needs Simon’s help to track down the demon behind the kidnappings—before it strikes again. Simon and Gray must join forces to protect the pack, even as they struggle to resist the temptation that threatens to destroy them both.
2nd Edition. Originally published in 2012 as Poppy Dennison..
So much happens in this amazing story. Simon, a mage, helps wolf children in trouble. He meets Alpha Gray and the attraction is instant. But mix paranormal pairings are frowned on. They team up to get to the bottom of the kidnapping and who is behind it. What they discover along the way rocks their world.
I loved everything about this story from the colorful characters and the creative way they are introduced to the details about certain things about Simon’s heritage. I was enthralled from to finish and am looking forward to continuing to read more about the three types of magic, what happens with the conclave and seeing what new issues arrive for the new allies.
Fantastic read and highly recommended.
Pixie’s Review: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts
Simon breaks the rules when he saves some werewolf cubs from a demon and two humans. He becomes further involved when their alpha (Gray) asks for his help and lands in further trouble when he saves Garon’s (Gray’s son’s) life. Gray needs all the help that he can get when it comes to Others, because they don’t mix he has no clue how to deal with the problem of the demon. With the help of Simon, they just might get to the truth.
This is an extremely well written fantasy that grips you from the start. Simon breaks the Mage’s rules when he goes to the rescue of some werewolf cubs. Even knowing that he will be punished doesn’t stop him from helping them… and then he has to face their Alpha who he feels an instant attraction to. But, the troubles that he faces just keep coming as he has to face his Master and then coming to Garon’s rescue again, all while feeling ill from a magical attack. Gray also feels the attraction, but his concern is for his pack and the demon who took the cubs. As they work together to get to the bottom of the problem, secrets emerge from Simon’s family history.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found the characters to be enchanting, the storyline incredible and the plot great. Macy Blake has wrote a fantastic piece of work that draws you in from the beginning and doesn’t let you go as you discover the well woven plot and the intrigue and secrets and deceptions of this fantasy world.
I loved the way that the supernatural circles were set up; each species keeps to themselves and has no interaction with the Others, instant distrust towards Others and it is filled with a world of possibilities. In this story, we have werewolves, mages, a demon and a vampire, the background building is brilliant and we get an idea of the everyday workings of werewolves and mages.
The characters in this book were great and I especially loved the cubs, Garon and Emily, and their personalities. The adults were good as well, with Simon and Gray being a good match, but the one who intrigued me the most was Cormac and I would love to learn more about him (hint). There are some really hot scenes between Simon and Gray. I loved the way that they worked together and just seemed to fit so well together. The way that the pack was described as a huge family and the interactions between them warmed the heart, but the way that the mages worked left me feeling sorry for the loneliness that they most all feel.
With this one, I am going to recommend it to everyone who loves fantasy, shifters, mages, vampires, demons, unexpected danger, intrigue, hot sex and a fantastic storyline… I advise everyone to give this a go because I really don’t think that you will be disappointed if you give this one a shot.
Blurb: Cold Case Sergeant Ronan O’Mara wakes to a shocking midnight phone call. The body of a man killed in a shoot-out with the F.B.I. has vanished from the Suffolk County Morgue. What’s even more shocking than the missing corpse, is the identity of the second man apprehended at the scene. Mitchell Bond, aka, Tommy O’Neil was Ronan’s second-grade classmate and best friend until he was kidnapped in broad daylight, steps from his front door.
Even though psychic Tennyson Grimm hadn’t heard of Ronan’s childhood friend before now, he’s suddenly consumed by thoughts of the man. Thanks to Ten’s gift he knows twelve missing children linked to Mitchell Bond are alive, but he is uncertain of where to find them.
When Ronan is finally given the opportunity to speak to his long-lost friend, accusations begin to fly. Ronan is blindsided and begins to question everything he knew about Tommy, his kidnapping, and whether or not he could possibly have played a role in it.
While Tennyson races to put the pieces together to save the missing children, Ronan is forced to come to terms with a past he thought was long dead and buried. Can he set aside his own emotions long enough to put a stop to this deadly hunt?
Review: An engaging story about missing children, a best friend who is mysterious and of course Ronan and Ten. I liked the way the story evolved and flowed as the two men tried to figure out what was going on and what happened to the children.
The rest of Ronan and ten’s friends make brief appearances throughout. I enjoyed the story and all the elements that made it a satisfying book to read in the series. Mystery, suspense, drama and romance all played a part in bringing this story to a good end.
Genre: Psychic Suspense, Action & Adventure, Fantasy
Length: Novel (356pgs)
Publisher: Lissa Kasey (October 30, 2019)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 3.75 Hearts
Blurb: A missing girl, ritual murders, and a shadow stalking every footstep.
Alexis Caine survived an attack in the deserts of Afghanistan. An attack the government denied and discharged him for, leaving him broken and in a mental institution. What Alex saw that day in the desert continues to haunt him.
When a new job working as a bodyguard for a New Orleans ghost tour guide, Micah Richards, opens Alex’s eyes to a world of paranormal possibilities, he’s not sure he can believe his eyes. What if he’s not crazy after all? When a ritual murder in which two fellow tour guides die and a tourist vanishes, Alex wonders if he brought a curse down upon them all.
A shadow from the desert rears its nightmarish head offering Alex something he wants more than anything, but at what cost?
Review: This was an engaging story with spooky atmosphere and great background stories about different places in New Orleans. Do I know if all the ghost stories throughout the story are accurate? No. I still loved it regardless. Alex and Micah have both experienced some form of paranormal experiences in their past that left them haunted.
Amid these two men getting to know one another and helping each other heal there are murders that happen though we are not told how the people died which was irritating to me. Details are important in a mystery book to me as they help me understand the story plot better. This story was lacking in need to know information in my opinion.
Whatever entities were shadowing both Alex and Micah were not disclosed. I loved how Alex wanted to protect Micah and did at the cost of him missing time. That part was intriguing to me and what happened was mind blowing. I hope since this story ends on a cliffhanger that the next book has more details than this one did.
I will say one thing that has always irritated me in reading about ghosts and such in a book is when a character says that ghosts can not hurt you. I know from first hand experience they can and will hurt you if they have the energy and are angry enough to do so. Despite that it was a good beginning to a series.
Blurb: Jason Jachovich never dreamed he’d be sold to the Psy only to be turned into a monster from an old Hollywood movie. When the Psy try to use him and the other humans they changed in a war with other paranormals, Jason manages to get free, only to watch as the others like him die in a war they didn’t want to be a part of.
The Alliance is stunned to see what the Psy have created in their attempt to defeat the Alliance. In order to defeat the were-creatures the Psy have sent to fight, the Alliance must kill them, but one manages to survive. Dr. Adam Pratt is sent to study this were-creature in hopes of saving any more they come across. What he didn’t expect was to find his mate and become willing to do anything to save him.
This is the second edition of the original 2014 release. Although there are no significant changes to the story, it has been re-edited and revised.
Review: Jason, one of the Psy’s experiments, wakes up not knowing where he is. He only knows there is a lovely smell and a heavenly voice calling to him. At first he is terrified until the man tells him everything will be alright. Adam is happy he met his mate Jason but is concerned for his welfare at the same time. The two try and help the other understand things that are happening.
There is a lot that happens throughout this story. From confrontations others to rescue missions without planning there is an adrenaline rush as different characters play a role in bringing each scene to stunning life. Action packed and suspenseful this book packs a punch.
I loved everything about the book. I am looking forward to reading about the many characters that were rescued as well as Maui and Ian as in this story we find out they are mates.
Blurb: When the only thing you’re good at is running or fighting, is a second chance at love even possible?
Captain Maddox Stone is ready to put the men who messed with his family on a fast train to hell. Eliminating the enemy is the only thing he’s good at anyway. He sure as hell isn’t good at connecting. Of course, on the heels of that thought, his past comes walking through the door. Will he finally have the guts to explain what really happened that night so long ago?
Nothing on earth could bring Lieutenant River Seeger back to the ranch until his grandfather calls for help. With no other recourse, he returns to the Triple R, but makes it clear it’s for a limited time. He’s left the past behind and with it, his youthful dreams. But, since he’s here, shouldn’t he at least get some answers?
Two soldiers faced with the past. One man struggles with a tragic secret while the other one demands answers. What’s even worse? When Maddox deploys on a mission and River takes on the kidnappers, time is running out for one of them. The only thing for certain is they’re definitely cutting it close for any chance at a happy ending.
In typical Reese Knightley style, Cutting It Close is a fast paced, slow burn, action & adventure romance with a big cast of characters and a definite HEA. This book is the first in a series, but can be enjoyed as a standalone.
*Cobalt Security, Code of Honor, and Out For Justice series are loosely connected.
Review: Captain Maddox Stone is back at the ranch to get to the bottom of financial problems the ranch is having. While there his cousin Triston is kidnapped and he is attacked. His business partner Bull calls his grandson Special Forces Lieutenant River Seeger who immediately comes home to help.
Maddox and River have a history that did not end well. But as the two team up to figure out what is going on the heat and attraction between them reignite. I loved this story. It had everything I love in a book. A romance that does not overshadow the actual story, action with a a mystery that is jaw dropping in it’s intensity. Tension that is off the charts and dangerous situation that leave you on the edge of your seat awaiting the outcome.
I am so looking forward to getting to know Rivers team members in more detail. Highly recommended.
Publisher: Sam Burns & W.M. Fawkes (July 18, 2019)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts
Blurb: Lach has spent the last few thousand years counting only on himself. What he needed, he took. What he wanted, he won with charm. All except a god he turned his back on an age ago, when he had a different name and didn’t know what he was giving up.
Thanatos, god of merciful death, is one of the gentlest gods in the pantheon—easing the transition between life and death for billions of mortals. But he has faced eternity alone. After breaking his heart on the sharp words of a fisherman’s son, he hasn’t been able to connect with anyone.
Now, Lach is crashing back into Thanatos’s life, dragging him into an adventure that could save the world . . . or kill them both.
PATRON OF MERCY IS THE THIRD BOOK IN A SERIES, BUT CAN BE READ AS A STAND ALONE NOVEL..
Review: After some time spent apart due to Lach. Thanatos and Lach team up to find Cronus’ Scythe to save the world. I loved everything about this story from the way these two react to one another after seeing each other again to the character descriptions of each one. The quest was well written with plenty of antics and suspense.
I was tickled at Lach’s jealousy. I was very glad the romance/sex did not overshadow the actual plot as is the case in a lot of books I’ve read. This was a very pleasing plot with a lot of good adventure and mayhem.
I adored the characters shenanigans as well as the tender moments. This book kept me on the edge of my seat as the story unfolded. Fantastic read.
Blurb: What if your first love was abducted and presumed dead—but returned twenty years later?
That’s the dilemma Cole Weston faces. Now happily married to Tommy D’Amico, he’s suddenly thrown into a surreal world when his first love, Rory Schneidmiller, unexpectedly reappears.
Where has Rory been all this time? Has he time-traveled? What happened to him two decades ago, when a strange mass appeared in the night sky and lifted him into outer space? Rory has no memory of those years. For him, it’s as though only a day or two has passed.
Rory still loves Cole with the passion unique to young first love. Cole has never forgotten Rory, yet Tommy has been his rock, by his side since Rory disappeared.
Cole is forced to choose between an idealized and passionate first love and the comfort of a long-term marriage. How can he decide? Who faces this kind of quandary, anyway? The answers might lie among the stars….
Twenty years ago Cole and Rory were young and in love. Then one night Rory mysteriously disappears never to be seen. Cole spent years looking for Rory. I felt his pain and despair of not knowing what happened. Then Cole meets Tommy. The two start a relationship and marry. Now twenty years later Rory is back and Cole has a decision to make.
I really felt for both Rory and Cole. So much had been taken from them when Rory was taken. But at the same time Cole finds someone new years later. I felt that Cole found Tommy comforting but at the same time never really gave Tommy his all because of what he felt for Rory. This was a deep story with plenty of drama and emotional aspects as well as what exactly happened to Rory.
I felt Cole’s decision in the end was the right one. What added to the story was the thoughts and feelings from Cole, Rory and Tommy. We got to see what each thought and their feelings on certain things as the story progressed. I don’t want to ruin the ending by giving anything else away but I will say it was a well written story with deep thoughts and heartfelt decisions to be made by Cole.
Fantastic read and highly recommended.
Lisa’s Review 💖💖💖 2 1/2 Hearts:
Cole and Rory were so in love and belonged together like no other. Then Rory disappeared one night after making love. Cole could hardly eat, hardly sleep and hated going to work. Then he accidentally runs into Tommy with his bike and things were changing for him. He just never forgot the man he loved.
Twenty years have past and his love has changed. He married Tommy and their lives were looking good. The problem was his past love was the one he always thought about. Then Rory showed back up.
Rory has been gone for twenty years but to him he was only gone for a night or two. He even still looked like he was in his twenties and his love for Cole was still strong as ever. He just had no clue what happened to him.
When I came across this book I actually figured the author was just going to turn it into a menage a trois story. That however was not the way he took it. I hate to admit that this book was twisted and not in the good way. There were no clues to where Rory had ended up for twenty years and you never get the answer. The book was down right creepy and I hated the ending.
I was glad that **** didn’t end up breaking ****’s heart, but what happened was ****’s heart was the one being broken. However I guess it was the only way that could have ended but I was disappointed in it either way. I would have loved it better if the three of them had gotten together in the end.
To be truthful I hated this story and it is going straight to the never read again list.
Overall the story is quite unique and is a very refreshing type of story. It just wasn’t for me…
Series: Dissolution Cycle 01 (Tales of the Dissolutionverse)
Author: William C. Tracy
Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera, Steampunk, Fantasy
Length: Super Novel (415pgs)
Publisher: Space Wizard Science Fantasy (December 19, 2017)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts
Blurb: A young man with anxiety stands between the ten homeworlds and a shivering death.
Sam van Oen barely escapes freezing to death in his house, as his watch stops and fire ceases to burn. He is pulled into the Nether where he discovers the nexus of an intergalactic society. In this place, changing the musical Symphony underlying the universe alters reality. Sam is surrounded by aliens strange and familiar, some non-binary or gender fluid. Soon he meets sister and brother twins, also new to the Nether, who support him during his anxiety attacks. Sam finds he is attracted to both of them and does not want to choose.
While coping with the anxiety prompted by his new surroundings, Sam must learn to hear and change the Symphony in order to discover what happened to his home. But more freezing voids like the one that started his journey are appearing and Sam’s chances of getting back are fading. Not only that, but the Assembly of Species is threatening to dissolve and the maji are being attacked by those they protect. Meanwhile, rumors grow of an ancient shape-changing species of assassins returning to wage war.
The Dissolution is coming.
If you like epic fantasy, space opera, music-based magic, and diverse cultures, genders, and alien species, you’ll love this first book in William C. Tracy’s Dissolution Cycle. Download The Seeds of Dissolution and start an epic science fantasy space opera sequence today!
Read the rest of the Tales from the Dissolutionverse! The first six books can be read in any order: Book 1: The Five Hive Plateau (Adventure, Alien contact) Book 2: Tuning the Symphony (Coming of Age, Adventure) Book 3: Merchants and Maji (Intrigue, Steampunk adventure) Book 4: The Seeds of Dissolution: Dissolution Cycle Book 1 (Epic Space Opera, LGBT) Book 5: The Society of Two Houses (Sherlock Holmes-esque murder mystery) Book 6: Journey to the Top of the Nether (Jules Verne-style adventure, kid-friendly) Book 7: (forthcoming 2019) Dissolution Cycle Book 2 (Epic Space Opera, LGBT)
Genres: Space Opera / Fantasy / Science Fiction / Steampunk / LGBT Bisexual Non Binary
Review: Sam is a young man staying with his aunt when all of a sudden cold becomes a real threat that they have no hope of escaping. Trying to build a fire Sam is pulled through a portal into another world. Once there he discusses with the magi who pulled him through how to get back. Alas there is no way.
Sam is thrust into a world with aliens, magic and a group hellbent on destroying the world. Sam for his part wants to help and so begins his training in between him and his new friends being kidnapped and rescued. There is a lot going on in this story. Many twists and turns, secondary characters as well as representation of the lgbtqi.
It was a fascinating read. But I do admit to being confused at times as the story progressed. Still it was an interesting mix of situations and characters that had me reading till the end.
Blurb: Rafe Lancaster is reluctantly settling into his role as the First Heir of House Stravaigor. Trapped by his father’s illness and his new responsibilities, Rafe can’t go with lover Ned Winter to Aegypt for the 1902/03 archaeological digging season. Rafe’s unease at being left behind intensifies when Ned’s fascination with the strange Antikythera mechanism and its intriguing link to the Aegyptian god Thoth has Ned heading south to the remote, unexplored highlands of Abyssinia and the course of the Blue Nile.
Searching for Thoth’s deadly secrets, Ned is out of contact and far from help. When he doesn’t return at Christmas as he promised, everything points to trouble. Rafe is left with a stark choice – abandon his dying father, or risk never seeing Ned again.
Review: Rafe has a hard decision to make when Ned does not home for Christmas after leaving for an important archaeological dig. Rafe is concerned on many levels. Does he stay by his dying fathers side or does he travel to discover what happened to Ned and where he is at?
I don’t want to give anything away but I will say I was intrigued with Ned’s fascination. The circumstances surrounding the god Thoth were amazing. I was mesmerized by the details and the adventure.
I felt bad for Rafe and the predicament he finds himself in when things do not go as planned. Well written and engaging this story has it all.
