Hiya guys, Grace R. Duncan stops by with the blog tour for her newest release Patience, the second book in her fantastic Forbes Mate series, we have a quick guest post from Grace, we also have a great excerpt for you to have a peek at, there’s also a fantastic giveaway and Tams review so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
Patience
(Forbes Mate 02)
by
Grace R. Duncan
Jamie Ryan was almost ready to accept he’d never find his destined mate. They’re uncommon to begin with and same-sex versions downright rare. Since his gay best friend found a destined mate, Jamie figured he was out of luck. Until end of semester stress forces him to go through the full-moon shift early. Stuck in wolf form, he runs into none other than his destined mate. Who’s human.
Chad Sutton has always had good instincts. They served him well as a detective and continued on when he went private. Those instincts tell him there’s something about the dog that comes up to him while running away from animal control that isn’t quite right. He works to put the pieces together, but is unsuccessful until his dog turns into a human before his eyes.
Jamie has no idea what a shifter mate bite will do to a human. He’s terrified to try—and possibly kill his mate. They hunt together for answers while working together on a case for Chad. It’s easy to see they belong together, but Jamie fears the gods gave him someone he can’t keep.
Title: Touch & Geaux Series: Cut & Run, #7 Author: Abigail Roux Narrator: J.F. Harding Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: 8 hours and 52 minutes Publisher: Riptide Publishing (12-15-15) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: After having their faces plastered across the news during a high-profile case, FBI Special Agents Ty Grady and Zane Garrett have become more useful to the Bureau posing for photo ops than working undercover.
Just as Zane is beginning to consider retirement a viable option, Ty receives a distress call from a friend, leading them to a city rife with echoes from the past.
New Orleans wears its history on its streets, and it’s the one place Ty’s face could get him killed. Surrounded by trouble as soon as they land, Ty and Zane are swiftly confronted with a past from which Ty can’t hide—one with a surprising connection to Zane’s.
As threats close in from all directions, both men must come to terms with the lives they’ve led and the lies they’ve told.
They soon discover that not all their secrets are out yet, and nothing lasts forever.
Product Link: http://amzn.to/1Qzjfbu
Reviewer: Tams
Review: Special agents Ty Grady and Zane Garrett have been through a lot over the last decade, walked different paths until they eventually crossed. But Zane is about to find out that their paths actually crossed years before they became partners in the FBI, as well as some closely guarded secrets his lover would rather he not know.
Ty Grady may be a certifiable son of a bitch, but is loyal to a fault. So when his best friend and former team member, Nick O’Flaherty, calls that he and Doc are in trouble, of course Ty drops everything and rushes to the last place on earth he ever wanted to be again… New Orleans.
Years ago when Ty was still on the force, he did an undercover stint in NOLA and didn’t leave on the best of terms. The city is all around a bad omen for Ty and his Sidewinder team mates, and several bad decisions are about to come back to try to kill them.
Zane is completely, totally, one hundred and ten percent in love with his partner. Of course the feelings are reciprocated, but Ty is a master manipulator that has redefined the definition of the words truth and lies.
Both men are about to learn exactly how far they can be pushed before they break, how far they are willing to go for one another, and all I can tell you is… it is not pretty. Roux could have easily titled this series Murphy’s Law, because whatever can go wrong most definitely will if it involves Ty and Zane.
Lord, but this book almost gave me a damn heart attack! There was a little bit of grown man angst that had me wanting to pull Zane through my iPod and smack him around a little, but thankfully, he pulled his head out of the nether regions eventually.
That being said, I could completely understand why he was livid with Ty. It is a thin line between a moral obligation to the man you profess to love, the man you want to spend the rest of your life with, and being sworn to secrecy by your boss. And even though at the end of the day Ty and Zane are smart enough to figure out what is important and fight for it, I don’t think all the secrets have truly been shared.
Narrated by J.F. Harding and I love that I am already associating his voice to these characters after just one book. It read more like a continuation for me between Harding’s attention to details with the tones and nuances he has given the guys, and bringing them smoothly over to this story, and the story picking back up right where Stars & Stripes left off. Harding captured every emotion that poured of Roux’s words in this story.
There were some seriously emotional and devastating aspects to this book and I could almost feel Ty and Zane’s pain when they spoke.
This book will put you through the ringer. It’s emotional and heavy, but it’s passionate and real as well. I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat at work while listening. There were a couple of times I was so engrossed that I sat with my fingers perched over the keyboard, staring blindly at the monitor because all I could concentrate on was Ty and Zane.
I highly recommend this book/series if you enjoy highly detailed stories where the world and the characters are so real while you listen, that you not only become invested, you are embedded in their fictional lives, anxiously awaiting the next installment.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Patience Series: Forbes Mates, #2 Author: Grace R Duncan Genre: Paranormal/Shifter Romance Length: 230 pages Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (March 7th 2016) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts Blurb: Jamie Ryan was almost ready to accept he’d never find his destined mate. They’re uncommon to begin with and same-sex versions downright rare. Since his gay best friend found a destined mate, Jamie figured he was out of luck. Until end of semester stress forces him to go through the full-moon shift early. Stuck in wolf form, he runs into none other than his destined mate. Who’s human.
Chad Sutton has always had good instincts. They served him well as a detective and continued on when he went private. Those instincts tell him there’s something about the dog that comes up to him while running away from animal control that isn’t quite right. He works to put the pieces together, but is unsuccessful until his dog turns into a human before his eyes.
Jamie has no idea what a shifter mate bite will do to a human. He’s terrified to try—and possibly kill his mate. They hunt together for answers while working together on a case for Chad. It’s easy to see they belong together, but Jamie fears the gods gave him someone he can’t keep.
Review: Jamie Ryan is out for a night of fun and drinks with some of his college buddies when his wolf decides he wants to come out a play. He barely makes it to a dark alley before the shift takes hold.
Not only does he have to leave his phone, wallet and keys in the dumpster and pray they are still there when he can return as a human; but now he’s being chased down by animal control. It comes as quite a shock to Jamie when the person he runs into that helps him evade being caught by animal control is his mate, and he is human.
Jamie never thought he would find a mate; they are rare among same sex couples. Even more so is a destined mate, but that is what Chad is, Jamie can feel it.
Chad Sutton is a former cop turned Private Eye. He has seen a lot of things in his line of work that some people would question. He realizes from the start that there is something about the dog that ran to him for safety that doesn’t add up. The animal is too smart, and Chad could swear that Murray, this is what he names his pup, is answering his questions with head nods, gestures and huffing and puffing.
After Murray spends a couple of days with Chad, then shifts into Jamie right in front of him, Chad is more curious than shocked.
Everything happens fast, but it’s a steady progression. That, and the fact that this is a shifter story where mates are most times decided by the fates, so my usual disdain for insta-love stories never questioned this book.
As I said, there is a steady progression in a short amount of time. Chad learns Murray is actually Jamie and a shifter and they are destined mates. The attraction is mutual and the chemistry is evident from the start.
The problem these two will have to face is not attraction or chemistry, its physiology. There are no known cases of human mates. Furthermore, the wolves of Forbes pack are of the belief that Jamie’s bite could actually kill Chad.
Jamie and Chad travel across the globe to a more ancient group of wolves to try to learn more about their mating and if it is even possible for Jamie to claim his lover.
I am a lover of paranormal romance, especially when the author can take the story and add enough reality to it to make me think it’s plausible.
Jamie as Murray almost had me in stitches with the way he would nod for yes, shakes his head for no, the tail wag thing and licking Chad’s face when he was excited.
Then there was the bond they shared and how they could sense each other. There were some questions they wanted answered and limits they wanted to push that weren’t elaborated on in this book, I’m hoping that is explained more in the next book.
There was a bit of angst that was borderline too much for me, but it was also somewhat understandable with the fast progression of their relationship, so I’ll overlook it.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read. There was just a bit of drama and uncertainty, with a whole lot of passion and even some romance. If you like shifter stories, paranormal romance, intense connections between your MC’s and a well written story with visible world building, then you should definitely consider this series.
Start at the beginning though, my opinion is they should be read in order.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Desert Tryst Series: N/A Author: Susanne Saville Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (July 9th 2015) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: The cat-and-mouse game between professional assassin Dmitri Dzerzhinsky and FBI Special Agent Thomas Dalton may be developing into something more, at least for Dmitri. Blurring which side Dmitri’s on can’t continue. Hoping to get rid of his desire for Thomas, Dmitri goes to 1Night Stand for help.
Unaware of the assassin’s interest, Thomas is attracted to Dmitri as well. So, discovering Madame Eve has given the Special Agent a night with the man of his dreams seems too good to be true.
Sometimes it’s dangerous to get what you wish for.
Can two men on opposite sides of the law find common ground beyond their mutual attraction?
Product Link: http://amzn.to/1oZPyK8
Reviewer: Tams
Review: FBI Agent Thomas Dalton and Hired Gun Dmitri Dzerzhinsky are on opposing sides of the law, and justly so, they should despise each other. Not so much though. Since the day Dmitri saved Tom’s life a mutual attraction formed, and now they seem to have found a way to scratch the shared itch. Madame Eve from 1Night Stand to the rescue.
Each man asks for one night with the person that has filled their dreams and almost every waking thought. For Thomas, that’s Dmitri… and Dimi is so taken with agent that he risks everything for just one night. But what will happen when the sun rises?
Short, sexy and oh so steamy. Narrated by Greg Tremblay, the first time I’ve listened to an English/British type of accent from him, me likee!
Very well written and put together. and even though the story was so short, there was still enough of the story to pull me in and get me invested in these two characters. The attraction and anticipation were magnificent.
If you’re looking for a deliciously dirty little snack, this should be right up your alley. * I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Dancing Lessons Series: N/A Author: R Cooper Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 129 pages Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (January 20th 2016) Heat Level: Moderate Blurb: Two years of living with his controlling boyfriend left Chico worn down long before that boyfriend revealed he’d been seeing someone else. With no other choice, Chico moves in above his cousin’s garage in a small town in the redwoods, where he merely goes through the motions. To get him out of the house, his cousin pushes him to volunteer at a local dance studio to help with their annual show.
He’s not expecting to end up in a dance class, or to start feeling alive again in the arms of his dance instructor. Rafael is the studio owners’ son and was once a well-known dancer in his own right, but now enjoys being a teacher. Although Chico likes him, he’s afraid of taking a chance. But Rafael is determined, and it only takes one dance for Chico to start to realize he might still have something to learn.
Portia’s Review: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
If I am perfectly honest, it was the cover that drew me to this book. That and the fact that I love R. Cooper’s writing style.
Chico is an easy to character to get a read on. He’s been in a bad situation and is learning to define himself outside of a destructive relationship. For me, this is definitely Chico’s story. Watching him rediscover his art, make friends and reconnect with family was just beautiful
Rafael was a little harder for me. I kept waiting to find his weakness. Turns out he is just fine with himself and is the perfect guy to bring Chico back to the land of the living. Partly through those dancing lessons, but mainly with just giving Chico back his voice.
I loved all the family dynamics woven within this piece. Both men are blessed with families who love and support them.
The slow burn was absolutely delicious, as Chico lost his battle not to let Rafe in.
Tams’ Review: ♥♥ 2 Hearts
Chico moved to Redwoods at his cousin’s insistence after a bad breakup. He basically leaves the garage apartment above his cousin, long enough to go to work, then come right back home. He was a loner before the break-up, now it’s just reinforced. He’s depressed and doesn’t think he is worth anything to anyone, constantly looking down on and putting himself down. When he meets Rafael at a local dance studio he is volunteering at, he’s smitten, but standoffish. Can the enigmatic, patient, sexy dance instructor pull Chico out of his shell?
This book wore me out. It was chaotic and all over the place. The characters didn’t seem to fit together, and I mean at all. Chico was obviously depressed; he mumbled and rambled on a lot. Rafael had to cajole him more often than not. The ending, loved it! Wish the entire book could have been that good. Sadly, not for me. But the cover is brilliant and the ending made this a 2 star instead of just 1.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Beyond the Music Series: The Rock Gods, #7 Author: Ann Lister Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 454 pages Publisher: SleighFarm Publishing (February 23rd 2016) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts Blurb: Lincoln Stallworth, bass player for Black Ice, has quietly watched each of his band mates fall in love and has accepted the fact he’ll probably never find the same for himself. He doesn’t really believe in true love, couldn’t fully understand the absurdity of it, or the notion there could be just one perfect person for everyone.
A debilitating health issue began to shadow Lincoln in the middle of their last tour. As his physical symptoms worsen, Lincoln has to fight the urge to hide from the world and himself inside his estate.
Aaron Baylor enters Lincoln’s life at his lowest point. Lincoln feels broken, damaged beyond repair, and he’s ready to give-up. Aaron’s patience and unwavering support slowly begin to pull Lincoln back to being present in his own life and gives him hope for a future and for love.
Will Aaron be the glue that holds the broken pieces of Lincoln’s life together?
Can Lincoln fight his way back to good health and take a chance at love?
Or will the task be too great for Lincoln to handle?
Beyond The Music is Book 7 in The Rock Gods series. This is the final story in the series, but also the launch of a new M/M spin-off series, Guarding the Gods, which will have many cameo appearances from The Rock Gods characters in each story. If you enjoyed The Rock Gods, I hope you’ll give Guarding the Gods a try!
ASIN: B01BT6383E
Product Link: http://amzn.to/1Sjh68g
Reviewer: Tams
Review: Black Ice’s talented bass player, Lincoln, has slowly been isolating himself over the past year. Partly because he is trying to hide a severe health issue that he isn’t even fully aware of just how severe it is, as of yet. And partly because he’s tired of watching his fellow band mates and friends pair off and find their love. Lincoln is trying to convince himself he couldn’t care less, but deep down there is some jealousy and envy roiling in his gut.
On a break before the tour with Ivory Tower, Linc wants to smoke some pot, sleep and fade into the wallpaper until it’s time to rehearse. Thankfully when Linc has a fall, the bands stage manager Spimoni, is there to take him to the ER. Spimoni uses the fact that Linc doesn’t want any of the guys in the band to know what’s going on with him, he gives Linc an ultimatum. Get a physical therapist or tell the guys in the band.
Aaron Baylor is good friends with Spimoni and not only does he understand the word confidentiality, he has worked with one of the Ivory Tower guys in the past. Aaron has the patience of a saint and the harder Linc pushes back, Aaron stands his ground and forces Linc to do what must be done if he’s going to learn how to live as normal a life as possible.
Spending every waking hour together gets off to a rocky start, as I said. Linc is furious over his diagnosis and feels worthless having to depend on Aaron so heavily. Somewhere along the way the lines between therapist and patient begin to blur. The attraction has been obvious from the beginning, but the progression to something beyond just friendship is slow and tedious.
Linc and Aaron are so busy with getting Linc well enough to go on tour and figuring out how to navigate some type of relationship, that they don’t see the threat lurking in the shadows.
In a way I’m sad that this is the last book. I’ve been on tour with Black Ice and Ivory tower, watched as these guys found their soul mates, fell in love and even attending a few wedding. I’ve sat on the sidelines as they have struggled, for various reasons, to be true to themselves and move past hatred and bigotry to find their place in this world. I seriously feel like a distant cousin, I’m so invested in these characters and their lives.
So, Lincoln has been the ornery bass player pretty much from the start. He’s standoffish and volatile at times. But he is also loyal and dependable. He knows that there is something wrong with him, but he refuses to do anything about it. Reasons vary from not wanting to let the band down, his love of playing and worrying he won’t be able to anymore, and knowing that if he does something about it he is admitting there is something wrong. Ignoring it allows Linc to convince himself he is okay.
Aaron is perfect for Linc. He has the patience of a saint and he doesn’t take any of Linc’s crap. Early on, Linc lashes out several times and even fires Aaron at one point. He quickly comes to his senses, apologizing and begging Aaron to stay. It’s hard for Linc to accept help, it is just not something he is familiar with and he associates it with showing weakness.
As the story unfolds, you can see the two men falling in love. Small gestures, their inner thoughts, longing looks… it all slowly unfolds and as hard as these two fight at the start, they put all that determination into having a successful relationship. Aaron keeps Lincoln grounded, supports him, loves him unconditionally to spite his diagnosis. It’s hard for Linc to believe for a while there, but once he realizes the depth of his feelings, he refuses to let Aaron go.
Everything comes to a head in London while the guys are on tour and the threat that has stayed in the shadows emerges. At the same time, Lister introduces the team that is going to provide security for the bands moving forward. And I already see a couple of stories I want to come from these large and in charge guys. I also enjoy how the Skullblasters make an appearance to spice things up a bit. And who is to say we won’t have a love story down the road between one of the Skullblasters guards and one of the guards for Black Ice. A girl can dream, right?
This is a fantastic series with well written story lines and three-dimensional characters. You really get pulled into each and every story with believable storylines and perfectly flawed characters. While each story could probably be read as a standalone novel, why would you want to? I think reading the books in order is necessary to enjoy the full effect of the world Lister has created.
The books are emotional, intriguing, completely captivating, passionate, funny and enduring. I highly recommend anyone that likes stories with guys of all shapes, sizes and personalities that are passionate about their jobs, their friends and their lovers.
Now I have to sit here and wait for the first book in the spin-off series for the Guards, Ann Lister is such a tease! * I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Fit to Be Tied Series: Marshals, #2 Author: Mary Calmes Narrator: Tristan James Genre: Contemporary Romance / Law Enforcement Length: 7 hours and 43 minutes Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12-06-2015) Heat Level: Moderate to Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Deputy US Marshals Miro Jones and Ian Doyle are now partners on and off the job: Miro’s calm professionalism provides an ideal balance to Ian’s passion and quick temper. In a job where one misstep can be the difference between life and death, trust means everything. But every relationship has growing pains, and sometimes Miro stews about where he stands with his fiery lover. Could the heartstrings that so recently tied them together be in danger of unraveling?
Those new bonds are constantly challenged by family intrusions, well-intentioned friends, their personal insecurities, and their dangerous careers—including a trial by fire when an old case of Miro’s comes back to haunt them.
It might just be enough to make Ian rethink his decision to let himself be tied down, and Miro can only hope the links they’ve forged will be strong enough to hold.
Review: US Marshalls Ian Doyle and Miro Jones have transitioned to partners, both on and off the job, fairly easily. The problem they face isn’t hiding their relationship, their boss Sam Kage is fully aware as are most of their other co-workers. The bump in the road is their divided views on marriage.
Miro wants to put a ring on it, he wants people to see that band on Ian’s finger and know that is spoken for, that he belongs to someone already. He wants the house, the 2 car garage, maybe even kids. Ian, however, does not. He feels that they are already committed and promised to each other, why do they need rings and a piece of paper.
Unfortunately for them, the bad guys don’t seem to want to take a day off. They are stuck on cases, stakeouts, teaming up with other law enforcement to catch a few of said bad guys and then Ian gets deployed. At this point in the story, there is some serious comic relief when Miro takes Chickie to the vet (for those unfamiliar Chickie is Ian’s BIG dog that people often mistake for a wolf) and gets held up at gun-point when leaving the clinic.
Hilarity ensues, and I now know that was just to give us a breather for what was coming. A case Miro worked when he was still a detective that left him with permanent scars, both inside and out, resurfaces. And the killer is coming back for the one that got away.
This book was emotional, hysterical, intense and passionate. Ian and Miro may not agree on the whole getting married thing, but the one thing that is never in question is their love and commitment to one another. They argue and debate the pros and cons of marriage like two grown men that would discuss an issue, but there is absolutely zero angst, thank god! The banter back and forth between them is hysterical, definitely some comic relief going on throughout.
Even when Miro is in the clutches of Mr. Crazy, he still comes up with dry, witty comebacks. There was so much growth in this story from both sides. Their relationship has always been a series of give and take, very supportive of each other regardless. Ian comes to realize that all the reasons he had for not getting married aren’t as important as he thought they were. While Miro has to learn that even if he can’t be Ian’s partner at work, Ian will still want to come home to him, to lean on him.
Narrated by Tristan James, lord I love this man’s voice. There were a lot of characters in this story and James made sure that every character had their own voice. Doyle’s New Yorker accent is amazing and cracks me up. Miro is the usually level-headed tone that occasionally loses that well maintained control.
What I find most intriguing is Sam Kage. I have to wonder if James didn’t listen to the Matter of Time series that was narrated by another great voice over artist, Paul Morey. Because the voice he uses for Sam Kage is almost identical to the way Morey’s voices the character. The marriage of Mary Calmes and Tristan James is perfectly flawless, in my opinion.
If you are a fan of cop stories, intense and emotional reads, men that fight hard and stop at nothing to get their GD happy ever after… you really should consider this series. If you haven’t either read or listened to the first book, you have to start there, this is a continuation. Definitely worth a listen.
Side note: I adore Chickie! I want one!!!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Sleeping ‘til Sunrise Series: Mangrove Stories, #5 Author: Mary Calmes Narrator: Greg Tremblay Genre: Interracial Romance Length: 2 hours and 12 minutes Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (01-26-2016) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Everyone in Mangrove, Florida, knows Fire Chief Essien Dodd is a saint. He took care of his ex-wife until she died, is raising his teenage daughter alone, and is the kind of man who pulls kittens from trees. All in all, the man’s a catch. But Roark Hammond has sworn off getting involved with a man who’s been hurt before because he can’t guarantee he won’t hurt his prospective love again. If only he could get Essien out of his mind long enough to focus on anyone, or anything, else.
Strong emotions are in play. Essien is lonely but determined to focus on Ivy; Ivy wants her father to have a new life so much that, to his horror, she’s trying to find him a man; and Roark is so scared of the present and past, he won’t allow himself to commit.
To have any chance of sleeping ’til sunrise and greeting each new day together, Essien and Roark will have to rethink how they’re living their lives and focus on what’s most important.
Review: Essien Dodd stood by his ex-wife when she fell ill with cancer, living up to his vows, even after the promise had been rendered null and void. He took the job as Fire Chief in Mangrove hoping to start a new life for himself and his daughter, away from the city and the reminders of the mother Ivy misses.
Essien and Ivy quickly made friends and were brought into the “family” circle that is the warm, welcome and loving atmosphere of the small town. Es vowed to remain single and devote all his attention to his daughter until she goes off to college. There is one person in particular that is making that vow very hard to keep, town doctor Roark Hammond.
Roark has sworn off relationships as well, be for a far deeper reason. He’s loved the towns gorgeous Fire Chief from afar for a while, but refuses to put any more pain on the man’s plate. Too bad that Ivy, Essien’s fourteen year old daughter turned match maker for her lonely daddy, didn’t get the memo.
Lord love a duck, the sexual tension between these two was palpable. The scene at the coffee shop, yow-za! I could feel the chemistry between these two through my ear buds. Tremblay truly brought these characters to life in my mind. I could completely understand why both men hesitated, they each had valid reasons.
It doesn’t take them long to realize that the heart wants, what the heart wants, and neither of them are strong enough to resist the pull. As usual, Tremblay does an amazing job at bringing the various characters to life while bringing all the voices he has given characters in the previous books over into this story.
While this story is a little heavier than the previous books in the series, there is still that light-hearted air and slightly comical approach to the situation.
I can’t recommend this series, Author or Narrator enough.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Easy Evenings Series: Mangrove Stories, #4 Author: Mary Calmes Narrator: Greg Tremblay Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 2 hours and 24 minutes Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12-18-15) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Lazlo Maguire doesn’t do relationships—he does transactions. Six months of the year, he’s an expensive rent boy in Manhattan, and he moves so fast that settling down could not, would not, ever enter his mind… except for once.
Britton Lassiter he meets man to man, not as hustler and mark, and it’s too good to be true when the lawyer wants to keep Lazlo even if he has to share him with the job.
But Lazlo has his reasons to walk away from the man he’s grown to love. The other six months of the year, he is laid-back Laz, a shopkeeper in the sleepy coastal town of Mangrove, Florida, where the artist he never allows himself to be in the Big Apple shines through. He lives for his time by the ocean, the place he hides his secrets and nurses his broken heart.
Then fate intervenes, and Laz gets the surprise of his life when he spies Britton in Mangrove—but it’s not meant to be… not until Britton sees the change in him and wants to be a part of Laz’s new life so that every evening can be easy… together.
Hopefully the secrets that tore them apart won’t come back to haunt them.
Review: Lazlo Maguire’s mother put her son out on the streets turning tricks when he was barely a teenager, making him the financial supporter of her and his sister. Several years later Laz is splitting his time between that life, and his life in Mangrove. He has no regrets, well, only one… walking away from Britton Lassiter. The two met in the city when Laz was doing his six months with clients, making the big bucks so mama could sit her worthless ass at home on the couch and drink herself into oblivion.
Anywho, so when Britton shows up in Mangrove, Laz thinks he is getting a second chance. Until he’s slapped with a restraining order. Britton is still smarting over what he assumed was Lazlo choosing that life over him, and Lazlo is trying to figure out how to get back in Britton’s good graces. Both of them have to rethink all their priorities when Lazlo gets the surprise of his life.
If you are in the mood for a fun, hysterical, series of short stories, that are all set in the same town around this close-knit group of friends. Stories that have a lot of content for so few pages. Moonlight, romance, side-splitting family dinners… then this series is a must. Anytime I want to smile and listen to a well written story with fantastic narration, it would be the Mangrove Stories.
Mary Calmes and Greg Tremblay make a dashing couple, him bringing her words to life. Fans of the series will recognize both characters from previous books. They’ll even remember the encounter that spawned the restraining order. Britton does tend to overreact a bit, ya know. I loved how he and Laz looked past their own personal issues and concentrated on what was important.
Definitely a must listen series. Seriously, listen! Trembaly is absolutely splendid voicing all these different characters. And from one book to the next the group of characters grows, but they all carry their voices so you always know who’s speaking. One of my very favorite go to series when I need to laugh, smile or just say “awwwwwww”!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Any Closer Series: Dreamspinner 2011 Daily Dose – First Time for Everything Author: Mary Calmes Narrator: Greg Tremblay Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 1 hour and 51 minutes Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (01-18-2016) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts Blurb: Part of the First Time for Everything Daily Dose 2011 collection.
Charlie Ryder has a colorful past, painful memories, and an embarrassing secret. After three years working for Leo Foster’s construction company, Charlie’s worst fears are realized, and Leo finds out what Charlie has worked so hard to hide.
When Leo meets the revelation with absolute love and acceptance, Leo has to trust that Charlie’s love isn’t just gratitude, and Charlie has to learn to trust again, period.
It’s going to take a lot of work for these two men to get any closer.
Review: Charlie Ryder has been working for Leo Foster for four years. In the early days, Charlie was skittish, scared of his own shadow. The poor guy would flinch if Leo blinked, withdrew if confronted. Leo did not treat him with kid gloves though, explaining to Charlie he had to get a grip and deal with whatever it was that haunted him.
It was that honesty and the push from Leo to come to terms with his demons that helped Charlie make a life for himself after what had happened to him.
When Leo hears about Charlie’s past as a Gay porn star, there is no judgement, more resentment to the people in Charlie’s life at that time for betraying him. When Leo’s ex shows up in town, Charlie decides it’s time to stop sitting quietly in the shadows. The dependable, shy, hard worker becomes a demanding little sex kitten. And Leo is at a loss, what to do with the man.
This is not a light-hearted read guys, but it’s not dark either, somewhere in the middle. Intense and emotional, especially when Charlie is re-living the past. As soon as Leo’s friend starts telling him the story, Leo feels sick to his stomach, as did I. But Leo’s no-nonsense attitude and faith in Charlie over the last three years has given Charlie strength he thought long gone. When Charlie decides to stake his claim, it gets a bit funny.
Narrated by Greg Tremblay, have I mentioned I love his voice? Well, I love his voice, all six hundred of them. Seriously, he manages to give every character their own distinct tone. Early on, I could still hear hesitation and regret in Charlie’s voice when he talked. But by the end he knew exactly what he wanted and went after it by god. Leo was described as really tall and perhaps menacing looking, but getting to know him you would see he was assured not mean. He was exasperated a time or two and Tremblay captured that in his voice, it was hilarious.
I really enjoyed listening to this story, my only issue would be, and the ending was a little anticlimactic for me. Again, I can understand why Leo would hesitate given Charlie’s past. But it’s been four years, come on now. I needed a steamier ending. Not necessarily porn on paper, but a skoch bit more than was given.
Otherwise, fantastic story, definitely recommend it.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Blurb:Kyle’s best friend Marshall resurfaces and he’s in a lot of trouble. Can the men at Kiss of Leather convince a former Dom to take on the mouthy sub?
Master Derek and his new sub Corey have signed a contract and enjoy their first scene together. The love between them is strong and Derek is as protective of his boy as ever. The only thing left that would make their world perfect would be to bring Corey’s ex-Dom and abuser to justice.
The legal firm that represents Kiss of Leather is charged with hiring a private investigator to flush out the man who orchestrated Corey’s gang rape. Stone Manning is hesitant to take the job, though. He was once wrongly accused in the death of a sub and swore never to enter a BDSM club again. But he owes attorney Glen Sharp his life after the lawyer got him acquitted.
Their meeting is disrupted when Kyle’s missing friend Marshall calls for help. Master Josh promises to help the mouthy Marshall get back on his feet under one condition—Marshall must sign a six month D/s contract as a full-time sub and prove he can fully submit to a man as well as learn to respect those around him.
Stone Manning suddenly finds himself charged with taming the brattiest sub ever. In truth, the bigger the brat, the more his heart races with excitement. Marshall promises to be just the type of challenge to inspire Stone to be a Master again. As Stone learns more about him, he sees the pain that Marshall has always tried to numb with drugs and alcohol. Stone also sees a man he could love—if he can ever reach him.
In the meantime, Stone and his investigative partner, Chuck, continue to search for Corey’s attacker. The abusive Dom appears to have gone underground. But what they don’t realize is that the closer they get to their prey, the more dangerous he becomes.
Reader Advisory: This book contains references to drug and alcohol abuse.
NOTE: book is available for early download now through Pride Publishing exclusively.
Review: PI Stone Manning hasn’t lived the life, stepped foot into a club, worked a scene… nothing since he was falsely accused in the death of a Sub. His friend and attorney, Glen Sharp got an acquittal of course, but the memory has left Stone regretful and determined to stay away from the whole D/S lifestyle. Then Glen asks Stone to work a case for a club Glen represents, Kiss of Leather. Stone is hesitant, even walking into the club and meeting the owners, he is hesitant. Then he meets Corey and decides that he has to help find the abusive Dom that hurt the young man. The owners of Kiss of Leather want something beyond Stone’s amazing PI skills though, they want him to put the leather back on and tame a very defiant Sub.
Marshall disappeared not long after Kyle and Gavin got together. He had kind of lost control of his life and he was lashing out at the people that cared about him. When he winds up in a holding cell, the threat of real jail time hanging over his head, he reaches out to Josh his former Dom, and asks for help. Josh is more than happy to help, under one condition. Marshall will have to answer to Stone for the next six months. Of course Marshall is livid, but what choice does he have, he has nowhere else to go.
The two men don’t want to like each other, not even a little. But Stone can see the scared and hurt man that lies just under the surface of all that defiance and anger. Marshall is still angry with himself for what happened with Josh, and for just turning his back on his friends. It’s hard for him to admit he was wrong and it’s hard for him to obey Stone, but with each day it gets easier. Stone commands compliance, but Marshall can see that he truly cares. As Stone and Marshall grow closer, so does Corey’s former Dom. For the first time in a long time, Marshall thinks about someone other than himself, and it just might be the last time.
Both of these guys have been out of the game for a while, neither thinking they would ever live the lifestyle again. Stone settles back into his dominant personality immediately, and of course, Marshall is a petulant child for the first few days. As I said though, the anger and vitriol that Marshall projects is a defense mechanism. Once Stone breaks down his walls and leaves him bare, it’s quite easy to rebuild. It was actually a joy watching Stone tame Marshall, and I was pleased that the Author didn’t write Marshall completely compliant, he still has a razor sharp edge about him. I think that is part of why these two fit so well. Stone wants a Sub that knows his place, but he wants a man that isn’t scared to speak up and stand up for himself. Marshall fits that personality perfectly, after a few spankings, of course.
I love that with each new book, Knight focus’ on a specific couple, but everyone else is still there in the background. The men of Kiss of Leather are very much a family. They provide and look out for each other, and though the big, brooding men are all Dom’s and expect nothing less than compliance, they are all very loving and caring and always have their Sub’s best interest at heart. So, while sometimes things are done in these stories that I can’t possibly understand, it’s so well written and conveyed that I remain completely engrossed in the story. There is some suspense and a little twist at the end of this book I wasn’t expecting and I quite liked that as well. Love it when an Author keeps me on my toes.
This is really a fantastic series, do read in order though, the stories pick up and continue where the previous book left off.
Hi guys, we have Morticia Knight visiting today with her newest release Bondage Rescue, we have a great excerpt a fantastic giveaway and Tams review, so enjoy the post and click that giveaway link <3 ~Pixie~
Bondage Rescue
(Kiss of Leather 03)
by
Morticia Knight
Kyle’s best friend Marshall resurfaces and he’s in a lot of trouble. Can the men at Kiss of Leather convince a former Dom to take on the mouthy sub?
Master Derek and his new sub Corey have signed a contract and enjoy their first scene together. The love between them is strong and Derek is as protective of his boy as ever. The only thing left that would make their world perfect would be to bring Corey’s ex-Dom and abuser to justice.
The legal firm that represents Kiss of Leather is charged with hiring a private investigator to flush out the man who orchestrated Corey’s gang rape. Stone Manning is hesitant to take the job, though. He was once wrongly accused in the death of a sub and swore never to enter a BDSM club again. But he owes attorney Glen Sharp his life after the lawyer got him acquitted.
Their meeting is disrupted when Kyle’s missing friend Marshall calls for help. Master Josh promises to help the mouthy Marshall get back on his feet under one condition: Marshall must sign a six month D/s contract as a fulltime sub and prove he can fully submit to a man as well as learn to respect those around him.
Stone Manning suddenly finds himself charged with taming the brattiest sub ever. In truth, the bigger the brat, the more his heart races with excitement. Marshall promises to be just the type of challenge to inspire Stone to be a Master again. As Stone learns more about him, he sees the pain that Marshall has always tried to numb with drugs and alcohol. Stone also sees a man he could love – if he can ever reach him.
In the meantime, Stone and his investigative partner, Chuck, continue to search for Corey’s attacker. The abusive Dom appears to have gone underground. But what they don’t realize is that the closer they get to their prey, the more dangerous he becomes.
Hi guys, we have Cardeno C. stopping by today with four of her audio releases each from a different series, we have Jesse’s Diner, The Half of Us, Something In The Way He Needs and Where He Ends & I Begin, we also have some audio excerpts, Tams reviews and a fantastic giveaway, so enjoy the post and click that giveaway link <3 ~Pixie~
Jesse’s Diner
(Hope 02)
by
Cardeno C.
Narrator: Paul Morey
Two men with a shared history and a mutual attraction must be honest with themselves and each other so both their dreams come true.
Quiet, unassuming Tanner Sellers spends his time running a diner in Hope, Arizona. Not particularly social, 22-year-old Tanner keeps to himself and enjoys his simple life, but he longs for someone to call his own. In his most secret fantasy, that someone is sexy Steve Faus. But Steve is his friend’s father and mentor’s widower and therefore off-limits.
Despite some challenges, 39-year-old Steve Faus has had a good life. He’s extremely successful at work, has a great relationship with his college-age son, and lives in a wonderful town. Eighteen months after losing his partner, the one thing Steve lacks is someone to share his life with. If Steve is honest with himself, that someone is the young man he has known and cared about for years. Steve and Tanner want one another; all they need is a little push in the right direction to make both their dreams come true.
Reviewers: Cat, Aerin & Tams Blurb: He’ll do anything to save the ranch, including baring it all.
Aubrey Klein is in real trouble—he needs some fast money to save the family ranch. His solution? A weekend job as a stripper at a club in Dallas. For two shows each Saturday, he is the star as The Lone Rancher.
It leads to at least one unexpected revelation: after a show, Garrett Lamston, an old friend from school, approaches the still-masked Aubrey to see about some extra fun… and Aubrey had no idea Garrett was gay. As the two men dodge their mothers’ attempts to set them up with girls, their friendship deepens, and one thing leads to another.
Aubrey knows his life stretching between the ranch and the club is a house of cards. He just hopes he can keep it standing long enough to save the ranch and launch the life—and the love—he really hopes he can have.
Aubrey comes home to the ranch to find his dad ill and the ranch almost in foreclosure. He does what he has to do to save using a talent he kept hidden. He could dance. He became the Lone Rancher at a strip club and were the top draw. He wears his mask to hide his identity. One night he runs into his friend and the man he wished was straight at the club. Perhaps his dream could come true if only either man could come out of the closet.
I really liked this story. I loved that Aubrey put the ranch and his family above himself and did what he had to for them. I also liked Garret and thought they made a good couple.
The Lone Rancher is a sweet story of two men that are putting their families first, hiding but now that they have found each other struggling with what to do. I thought the descriptions were so good that I could visualize Aubrey’s dances.
If you are looking for a sweet and hot story with sexy cowboys, more erotic male-stripper, and some hot man-sex, you will like this one!
Aerin’s Review: ♥♥♥ 2.75 Hearts
I started this book hoping I would like it, but having reasonable doubts, because Andrew Grey is not exactly my perfect author match. And I’m not the biggest cowboy book fan. I simply don’t get off on the smell of horse (shit) and barn, and those are mandatory mentions in all cowboy books it seems. But once I commit to a series, I usually see it through, so I wanted to like this book, I really did! It didn’t happen, as you can see, but I can’t say I hated it either.
As you know from the plot, Aubrey’s overspending parents put their farm and their well-being in serious trouble, so Aubrey returns home from college to help them out. When he finds out about a stripper job at a gay bar where he’d be able to make insane amounts of money, he doesn’t think twice!
That boy is up on that stage, baring it all (or almost all if a jockstrap is considered much coverage), shaking his booty cowboy style, making men crazy with lust. Aubrey is still closeted, because the small town he lives in still has a 1950’s mentality. But, he’s in no danger of being discovered, because he’s hiding behind his Lone Cowboy mask during his performances.
Garrett is Aubrey’s longtime friend, and he’s gay as well. Only they don’t know about each other. Both their mothers are being pushy for them to find a girl to settle down with, setting them up and sending them to socials. When The Lone Cowboy meets Garrett one night after his performance, I thought things would spice up between them.
Unfortunately, their relationship/friendship was as flat as their chemistry. After they finally come out to each other they start sleeping together/dating. Only I found that to be a matter of convenience, rather than lust and chemistry. There was NO sexual tension AT ALL! What’s a book without sexual tension? In my opinion, a romance novel should always have sexual tension or chemistry, or it’s a complete and utter failure.
Besides, I didn’t get the feeling that they were close friends to start with. I got the feeling they knew each other, but there was nothing in their interactions that made me think they were best friends when they were little and used to hang out a lot. These boys had history, but it wasn’t put to good use.
Both Garrett and Aubrey were flat characters. There was nothing about either of them that stood out to me. There was no character development and I couldn’t really connect with them in any way.
Aside from that, Aubrey’s mother’s constant nosiness annoyed me. Aubrey is a grown man who’s working his ass off (pun intended, heh!) to save her home, and she won’t quit pushing him into situations he doesn’t want to be in. Aubrey needed to pull up his big boy breeches and tell her to fuck off instead of letting her dictate his life.
Aubrey and Garrett’s coming out was rather uneventful. There was no major drama or anyone screaming bloody murder, and the conflict is resolved too easy considering where they live.
This book wasn’t horrible or anything like that, but it certainly wasn’t memorable. If you like cowboy books you might enjoy this more than I did, so give it a try.
Tams Review: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Aubrey Klein moonlights as an exotic dancer at a strip club in Dallas as a means to an end. His mother does love her credit cards and his father is getting up there in years, so it’s up to Aubrey to make sure his family ranch doesn’t sink under a mountain of debt. His trips to Dallas afford Aubrey an opportunity to be himself though, and then the one guy that could destroy it all shows up at the club and leaves Aubrey questioning everything.
Aubrey and Garrett Lamston grew up together, played in the creek when they were kids and worked their family’s ranches. Each of them tried college, but it didn’t work out. The life they live is all they’ve known and where they are most comfortable. They share a secret as well, both certain that if they came out to their family they would be rejected. But when Garrett sees Aubrey in Dallas it sets a chain of events in motion that change both their lives forever.
Aubrey is essentially living three lives… the son that refuses to let his family ranch drown, refuses to let his parents down. The Lone Rancher that hides behind a mask to make the money he needs to keep the ranch afloat. And then there is the man that he is in love with his child hood friend; sweet, gentle and loving Aubrey is finding it very hard to juggle these three lives.
I felt at home while I was reading this book, with the scenery and images that played in the background. Perhaps because I’m from Texas, Dallas Ft. Worth actually, and I’m pretty sure I know exactly which club The Lone Rancher would be dancing in if he weren’t a fictional character. The life on the ranch, the way that Aubrey and Garrett were almost forced to live their lives, hiding who they really were for fear of the ramifications; it all rang very true for me. I was able to visualize the life Grey painted for these two men.
There was a spur in my saddle though; I didn’t understand why Aubrey was so ashamed of what he was doing. Yes he deliberately passed up several chances to be honest with Garrett and save himself some heartache, but when he was talking to his parents and Garrett after the cat was out of the bag, he came across as mortified and immensely ashamed. I think that were he sleeping around or living a shady double life, maybe, but he was achieving his goal to financially support his parents and the ranch without doing anything illegal. I guess I wish he hadn’t been so hard on himself. And then when his mother saw that Aubrey had paid off all her credit cards and the mortgage, she was ready to charge them right back up. I wanted to smack her. I was very impressed when his dad agreed with him in that situation.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. There was just a touch of angst, the inner struggle that Aubrey and Garrett had to deal with individually, before realizing they could better deal with it together. Love and romance, sexy men in wranglers wearing hats, and riding horses, and each other. And let me just say, you haven’t lived until you’ve made out in a truck bed on a dark dirt road in backwoods Texas, lying on a blanket all naked and sweaty, staring up at the stars. I’m just sayin…
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Cast Off Series: Toronto Tales, #3 Author: KC Burn Narrator: Tristan James
Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 7 hours and 35 minutes Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (June 12th 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Thirty-five-year-old Rick Haviland is a well-respected speech pathologist, but while his friends are all settling into relationships, he refuses to give up his no-strings-attached club boy sex life. For him, relationships are dangerous; he’s got a secret to hide. When he meets Ian O’Donnell, an account manager with a local tabloid, Rick figures his personal rules for relationships should be enough to keep him safe from more than a one-night stand.
When Ian comes out of the closet, tired of anonymous hook-ups and keeping secrets from his large Catholic family, Rick is right there, and he’s just the sort of man Ian might like to get to know better. Their attraction is immediate, electric and mutual. Ian convinces Rick to break more and more of his rules and his defenses crumble. But someone watches. Someone who’d like to see this new relationship fail.
When Ian’s job becomes a means to expose Rick’s secret, it could destroy both their careers and their hearts.
Review: Rick Haviland doesn’t do attachments. He does one night stands and occasionally, finds a friend that is willing to share the benefits of a hook-up only kind of relationship. But as soon as a guy starts acting like a “keeper”, their name is scratched off the list.
Meeting Ian O’Donnell changes everything. Rick keeps his past tucked away, never revealing his whole self to anyone, not even his best friends. That shadow that looms over Rick is what has kept him from getting to close to anyone, but Ian slowly breaks down all Rick’s barriers and he finds himself wanting more with someone for the first time ever.
Ian is no stranger to keeping secrets; he hid his sexuality from everyone he knew until recently. When his brother, Curt, who is also Ian’s best friend, came out to their family Ian was pissed. Not at Curt mind you, but at himself for not having the courage at the time to do the same.
From the start, Ian wants more than just a casual hook-up kind of relationship with Rick, but he recognizes the look of sheer terror in Rick’s eyes at just the mention of anything to do with any type of commitment. So Ian works the friend angle instead. The man is actually courting Rick, and Rick doesn’t even realize it. But darkness in your past is never forgotten and not easily washed away.
When Rick’s past invades his present, it could destroy them both.
This is probably my favorite book of this series. Ian was definitely the stronger of the two men, both physically and emotionally. That being said, I liked that he was the one that kind of had blinders on when usually, it would have been the other way around.
Ian is so focused on Rick that he doesn’t see when another guy is blatantly flirting. And then Rick decides to ignore what he sees when someone is slashing his tires, keying his car and setting his porch on fire. Both men are forced to pay attention when Rick receives an envelope of very revealing images.
While the images could destroy both men’s careers as well as Rick’s entire world, they force Rick to be completely open and honest with Ian about his past. Again, I really liked the way this played out. Rick is convinced that Ian will duck and run, cast him off just like everyone always does when they learn the truth. But Ian is already completely committed, he digs his heels in a stays.
Opposites definitely attract in this book, narrated by Tristan James, and he really brought the characters to life. He nails the Irish brogue perfectly any time he speaks it, and he has these subtle shifts in his voice that alert the listener to a change in the characters attitude or mood. You also don’t have to wonder who is speaking as James clearly changes tone and inflection from one character to another.
The series as a whole is very well written, the various characters are all part of the same family and close knit circle of friends.
So I would not only recommend you giving this one a read or a listen, I would recommend doing so in order so you can fully appreciate the books as the Author intended.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Flying Solo Series: Men of London, #6 Author: Susan Mac Nicol Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 173 pages Publisher:Boroughs Publishing Group (January 28th 2016) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Flight attendant Maxwell Lewis has spent years cultivating a bon vivant image only to find he finally wants something more—and that something more includes the never-does-repeats game designer Gibson Henry.
ABOVE AND BEYOND
Maxwell Lewis is proud of the life he’s made. Having turned tragedy into triumph, he’s now a beloved member of a Target Airlines cabin crew with more than his fair share of attention both in the air and on the ground. But lately he’s wanted something more than the occasional hook-up or sometime sex buddy—particularly after meeting game designer and passenger Gibson Henry.
Talented and driven, Gibson has built a company ready to be the next big thing in gaming. Devoted to his work, he takes onetime pleasures where he find them and never does repeats…which is what he tells handsome, sexy Maxwell Lewis after a little mile-high flight attendance. But a chance encounter in a London club is about to change things forever.
Two men, one who’s flown solo and another who’s only ever played alone, are about to find that at some point all games come to end, it’s time to bare your heart and try for love.
Review: The last couple of books in the ‘Men of London’ series have been intense and extremely emotional. Not saying there aren’t some intense and emotional moments in this story, wouldn’t be Susan Mac Nicol otherwise, but this book is definitely lighter and I laughed a lot while I was reading it. I am left wondering if this would be a reprieve. Is the next book going to gut me?
Fans of the series will remember Maxwell from book 3, Suit Yourself, as Oliver’s ‘when I’m in town’ hook-up. Well, Max is still flying solo, but he finds himself wanting something more than just random, one time hook-ups. Seeing his old friend Oliver so happy and in love stirs something in Max, making him want to have someone to come home to, someone to love.
Gibson Henry is a computer tech whiz that designs games and software. He too is a onetime only random hook-up kind of guy. He catches Max’s attention on a flight and the two share a mutual hand job in the latrine. The flame flickers out before the plane touches ground… or does it?
When Max and Gibson run into each other in a club, the chemistry is definitely still there. What started out as a ticket to the mile high club becomes something more. Friends with benefits start dating, then those pesky feelings get involved and both men are in foreign territory.
What a great addition to this series. I seriously had a smile on my face almost the whole time. Max is a bit of a Diva, and Gibson is this adorable geek. The two of them together can really be a hot mess at times, but they realize pretty early that there is something more between them, something they want to fully explore and enjoy.
When Max gets sick, Gibson takes care of him. When Gibson gets bad news from home, Max drops everything to fly to his hometown with him and stands by his side. It’s not until the past infiltrates their future that the real challenge emerges.
The prologue was intense and a bit dark, but from there the story was evenly paced and flowed well from one situation to the next. The characters were identifiably flawed and the story had depth and meaning.
If you love a good romance with charisma, charm and sarcastic wit… you have got to read this book. I would suggest reading the series in order because the characters circle through every story; but this book could stand on its own as well.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Something in the Way He Needs Series: Family, #1 Author: Cardeno C Narrator: Ezekiel Robison Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 7 hours and 6 minutes Publisher: The Romance Authors LLC (01/14/2016) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts Blurb: Controlled Asher didn’t expect to fall for free-spirited Daniel, but they’ll find what they desperately need in one another.
Police captain Asher Penaz’s staunch professionalism bleeds into his home life, down to his neatly pressed attire and spartan apartment. He enjoys being in charge and in control, so his sudden and powerful attraction to the lighthearted, free-spirited Daniel Tover throws him for a loop.
In his entire life, Daniel has never gotten what he needs, so he moves to the next place, the next job, the next attempt to find something worth staying for, always landing at the top of his game, but never feeling like he belongs.
The chemistry between Asher and Daniel sizzles, but with all that fire comes the risk of getting burned. As both men struggle to learn themselves while getting to know each other, the lines of desire and control blur.
If Daniel and Asher can walk through the flames together, they might find what they desperately need.
Product Link: http://amzn.to/23Jx8Nj
Reviewer: Tams
Review: Asher Penaz commands complete control in every aspect of his life. He is a no-nonsense police captain when he’s on the job and a brash, sharp, meticulous DOM when he plays. He doesn’t do relationships, kisses, romance, and boyfriends. No. Asher is confident in his life, until he meets an adorable blonde that blushes, has freckles and trips over his own feet in the middle of an empty room.
Daniel Tover stumbles into Asher’s life and neither of them will ever be the same. But when push comes to shove, can the cute guy that is most comfortable in his baggy jeans and flip-flops, soften the rough edges that constantly surround Asher Penaz?
I was drawn into this book from the first stumble in the hotel lobby in Vegas, and pretty much listening intently with bated breath from that point on. Asher is the proverbial alpha male type. Large, brooding, commands compliance as well as your undivided attention.
Daniel couldn’t be more opposite, polar, in fact; the very definition of twink to an extent… short, slender, beautiful, blonde and clumsy. Asher has these rules he lives by and one by one, Daniel has him breaking them all. The rude, crude and usually socially unacceptable Ash begins unknowingly readjusting his life to accommodate Daniel. Cuddling, kissing, dating… and shock of all shocks, he isn’t tying anyone up and inflicting sweet torturous pain on them.
It was an absolute pleasure to sit back and listen as Asher went on this journey of self-awareness he didn’t even know he was on. There was an almost constant monologue of Ash’s inner thoughts as his relationship with Daniel continually grew and evolved. But with the sweets, come the sours. About six months in, a small lack of communication causes a rift and Asher does something Daniel may not be able to forgive him for.
At first glance, you might think this is going to be either an insta-love story since Asher commands Daniel come home with him after only 48 hours of knowing one another, but it is far from. They fall into a comfortable existence, yes, but with each passing day they learn more about each other, grow closer and start to depend on each other.
The whole of this book really is the relationship between Ash and Daniel in great detail. I think my favorite aspect of this story was how Daniel had this kind of calming influence on Ash. A man can’t go from one extreme to the other overnight though, so there were understandably some speed bumps along the way.
The story was narrated by Ezekiel Robison and as I’ve said before, what he lacks in dialect, he makes up for with emotion. He had this big, loud, brash tone for Ash that was absolutely spot on. Daniel was never able to hide anything from Ash, even from the start; he is very much an open book. Robison was able to clearly express Daniel’s moods with differing tones and inflections.
I will say, Asher does something toward the end of the story. It’s a compilation of a bad week at work and that slight lack of communication I spoke of earlier combined with Ash’s jealous streak the size of Texas when it comes to Daniel. This is probably the worst mistake I have ever seen a fictional character that I liked make.
Up until this point, I had been so engrossed in this book that hours would fly by and it felt like 5 minutes. This really pulled me out of the story and had me thinking, what if that had gone the other way, and would Ash have put a stop to it? That is the only reason I knocked off a notch on my review. Sorry, I can’t say, that would be a spoiler.
Overall, this was such a fun read. I was so engaged from start to finish, riding along as Asher learned the meaning of the word Love.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: The Last Dire Wolf Series: Bloodlines # 1 Author: Kelex Genre: Paranormal/MMM Ménage/ Mpreg Length: Novella (142 pages) Publisher: Twisted E-Publishing, LLC; 1st edition (January 25, 2016) Heat Level: Moderate Blurb: Their love is taboo.
The crossing of wolven bloodlines is forbidden. Yet Eirik, supreme alpha and king of the wolves, is tired of hiding his love for Gunnar. The last of his kind, he’s cursed to be without a mate during his long life. He refuses his destiny and seeks solace with one of those closest to him.
King’s guard Gunnar knew he could never expect to stand at the king’s side when he let the man take him to bed, no matter how much he began to crave it over the decades. He’d given his life to be a member of the elite warriors, not a king’s consort, but he can’t stop wishing the king could be his.
Moments before Eirik can change the laws governing their world, an old enemy comes bearing a unique gift. Perhaps Eirik’s not the last of his kind after all.
This is the first book in the Bloodlines series and boy does it pack quite a punch. The last Dire Wolf, Supreme Alpha Eirik is at odds with himself. He wants to be able to show his love for his lover kings guard Gunnar. But due to outdated ideas, that is nearly impossible so they hide their feelings for one another while around others.
I loved all the twists in this story. Leif was a unique individual that I wish more time had been spent on further details of what exactly happened at the lab. What about the others that are still there? Are they to be rescued? Maybe the answers will be in other books in the series.
It was truly an amazing edge of your seat story with action, suspense, mystery, betrayal and evil plots. I really felt bad for all three men for the circumstances they found themselves in. I so can’t wait to see what else happens in this fascinating series.
Highly recommended.
Tams’ Review: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Eirik is the last of his kind, saved when all the other Dire wolves were annihilated by a rival clan. He is the supreme alpha over all the races of wolves, so his word should be law, right? Not exactly. For years, Eirik has had to hide the fact that he is in love with his guard Gunnar.
Eirik is the last Dire wolf and the alpha, Gunnar is beneath him and therefore, the council will not recognize them as mates. Eirik is determined to be open about his and Gunnar’s relationship, no longer hiding it behind closed doors. But before he can voice that claim the clan that almost killed off Eirik’s kind show up and request to be allowed to return to the council, they come baring a gift.
Lief has no memory of his life up until Yao supposedly found him on the streets. It’s a shock to everyone when Lief stands before Eirik, the reaction he and Eirik have to each other. Not only is Lief a Dire wolf, he is Eirik’s blood mate. Gunnar is less than pleased at this recent development.
On the cusp of finally being able to love Eirik out in the open, their plans change when Lief appears. No one trusts the newcomer with their precious King and they try to keep Eirik out of arms reach, but Eirik is determined to figure out the truth about Lief, not to mention the blood mate bond is pulling them to each other.
As Eirik and Gunnar work to figure out the truth about Lief, where he comes from, why he suddenly appears after so many years. Lief finds himself having disturbing dreams. The truth of the matter is far more disturbing than just Lief’s dreams.
Short, Sexy and Steamy!!!! My three favorite colors. This is my first read by this author, but it will not be my last. I love the style of writing, the character development and atmosphere of the story. The rival clan that has been exiled, resorting to any means necessary to not only gain a seat on the council again, but to overthrow the king and take the throne.
The love triangle aspect was handled well without a lot of dragging out and angst overshadowing that aspect of the story. Eirik truly loves Gunnar, but his body cannot deny the pull to his blood mate. Gunnar understands the pull, he knows how rare and important a blood mate connection is, but it doesn’t stop his heart from breaking at the implications.
And poor Lief, dropped on his head basically, no idea why he is there or where he came from. There was just enough angst and tension before Eirik and Gunnar come to the conclusion that Eirik doesn’t have to make a choice, he can have both.
If you are a fan of Ménage storylines, shifter tales, fast paced reads with substance and a whole lot of MM that moves to MMM action going on… definitely a must read.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Darkness Threatening Series: Yellowstone Wolves, #2 Author: Dirk Greyson Genre: Paranormal Suspense Length: Novel (200 pages) Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (February 3rd 2016) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: Fredrik is back from college and trying to stay out of his power-hungry brother’s way, until his brother takes a prisoner for his pleasure. Unable to tolerate his family’s cruelty, Fredrik overcomes his fear to help her escape back to her pack. There, he meets Christopher, and their instant attraction tells him Christopher is the one. However, since the threat of his brother remains, Fredrik is reluctant to pursue a relationship.
Christopher is still figuring out his place in the pack and has been living on his own to avoid making waves with his brother, Mikael. Now he’s met his soulmate, and he’ll do anything to take care of his love, including rejoining the pack.
With coaxing, Fredrik accepts his feelings, and Christopher’s pack gives him the home he’s never had. But Fredrick soon realizes he should keep running. His brother is on his tail and will stop at nothing to obtain the power he craves, especially when he realizes the source of the power could be Fredrik himself.
Review: Frederik is forced to come back home to his pack after his psychotic father, Anton, is killed and his equally psychotic brother takes over the pack. Knowing how badly Frederik wants to finish college, Juneau holds it over his brother’s head, making Frederik stay put and follow his orders. That is until Juneau plans to steal someone’s innocence. Frederik finds a way to overcome his usually shy, self-loathing personality and do what is right, which infuriates his brother.
Christopher has always fallen behind his brother’s shadows, Mikael, the pack Alpha. He longs to do something, anything, to help his pack. He requested to be Alpha to one of the crumbling packs, but Mikael said he wasn’t ready. He has spent the better part of a year on his own, only interacting with the pack when necessary.
All that changes when Frederik shows up to safely return a member of the Old Faithful pack. The two are drawn to each other, but unsure why at first. Accepting that they are mated is easy for Christopher, he has longed for someone to need him. And it’s not the Frederik doesn’t want him, quite the opposite actually. He just feels like the insanity of his family will forever follow him and put the pack in danger.
Through a series of ups and downs, getting to know one another, learning to depend on each other, Christopher and Frederik grow into their bond. The pack comes together to help build a cabin for the mated couple to live in. A few more members of Frederik’s former pack wind up at Old Faithful, accidentally, on purpose, who cares. But when Juneau threatens the pack, Frederik has to make a choice. Walk away from the family and the stability he has with the Old Faithful pack, his mate Christopher. Or stand and fight and risk his brother’s wrath.
I quite like this series, how Greyson ties in the packs and the wolves with Mother Nature. The way Mikael leads the pack… he is fierce and determined, and yet he can be gentle and understanding when needed. The Old Faithful pack follow Mikael and Denton without question or fear, for they know their Alpha’s will protect them, care for them and see that they have whatever they need.
Then you have the other side of that coin, Frederik’s family. Anton and now Juneau rule with an iron fist, threatening, raping, killing, taking what they want regardless of the cost. It’s no wonder that Frederik fears there is darkness inside him simply because he shares the same DNA with those savages.
The book is fast paced, with lots of action. The storyline and the characters intricately woven together to reveal each new piece at the right time. Christopher and Frederik are loyal to each other from the start. It takes time for them to build a cohesive relationship, but knowing they have each other seems to help them move beyond most of their issues from the past. And they are stronger when they rely on each other. Their chemistry is obvious, the connection evident, so they use that as a foundation.
A must read for anyone that enjoys shifter and paranormal stories. It’s pretty passionate and sexy, as well. I definitely recommend it. But if you haven’t read Challenge the Darkness yet (book 1) you have to start there. The series must be read in order. Its well worth a read, I promise.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
*Title was free on Amazon at time of posting* Title: When It’s Right Series: Mile High Romance, #1 Author: Aria Grace Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: 212 pages Publisher: Surrendered Press (June 26th 2013) Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts Blurb: When Shane Greenly left his home in Casper Mountain, WY, he was leaving more than just the closet. He needed a fresh start to pursue his dream of running a dog training ranch without having to deny who he really is.
Meeting Alex was one of the best things that could have happened to Shane. They were at the beginning of a wonderful relationship when the unthinkable happened and Shane had to leave.
The consequences of his past mistakes could not be hidden any longer.
ISBN: 9781484984536
Product Link: http://amzn.to/1JmNgNU\
Reviewer: Tams
Review: When Alex rushes his dog Stormie to the Vet after she’s injured during a hike, he doesn’t expect the outcome he gets. Alex doesn’t really date, and he’s not into messing around, but if the right guy came along he would gladly settle down. When he meets shy, awkward and adorable Shane Greely, the attraction is mutual and immediate. I mean from the first touch, immediate.
But there are several things standing in the way of their happy ever after. Shane is young, inexperienced and only has one foot out of the closet. Alex is patient and nurturing though, and soon enough the two are steadily moving forward. Then a phone call from home has Shane running back to Wyoming, indefinitely.
I just love this Author and just about everything she writes. Her stories usually have a happy ending, but it’s the journey to that trail that is the fun part. While this is a novella and the story is rushed, there was still a lot of content and a bit of character development, especially for Shane. I can’t say much, as I said it’s a short story and I don’t want to spoil anything for you.
It was a fast, fun, sexy story for sure though, and I definitely recommend it.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Touch & Geaux
Title: Patience
Title: Desert Tryst
Title: Dancing Lessons
Title: Beyond the Music
Title: Fit to Be Tied
Title: Sleeping ‘til Sunrise
Title: Easy Evenings
Title: Any Closer
Title: Bondage Rescue
![LoneRancher[The]LG](https://mmgoodbookreviews.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/lonerancherthelg.png?w=300)
Title: The Lone Rancher
Title: Cast Off
Title: Flying Solo
Title: Something in the Way He Needs
Title: The Last Dire Wolf
Title: Darkness Threatening
*Title was free on Amazon at time of posting*