Hi peeps, we have Jere’ M. Fishback visiting today with his new re-release Becoming Andy Hunsinger, we have a short interview with Jere’, a great excerpt, Tina’s review and a fantastic giveaway, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~
Becoming Andy Hunsinger
by
Jere’ M. Fishback
It’s 1976, and Anita Bryant’s homophobic “Save Our Children” crusade rages through Florida. When Andy Hunsinger, a closeted gay college student, joins in a demonstration protesting Bryant’s appearance in Tallahassee, his straight boy image is shattered when he is “outed” by a TV news reporter. In the months following, Andy discovers just what it means to be openly gay in a society that condemns love between two men and wonders if his friendship with Travis, a devout Christian who’s fighting his own sexual urges, can develop into something deeper.
Title: Illusions Series: N/A Author: S.A. Ozment Genre: Romantic Suspense Length: Novel (210 pages) Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (February 13th, 2015) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½ Hearts Blurb: Ever since arriving in Hollywood, Skylar Murphy has been loving life. He’s starring in a hit television show and on the verge of grabbing the lead role in the most anticipated movie of the decade.
Poised on the edge of superstardom, he doesn’t want or need any complications to distract him from that goal. Whether he’s sleeping with a woman or a man, his noncommittal, no-strings-attached love life suits him perfectly, and despite his rep for playing gay roles, the world still thinks he’s straight.
At the launch party for his new show, Skylar meets Aiden Moore, an openly gay firefighter by day and cater waiter to the stars by night. Skylar is immediately attracted to him, but Aiden rejects him. When an arsonist appears to have targeted Skylar, their paths keep crossing. Always up for a challenge, Skylar works to win Aiden over, and he agrees to a date. Soon enough they can’t stay away from each other.
Despite hiding their relationship away from the ever-present paparazzi, they’re happy together until a jilted fan joins forces with the arsonist to sabotage their future.
Review: Whew! What a book! I have to warn you, there is a bit of M/F action in this book. I was a bit turned off by it but it didn’t take away from the story. I feel a warning would have been nice.
The story was well written, the characters were well-developed, and this was a pretty action-packed, quick read. The suspense component of the book was pretty good but the love story was fantastic.
There was A LOT of crazy in this book! There were a couple of characters, with a 3rd possible one, that were just flat out mad. One of Skylar’s co-stars, Kelly, at times seemed to be a bit crazy. An argument can be made for Skylar’s manager – Nick – also, although he’s more obsessed with the money and fame Skylar can bring him.
Skylar had a messed up childhood and doesn’t really understand relationships. He truly hasn’t ever felt what it’s like to be loved so he has always just been a casual hook-up kind of guy. He’s a bit egotistical at times but deep down is a good guy that cares about the people around him (that aren’t crazy or jerks).
Aiden is an all-around great guy – hero (fireman) and a selfless friend and lover. At first, he doesn’t even want to get mixed up with the Hollywood star but when he finally caves in, he goes all in.
Ryan is absolutely fantastic! I love every part of him and wished he’d had a love interest or side story. The 2 firemen that were close to Aiden – Ben & Paul – were great additions to the story. Sophie was ok at times; she really shined in the end.
Definitely a story I would recommend and definitely and author to follow.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Illicit Activity Series: Bound, #3 Author: J. R. Gray Genre: BDSM Length: Novella (56 pages) Publisher: Evernight Publishing (December 5th, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts Blurb: The Christmas season is fast approaching. Jesse and George try to keep their connection alive with stolen late night dinners and secret meetings, which never seem to be enough.
Zac doesn’t take no for an answer, and has set his sights on George’s slave Elliot as his newest conquest. Determined to see Elliot and bring him some holiday spirit, Zac starts a battle of wits with George. But will George be able to outsmart Zac, and keep him away from Elliot, for long?
In this novella, we get a closer glimpse of the pain and agony George and Jesse were going through when Jesse’s wife was insisting on keeping them separated. The emotions were off the charts and so hard to read. It made me physically ache for them.
Kennedy’s pain from finally losing Jesse was bought more to life here too. She actually finds comfort and a good friend in Zac, Jesse’s brother and I really think he’s what helps her start healing.
We also got a closer look at Zac. He is awesome! He has absolutely no filter and pretty much says and does what he wants (which right now, and hopefully permanently, is Elliott). I absolutely love him and Elliott together – they balance each other well and maybe Zac will get Elliott back to life and get him to live a little more and once and for all protect him from his awful father.
All this book did is wet my appetite for book 4! I want it right now!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Horizontal Analysis Series: Sinful Temptation Author: E.M. Leya & Nicole Colville Genre: Contemporary Romance Length: Novel (346 pages) Publisher: E.L. Publishing (October 30th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts Blurb: When Zachary is sent to London to audit a very high profile company, the last thing he expected was to meet the man of his dreams on the flight there.
Killian’s life has been hell for the last few years, but meeting Zach is the breath of fresh air he needed, even if he is half his age. He didn’t expect things between the two of them to escalate as fast as they do.
One night of passion isn’t enough, but there is danger in pursuing more, especially when fate throws them a curveball they never expected, and with Killian’s ex ready for the attack, they could lose everything, still, with the chemistry between them, staying apart isn’t an option.
With an attraction like neither has experienced, they are willing to risk it all, fighting the world around them that wants to keep them apart. Challenged in ways the two couldn’t imagine possible, they must figure out how to hold on to something they know they might never find again.
Review: I am becoming an E.M. Leya fan but have never read any books by Nicole. I could definitely tell a difference in the writing in this book when compared to the other E.M. books I’ve read however, the writing is still good. I did feel that some important parts of the story were a bit glossed over but other times I felt the story was a bit long.
If you are not a fan of the insta-attraction, this is not the book for you. These 2 meet in an airplane and pretty much from the word go they are attracted to each other (and sexually). In the little bit of time they spend together on the plane – the flight is long but most of it is spent sleeping – they feel a connection…there is something they must pursue.
Zach is young and doesn’t have a lot of experience with men. He has been a pretty serious person through high school and college and didn’t make time for personal relationships. He is instantly taken by Killian’s sex appeal and charisma. Zach lacks self-confidence and has a hard time believing someone as established as Killian would take an interest in him.
Killian feels ‘pulled’ to Zach from the moment he sees him. He feels an instant connection he didn’t feel with his ex whom he spent 4 years with and just broke up with. This connection is too intriguing to pass up.
Almost immediately, they meet a pretty major stumbling block but decide to power through it and pursue a long-term relationship. In addition to this stumbling block, they live in different countries so they decide to make the most of the time Zach is in London deciding if they can take the relationship further once he goes back to the US.
There is quite a bit of angst throughout the book but their love seems to be strong. They encounter their last major issue with only about 20 pages left in the book and it’s a doozy.
Overall, the book kept me pretty interested from the get-go and there is a lot of emotion in it. I’m interested to see who book 2 is about…whether it’s existing characters or new characters we’ve yet to meet.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Out in Time Series: N/A Author: Grey Cole Genre: Contemporary/Sports Length: Novella (100 pages) Publisher: Grey Cole (January 1st, 2015) Heat Level: Low Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts Blurb:A closeted football star. An out and proud photographer. And a road trip.
Wade Truman had grown accustomed to admiring Heath Taylor from afar. Now, years of denying himself and the irresistible Heath are wreaking havoc on Wade’s resolve. The odds are stacked against them … they’re graduating college soon. Wade just signed a multimillion-dollar football deal—thrusting him even further into the spotlight. Not to mention, what would the gorgeously refined Heath want with a small town jock boy like himself anyway?
Heath grew up privileged, accepted, and out. And the two hells he swore he would never put himself through—crushing on a straight guy and being anyone’s dirty little secret—have presented themselves in one sweet talkin’, dream hauntin’ package.
One weekend with Wade, and Heath’s sure the devil himself has come a-knockin’.
Review: I really liked this book…a lot. It has the potential to lead to a phenomenal love story. I hope the author isn’t done!
Wade is just a great man. Even though he’s scored a big contract with an NFL team as the starting quarterback, he’s pretty humble and down to earth. He truly cares about his fellow man and is optimistic about the goodness in people. And while he does want to pave the way for removing prejudice from a ridiculously homophobic sport, he wants to establish himself so he stands a chance of making it in the league as a gay player before he comes out. And he is hoping that Heath is willing to take a chance with him.
Heath on the other hand has seen what bullying can do to someone and has become a bit pessimistic and cynical. He automatically sees the worst in people instead of giving them a fair chance. However, what he sees in Wade – how good a man he is – gives him hope and makes him want more. He’s not sure if he has a chance with Wade at all.
They are absolutely adorable together and cannot hide their attraction!
There is a bit of a ‘soap boxy’ message in the book about the double standards in professional sports although it’s pretty spot on in my opinion.
The writing was good and the character development was good. I’d love to ‘meet’ Wade’s granny in a future story (hint, hint). I would definitely check out more from this author.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Let It Be Series: Sometimes Never Author: Cheryl McIntyre Genre: Contemporary Length: Novella (134 pages) Publisher: Cheryl McIntyre (August 18th, 2014) Heat Level: Low Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts Blurb:I’m the happy one. The dependable one.
The shoulder. The anchor. The pillar. The rock. The matchmaker.
I’m the one you call when you’ve had a bad day. When you need to vent, or scream, or cry. I will always be there to comfort you. It’s a gift. A talent. A role I’ve happily played. I’ve helped my friends become who they were meant to be. I’ve watched them move away, find love, start their lives.
But what about me?
When does my life start? Where is my happily-ever-after?
Review: Get out the box of tissues! I must say I was a bit disappointed that Guy’s story was so short and I really feel like we should get to what happens next but after reading the author’s response to why she only wrote a novella, I get it. Although the writing is so, so good – just as good as the other stories – I could only give it 4 hearts because of the length.
There are two really heavy issues she deals with in this book – severe depression and hiding homosexuality.
Guy is probably my favorite character in the series (next to his best friend Chase). That he was dealing with such a heavy situation while being there for all his friends makes him more amazing to me. He is such a great person with such a big heart that all I want to do all the time is hug him. I’m so glad we got this glimpse of his life before the series was over.
“I think you stole a piece of my heart within those first few seconds. You took it and you never gave it back. “But that’s okay. I don’t want it back. It’s yours to keep, and there’s so much more waiting here for you when you wake up.” – Guy
I don’t remember meeting Ian in the other books. I loved the ‘flashbacks’ to their time together. Ian is such a good man and perfect for Guy. Their love has the potential to be a great romance for a great lifetime.
I wasn’t looking for this. For him. I was just going about my life and one day, I stumbled upon this man—tall, blonde, beautiful, with eyes like an ocean and a voice that sends shivers down my spine. I tripped over it—all of it, and fell right onto my ass at his feet. Completely in love. – Ian
Even though there are such heavy issues to deal with in this book and you will need tissues, we do get our happy ending. It, of course, leaves you wanting more but it was a great ending to a really great series.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Off Campus Series: Bend or Break Author: Amy Jo Cousins Genre: New Adult Romance Length: Novel (317 pages) Publisher: Samhain Publishing (December 30th, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts Blurb: Everyone’s got secrets. Some are just harder to hide.
With his father’s Ponzi scheme assets frozen, Tom Worthington believes finishing college is impossible unless he can pay his own way. After months sleeping in his car and gypsy cabbing for cash, he’s ready to do just that.
But his new, older-student housing comes with an unapologetically gay roommate. Tom doesn’t ask why Reese Anders has been separated from the rest of the student population. He’s just happy to be sleeping in a bed.
Reese isn’t about to share his brutal story with his gruff new roommate. You’ve seen one homophobic jock, you’ve seen ’em all. He plans to drag every twink on campus into his bed until Tom moves out. But soon it becomes clear Tom isn’t budging.
Tom isn’t going to let some late-night sex noise scare him off, especially when it’s turning him on. But he doesn’t want any drama either. He’ll keep his hands, if not his eyes, to himself. Boundaries have a way of blurring when you start sharing truths, though. And if Tom and Reese cross too many lines, they may need to find out just how far they can bend…before they break.
Warning: This book contains cranky roommates who vacillate between lashing out and licking, some male/male voyeurism, emotional baggage that neither guy wants to unpack, and the definitive proof that sound carries in college housing.
ISBN: 9781619223936 Product Link: https://www.samhainpublishing.com/book/5287/off-campus Reviewer: Tina Review: This is a really complex and, at times, a slow and long book. It is an extremely intelligent book – the writing was just smart. I liked it a lot…it just seemed a little bit too slow and too long at times. There were several issues conquered in this story – the fears of coming out in college, the brutality and effects of the selfishness of a parent, bullying, sexual assault, the normal fears and issues with becoming an adult. Which for these two, meant completely losing and rebuilding themselves.
Both the main characters have major issues to work through. Tom is a mess. He’s really lived both extremes – wealth and poverty – and he’s learned from both of them. With the fallout from his father’s mess, he’s discovered that he really wasn’t a great person and he didn’t have any real friends (he later finds out he did have one. He feels completely isolated and alone and basically shuts himself off from the world.
He basically became agoraphobic trying to stay away from the press of his father. He does what he has to for survival – which means living out of his car at one point. He’s lost all confidence in himself and is a shell of what he used to be. When he finally does what he needs to go back to school, he pretty much wants to stay off the radar and get done.
Then he meets Reese.
Reese has a whole other set of issues he’s dealing with. (Not going include the spoiler) His defense mechanisms make Tom crazy – in a couple of different ways. He is also closed off but hides it better. Tom sees through his charade pretty quickly and the two forge a relationship – albeit not one of total trust and honesty. Reese is really more forgiving and giving in their relationship and really becomes a crutch for Tom.
The story is told from Tom’s POV so his issues seem to overshadow Reese’s.
While I liked both of these characters, Cash was my favorite. He is the honest, somewhat obnoxious, best friend of Tom that you cannot help but LOVE! He absolutely made the book for me and I cannot wait to read his story.
Book 2 is about a character that is hated in this book so I’m anxious to see how that plays out.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Pushed Series: N/A Author: E.M. Leya Genre: Contemporary Length: Novel (149 pages) Publisher: E.L. Publishing (September 16th, 2014) Heat Level: Low Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts Blurb: Tyler really needs the advertised nursing job after the recent break-up left him with nothing more than a bag of clothes and his car. To his surprise, the child he thought he would be caring for turns out to be a fully-grown, angry, young man who appears to be busy feeling sorry for himself.
Jason is more than fed up at his mother’s attempts to coddle him while he is fighting his own demons. When the new nurse appears, he tries to send him packing straight away. He doesn’t need or want anyone’s help.
The two strike a deal to help them with their situation, working together to try to piece back their broken lives and find a way to move forward.
Overcoming their differences and finding common ground isn’t easy at first, but Tyler is convinced he can prove to Jason that there is so much more to look forward to. A little trust and honesty can go a long way into helping both of them heal and show that sometimes it takes just a gentle push to make big things happen.
Review: Novellas are typically not my favorite type of read because I’m usually left wanting more. That’s not the case with this book. Ms. Leya did a great job of writing a complete story in a short package.
Jason is struggling with life. He is suffering from PTSD, not only from being in the military but losing the love of his life and his life altering accident. He hasn’t completely given up the will to live but he is depressed. His fear of failure is stopping him from doing much of anything.
Enter Tyler. He is also struggling with life and this job is his last-ditch effort to try to get his life back on track. He’s a bit depressed after a failed relationship. He’s never lived outside California and the Texas town is quite a change for him. His tough love approach to Jason’s recovery is exactly what Jason needs to kick-start him into action.
Their chemistry is slow to build and they keep their attraction for each other hidden afraid to ruin their new nurse/patient relationship. The slow build makes their coupling even sweeter and as they get to know each other, their love appears to be genuine.
The writing was good as always with Ms. Leya. The secondary characters appear very briefly but are good just the same. Overall, another great E.M. story!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Paint the Sky Series: N/A Author: Lily G. Blunt Genre: Contemporary Length: Novel (279 pages) Publisher: Lily G. Blunt (August 30th, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts Reviewer: Tina Blurb: A love of art…
A mutual interest in art draws two shy university students together. Ben admires Vinnie’s painting of the university building, so Vinnie invites him to an exhibition of his artwork. From a wealthy family, Ben purchases some of Vinnie’s art and arranges for the artist to personally hang the paintings in his apartment.
Starry, starry night…
Ben commissions Vinnie to paint his portrait, in order to spend more time with the artist. On the night of the sitting, Vinnie fingerpaints the starry night on Ben’s chest… and they kiss. They begin a relationship beneath the night sky, God’s own canvas.
But every relationship has its ups and downs and so it is with theirs. When Ben thinks Vinnie spends too much time with a fellow artist, his jealousy drives a wedge between them and forces Vinnie into the very thing Ben dreads.
Hold tight to your dreams…
Ben and Vinnie will have to walk through fire before they can find one another again. But if they believe, and if they keep their faith in the night sky and each other, just maybe they can make their dreams of love come true.
Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/Paint-Sky-Lily-G-Blunt-ebook/dp/B00MSYA1JQ Review: So, let’s get the basics out of the way…LOVE the cover – so hot! The writing was pretty good…I love English books – their spelling and slang is different from ours and I love it. It seems like this could be the start to a series…I’d love to see books about Vinnie’s brothers – Theo and Finn.
When we first meet Ben, he seems a bit snobbish and shallow. He’s also a bit of a man whore…only partaking in quickies in the back room of the club he frequents. When he finally finds the courage to introduce himself to Vinnie and gets to know him, he starts to get a good figurative look in the mirror. Vinnie has had to work hard for the little he does have and is not interested in being another notch in Ben’s bedpost.
Ben realizes that if he wants anything to do with Vinnie, he’s going to have to make a change or two. While in their relationship with Vinnie, he really is a sweet, affectionate guy. He also gets along well with both of Vinnie’s brothers. He matures quite a bit during their time together and truly becomes a great man. He suffered a bit of a tragedy as a child that Vinnie helps him through.
Vinnie is a bit shy and reserved. He lacks self-confidence in his work and even while in a relationship with Ben is easily manipulated by someone else (not going to say more here as I don’t want to add a spoiler). As he becomes more successful and gains more confidence, he really becomes a great man too. By the end, the two of them together are the perfect pair.
The secondary characters are really great – I’d love to see a couple of follow up books about Vinnie’s brothers – Theo and Finn. There was a pretty good setup for their stories in this book.
The angst in this book was so heart breaking. It brought tears to my eyes several times. I just wanted to hug each of the boys. Theo and Finn were really great to Ben during the time of trouble.
One of my complaints about the book is that we didn’t get to see Vinnie’s reaction to Ben’s tattoo. I think that could have been a magical moment.
Overall, I really liked the book and I cannot wait to read more books by Ms. Blunt.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: The Boss Series: N/A Author: E.M. Leya Genre: Contemporary/Interracial Length: Novel (190 pages) Publisher: E.L. Publishing (July 31st, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts Blurb: Stephen has lived in the shadow of his powerful father for years, learning how to succeed in the world by watching him, problem is, power and money can change a person, and not always for the good.
Martin has suffered working with Stephen for years, standing by as he chased off one employee after another with his temper. He hates his boss and wishes someone would give the spoiled rich kid the spanking he deserves.
When the two face off, things get heated, but finding a solution might be easier than either thought. They come to an agreement to help keep Stephen’s temper under control and stop him from following his father’s example.
Trouble is, what starts out as simple office discipline soon isn’t enough, and with forces working against them, the two will have to try hard to overcome everything and everyone that is trying to keep them apart.
Review: I absolutely love Emma’s writing! I really liked this book although the beginning almost made me stop reading.
When Martin challenged Stephen and called him out for being a terrible boss and horrible person to his employees, I cheered him on…however, the spanking punishment was a bit of a stretch for me. It was a bit unbelievable that an employee who hated his boss so much would initiate such a sexual act. I understand it was the start of their sexual relationship and the foundation to the story but it was a little too much.
That being said, I did really like the rest of the story. Martin was lead a simple life…content to work hard to get what he wanted. He was a bit reclusive and closed off. Stephen was raised by money and social status. He was uptight and self-doubting, always trying to live up to his dad’s unrealistic expectations. He found security in the money he made but really wanted independence from his father. Martin and Stephen really balanced each other well. Once they were able to see past the masks in place and move from the superficial start, they became a beautiful couple.
Stephen’s dad was an insufferable, bigoted homophobe. He stressed the importance of social status and wealth over family and molded Stephen to follow in his footsteps. His role in the book leads to most of the angst and a surprisingly heartbreaking twist near the end.
The few secondary characters in the book worked really well. Overall, a pretty good, typical book for Ms. Leya.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Hi guys, we have Lissa Kasey and Sam Kadence stopping by with three of their books, Hidden Gem, On the Right Track and Unicorns and Rainbow Poop. We have excerpts from each book, a short interview and a fantastic giveaway. There are also reviews from myself and Tina so enjoy the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~
Hidden Gem
by
Lissa Kasey
Misaki “Aki” Itou is a psi—a person with mutated DNA granting him psychic abilities. He’s also a contracted companion—a whore. It may not be the perfect profession, but having a roof over his head, food to eat, and not being subjected to torture is a dream come true. He is the top companion at the Hidden Gem, and it makes him enough money to buy the prettiest, most sparkly shoes he can find.
Shane McNaughton is an Irishman who survived the Third World War and works as a cop. Head of Missing Persons, he’s good at finding people, but after the plague of the Third mutated his DNA, he has a hard time letting anyone see the monster inside. He’s been paying for Aki’s services for two years, both the psi and the sexual kind, but he wants more from the companion.
Shane needs Aki’s ability to see into another person’s past to track down a serial killer murdering the children of rich and powerful men, but the more they work together, the clearer it becomes that they are linked through a darker past than either of them realizes.
Ryunoski “Ru” Nakimura knows all about the trappings of fame. Expelled from a boy band for coming out as gay, he still wants to continue his career in music. Too bad his ex finds nothing better to do than exploit their relationship in the press, so Ru leaves California behind to lie low in Minnesota for a while.
Adam Corbin attends a Minnesota high school and wants to coast through as a typical student. He’s friends with an openly gay student, Bas Axelrod, but while Adam plays football, he also stays away from much socializing. Blending in and not outing himself has been easy because he’s never really been seriously interested in any of the guys he’s encountered.
When Adam meets Ru in a library, Adam begins to think he’s found that special young man who might make it worthwhile to just be himself. And for Ru, Adam looks like someone he might trade his fame for, if they could be together. Ru and Adam will both come to realize that courage and love must go hand in hand if they are to have a future.
Ex-boyband member Dane Karlson is struggling to overcome an eating disorder and a body dismorphic disorder. His fall through a glass table puts him in rehab and on the road to recovery. Then a friend dies. When depression causes him to lose ground, he calls for the only person he trusts—former bandmate Tommy. But Tommy doesn’t know how to help. He begs his friend Sebastian “Bas” Axelrod to aid them through the emotional struggle.
Bas, an openly gay high school student who’s recently lost his grandmother, is trying to survive his last few months of school before escaping to Stanford. Having just lost the only person in his family to care for him, he is victim to the cruelty of the others. His younger brother bullies him, and his parents are suing him for his gran’s inheritance. When Tommy calls, Bas can’t help but run to his side.
Together Dane and Bas find a middle ground, supporting each other through the lows, dancing together during the highs. They build friendships and plan for the prom and graduation, thinking positively as long as they are together.
Title: Obsession Author: Steve Genis Genre: Erotica Length: Novel (256 pages) Publisher: Steve Genis (May 21st, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3 Hearts Reviewer: Tina Blurb: Rick Santini is an 18-year-old Year 11 student at a local High School in Melbourne, Australia. Struggling with the demands of his over controlling father, and trying to keep a low profile at school, Rick hides a secret, that will tear his family apart.
Rick has a High School crush, but there’s just one problem, his crush is on his French PE teacher. His PE teacher happens to be married to Rick’s English teacher who is also the school principal.
Unaware of Rick’s obsession, his mother and father pressure Rick to succeed and do well in school during his VCE and urge him to improve his grades.
At school, Rick’s classmates start to get suspicious about his behaviour around their teacher.
After living in London, England for a year with his parents, Rick has a blast from the past that comes back to haunt him and he becomes so obsessed with his teacher that his urges begin to take control.
Rick starts to distance himself from his friends and family and he starts lying to them to cover his obsession.
In a surprising twist, Rick’s life is changed forever.
Will Rick do the unthinkable to get what he wants?
Obsession is told through the eyes of an 18-year-old High School student.
Review: I’m having a hard time rating this book – I typically like an HEA even if I have to go through some pain and angst to get there. This book is very dark and I suppose it could possibly be considered a pseudo happy ending although I didn’t really like the ending.
After reading the synopsis of book 2, that seems like the more logical place to start this series.
Mr. Genis’ writing and story-telling ability are very good. I would guess this was a hard story to tell and he did a good job of telling it.
Rick is obsessed with his PE teacher, Jacques Devereaux – like scary obsessed. He believes himself to be in love with him and fantasizes about them being together. He is angry jealous of Jacques wife which makes his obsession even scarier. Finding out that Rick’s previous relationship is with an older man – 37 to his 18, it seems that Rick has daddy issues that manifest into what he thinks is love because he feels he never had his father’s love.
What I didn’t like about this story was the sudden switch of Jacques from turning down Rick’s advances to suddenly agreeing to have sex with him to being in love. I don’t know if it was because we only saw him through Rick’s eyes and never really got inside his head but it was too quick a turnaround for my liking.
There is a story within the story revolving around Rick and his one-night stand from London, Jared (whom is featured in book 2). This sub-plot is almost as scary, as the story between Jacques and Rick. As you read it, you understand that it is the highest of ironies but it was unsettling at best.
Title: Breach of Contract Series: Bound, #2 Author: J.R. Gray Genre: Erotica/BDSM Length: Novel (274 pages) Publisher: Evernight Publishing (November 6th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts Blurb: With the legal trouble behind them, Daniel Caplin and Rafael Argon are ready to settle into a low-key D/s relationship, but life is unrelenting, when blackmail shatters their illusion of happily ever after. Pictures from one of the Rafael’s public scenes instill fear into his new submissive, Daniel, acting as a wedge driving the new couple apart.
The building peril in George’s community weighs heavy on his shoulders as he struggles to find the culprit—all while hiding his feelings for his new house guest. Jesse is torn between ending his marriage, picking up a rebound he should have left fifteen years in the past, and the dangling carrot of a possible relationship with a man. He is forced to fight for what he wants most, a leap he may be too chicken to take.
In the sequel to Legally Bound, George battles to take down an unknown enemy, while watching helplessly as those he cares for are broken beyond repair. Can Rafael and Daniel rebuild their trust after it’s broken with lies? Can George hold it together as Jesse is ripped from his life?
Be Warned: BDSM, m/m sex, paddling, caning, cock cages, public exhibition
Product Link: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/breach-of-contract-by-j-r-gray/ Reviewer: Tina Review: In the first book, I really didn’t like George until the very end. In this book, you get a much deeper dive into all things George. And I will say my mind has totally been changed and I am now a George fan. He and Jesse together are perfect. Jesse is the only person in these books that has been honest and has ‘stood up to him’. George loves that Jesse treats him as an equal. George really opens up to Jesse in this book and becomes vulnerable which makes him more human. Their love story has the potential to be life altering.
Elliott (one of George’s slaves) plays a bigger role in this book and there was a bit of foreshadowing for the future of this series I’m hoping.
I still love Daniel and Jesse’s banter…
(Jesse to Daniel) “Sounds like gibberish to me, please explain in my native tongue, not freaky speak.”
(Daniel) “What does asking nicely involve?” He shot Jesse a look. In his wildest imagination, he couldn’t imagine how the two of them were friends, or what the daunting king of the underground was like in private. (Jesse) “I’m guessing me on my knees begging, but let’s be honest, I’m not above it. I’ve done worse for a bendy straw.”
These 2 really make this series for me. I still don’t really like Rafael. I thought maybe that would change once he and Daniel were free of the mess from book 1 but I still don’t. He doesn’t seem to be great guy and I think Daniel deserves someone who treats him better.
There was more of the S&M of BDSM in this book which I don’t care for but I was able to gloss over that and still keep up with the story ok. It was pretty critical to the story toward the end of the book so it’s hard to begrudge it.
And of course, the ending leaves me not so patiently waiting for book 3, which has the potential to be the best of the series.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Title: Unicorns and Rainbow Poop Series: Vocal Growth Author: Sam Kadence Genre: Young Adult Length: Novel (260 pages) Publisher: Harmony Ink Press, Dreamspinner Press (November 6th, 2014) Heat Level: Low Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3 Hearts Blurb: Ex-boyband member Dane Karlson is struggling to overcome an eating disorder and a body dismorphic disorder. His fall through a glass table puts him in rehab and on the road to recovery. Then a friend dies. When depression causes him to lose ground, he calls for the only person he trusts—former bandmate Tommy. But Tommy doesn’t know how to help. He begs his friend Sebastian “Bas” Axelrod to aid them through the emotional struggle.
Bas, an openly gay high school student who’s recently lost his grandmother, is trying to survive his last few months of school before escaping to Stanford. Having just lost the only person in his family to care for him, he is victim to the cruelty of the others. His younger brother bullies him, and his parents are suing him for his gran’s inheritance. When Tommy calls, Bas can’t help but run to his side.
Together Dane and Bas find a middle ground, supporting each other through the lows, dancing together during the highs. They build friendships and plan for the prom and graduation, thinking positively as long as they are together.
Review:Disclaimer: I have not yet read book 1 in this series (but I will be going back to read it).
WOW! I have to be honest that I wasn’t sure if I would like this book based on the title…but this is an absolute must read!! When you read the story, the title will make perfect sense and bring a smile to your face.
Let me get the basics out of the way first – the writing in this book is really good. I am a Nazi when it comes to grammatical and spelling errors and I found none in this book. I have never had a personal experience with eating disorders so I cannot speak to any of the technicalities about it. My review is based solely on the entertainment value of the book.
This story touched me on several different levels…as a mom, as a friend of gay couples that has suffered bullying for their sexual orientation and as a human being that believes all people should be treated equally.
Dane suffered at hands of his parents for most of his life, being subjected to physical, sexual, verbal and emotional abuse. Even though he has lived through all this abuse and had to grow up pretty quickly because of his fame, he has an innocence and childlike essence that just makes you want to hug him. He has no filter and says whatever comes to his mind regardless of the consequences.
Thankfully he has surrounded himself with friends that can support and care for him and who can help him learn how to be comfortable in social situations. I personally love his lack of filter as I lack one myself. Regrettably, those around him are easily hurt and don’t always understand his comments as ignorance instead of malice.
I don’t want to give too much away, but I absolutely love the way Bas, Adam and Ru help him heal from not only his eating disorder, but the effects of 12 years of abuse. These guys are truly great friends to him.
Bas is just as broken as Dane. His only advocate has been his grandmother whom he just lost. His family is absolutely horrible. He has been bullied and abused. He hides behind his snarky comments and flamboyant behavior. Fortunately for him, Dane sees through that protective layer to the man Bas really is and loves him for it. The 2 of them balance each other and make a great pair – even if they were to remain just friends, forever.
I’m hopeful Bas and Dane are able to follow through with the life plans that Bas has as I think that would be an inspiration for all the troubled teens they come in contact with.
Adam and Ru obviously have a history that is told in book 1 but it is not necessary to read that book before reading this book. As I stated, after falling in love with this book I will be going back to book 1 because I do think that information would help understand some of their quirks in this book.
Tommy is one of Ru and Dane’s ex-band members and plays a pretty big role in this book. He is a good friend to all these guys and wants to help all of them. Unfortunately, he is just as lost as Dane and Bas are but his unraveling takes place over the entire story and leaves us not so patiently waiting for book 3 for his story.
Another 2 characters that I’m hoping we’ll see more of are Paige and Marissa. I can’t say too much about either of them without giving too much away but they both play integral parts of the story that I would like to see more of in future books.
This book is very touching and will stay with you for a long time. It is definitely one you must read.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Hey guys we have Jude Dunn popping in today with his newest release One Thing Leads, we have a great excerpt and Tina’s review. Jude also brought along a fantastic giveaway so enjoy the post and then click that Rafflecopter Link <3 ~Pixie~
One Thing Leads
by
Jude Dunn
What makes a young man go further than he ever thought he would?
Dion Bellamy is twenty-seven and studying social work at the University of Chicago. He has lived with Kenji Okamura, a construction worker, for a year and a half. Dion loves Kenji and passionately hopes Kenji feels the same, but he has never said the three big words. Then Grayson Sinclair, Dion’s schoolmate and a vivacious, oversexed playboy, comes between them.
One step at a time, barely aware where his steps are leading, Dion descends the slippery slope into a life of depravity. First, Grayson ensures Kenji is out of the way. Then he entices Dion to go clubbing with him, gets Dion drunk and high, and then takes him to a sex club, where he films Dion giving blow jobs to multiple men. He threatens to put the video online unless Dion signs a contract to work as a prostitute. Though he hardly understands how he reached this point, Dion must now figure out how to escape his fate and save himself.
Title: Illusions
Title: Illicit Activity
Title: Horizontal Analysis
Title: Out in Time
Title: Let It Be
Title: Off Campus
