Series: All stories previously published in the Sip short story line.
Author: B.A. Tortuga
Genre: Anthology/Western/Cowboys
Length: Novella (81 pages)
ISBN: 978-1-61040-744-1
Publisher: Torquere Press (April 16th, 2014)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Reviewer: Cat
Blurb: BA Tortuga’s Roughstock world comes to life in this collection of short stories. Featuring Beau and Sam from the novel File Gumbo and Coke and Dillon from And a Smile, these tales range from a long-ago first time to a bullfighter’s retreat, providing an intriguing glimpse into a bullrider’s daily life, as well as how the hard-working cowboy protection team blows off steam. Stories include Starting the Roux, Cowboy Christmas, Just Another Day at the Office, The New Guy and the Retreat and Too Careful by Half. All stories previously published in the Sip short story line
Review: This is a good collection of short sips. I really liked this collection and the title is fitting. The stories are written in a befitting style for the subject. Rough stock rodeo riders. Each story is very short. Very concise and pretty erotic.
I liked that the characters were not pretty boy cowboys. I loved Sam’s description of Beau. He has short legs, a barrel chest, crooked teeth and a hot butt (he didn’t say but in the book.) As a matter of fact the language is pretty rough too, but fitting for the characters. I liked that Beau is Cajun as were some of the other characters and his slang was used a lot. The nicknames Sam and Beau used made me chuckle… I also liked that some of the stories were about rodeo clowns and not just the riders.
I would have liked a bit more information though as to who all these men were and how they were connected. In the first story, several names were mentioned then the other stories featured some of these men.
I think this is a good book if you’re looking for something short to read. Each story can be read in a few minutes. I like having stories like this around for times I need something quick for the treadmill, filling time between appointments etc.
If you are looking for a book with short stories, hot cowboys, sexy Cajuns, rodeo clowns, bull riders, and you like rough language, and hot mansex this is for you!
Title: In Sickness and In Health Series: A Jarhead Story Author: Sean Michael Genre: Erotic Romance/Contemporary Length: Novella (80 Pages) ISBN: 978-1-61040-747-2 Publisher: Torquere Books (April 29th, 2014) Heat Level: Explicit Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts Reviewer: Lisa Blurb: The Jarheads back in a new adventure–a journey through sickness and health with Rock, Rig, and Dick, who stand by their man, come what may, no matter what they come down with. Colds and flu are no match for the Jarheads, who know that cold medicine’s great in its place, but the one sure cure for what ails them is good old sexual healing
Review:This is one of the Jarhead stories and they should be read in order. It would be easier to figure out who everyone is. It is a delightful story with lots of sex. It involves three very hot and sexy men.
Dick and Rock are two very hot marines and Rig is one sexy doctor. You can tell with the first paragraph exactly what type of story this is. Majorly hot is just one word for it.
Rig comes home to find his two hot and sexy men sick with the flu. After working hard at the hospital with sick patients, he comes home to take care of his very sexy men. He is really good at taking care of them, but what happens when the doc himself gets sick. As most of you know doc’s make the worst patients. This book shows how three men love one another and take care of each other. They show that they would do anything to keep each other safe and happy.
It is a pretty good book and I love the humorous parts to it. However, there wasn’t really much of a story line other than the fact that they stand by each other when they get sick. It shows how three men can make a true relationship work. It also has its kinky factor that always makes for an interesting twist.
Title: The Bigger They Come Series: Herc’s Merc’s, Book 1 Author: Ari McKay Genre: Suspense/Contemporary/ Drama Length: Novella (130 Pages) ISBN: 978-1-61040-675-8 Publisher: Torquere Press (April 2nd, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts Reviewer: Lisa
Blurb: Cade “Hercules” Thornton is an ex-Marine and soldier of fortune; now he’s the owner of Hercules Security, which provides the best bodyguards in the business. After his leg was crushed and reconstructed, Cade doesn’t do fieldwork anymore – until a challenge is issued to him by wealthy Kate Morgan, who wants her “bookish” grandson protected from a stalker. She insists on having the very best bodyguard available, and that is Cade himself.
But there is nothing laid back or bookish about Dr. Jude Morgan. Having lived under the thumb of his grandmother his entire life, Jude is insistent that he doesn’t need a babysitter. Sparks fly when Cade tries to insinuate himself into Jude’s life, and Cade knocks Jude on his ass – literally.
Yet the danger to Jude is real, and Cade is the only thing standing between him and an increasingly more terrifying stalker. Cade’s protective feelings for his client become something more, while Jude begins to realize that his brawny, neo-Viking protector is a man unlike anyone he’s ever known. Yet as Cade and Jude grow closer, so does the danger.
Cade will stop at nothing to protect Jude, but Jude’s stalker is determined to get his man – even if he has to kill Cade Thornton to do it.
Review: I am amazed by the gifts that many people have to tell you a story. Ari is one of those gifted authors. She gives you an amazing story with incredible characters that you can believe in. This story was amazing. I love the fact that a man gave everything to his country and was still willing to give his life to protect someone he loves. Although when he took the job, it sure wasn’t because of love. Cade was an ex-marine and mercenary till he saved a fellow marine from getting hit by a car, but got himself injured. His leg had been crushed and reconstructed so now he he’s the owner of Hercules Security, which provides the best bodyguards in the business.
Cade doesn’t do fieldwork anymore – until a challenge is issued to him by wealthy Kate Morgan, who wants her “bookish” grandson protected from a stalker. She insists on having the very best bodyguard available, and that is Cade himself. He was expecting this nerdy looking geek but what he got took his breath away. Although his first contact with Jude did not go so well. He had punched the man in the face when Jude made the mistake of calling him a coward. Once Jude apologized, he realized that everything that was happening was in fact dangerous. Jude’s ex-boyfriend was a psycho and dangerous, Jude was a pain in the ass, and Cade was falling for him.
Jude had always felt that everyone in his life was trying to control him and to suffocate him. He wanted to do everything on his own, but when he made the mistake of calling Cade a coward, was when he felt like he was at the lowest point in life. He was terrified of what was happening, terrified of the man standing in front of him would be hurt because of him. He knew that Cade would give his life to protect him and that might just be the worst feeling ever. However what he felt for Cade that was growing stronger each day made him jump for joy and cheer. Now all they had to do was get past the dangers and past the manipulating grandmother. She proves to be even more manipulative than once expected.
This is one amazing book and I definitely can’t wait to get my hands on the next one in this series. It should prove to be one heck of a great fine for my library. If you love hot and sexy men, tender moments, spicy conflict, military men, mercenaries, bodyguards and a bit of danger than this is a book that you will want to read. It caught my attention from the first sentence and kept it all the way to the end. This book will give you what you are looking for I can guarantee it. You will love it just like I do.
Title: Cat in the China Shop Series: N/A Author: BA Tortuga Genre: Contemporary/ Paranormal/ Shapeshifter Length: Short Story (47 Pages) ISBN: 978-1-61040-743-4 Publisher: Torquere Press (April 15, 2014) Heat Level: Moderate Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts Reviewer: Lisa
Blurb: Were-cougar Brock wants a special gift for his folks for their anniversary, mainly to cover up his lack of enthusiasm for going back to his small hometown. When he decides on replicating his mom’s old china pattern, the last person he expects to find at the design company is his old flame, Clay.
Clay has changed everything, from his hair color, to the way he eats to escape his past.
Can Brock convince him that it’s better to be himself, and for them to be together? Purchase Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=4166 Review: This was a cute little story, but I wished it were longer. Although it did give you the point that you needed. Bigotry is all around us not just as humans but as were’s.
Brock was a were-cougar and at one time had been in love with Clay who was a more feline even in his human side. He was considered a freak of nature as you would call it. What Brock had not known was the reason Clay and his family had left the pride.
His parent’s anniversary was coming up and he had wanted to get them something special for it. He had decided to replicate his mother’s china pattern dishes that had been lost in a tornado. What he had not expected was Jean-Claude the man who owned the china shop was in fact Clay. Clay had changed everything including his eyes to escape his past. He had not even shifted in over fifteen years. Now because Brock was back, he wanted to let his cat out. He wanted to eat meat, run in his cat form, and be with the man he had always loved. He however was terrified that to do so would cause him to lose everything again. Brock just had to get him to trust in their love, to trust that he would never let him down again.
I really wished that this story was longer but even in its short form, it was amazing. I would recommend reading this story especially if you love the paranormal worlds, shapes-shifting cats, two hot and sexy men and a heartbreaking story. A heartbreaking story that is over come with love. I can’t wait to check out the rest of BA Tortuga’s stories
Title: All Will Be Revealed Author: U Z. Eliserio Genre: Science Fiction / Conspiracy Length: Novel (165 pages) ISBN: 9781610406659 Publisher: Torquere Press, Inc (March 12th, 2014) Heat Level: Low Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2.5~3 Hearts Reviewer: Thommie Blurb: Danton de Mesa lives a quiet life producing videos of the Equine Show with his boss, Mr. Cretar, for people to watch on the Cloud. But Corporation Agent Rashiva Panashi enters his life and turns it upside down.
With the Equine Show shut down, Danton goes to work for the Corporation, which is a daily dose of backstabbing, espionage, counter-terrorism, and really small cubicles. But when Mr. Cretar’s brother is assassinated, Danton’s old boss becomes the new Prince of Keramus. To make things even more complicated, Danton starts dating Rashiva, who, when he is not wearing his intergalactic man of mystery mask, turns out to be a pretty fun guy.
Tensions are high between the Keramus Kingdom and the Corporation, and humanity might get involved in another war with their more powerful neighbors. Rashiva is accused to assassinating Mr. Cretar’s brother. Worse yet, one of the men investigating the murder of the monarch happens to be Danton’s ex!
With an intergalactic war on the horizon, Danton has to choose between, peace, safety, loyalty, and the person who might just be the love of his life. Purchase Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=97&products_id=4148 Review: This is a weird surrealistic work of fiction where time is not defined, worlds exist without much information and the basic structure of them is somewhat vague. The story starts on an asteroid, property of the Cooperation and bound to its funds. Mr. Cretar and Danton, the owner and employer of the Show await final judgment and Rashiva comes to deliver the bad news. The Show is off, and a new era begins. Keramusians, humans and a whole lot of other creatures including robots are this universe’s inhabitants. Keramusians are depicted as the creators of the humans, some kind of Gods yet the war between creator and creature that raged for years was finally over twenty years ago. The Prince of Keramusians and the Prime Minister of Earth are pro peace, a peace fragile that is shattered the moment the Prince is killed…
A conspiracy theory plot with so many elements in a sci-fi fiction work with a lot of world’s details can make it awfully difficult for you to sit back and enjoy while comprehending. The fact that time slips by without being defined makes this reading a hardship though it never stops gripping you in its web. The romantic relationship that dominates the story is yet another element that makes your head spin. It escalates quickly and without enough roots or ground to be based upon, yet it comes almost as a predefined thing, as if destiny made it be so. The couple has no real ties to keep them together in loyalty yet that’s exactly where they remain.
Sometimes nothing ever makes sense and others there is a world of sophistication going on behind this weird relationship. No, there are no intimate scenes to strengthen the bond, it all comes from a self-sufficient source, and the love between this couple becomes stronger and stronger without reason or evidence, even as the relationship itself is drenched in lies and conspiracy. But the point that love will prevail insists upon existing and in the end, it does exactly that. Realistic? Hardly. Everything is beyond that. This world, this setting, this whole story is all fiction based upon some noble ideas that give it a hint of tangible, but ultimately it remains out of reach.
There is a controlled chaos that characterizes the writing style here. It’s not all dumped into you, it’s not a mere throw out of info and ideas. But the read surely isn’t what we call approachable. In the end, I must answer one question; did I like it?
Yes and no. The fact that I felt lost most of the time was not enjoyable. The time frame not being defined was a burden. I loved the conspiracy plot and how it went, though even that didn’t have a proper closure. I loved the creatures here a lot. They were something I’d like to read more about. But overall, everything needed a bit more for me, especially the relationship part, that needed a proper birth and blooming period, which it lacked. The end itself was frustrating as hell; was it a cliffhanger? I don’t know, I didn’t get the feeling a sequel is to come and shed a bit light to the many questions left behind.
So bottom end, it was a good read, but not good enough.
Blurb: From the farms of Tennessee, Beau Watkins had it all in high school; the cute girl, the popular, jock lifestyle, a loving family. As a rising freshman at an out-of-state college, he’s determined to find out who he really is behind the fake it ’til you make it attitude. He joins Rainbow Connection, the gay student alliance, hoping to find himself. Instead, he finds Vin Reyes. Raised by his grandparents and the heir to a prosperous company, Vin has been out of the closet since he figured out what that meant. He has it all: fashionable clothing, fancy cars, huge houses, and a real party lifestyle, even a bodyguard. Most of all, he has a secret.
Uncomfortable with Vin’s generosity, Beau fights his growing attraction for the president of Rainbow Connection, chasing instead a series of shallow affairs. Vin’s never been denied anything that he wants, though, and now he wants Beau. But it’s not until an old rival puts Beau in the hospital that Vin realizes that Beau means more to him than a simple love affair. Can the two of them bridge the gap between their worlds and roll with the all the punches life will throw at them?
Review: Isn’t this cover great? I really enjoyed this story. It had been highly recommended to me by a friend so of course I jumped right in. The story is about a young man Beau, from rural Tennessee going off to college and coming out. He joins a group called Rainbow connection, meets Vin the president, and makes plenty of friends in the group. The group is fabulous collection of colourful fun characters, both female and male. I loved Shan. I really liked the fun names in this story if you want to see Beaus full name and Vin’s, grab the book. Vin’s is so much fun.
Ok, now for the story. I loved it. There is lots of action and emotion. I will say I felt it was a bit jumpy and at times I got a bit lost but it was simple to find and I as I got into the story and used to the style it didn’t bother me so much. I can’t wait to see what’s next… it did end with a happy for now but the tease that something is on the horizon.
If you like college men, rich, sexy, generous men, lesbians(no girly bits involved just fun friends) friends to lovers, first crushes, coming out, and a bit of mystery this is for you!
Blurb: Coy is a big city werewolf who heads to mountain Colorado on the word of the team at Full Moon Dating, a paranormal dating service. He’s not sure Denver Allen is the vamp for him, but it can’t hurt to take a vacation and get a little hot loving in the process.
Denver knows Coy is the one for him when they meet, but there’s the whole issue of who the ultimate predator is between them. There’s also the problem of all that biting. Can Denver and Coy work out their troubles before it’s too late for both of them?
Review: This book was amazing if not bizarre. I love the paranormal worlds especially when it involves two very hot and sexy men. Julia has a great ability to write such wonderful stories. The abilities to mix such emotions and feelings between two wonderful men who only want a mate.
Coy is a werewolf and Denver is a vampire pretty unique characters who only want to find love. Although they were not the ones who actually signed up for the paranormal dating service, they did find true love. They have their strengths and weaknesses that complement each other. Coy is a cowboy who originally thinks vampires are stiff and uppity with attitudes. However they are both shocked when they realize they definitely have the hots for each other and it goes even further for they are falling for each other fast.
I hope there is more to this story. It would make for a great series, although I wished that it were longer in length with more description and action. It was pretty hot but I want to know more about where each other come from, how they got to where they are, now and where they want to head. It does make for a quick read with bits of humor throughout. I did like the story.
Publisher: Torquere Press, Inc. (January 21st 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Reviewer: Cat
Blurb: Witchcraft and homosexuality are punishable by death, but it doesn’t stop Lucca Moretti from embracing both. Lucca fears no man, but he has one weakness: his twin brother, Gabriele. When tragedy strikes, Lucca and Gabriele have few options, but they do have allies. They flee from the wreckage of their family’s home and take refuge in the home of Lorik, the unofficial leader of the vampires in the city of Rome. Lorik offers them safety, but not without a price.
Gabriele has spent years fighting an unholy desire for his twin, but even his fear is no match for the lure of Lucca’s kiss. In this new world they’ve stumbled into, however, there is much more to the people around them than meets the eye.
The vampires are at war, and Lorik’s court mage sees something in Lucca that could turn the tide in their favor. Secrets come to light which can either aid the twins in saving the new family they’ve found, or destroy them all.
Review: Warning! This book contains Twincest, mild domination and a ménage. So if any of these things turn you off, this book isn’t for you.
Now having warned you I did know the book contained Twincest and I will be honest, I still don’t know how I feel about Twincest. This is a very hard book to review so I took my time and thought it over carefully. I don’t like giving half stars so that’s why we have a four. I gave it a moderate on the heat level since there is a lot of sex scenes throughout the book, however I found them tasteful and sensual not outright explicit to me. Explicit is a graphic description of the act and body parts and coarse descriptive words. So, I loved the story and in my opinion, the sex is moderate. I thought it was very sexy, and sensual.
I will say this, the domination part was so mild I could have done without it and it would not have taken away from the book. I can’t say much on the ménage since it will be a spoiler, but I was ok with-it found it sensual and I do give Kudos on how that relationship went and can’t wait for the next book to since I have a feeling it may be Dorian’s story. At least I hope so.
Now for my actual review. The storyline was action packed and very intriguing. I love Mychael Black’s take on vampires. They are gritty, violent and different from the norm. Nope you won’t find sparkly here, though Gabriele is close … I liked the mage, vamp combination. For some reason I really liked Lucca, though I think he needed to be a tad bit tougher, but perhaps that will come as he grows into his powers since he is just becoming a vampire here. I liked the combination also of passion, fear, sensuality, and sadness. (Yes, you will need a tissue near the end.)
To sum things up… I recommend this if you like vampires, mages, shadows, spirits, sensual sex, devoted love and Twincest.
Blurb:When architect Brian Townsend meets, a man dressed as Zorro at a Halloween party it seems like a chance hookup, but Brian is attracted and it takes more effort than he originally thought just to find out the man’s name. NYPD homicide detective Tristan Blake comes from old money, which he loathes and an idealistic streak burns within him to do a job that serves a purpose. A previous lover scorned him as a time when he was most vulnerable, after the death of friend, and Tristan is slow to trust what appears to a developing relationship between him and Brian.
Beer tasting, a broken window, a fall down a flight of stairs, a grenade and a violent attack on Brian, what do these all have in common? Each one brings Tristan an inch closer to trusting Brian with his heart.
Review: This is a collection of ten short stories all bundled into one nice package. I absolutely love Brian and Tristan. Two hot and sexy men overcoming all doubts and heartache and turning them into gifts of love and passion. I loved how Tristan has to overcome his trust issues to allow himself into falling in love with the sexy architect Brian. A.R. has a wonderful gift for storytelling. She gives you characters that you can believe in and stand beside. Ones you will fall in love with and cheer them when they need it. That is exactly what I did too when Tristan doesn’t trust Brian not to hurt him. I was cheering Brian on through the whole story.
Crimson Regret ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Brian sets out for a Halloween party dressed as the devil, but he’s not expecting to get up to anything wicked, not until he meets Zorro. Zorro is exactly what Brian needs, and everything Brian can handle. But masks and intrigue are the game on Halloween; if Brian doesn’t uncover Zorro’s true identity, how will he ever find him again?
Oh, this one is amazing. It has some bad puns, great costumes and two sexy men. Not to mention a little hot action in a closet. Which is a bit strange because you come out of the closet after telling everyone you are gay and here they go into the closet to get some hot action? Two very talented mouths.
I would definitely be recommending this story. If you love a detective and an architect, sexy men, bad puns and the closet then this story would be one you would love to read. I cannot wait to read book two, because it shows the whole story of these wonderful men. Brian goes to a Halloween party that his friend is throwing and meets sexy Tristan. Although he hadn’t known his name till his friends husband lets him know who he is. He is absolutely wanting to get to know more of this hot man.
A Taste of Darkness ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
When Brian met Tristan at a Halloween party in Crimson Regret, they were in disguise. Tristan might be a detective, but Brian’s the one who does the investigating and tracks Tristan down for a date. The chemistry is as good as ever, but Tristan brings with him a shadow that leaves Brian in the dark when it comes to making things right.
This story would make a grown man cry. It was so heart breaking what a detective has to deal with. I couldn’t believe Tristan had to deal with things like that and to see it would tear anyone up. Brian invites Tristan out for beer and they end up back at Brian’s. After some hot sex, Brian is left with questions on why Tristan is the way he is. After seeing the paper, he understands.
I absolutely loved this story and can see how hard it is for someone who is a police officer to get over certain things. I cannot wait to see where their future leads. I am so pleased with book one and two that I can imagine book three is going to be awesome.
I would recommend this story to anyone who wants to see two men showing a little emotion. It is a wonderful read.
A Glimpse Inside ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Brian isn’t sure if he and Tristan are dating, but they’re definitely seeing each other again. Tristan has always been quiet about his personal and professional life; Brian understands the latter; Tristan’s job as a homicide detective doesn’t make for light talk, but that doesn’t mean Brian doesn’t want to know more about Tristan. A little persistence goes a long way when Brian’s brief foray into Tristan’s home turns into a brief glimpse of Tristan’s life and how he became the man who Brian can’t let slip away.
Brian and Tristan are hot and heavy but Brian doesn’t really know if they are dating or just hooking up. You can tell by the way Tristan talks that in his heart he wants more, but he seems scared to try. Whereas Brian definitely wants Tristan for more than just a hookup or a couple of hours here and there.
It is told with such a tender tone. The sex is definitely heating up, but it still feels like one night stands. It does show you that there will be more, however it also tells you that you need patience to get to the really good juicy stuff. I love the way that Brian and Tristan are slowly trusting each other with some of the smaller stuff.
I would recommend reading this story because it will make you smile and sigh. It is a wonderful little story and it leads you to another story that should be just as great if not better. You get to see what is going to happen when you cross your fingers.
Windows and Walls ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Broken windows and damaged walls need mending in Tristan Blake’s turn of the century brownstone. Who better than Tristan’s new boyfriend architect Brian Townsend to aid in the repair? But there are more things broken in Tristan’s life than just a window. Running late, without time to change for a party the two are planning to attend, Tristan picks up Brian still wearing his police dress blues. Frisking might only be the beginning to hotter events.
Oh, now we are getting somewhere, Tristan and Brian still have a ways to go but now it seems that Brian might get his man. I loved this story just as much as the first three. Tristan has such a big heart and he is just learning to slowly feel something for Brian, although it is not said you can just feel it.
The sex just seems to get even better with these two. And Brian has this thing for men in uniform. Well he isn’t the only one. I would be a slave to a man in uniform, which makes these stories just hotter knowing that there is a sexy man wearing it. You can also tell that each man has deeper feelings, big hearts, and tender lives. I would definitely be recommending this book to anyone who is looking for a story that will keep you smiling and wishing these two men love forever.
Head Over Hills ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Tristan Blake’s job as a homicide detective is occasionally dangerous, but Brian tends to think of that danger in terms of guns and knives. When Tristan shows up on Brian’s doorstep late one night, injured by a tumbledown a flight of subway steps while chasing a suspect, Brian is shocked by the damage. Will Brian’s gentle care allow Tristan to edge another emotional inch closer to his lover?
Injured in an arrest, Tristan seeks out Brian for help. What he gets is an open, caring, and wonderful man. Brian not only brings him in but also tells him that he will be there for him no matter what. Tristan slowly opens up to let Brian know who had hurt him emotionally and of course, Brian wants to tear the man apart.
It is heating up and I love that about this story. It is amazing and I cannot get enough of it. I look forward to reading the next story in this wonderful book. It tells you about two very hot and sexy men, tender kisses, heartbreaking stories and some water play.
I would recommend this story to anyone looking for a little tenderness and two very sexy men. I can’t wait to read the next story telling about these wonderful men.
Police Navidad ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Detective Tristan Blake spends Christmas day at work. This is a conscious choice on his part, because it provides him with a magnificently convenient excuse to avoid his unsupportive family. It’s an equally planned choice to spend Christmas night with his lover Brian Townsend. Dinner with friends of Brian’s is followed by a heartfelt gift exchange at Tristan’s brownstone, but when the morning brings a visit from Tristan’s furious mother, can Brian weather the storm?
Now Tristan’s family needs to be hung from the rafters. What a hateful person it is who treats their family like crap for loving someone they don’t approve of. I have never understood parents. When you are given a child you are supposed to love them unconditionally and just because they love men, you put conditions on your love. That is so totally wrong.
Brian finally tells Tristan how he feels about him and it seems to be heading that away with Tristan. I love the tender way Brian cares for Tristan. It shows that he loves him even more than the words do. It makes me cry with the way they feel. I love the way these two men act with each other.
You have got to read this book. You will fall in love with these two very sexy men in a heartbeat. They are caring, open and so very loving that you can’t help but feel deeply about them. I cannot wait to read the next story.
Auld Acquaintance ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Brian and Tristan, architect and cop, are still feeling their way toward a serious relationship. Tristan, a bit of a renegade from his upper-class moneyed family, avoids the party circuit as much as possible. To please Brian, he agrees to go to an exclusive up-scale New Year’s Eve party. Unfortunately, Tristan’s narcissistic ex-boyfriend, Eric, attends the same party. Ex-lovers really can be trouble!
I hate cruel exes, especially when they are messing with the boyfriend. It just shows you how stupid people can be. It also makes me happy when that ex see’s that the man he left behind has not only found someone else but someone better.
It is cute that Tristan wants to beat the crap out of Eric for hurting his man. I can’t help but fall in love with these two very sexy men. You can just feel the love coming from them. It makes you smile just reading this book. I am so glad to have had the chance to read these wonderful stories.
Tabled Discussions ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Brian Townsend is looking forward to the weekend. He and his lover, Tristan Blake, are finally going to use the weekend reservations at a popular B&B that Tristan had given Brian for Christmas. It’s not quite Valentine’s Day, but Brian has packed a few extras to make their weekend special. The timing is excellent because Tristan’s job as a homicide detective has made it difficult for the two men to spend time together lately. Sometimes though, old baggage can interpose itself despite the best intentions of everyone concerned. Some wounds just take longer than a day or two to heal–even with a large dose of love and patience. Brian isn’t going to let go, but how far will Tristan let him in this time?
Even with the titles of the books, you can tell that there are a lot of bad puns. I can’t help but laugh at them. Each story just gets better and better what with these two sexy men finding themselves more in love than ever. Although it is not said by, Tristan you can tell by his actions that he is falling in love with Brian.
I have noticed that even though you know that Tristan was treated wrongly by not only his family but by his ex, he seems to be in so much more of a need to love than Brian. Although Brian says it first and shows it in all of his actions. It just seems that Tristan needs it more. I love that about the strong detective. His feelings are on his sleeve, even when he is hurting or angry Brian can calm Tristan down and get him to smile.
Brian also seems to want to help decorate Tristan’s house. I love this book and cannot wait to read the next book.
Pulling the Pin ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Brian is overseeing the remodel of a 40’s era home when he and his crew find someone’s souvenir from World War II: a grenade. When Tristan, Brian’s cop boyfriend, stops by with a friend from the bomb squad to check and see if their find is the real deal, Tristan gets a whole different perspective on Brian. A hardhat, work boots, denim, and flannel are not just a whole lot of sexy on the normally more professionally dressed Brian. They are kind of tough looking too. Maybe Brian can handle all the parts of Tristan’s life, even the tough bits. Sometimes, the small things can lead to some pretty big changes.
Well this had almost been an explosive day for Brian. Working on an old home they came across a grenade. I would have loved to see Tristan’s expression when Brian calls him for help. It would have been funny as hell.
I love the way they seem to be growing together. Seeing the compassion, tenderness and love each man has for the other just makes me smile. It is so breath-taking to know that two strong men can feel so much for the other and actually show it in their actions. I loved this story. In fact, as each story grows I love the next one even more.
Vulnerability ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Sometimes it takes an unexpected disaster to transform a perspective. Brian Townsend forgets some architectural plans that he needs for a project. He makes the mistake of going back and getting them–in a risky part of town, at night. Tristan Blake’s heart stops when he gets an emergency cell call from his lover Brian. When his heart starts beating again, Tristan’s view of his world is changed. It’s time to be brave. Is Tristan finally ready to knock down that last wall?
Oh, I change my mind. This story is the one I love. It was amazing, tender, caring, and so full of love. Tristan finally tells Brian he loves him. Granted Brian had scared the living daylights out of him, but it made him realize how much he loves this man. And the fact that he wants to spend the rest of his life with Brian.
I wish that there were more to this couple because it is so full of heat, passion, and love. I think that Brian and Tristan are probably the best characters I have found. It was beautifully written with a humor and a touch of seriousness and pain. It has made it into my favorite list. I would love to read more by A. R… A gift of storytelling is what this wonderful author has.
I would recommend going out and getting this wonderful book. It will make you smile, cry, and give you a bit of heart ache. It was beautifully written. With the perfect ending.
Series: A Hammer Story – This story is also available in the Take It Like A Man Anthology.
Author: Sean Michael
Genre: BDSM
Length: Short Story (24 pages)
Publisher: Torquere Press(January 28th, 2014)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating:♥♥♥3Hearts
Blurb:When Masters Marcus and Billy join forces to play with their boys, Jim and Montana find themselves at the Hammer Club with the world’s largest plugs in them. Good thing their masters know just how far to push them and how to bring them the most pleasure. Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=4120 Reviewer: GiGi
Review: This is a BDSM story, but a lighter fare than most.
Two couples, the Doms, and their boys meet for a night out at The Hammer, their BDSM club. While all intentions are for the boys to have a scene and play with each other, the two subs are feeling rather bratty and rather full of the plugs and edging torture their masters are subjecting them to. By the end of the evening, it turns out each pair finishes of their sexual encounter with a more intimate pleasure, between Dom and sub.
Nothing tremendously deep here, the writing is lacking layers and depth, but that isn’t really, what one reads this series for anyhow is it? It’s a quick kink-fest, and I do so enjoy a whimpering boy.
Blurb: Barnaby Sloan and his boyfriend, Liam, are trying to be more open and communicative, and tell each other everything. With New Year’s Eve approaching, Liam invites Barnaby to join him at the museum’s New Year’s Eve party. At first, Barnaby is hesitant because he knows his ex-boyfriend, Xander, will probably be there, but his desire to please Liam overrules his worry about the temptation Xander may present.
At the party, all seems to be going well until Barnaby meets Jared, Liam’s cute, new secretary, and Jared’s date: Xander. Xander makes no secret that he still wants Barnaby. Shaken by the encounter with Xander, Barnaby lashes out at Liam and seeks comfort elsewhere in the museum. New Year’s Eve is a time for new beginnings. Can Barnaby resist the temptation to return to old habits?
Review: Barnaby Sloan comes back with a much better story this time, one I have to admit I actually liked better.
Last time we checked Barnaby overcame his knee-jerk reaction at committing a bit more to his boyfriend and their relationship, turning a really bad situation into a near-miracle, with his Christmas change of heart. Now it’s New Year and the days in between have been quite intimate for Bay and Liam, so much so that Bay is actually taking a 180-degree turn in behavior with every line. However there are still bumps down the road, the biggest being his on again off again relationship with his ex, Xander.
The author finally enlightens us and answers the big question “why does Bay behave this way” when she reveals Bay’s past and the effect Xander has upon him. While 80% of the read is sweet and tender, soothing us in a lovemaking trance, it picks up in intensity during the end of the story and it captivates with the growing anticipation.
Liam becomes a stronger character, layers of him are revealed, and he moves from a flat, docile personality to a charming possessive and demanding (in the good sense) lover, not giving an inch of his expectations, forcing Bay to stand up and make one hell of a big decision, a decision that with perhaps mark his future. Bay is no longer the “floating with the wind” character that at times even repulsed me, he rather becomes quite respectable, admirable even in the way he faces his past.
To sum it up, this short story is lovely, sweet and passionate, everything a New Year’s Eve themed story should be. Recommended!
Blurb: Matt and Christian from Where You Least Expect It are back! It’s Fourth of July and Christian wants to go to the fireworks show; Matt’s hot and bothered and wants to stay home. Christian promises to make it up to him later and they head off to the park to watch things explode. Christian might be focused on the fireworks, but Matt’s still focused on Christian. Lucky for them, the night is chilly and no one looks twice when they cuddle under a blanket. Even luckier, no one can see what Matt’s hands are doing to Christian.
Review: I usually don’t go for short stories, but this one was hot.
Matt and Christian are from Where You Least Expect It. They are so cute and funny. Matt is the alpha of the two, but when it comes to Christian he is tender and very loving. Christian is very sweet, loving, caring, and hot. When they come together it sets off all the fire alarms, they are so hot together. The story line is cute and funny, and will make you smile through the book. It kept my attention from beginning to the end.
I wish it were a longer book because it left me wanting to hear more, but I loved this little story. These two are the best characters I have read about in a while. I read it and just enjoyed it so much that I will be reading it again.
Blurb:From soldiers fighting on a virtual battlefield to werewolves and trolls living on mountains, the four short stories in this collection all take place in a world not quite our own.
In The Champion, Maxim and Dorian are secret lovers in a world where men are not allowed to love each other and wars are fought by men on a virtual battlefield. Maxim is the Black Champion, but will his bravery extend to his love life as well?
Next up is The Mountain, a fairy-tale style story featuring a village lad who is fascinated by the mountain that looms over his home, and the supposed beastly troll that lives within its caves.
Wolf Unexpected and Ten Things to Hate About Being a Werewolf are two urban fantasies featuring shapeshifters who are new to being werewolves. Can their heroes each find someone to help them find joy and happiness in their new situation?
Review: This is an anthology of four short stories that will show you a life into the paranormal world. They all take place in a world not quite their own. You have Maxim and Dorian in The Champion. Then you have Jacob and Trogarth in The Mountain Troll. Eric and Jude are from Wolf Unexpected. Last but not least are Todd and Granger from Ten Things to Hate about Being a Werewolf. Eight very hot and sexy men just trying to find their way through life. It is too short for my liking. I would hope that each story would be longer in length, showing how they got to where they were at, where they were going, what is most important in their lives. It gets you caught but then leaves you with more questions than answers.
The Champion ♥♥♥3Hearts
Black Champion Maxim has to defend his Prince on a virtual battleground. In his world of battle, love is forbidden, but his lover Dorian wants more than Maxim might be able to give. After a successful fight against the Crimson Champion, Dorian takes Maxim to the baths for his reward. Can Maxim accept Dorian’s gift of love?
This would have been a very awesome read if it were longer. I loved the characters, they way they take solace in each other. At first, you would think that since they fight on a virtual battlefield that they don’t get injured or die, but in this story that is the opposite of what happens. These two men love each other with all their hearts, but in their world they can be the solders that they are, can be whatever they want to each other, but love was not allowed. It seems very wrong to me, but who knows.
I really think that had this story been over a hundred pages longer that it would be a five-heart rating, but for such a short story, it will rate a three. I would recommend this to those who love short hot stories with very sexy men who love one another, danger and excitement.
The Mountain Troll ♥♥2Hearts
A fairy-tale style story featuring a village lad who is fascinated by the mountain that looms over his home, and the supposed beastly troll that lives within its caves. Except this beast looked human. A very hot and sexy human. Jacob always wanted if troll’s were real. So when the offerings stayed where they were, he went and checked on the troll. What he got was a scare that made him pass out.
Waking to the troll, he realized Trogarth looked human. A man that he wanted. This story was very bizarre and I am not really sure about it. It left me with lots of questions and no answers. It shows how they meet and then no real content afterwards. Then all of a sudden, he was going to live with the troll. No real sex to it at all, not really any plot at all. It was cute, but not fulfilling to me.
If you want a really cute story but only for a rush then this would be, a great read to pick up. I would however rather it had a true story line, more about each character where they come from, how they end up where they are at, just more to the story.
Wolf Unexpected ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Something very strange is happening to Eric. He’s been feeling itchy for days, as if his skin doesn’t fit him anymore. Under the light of the full moon, he takes off out of the city and finds himself on a farm, feeling more strange and confused than ever.
Jude is the son of a werewolf, and when he meets Eric, he knows exactly what the man is. Can Jude convince Eric that he isn’t going crazy, and that everything is going to be just fine, even with the worst of the unexpected going on?
Now this story is cute and very strange. I loved it. However, I would have loved it more if it would have continued. I hope that this story comes out in another book with more words added to it. Eric had been itchy for days, and he has no clue why. Then all of a sudden after taking a walk, he turns in to a wolf.
If it hadn’t been for Jude’s help he would have either lost his mind or been killed by hunters. It needs to have lots of sex added to this story. However, it really is just a sweet story about two men. I would recommend this story if you love then short and sweet, two hot and sexy men, and a bit of wishful thinking. I can see myself reading this one again.
Ten Things to Hate about Being a Werewolf ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
There are a lot of things that Todd doesn’t like about being a werewolf. In fact, he’s pretty sure he can name at least ten things he hates off the top of his head, from his new diet of raw meat to the fact that there doesn’t seem to be any other gay werewolves.
Can an encounter with a stranger who smells divine turn everything around? Or is he doomed to hate his new nature forever?
I actually laughed at this one. It is not only the title that had me laughing, but also they way it was written. It has a humors beat to it and I loved it. I would say out of this collection of short stories that this one would be number one for me. I loved the way Todd acts about being a werewolf. He was warned but hadn’t believed it when he had been asked to bitten by one of his many one night stands. Now he was stuck with no idea how he would survive or what he was to do.
Thankfully, Granger, another werewolf knew at sight that Todd was new to this life and would help him. Although it had more to do with Todd being his mate, then to actually help him. Like I said, it was a really cute story. I would recommend this to anyone who loves paranormals, shapeshifters, two hot sexy men, and a tender love story. I do wish there had been more sex in this one because I get the feeling that it would have been majorly hot.
Blurb: After millennia of hiding in the shadows, the creatures of myth known collectively as “The Others,” have stepped forward into the light of day and demanded the right to live in peace, sharing the planet humans had long claimed as their own.
When the humans respond to the appearance of the Others with a threat of genocide, the Others convene a Council of War, intent on developing and implementing their attack, but they discover a chilling prophecy.
“Heed me well, all of you. Attack the humans without the Keeper and you will fail. Every one of you will become nothing but a memory, a myth, and the humans will truly inherit the earth.”
The choice is clear: The Others must find the Keeper, or die. The Council charges Liam, son of the Fae chieftain, with this critical mission but he quickly finds this mission isn’t easy. Not only does no one have any idea where The Keeper might be, but also time is running out, and the Keeper is determined not to be found.
Review: Marin has lived in secret amongst the humans ever since he fled his home in Atlantis, the loss of his family and discovering the truth of their deaths forced him to run. When the other paranormal creatures revealed themselves Marin stayed hidden. At first humans and The Others lived together in peace but that soon changed and the humans declared The Others the enemy. Forced into the shadows The Others convened a Council of War but a powerful being declared they needed the Keeper or they would fail, but the Keeper disappeared several years before. Liam is the son of the Fae Chieftain and has been tasked with finding the Keeper, but finding someone who is adapt at hiding might just be an impossible task. Can Liam find the Keeper before it is too late? And will Marin face his past and embrace the powers he never wanted?
This is a great paranormal story that has the paranormals revealing themselves to the world only to be thrust into a war that has a dismal outlook. Marin is a lovely Atlantean who has had his entire family wiped out; he fled after discovering the terrible truth and hides amongst the humans, never confiding in the other Atlanteans the truth. Liam is a powerful Sidhe Warrior tasked with finding the Keeper, but he wars with himself over doing what he has been ordered to do and doing what must be done in order to stop a war. Both males can’t deny what they feel for the other, but getting to the truth is their imperative task.
Hmmm there’s nothing like conflict to get the blood pumping and this story is filled with conflict, evil planning, wicked deeds, and a love that blossoms in hard times. I really enjoyed this story and the two main characters; I liked how the author showed the strengths and the fears of Marin and Liam, Marin with his incredible powers but with his shame over running rather than confronting and Liam with his Warrior nature but with fears he will never be the Sidhe his father is. The story flows smoothly and you fall into it quickly, there’s plenty of explanation as to what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present so you never lose the thread of what is going on.
Marin and Liam’s relationship is an instant lusting between them that quickens its pace and they soon find themselves falling for each other, there’s enough hot scenes to quicken our pulses but not too many of them that it overtakes the story. The story of the beginning of the war is wonderful, there’s someone aiming for power and it is down to Marin and Liam to stop them but convincing others that there is a traitor is hard to do, especially with the powerful egos of the leaders of the different species in play. I must admit to wanting more from this story and I can only hope that there is more from Liam and Marin and this world in the future.
I recommend this to those that love the paranormal, fantasy, great characters digging deep to do the right thing, twisted enemies masquerading as allies, a love developing in hard times and a great ending that leaves you wondering if more is to come.
Blurb:Being a demon isn’t always fun. Being a demon summoned to a satanic ritual is downright miserable. Isaac Braden spends most of his time being a rich recluse but every so often, he’s introduced to someone new when he’s summoned… a blood sacrifice. And tonight Jory Daniels has been chosen to be that sacrifice.
In a satanic ritual summoning gone bad, Isaac finds himself eternally bound to Jory. He has to have the man’s blood in order to survive. But when Jory wants something in return, can Isaac submit enough to allow it or will his demon nature take over and cause him to lose the best thing that ever happened to him?
Review: Demons, witches and other creatures of the night. We love them, love reading about them from the safety of our couch, sipping perhaps a bit of wine, blood-red just so we can get more into the spirit. I admit it. Demons are one of them disturbingly perverted, guilty pleasures for me. I love them. I do not love them timid though and damn if this one demon, Isaac wasn’t tame like a pussy cat. Still, I kept going because even a demon with a heart is sexy enough and when forced to take a blood sacrifice in order to bind himself to the satanic priest summoning him, the last thing Isaac expected was for the blood sacrifice to be willing and not only that, but somehow through loopholes and misunderstandings, Isaac is forever free from anyone summoning him. In addition, he’s also bound with Jory, his willing blood sacrifice.
So far so good and I was able to follow the story. The sex between them… hot. The weirdness of the situation couldn’t get higher. How the heck did this simple enough plot get to be so freaking complicated, I still don’t know. The storyline was anything but smooth. Characters suddenly jumped into the story with a simple poof! Like smoke and the narration just went on with absolute disregard for any sort of smooth fluidity. Our main characters didn’t help with their second grade level of misunderstandings, and the end was shocking enough to make your brain stop and not think about those huge plot-holes that frequently reminded me Alice’s rabbit hole, with a whole bunch of new wonders happening every time one appeared.
I’ve got nothing for plot/story structure. There was one in my opinion. I have nothing on the lovability of the characters, they were totally bland and cliché, though I must give points for inventiveness here as our demon reminded me a hybrid vampire-werewolf. The only thing I enjoyed (and the rating is on that account only) was the sex-scenes, mostly because they made me fantasize and take the actual scenes one step further in my mind. Other than that I thing this read required a bit more work, polishing, and redefinition of structure before getting it out on the shelves.
Publisher: Torquere Press, Inc. (February 11th, 2014)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2.5~3Hearts
Reviewer: Thommie
Blurb:Greg and Paolo are celebrating Valentine’s Day with their first private play date, after months of playing in public at a club. Greg expects more of the same kinds of bondage and pain play, topped off with sex. Paolo has other ideas. He wants to see if Greg understands that being a sub is truly about submitting to the Dom, not just being tied up and flogged.
Greg isn’t at all sure he likes Paolo’s plan, but it’s very definitely hot. Things are going smoothly until they get into the bedroom and Paolo asks the wrong question about Greg’s past. Greg thinks it will be the end of the relationship. Is he right, or will Paolo defy his expectations again?
Review: This was fun! How very deliciously kinky and what a sweet frustration. I think I found my perfect kinky Valentine’s fantasy.
This story starts with a very nice invitation from Paolo to Greg for Valentine’s Day. Greg has been playing with Poaly for a couple of months now, but always in public at their private club. This time Paolo means to spend the day alone with Greg at his house. Fear follows with this invitation and a great deal of nerves that are quickly assuaged by Paolo’s politeness and caring, and in the end after both men relaxed with their evening the game beings. It is frustrating (for Greg), it is fun to read, and it is delicious as most of the foreplay happens during dinner. Let me tell you, this story certainly game me ideas for kinky celebrations and spicy dinners. Loved it!
The scene however is somewhat ruined when they hit the bedroom. There his Dom demands certain answers that Greg is not willing to give for fear that this will be the end of their relationship, as casual as it is. He’s in for a surprise though, one that never once entered his mind.
Everything was going fine until this point for me, but somewhere, somehow, this story lost me. One moment I’m thinking what a fun read, the next I feel like what I’m reading went too bland, too cliché… The final scene, after all was said and done, it felt too detached somehow. All the chemistry gained through the story lost and I was left wondering, “was that it?” I can’t pinpoint it really; were the dialogues the reason for cooling me off? Or perhaps the sex scene that was not what I expected after all that prelude… I don’t know, but in the end, I was left wanting a bit more or something else.
Nevertheless, this story is quite charming and playful, with a side of spicy that manages to make a difference in the classic Valentine’s reads. Recommended!
Blurb:Noah Coleman doesn’t do casual relationships. After losing his partner, Jeff, and raising their daughter Emily by himself, he’s not used to thinking of anyone in a romantic way. But when he moves back to Chicago and meets former classmate Andy Lane again, Andy somehow manages to worm his way into Noah and Emily’s lives – and into Noah’s heart. Noah watches Emily and Andy grow closer, but Andy doesn’t seem to want anything more from Noah than friendship. What’s a father to do when he realizes balancing love and parenthood isn’t as easy as he’d always thought?
Review: A delightful story about love a second time around. Noah is a man grieving the loss of his partner while now raising their child. When Andy Lane enters his life, he doesn’t think he’s ready for a relationship, but Lane’s quiet and non-threatening presence breaks through Noah’s grief and he begins to care. Feeling that the sentiment is not returned, he ends his lukewarm relationship with Andy, which depresses both men.
Once Noah realizes his mistake via how heartbroken his daughter is by Andy’s absence, he swallows his pride and goes to talk with Andy, which will allow both men to talk about their misunderstandings and begin to build a relationship with each other. The Epilogue of the story explains the title, which just makes the story all the sweeter.
The characters of Noah, Andy and Emily are well-developed and the reader roots for not just the two men to be together but also for the three of them to build a family with each other. The power to love is infinite and often death is tragic, but that doesn’t mean that love will never ever be there again. This story is about family, trust and how love can heal anything.
Publisher: Torquere Press (2nd edition, January 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3~3.5Hearts
Reviewer: Thommie
Blurb:The White Palace has risen, and now John Arrowsmith, his thief lover Infamous, and the rest of the gang from A Strange Place in Time must defeat a growing conspiracy and an ancient adversary. As John learns to use his own powers as Court Seer, he and the Court learn of a plot that their old enemy, SkullDigger, is concocting to finally defeat them.
With allies among John’s own Earth-bound family, and many others along the way, SkullDigger mounts attack after attack, which test John and his friends to the limit of their abilities. Will John and his friends, who include a pet duck, be able to fend off the forces that conspire against them?
Review:This book is the second part of a Trilogy that ought to be read in order.
The second book in the A Strange Place in Time series is, if not as good as the first, certainly a captivating one as well. It picks up right where the first stopped and manages to take you once again into the Tolkein-like world of Dargoth and the adventures Arrowsmith and his friends get caught up to.
Now in this installment I’m afraid I got a minor dissatisfaction right from the start. There is a distinctive change on Arrowsmith’s personality and mannerisms from book one. As we read their Arrowsmith, despite being brought up by white trash, he still had some innate elegance in him, a gentleness that couldn’t be explained, and his manners were not as crude as in this installment. For a while there, I was thinking that our character suffered a huge change from the moment he Recalled and that simply didn’t make any sense. I still think this is one big fault in the writing of this second installment.
However, the story made up for it big time. The White Palace has finally risen and now every member of the Court has to get there and try to figure out why. The enemy is real yet still a mystery with too many things happening to divert eyes from the main danger. Outward war is not what our characters deal with, rather schemes made in the dark, past enemies forming alliances to strike in different directions, and people long thought dead come forth from the shadows to shatter the false safety.
We also have a chance to meet The Nine members of the Court better. We get to see their pasts, how they came to be, and – personally – I was surprised by many of them. Misty was perhaps the biggest surprise of them all. I had not figured what exactly was his position in Court, so when I found out it safe to say I was left with my jaw hanging there for a while. His story from start to finish was exciting, his love was awe-inspiring, and yet again, I wish for more length in this book in order to have a proper development and give us the chance to process the multitude of information.
Monshika finally made sense and I must say he managed to become dear and charming in his way. Arrowsmith finally took the role I was expecting him to, but I fear the Seer (again) was not given as much time. Now, the character that I felt was the most fascinating of them all was Lord Sly. How very intriguing and how very unexploited he was. Seriously, I didn’t mind him being just another character in the first book, but here his talents were completely wasted. The final member and the most mystical one to join the party was Blue the Bard. We were wondering about him throughout the first and this second installment and we only got to meet him and his story right at the end. I pointed out that this author has a thing with cliffhangers (which I absolutely detest) and yes, he did it again along with a huge load of new intel. I literally screamed “I hate this book” when it abruptly ended, if it were a printed copy you can very well imagine me throwing it across the room and barely holding myself from tearing it apart. Yes, I’m prone to drama when I’m left hanging.
Overall, though, the book met my expectations. It had adventure and love, blood and death as well and I’m always a happy camper when schemes and plots manage to cause chaos. The anticipation for the third one on my part is quite great, so despite my loathing the wait, I feel the author managed to literally entrap me in this trilogy. It was addictive, it was highly enjoyable, and it’s definitely recommended for those who love High Fantasy.
Blurb: Liam Wolfson and Valentine Rosetti have been together for three years. But vampires like Val seldom make long-term commitments and Val won’t agree to more than being lovers. Liam, a werewolf, needs a family, a pack, to call his own in order to feel secure. Can the pair come to an agreement when their basic natures are so different?
Review: What I expect from a Valentine’s Day story is for that special emotion, the sensuality and passion bursting through the read that will take me away and make me believe that love is in the air and it’s powerful, stands stronger than anything else is in the world. If not for Valentine’s, then when? But even as I thought I get that feeling I was let down in this story. Yes, the sweetness managed to make an appearance, but then every story in the romance genre is sweet. What I seeked for were the fireworks and they were disappointingly lacking.
This story was about Liam, a wolf-shifter, and Valentine, a vampire. The day before Valentine’s Day the lover had another fight, the topic the same. Liam needs a family, a pack, and Valentine’s not ready for such commitment. The next day when Liam comes home from work Val has gone so far as to take his things and leave the house. What was meant to be their anniversary and a celebration of love, turned into a miserable, dark, and full of hurt day for Liam. Val on the other hand cannot believe what he’s done. He doesn’t understand why he’s running away from Liam, even as he is sure that he loves him with all his heart. Is giving Liam a family so hard and scary that he’s willing to lose him once and for all. For it is sure that if Val doesn’t make the big gesture everything will end this time.
The story felt like two normal people having a fight and making up with that big question finally popping. But it was so flat and bland that the romance didn’t quite make it to the surface. In addition, there was the paranormal part I was constantly searching for but never found. If we take apart, the wrestling foreplay when Liam turned into a big goofy pup and Val let his fangs drop. There was nothing to indicate that these two creatures were creature of the paranormal world. I kept wondering – since there was mention, that both Liam and Val would live a long life – how were they supposed to make a family. Adoption and surrogation yes, but how would they explain their longevity and inability to change as they grew older, a fact that supposedly wouldn’t happen anyway. For me, for the story even, I feel it would be better if the paranormal was missing and so we’d deal with a contemporary love story where there is a spat, make up sex and everybody lives happily ever after. As it was, it simply raised more questions, not to mention the fact that the puppy play in the bedroom made me roll my eyes at the wolf’s depiction.
The erotic part was disappointing as well. Cliché and shallow exercises of BDSM are not captivating at all and simply made me wonder what on earth was that all about, why not keep it simple and be safe from the complexity that comes with the BDSM scenes, as the context failed to capture that eroticism one sees between kinky couples. I think my expectations were yet again too high and not met so.
But then again I’m fussy when it comes to wolves and vampires. If the above seems agreeable to you, then by all means you might find a nice enough read for the holidays.
Blurb:Forced to room with a student who hates him on sight, Seth’s expecting a rocky semester, and falling for the surly Gabe only adds to his troubles. Gabe’s past is full of secrets, a closed book, but can Seth find the way to Gabe’s heart by reading between the lines?
Previously published by Torquere in Kegs and Dorms (2008)
Review: The book starts one way and then veers off into an unexpected direction. Seth and Gabe are unexpected roommates with a love/hate relationship. Gabe loves to hate Seth. Seth sees Gabe as a puzzle to figure out and he begins his investigation to unravel the mystery. That leads him to discover violence in Gabe’s past; the discovery, however, still doesn’t allow he and Gabe to develop any kind of friendship. It will take a confrontation for both men to be able to be honest with each other and to admit their true feelings. Gabe must confront his past in and Seth must help him deal with the issues that have arisen from that.
This is a short story, but it manages to embrace the themes of homophobia, fear, violence and how the events of one’s life can haunt you if not confronted and dealt with. The reader knows that Seth and Gabe will get together and their fights, disagreements and squabbles are viewed as the necessary sexual tension required. When they do manage to get together, it doesn’t feel contrived and there’s a ‘realness’ to their conversation that is true to their age and their life experience.
As the story closes, this feels like a college relationship and not like it’s going to be an ever after story. But it is very appropriate for where Gabe and Seth are in their life. While I was expecting some ribald college romp, this story had a hidden depth to it that made it sincere in its effort to depict what life could be like for two young men in college in this position. I was pleasantly surprised by the content and while it has some angst to it, the ending with how Gabe and Seth had developed both a relationship and a friendship was a pleasant ending.
Title: A Bunch of Roughstock
