Rebuild My Heart by Ariel Tachna

Title: Rebuild My Heart

Series: Lexington Lovers 04 / Dreamspun Desires 75

Author: Ariel Tachna

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (230 pages)

ISBN: 978-1-64405-142-9

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (5th February 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Prime

Blurb: A love built to last.

When Derek Jackson is hired to renovate the LGBT bookstore that’s also Owen Hensley’s home, opposites attract. Derek is a big burly blue-collar guy, about ten years older than slight, sweet, and bookish Owen. As they spend time together, it becomes clear that each handsome outside leads to a beautiful interior. Far from the shy twink he appears, Owen has a rock-solid foundation that helped him put himself through college and start his own business. Behind Derek’s strong façade waits a tender heart that’s been battered by a rough family past—something Owen understands.

After Owen’s runaway nephew lands on his doorstep, it throws a wrench in their plans. Derek can’t ask Owen to choose, but he doesn’t think he can take second place with his lover the way he always has with his family. Can they find a way to keep their romance standing?

Purchase Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Rebuild My Heart is the fourth book in Ariel Tachna’s series Lexington Lovers. For Tachna has been an author whose stories are a bit hit and miss with in terms of me getting into the book and enjoying it. For a while there I kind of stayed away from the author until I started reading Tachna’s contributions to Dreamspun Desires, which includes this book as well. I’ve read the previous books in this series too, and while I don’t remember them exactly, I do remember enjoying them and have given those books positive reviews as well. Still, I went into reading this one with a bit of trepidation.

As I mentioned already, this is the fourth in a series. Luckily, these books also work as standalone books because I could only remember the previous book Stage Two, which I had only read recently. However, for those that do remember we do get to check on some previous characters. For me the most important thing was seeing a lot of more Ben and Thane from Stage Two.

The MCs of Rebuild My Heart are Derek Jackson and Owen Hensley. Owen is a quiet enough guy who loves books. He runs his own book store, which has a heavy focus on LGBTQ authors. He puts his heart and soul into his business and is ready to expand his store.

Then, we meet Derek. Derek’s best friend/boss/business partner asks Derek to meet a new client who wants to renovate his business. Where Owen is soft spoken and kind hearted, Derek is strong, burly, brash but with a heart of gold.

There is an immediate connection between the two men and Derek throws himself enthusiastically into Derek’s renovation. The guys seem to guy fall into a relationship that is completely natural for them. It doesn’t feel forced, its quite cute, which is great since we’re really dealing with an instalove type of romance here.

However, Derek has his own personal demons, mostly shaped by a complicated family but complete love for his brother. Similarly, same with Owen. While Derek has a horrible stepmother who torments her stepsons, Owen comes from a religious (cult?) family who refuse any communication because he is gay. This adds to the relationship and how the guys deal to fall in love. Things get even more complicated when one of Owen’s nephews runs away because he can’t deal with the family’s religious cult-like beliefs. Owen, being Owen, takes it all in his stride but with his relationship with Derek so new he doesn’t know how to handle and Derek has his own reservations.

These guys actually made me think of another lovable couple from a completely different author and series, Casey and Hal from Carol Lynne’s Cattle Valley series. I’m not sure if that’s a popular call back for other readers, but I make this comparison because Derek and Owen are basically polar opposites that are made for each other. Their characters are well developed and totally relatable.

Even though they are so different it is easy to see why and how they fit so well together. The only thing that really annoyed me is the good old miscommunication to bring the story forward, I found it a little frustrating but ultimately it was forgiven because it wasn’t made into a needless melodrama. These are just normal guys and they had to work through a lot to make it to the end with a HEA.

Something About Harry by Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna

Title: Something About Harry

Series: Hot Cargo 03

Author: Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novella (82pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (January 26, 2011)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: A Hot Cargo Story

Desperate for an edge in the war against the Gavenelians that will keep the Confederation from losing as many ships to the sadistic aliens as they destroy, Sasha Dmitrov contacts the space pirate he knows only as Harry, hoping the mysterious engineer will be able to pull off one more miracle. Having been warned of Harry’s disdain for the Confederation, Sasha is prepared for Harry to tell him to jump out an airlock without a space suit. The last thing he expects is an invitation to Nicodemus Vector, Harry’s shielded planetoid. What Sasha discovers is an Andromedite empath who sees far too deeply into his soul.

As they race against time for a breakthrough that will tip the scales in their favor, Sasha finds himself more and more attracted to the reclusive mercenary. But duty calls, and Sasha has a war to win before he can even think about returning to Harry’s side—assuming that either of them will risk opening himself to the other’s empathic touch.

Read about Peter and Blaise in Hot Cargo and about Ryan and Juo in Healing in His Wings.

ISBN-13: 978-1-61581-781-8

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Sasha has Bliase get in contact with Harry, a reclusive creature highly intelligent, to get a leg up on the war. What he discovers upon meeting the man is an intriguing and highly attractive being. The two hit it off and create astounding chemistry together.

I have to say all in all I was disappointed with this series. If you’re looking for hot sex and romance this is the series for you. If you’re looking for a combo of romance, suspense and action this series was lacking in the action and suspense. There was a serious lack of details in each book. It seemed as though those were glanced over in favor of the physical and romance aspects of the book.

O.k. read for me.

Hot cargo by Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna

Title: Hot Cargo

Series: Hot Cargo 02

Author: Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna

Genre: BDSM, Science Fiction

Length: Novel (294pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (February 2, 2009)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: Captured and accused of piracy, privateer Blaise Risner, captain of the Golden Stallion, finds himself in a clinch – literally – with Confederation Admiral Peter Keller, who promises to see justice done by way of hard labor. But when the chemistry between them rivals the heat of the twin Talixin suns, the dominant admiral decides he wants to handle the rehabilitation of the provocative pirate himself. After their first close encounter, Blaise figures that serving Keller in such a personal capacity won’t be such a terrible sentence.

Keller dispenses his own forms of painful justice and sensual discipline, which usually involve a not-so-resistant Blaise on his knees bound and determined to give as good as he gets. The privateer can’t deny that suffering the handsome admiral’s punishments makes him burn like the fires of the Horsehead Nebula. Serving in the roles of prisoner and captor defines their ‘relationship’, but no power can stop a shooting star … the star of startling passion that flares every time they touch.

Just when Blaise thinks he can navigate the treacherous asteroid field of emotion to find common ground with Keller, an interstellar war tears them apart. Through it all, Blaise’s desire for his captor stands as tall and strong as the monoliths of Maraven, and he’ll go to the very edge of the galaxy and back if that’s what it takes to crack the ice around the admiral’s heart.

ISBN-13: 978-1-93519-250-3

Product Link: Dreamspinn Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Peter uses his position to use Blaise as he see’s fit which did not sit well with me. Blaise is accused of piracy. Seeing no way out of it he makes a deal with Peter to serve out punishment as he see’s fit.

Peter seemed a bit too aggressive to me. I did not really care for his attitude toward Blaise then all of a sudden he changes his tune.

This story fell flat for me. I wanted to like it but could not due to Peter as I did not care for him as a character at all.

O.k. read.

Healing In His Wings by Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna (2nd edition)

Title: Healing In His Wings (2nd edition)

Series: Hot Cargo 01

Author: Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novella (123pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (April 28, 2010)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3 1/2 Hearts

Blurb: A Hot Cargo Story

When the Starfire is struck by a mysterious and deadly plague, the captain and crew have no choice but to throw themselves on the mercy of the healers of a nearby, uncharted planet. First Officer Ryan Nelson accompanies the sickest patients to the planet’s surface, where he is put under the supervision of Juo-ta-ri, an apprentice to one of the healers who is helping the crew. The two have barely begun to explore the chemistry between them when Ryan’s body betrays him and he falls ill as well. Now it’s a race against time to see if Juo can bring the fever down before Ryan’s hallucinations kill him.

First Edition published in the Dreamspinner Press anthology Size Matters.

ISBN-13: 978-1-61581-408-4

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: The ship Ryan is on is struck by a deadly plague. They contact an unknown planet and ask for help. The angel beings on the planet agree to help and collect the sick to care for. Juo is a healer and takes Ryan in when he comes along with the sick. The two grow closer together but Ryan comes down with the plague.

While I liked the overall story I was honestly expecting more explanations about the disease and where it comes from plus the actual treatment of the crew but the story focused on Juo and Ryan. It felt more like a regular contemporary story to me.

It was an o.k. read.

A Matchless Man by Ariel Tachna ~ Audiobook

Title: A Matchless Man

Series: Dreamspun Desires 19

Author: Ariel Tachna

Genre: Contemporary

Narrator: John Solo

Length: 5 hrs 22 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (6^th October 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Narration: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: Lexington Lovers – None of the matches caught his eye as much as the matchmaker himself.

Growing up poorer than poor didn’t leave Navashen Bhattathiri many options for life outside of school. All of his concentration was on keeping his scholarships. Sixteen years later, he’s fulfilled his dream and become a doctor. Now he’s returning home to Lexington and is ready to prove himself to the world. In doing so, he reconnects with Brent Carpenter – high school classmate, real estate agent, all-around great guy, and closet matchmaker.

Brent makes it his mission to help Navashen develop a social life and meet available, interesting men. Unfortunately Navashen’s schedule is unpredictable, and few of those available, interesting men value his dedication like Brent does. Brent’s unfailing friendship and support convince Navashen he’s the one, but can he capture Brent’s heart when the matchmaker is focused on finding Navashen another man?

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Gigi

Review: Slow and sweet! Filled with moments that stress how very important family, career and friendship is. A Matchless Man takes a nice slow stroll with Navashen through the transition from wrapping up a long medical education to relocating back home to the family and community of his youth to settle into his career, rejoin his family, help his brother bloom, and hopefully start lasting relationship of his own.

There is a lengthy bit about what it’s like to buy a house, and the whole real estate bit gets long even though Navi has his eye on Brent, his realtor, long-time friend, match-maker and crush. Maybe I’m alone in this, but there is nothing sexy about moving and finding a house, it’s actually very stressful, but Brent makes the move as smooth as possible.

There is a significant amount of time spent on family, what it’s like to be the son of immigrant parents, and what it’s like to raise and live with a brother with disabilities. IT’s very heart-warming and sweet, a kind, mellow read.

A long slow burn from realtor, to friend, to matchmaker and finally can romance blossom here???? If a spark does unite can it last? You’ll have to listen and find out!

The narrator does a good job making the story flow smoothly, though he makes Brent sound a lot like a slick salesman…it’s odd.

Revelations by Ariel Tachna

Title: Revelations

Series: Prequel to Talking in Code

Author: Ariel Tachna

Genre: Contemporary, Free Fiction, M/M/M or More

Length: Short (39 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (June 14, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.75 Hearts

Blurb: Spanning the six years before the events of Talking in Code, this collection of short stories recounts highlights of how Richard, Tim, and Eric fell in love—and into bed. These seven tales reveal the early adventures of the two former Navy SEALs, an expert sniper, and their paramilitary organization, Strike Force Omega. Between dangerous missions and their aftermath, the three men find time to explore the limits of their relationship and what it might become, whether it’s blistering physical passion or something with the potential to run much deeper—something that will see them through their most difficult battles.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-524-8

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/revelations-by-ariel-tachna-8567-b

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: A collection of short stories that highlight certain events that chronicle when Richard, Tim and Eric take notice of each other and begin their relationship. Each story is about five pages long so it starts right at each scene as opposed to a long drawn out scene.

Good read.

Talking In Code by Ariel Tachna

Title: Talking in Code

Series: Talking In Code 01

Author: Ariel Tachna

Genre: Contemporary, Ménage

Length: Novel (256 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (March 6, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Some things crumble under pressure. Others are tempered by it instead. For three former soldiers, a tragedy might be the catalyst that binds them together—stronger than ever.

Richard Horn and Timothy Davenport met in the SEALs twenty years ago and have been lovers ever since. Now running their own paramilitary organization, Strike Force Omega, they work in the shadows to protect their country and its people. When Tim falls for Eric Newton, a deadly sniper and strategist on their team, Richard accepts that Tim’s heart is big enough for two men. He respects, admires, and even desires Eric enough to accept him into their relationship—and their bed—but he’s never been fully a part of what Eric and Tim share.

Then Eric is captured by terrorists and Tim is gravely injured in an op gone wrong, bringing Richard’s world crashing down around his ears. Even if he gets his men out alive, Eric must face the aftermath of months of physical and psychological torture—and without Tim to lean on, Eric’s PTSD is tearing him apart. Richard has to figure out the third leg of their triangle fast, or Tim won’t have a life to come back to.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63533-443-2

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/talking-in-code-by-ariel-tachna-8253-b

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I really did not know what to think about this story. On the one hand it starts out that Eric is captured and tortured while on a mission. Timothy goes to take care of business on still another mission and ends up seriously hurt. He is out of commission for most of the book so the story centers on Richard and Eric’s relationship.

We have three strong men, two of who have been injured, and one who is trying to hold them all together until they recuperate. You would think after four years Richard would know Eric better than he did in the story. It confused me that he did not know how to comfort his own partner in his time of need. It was almost as if they were just starting their relationship.

Never-the-less it was a well written riveting tale of three men who struggle in the face of relationship issues and personal injuries to overcome the odds and come out stronger than they were.

Great read.

Unstable Stud by Ariel Tachna ~ Audiobook

Title: Unstable Stud

Series: Dreamspun Desires 08 / Lexington Lovers 01

Author: Ariel Tachna

Genre: Candy Sweet Contemporary Bromance

Narrator: John Solo

Length: 4 hrs 48 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (29^th April 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Narration: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Horses were his passion, until he laid eyes on his boss.

Eighteen months ago, tragedy struck Bywater Farm when a riding accident killed Clay Hunter’s lover and traumatized his prize horse, King of Hearts. Clay and King lingered in limbo, surviving but not really living, until a breath of fresh air in the form of Luke Davis, a new groom in the stud barn, revives them both.

When a fall from King’s back sends Luke to the emergency room, Clay watches the shaky foundation of their budding relationship tumble down. Can Clay really love a jockey again, or will his fear of losing another man he loves keep them apart for good?

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Gigi

Review: I always enjoy big hot studs and their trainers too. This book is full of cotton candy sweet romance. It’s fun to see Luke’s adventure into learning to gain a broken horses trust, and handle what other’s had deemed a dangerous horse to the point of riding him. Learning to handle his owner could be just as trying.

There is a smidge of angst here, dealing with a lost love, a dead mother, and two souls daring to love, but it’s mild. As far as the steamy scenes, it’s very slow, and very timid, and oh so sweet. I actually think, though I feel SO very wrong for saying it, that the hottest scene was actually near the beginning, where Luke’s imagination gets away with him when King is performing his stud service, and his new boss Clay is nearby. It’s totally weird, strange, but oddly hot. Not quite sure why, but that scene stuck with me. I imagined Lay riding Luke in the arena after that, but alas, this is not a kinky story.

This is a slow build to a sweet romance, of the untried virgin variety, but knowing that, if you’re looking for a sweet love story then that’s what Tachna delivers, beautifully narrated, with plenty of interesting characters.

Talking In Code by Ariel Tachna Blog Tour, Guest Post & Ficlet, & Giveaway!

Hiya guys, we have Ariel Tachna popping in today with the blog tour for her upcoming release Talking in Code, we have a fantastic guest post from Ariel where she shares a ficlet and we have two awesome giveaways, so check out the post and leave a comment to enter the ebook giveaway and share the post to enter the paperback giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~

Talking in Code

(Talking in Code 01)

Ariel Tachna

Some things crumble under pressure. Others are tempered by it instead. For three former soldiers, a tragedy might be the catalyst that binds them together—stronger than ever.

Release date: 6th March 2017

Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback

Continue reading “Talking In Code by Ariel Tachna Blog Tour, Guest Post & Ficlet, & Giveaway!” →

Popcorn Garlands by Ariel Tachna (Bah Humbug Giveaway!)

Title: Popcorn Garlands

Series: Dreamspinner Press 2016 Advent Calendar Bah Humbug.

Author: Ariel Tachna

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Length: Short Story (26 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (11^th December 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥ 2 Hearts

Blurb: Carlos Mendez spends all year working hard at his Houston-based landscaping business, and he sends every spare penny he earns back to his family in Mexico. By the time the holidays roll around, he doesn’t have much patience for the unadulterated greed and consumerism paraded past him. But a chance meeting with his neighbor, Ned Williams, and Ned’s cancer-stricken daughter, might help to remind him of the real meaning of the season—something beyond the gaudy lights and extravagant displays—something he wants to be a part of.

ISBN: 9781635331738

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/popcorn-garlands-by-ariel-tachna-7967-b

Reviewer: Veronica

Review: Carlos Mendez considers himself a Scrooge. He hates Christmas because people use the Holidays for more of the receiving of Gifts than what it’s meant to be. The Love, Charity and the Selfless acts that people give to others.

He meets his new next-door neighbor Ned and his 5-year-old daughter after he sees the type of Christmas decoration that he has up. Carlos sees the struggle Ned is going through to put a smile on his sick daughter’s face. Carlos sets out to help them both any way that he can, so they can both enjoy Christmas.

1st prize $100 DSP credits!
2nd prize $50 DSP credits!
3rd prize $25 DSP credits!
4th prize $25 DSP credits!

Pixie’s Question!

In which country does Santa have his own personal postcode HOH OHO?

(Just leave a comment with the answer on this post)

MMGBR Bah Humbug Giveaway!

(Winners will be picked by a dart on 1st January 2017)

Stronghold by Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna Guest Post & Excerpt!

Nickie Bennett & Ariel Tachna - Stronghold Banner

Hi guys, we have Nicki Bennet & Ariel Tachna popping in today with their upcoming re-release Stronghold, we have a brilliant guest post and a great excerpt, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Stronghold

(All For Love 03)

Nickie Bennett & Ariel Tachna

“Are you surprised that strength is drawn to strength?”

For the last six years, the gypsy healer Raúl has lived a life he never dreamed possible. Gerrard Hawkins has stood at his side, his love a source of silent strength like nothing Raúl has ever known.

When a letter from Gerrard’s estranged father forces them in separate directions—Gerrard back to England to make peace with his family and Raúl to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer for his annual pilgrimage—Raúl expects to suffer for their parting, but he holds on to their plans to meet again in France when Gerrard has satisfied his father’s demands.

Gerrard left England never expecting to return, especially after he pledged his life and love to Raúl. Yet he cannot dismiss his father’s offer of peace without some acknowledgment. When he arrives in England to find tragedy, his sense of duty toward his family’s tenants wars with his promises to Raúl.

As tensions mount and illness spreads in France, Raúl stands as a bastion of hope, but his strength is not limitless. Gerrard is the rock he leans on, and without that strength, Gerrard’s arrival in France may come too late.

Release date: 28th November

2016 Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback

Continue reading “Stronghold by Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna Guest Post & Excerpt!” →

Bah Humbug MM Good Book Reviews Giveaway Coming Soon!

Hey everyone! I’m just here today to give you the heads up for MM Good Book Reviews upcoming month long giveaway which starts on the 1st December 2016.

MM Good Book Reviews has asked each of the Bah Humbug Advent Calendar authors to submit a question which you readers will be able to answer. And most of them agreed! So throughout the month of December EVERY DAY we’ll have a review from the Bah Humbug Advent and the books author will ask a question… all you have to do is to answer the question in the comments for that review.

What will you win? Well I’m feeling very generous this year so MM Good Book Reviews has the most AMAZING prizes… especially for those of you who will be feeling the pennies pinching in the New Year! 4th & 3rd prizes are $25 Dreamspinner Press Credits, 2nd prize will be $50 Dreamspinner Press Credits and 1st prize is an astounding $100 Dreamspinner Press Credits!

I know you’re thinking ‘what’s the catch’. Let me assure you there’s no catch whatsoever other than needing a Dreamspinner Press account if you win, oh and needing to get the answers correct 😉

The best thing about the giveaway is… there’s 31 chances to win! Yep if you comment on every Bah Humbug review with the correct answers then your name will be pinned 31 times to the corkboard (darts! It’s gonna be so fun on New Years Day) if you get 26 correct answers then your name will be pinned 26 times on the corkboard, easy.

And while it would be nice if you visited us every day in December you don’t have to, that’s right you could just visit once a week or if you’re really pushed for time then just once on the 31st Dec, I’ll be creating a page with all the links to the reviews and questions so you won’t have to miss any 🙂

So guys why don’t you nip over to Dreamspinner Press, check out the Bah Humbug Advent and take a look at the stories that have made me feel super generous this year <3

Don’t forget the MM Good Book Reviews Bah Humbug Giveaway starts on the 1st December!

Lots of huggles & snuggles ~Pixie~

Bah Humbug

There’s always that one guy for whom the holiday season is anything but jolly. It’s a bother, a trial, or in a few cases, a downright misery, but in the end, the holidays bring hope, love, and cheer to even the darkest of days. What else but love would get Scrooge willingly under the mistletoe?

Holiday reading fun! A story delivered automatically to your bookshelf each day in December. More than 400,000 words of romantic fiction in 31 stories that would sell individually for a total of $85.69. Buy the package early and save:

November* – $49.99

*Sale of packages for daily delivery ends Nov. 25.

Beginning December 1, stories will be available individually as priced or as a bulk package for $64.99.

Dreamspinner Press

A Matchless Man by Ariel Tachna

Title: A Matchless Man

Series: Dreamspun Desire 19 / Lexington Lovers 02

Author: Ariel Tachna

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (165pgs)

ISBN: 978-1-63477-370-6

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (1^st October 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: None of the matches caught his eye as much as the matchmaker himself.

Growing up poorer than poor didn’t leave Navashen Bhattathiri many options for life outside of school. All of his concentration was on keeping his scholarships. Sixteen years later, he’s fulfilled his dream and become a doctor. Now he’s returning home to Lexington and is ready to prove himself to the world. In doing so, he reconnects with Brent Carpenter—high school classmate, real estate agent, all-around great guy… and closet matchmaker.

Purchase Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/a-matchless-man-by-ariel-tachna-7492-b

Review: When Navashen moves back to Lexington, where he grew up, his first point of contact is Brent an old school classmate and real estate agent. Brent is keen to make Navashen feel welcome and sets about helping Navashen find a social life that doesn’t revolve around his work, and maybe helping him to find a man to spend time with.

Navashen is just happy to spend time with Brent and he loves the way that Brent treats his younger brother and wishes Brent would look his way for more than just friendship. When Navashen finally gets the courage to ask Brent out things start to look up, until Brent overhears Navashen’s mother and Brent’s insecurities take over,

This is a cute little story of friends to lovers, but I wouldn’t say it actually fit in with the Dreamspun Desire line; it missed its mark for being a romance as there really wasn’t any and I couldn’t feel any romantic connection between Navashen and Brent. Maybe if we also got Brent’s view point I could have seen his true feelings for Navashen but almost from the moment Navashen moved back to Lexington Brent seemed determined to hook him up with someone else.

Navashen does show his feelings for Brent in a subdued fashion, he just doesn’t think that Brent would be interested in him, so it’s actually through Navashen’s frustration that he and Brent get together and we learn that Brent felt the same way. We then have the hiccup with Brent’s insecurities and again it’s Navashen who has to make the effort, it was frustrating for me as a reader not to be able to smack Brent for being such a dickweed.

While I liked Navashen and Brent as characters it’s actually Akshat (Navashen’s younger brother) that steals the show, he is so amazingly sweet and loving and it’s wonderful to see his progress through the story as he finds his independence with Navashen’s help. So while I don’t rate this story very high for the actually ‘romance’ I do rate it highly for Navashen and Akshat and their brotherly relationship.

All for One by Nickie Bennett & Ariel Tachna Guest Post & Excerpt!

nicki-bennett-and-ariel-tachna-all-for-one-fbbanner_dsp

Hi guys, we have Nicki Bennet & Ariel Tachna popping in today with their upcoming re-release All for One, we have a brilliant guest post and a great excerpt, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

All for One

(All for Love 02)

Nickie Bennett & Ariel Tachna

Aristide, Léandre, and Perrin pledge only three loyalties in life: their king, their captain, and their passion for each other. So when the musketeers discover a plan to accuse M. de Tréville of treason, the initial impulse to kill the messenger, Benoît, is tempered by their need to unmask the plotter. But their first two suspects, the English ambassador and Cardinal Richelieu, prove to be innocent, forcing the musketeers to delve deeper into the inner machinations of the French court.

Meanwhile, Aristide finds himself falling in love with the ill-fated messenger, a blacksmith without a home who rouses all of his protective, possessive instincts. Benoît, however, has no interest in any man. Torn between desire and duty, Aristide must find a way to protect the king and clear his captain’s name—all while heeding the demands of his heart.

Release date: 23rd September 2016

Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback

Continue reading “All for One by Nickie Bennett & Ariel Tachna Guest Post & Excerpt!” →

Checkmate by Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna Guest Posts & Excerpt!

Nicki Bennett and Ariel Tachna - Checkmate Banner

Hiya peeps, we have Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna stopping by today with their upcoming re-release Checkmate, we have a brilliant guest post from both Nicki & Ariel where they chat of having one brain between them… er sharing a brain & writing together, and there’s a great excerpt. So check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Checkmate

(All for One 01)

Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna

When sword-for-hire Teodoro Ciéza de Vivar accepts a commission to “rescue” Lord Christian Blackwood from unsuitable influences, he has no idea he’s landed himself in the middle of a plot to assassinate King Philip IV of Spain and blame the English ambassador for the deed. Nor does he expect the spoiled child he’s sent to retrieve to be a handsome, engaging young man.

As Teodoro and Christian face down enemies at every turn, they fall more and more in love, an emotion they can’t safely indulge with the threat of the Inquisition looming over them. It will take all their combined guile and influence to outmaneuver the powerful men who would see them separated… or even killed.

Release Date: 25th July 2016

Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback

Continue reading “Checkmate by Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna Guest Posts & Excerpt!” →

Unstable Stud by Ariel Tachna

Title: Unstable Stud

Series: Dreamspun Desires/ Lexington Lovers, #1

Author: Ariel Tachna

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 204 pages

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (April 15, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Horses were his passion, until he laid eyes on his boss.

ISBN: 978-1-63476-854-2

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7587

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: First off, these stories are ones that I don’t normally read, but let me tell you that, I am damn glad I did. The world that this author created not only fascinated me, but kept my attention through it all. So much so that I could not put the book down and I can guarantee that this will be one book that I will gladly read more than once.

The characters are perfectly written and the details were amazing. I could feel the pain both of these men felt for what had happened in their lives and the love that they both found with each other. This story was fully developed and there was so much story there that I was amazed that it wasn’t longer. I loved the cover to the story and it made me wish for a dream that has gone, but gives me a thrill to be able to read someone else’s love story.

Luke’s mother passed away two years ago and he was still trying to pay all of the bills off. He couldn’t afford to get a real education so he spent his time cleaning out stalls and grooming horses. That is until one particular horse caught his attention. He learned that the beautiful horse had lost his spirit when his rider was killed in a jump. He wanted to help King and possibly King’s owner.

Clay had loved Nick with everything in him, so when Nick was killed in a jump he felt like he had lost his heart. He had lost more than just Nick though. He lost the will to ride. It wasn’t until he saw Luke with King that he realized he might just have found his heart once more. That is until Luke falls, and then Clay remembers the pain from losing Nick. He didn’t want to lose another person he loved.

I absolutely fell in love with this story and can’t wait to get my hands on the next story. I loved that even though the guys had past pain’s, they saw a future with each other.

Every once in a while you find an author who writes a book because their heart says so instead of just for money, and this author is one of those. I could feel her heart put into this story just as I felt the love between these men.

I loved reading this story and would definitely recommend it.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Unstable Studs by Ariel Tachna Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Hi peeps, we have Ariel Tachna stopping by with her upcoming Dreamspun Desires/ Lexington Lovers release Unstable Stud, Ariel chats about tropes, she lets us have a peek at an excerpt and there’s a fantastic giveaway, so enjoy the post and leave a comment to enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~

Unstable Studs

(Dreamspun Desires/ Lexington Lovers 01)

Ariel Tachna

Horses were his passion, until he laid eyes on his boss.

Release date: 15th April 2016

Pre-Order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback

Continue reading “Unstable Studs by Ariel Tachna Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!” →

At Your Service by Ariel Tachna

Title: At Your Service
Series: N/A
Author: Ariel Tachna
Genre: Contemporary
Length: 206 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (March 14, 2016)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: When Anthony Mercer walked into Au cœur du terroir, he was looking for good food and a pleasant evening spent with a friend. He never expected to meet—and sleep with—Paul Delescluse, a waiter at the restaurant. After spending a magical week together in Paris, Anthony must return to his life in North Carolina, while Paul remains in France.

Paul is thrilled to have him back, but Anthony has a harder choice: be another of Paul’s conquests or fight for the relationship he knows they could have, if only Paul would believe it.

ISBN: 978-1-63476-852-8

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7500

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This is the first boo that I have read by this author and I have to say that I love the way this author not only put together this book that not only fascinates you but draws you in. I had a blast reading this and look forward to reading more by this author. The characters are beautifully written with big hearts and you can’t help but falling in love. Although I have never really been interested in books that are placed somewhere else, this one totally rocked.

Anthony and his boss were in Paris enjoying the city ad looking at books. It has been a long day and both had needed to take a break. Anthony was just expecting good food and a nice talk with his friend, not the sexy waiter. It had been awhile but damn the man not only turned him on but had him wishing for more. Then he had decided to stay in Paris only to find out that Paul didn’t want a committment. Their friendship would have to be enough but Anthony was falling in love.

Paul wanted Anthony from the moment he saw him, but had a few problems. He wanted the sex but not the relationship. He always itched when he wanted it, but he knew that if he wanted the man he had to find away through his problems. He had to show Anthony that he wanted him for more than just a friend.

I had a blast reading it and I can’t wait to read the next story.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

At Your Service by Ariel Tachna Guest Post & Giveaway!

Hi peeps, we have the extremely talented Ariel Tachna stopping by with her upcoming release At Your Service, we have a fantastic guest post and an awesome giveaway so enjoy the post and leave a comment to enter the giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~

At Your Service

Ariel Tachna

When Anthony Mercer walked into Au cœur du terroir, he was looking for good food and a pleasant evening spent with a friend. He never expected to meet—and sleep with—Paul Delescluse, a waiter at the restaurant. After spending a magical week together in Paris, Anthony must return to his life in North Carolina, while Paul remains in France.

Despite the distance and the lack of promises between them—Paul wants sex, not a relationship—Paul and Anthony forge a solid friendship. Then Anthony’s job takes him back to Paris, this time to stay. Paul is thrilled to have him back, but Anthony has a harder choice: be another of Paul’s conquests or fight for the relationship he knows they could have, if only Paul would believe it.

Release date:14th March 2016

Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ebook | Dreamspinner Press paperback

Continue reading “At Your Service by Ariel Tachna Guest Post & Giveaway!” →

Home for Chirappu by Ariel Tachna

Title: Home for Chirappu
Series: Dreamspinner Press’ 2014 Advent Calendar: Celebrate
Author: Ariel Tachna
Genre: Paranormal
Length: Novella (53 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Blurb: Nikhilesh (Nik) Sharma hasn’t been home to Alappuzha, India, since he came out to his family ten years ago. Now that his relationship with them is less strained, he’s bringing his boyfriend Trent along to celebrate the winter holidays. As excited as he is to see everyone again, he worries the foreign culture, religious differences, and disapproval might shock Trent.

At the same time, Trent worries Nik’s big, close-knit family won’t accept an American—much less a man—as Nik’s partner and that his presence will impede the otherwise happy reunion. Whether the trip leads to misunderstandings that will drive them apart or to a new understanding that will draw them closer than ever, it’s sure to be an experience they’ll never forget.

A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2014 Advent Calendar package “Celebrate!”.

ISBN: 978-1-63216-737-8

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5833

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I really didn’t know what I was expecting with this one and I was too lazy to look up what “chirappu” is. This is a contemporary tale about Nik (really Nikhelish) and Trent, travelling to India where Trent is to meet Nik’s family. The inclusion of a glossary at the end of the story on some of the Indian terms is great.

This story is packed with description of Trent and Nik’s surrounds in India, along with all the Indian food (makes me want to eat Indian food or perhaps even watch a Bollywood movie!). The story itself is a fascinating look at the overwhelming idea of meeting an entire family at one celebration.

I’m not sure how liberal India is in terms of homosexuality but from the start I did wonder how Nik’s family would act, besides his awesome favourite aunty (I’m sure we all got one of those) and one of Nik’s sisters. But there is a nice explanation as to some of Nik’s history with his family, given to Trent by the favourite Aunty. Nik also has a Christian friend (and other neighbours), so there is a jumble of traditions include in this fabulous story.

Trent and Nik are a wonderful couple and play well off each other. The story is very sweet and full of various traditions; it’s nice to see them try to integrate their lives and families. Generally, this is a feel good holiday tale, just perfect for some light Christmas reading.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com*

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Talking in Code

Ariel Tachna

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1st prize $100 DSP credits! 2nd prize $50 DSP credits! 3rd prize $25 DSP credits! 4th prize $25 DSP credits!

Pixie’s Question!

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Stronghold

Nickie Bennett & Ariel Tachna

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Bah Humbug

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All for One

Nickie Bennett & Ariel Tachna

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Checkmate

Nicki Bennett & Ariel Tachna

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Unstable Studs

Ariel Tachna

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At Your Service

Ariel Tachna

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1st prize $100 DSP credits!
2nd prize $50 DSP credits!
3rd prize $25 DSP credits!
4th prize $25 DSP credits!