Somebody to Die For by Kris Bethke

Kris T. Bethke - 03 - Somebody To Die For Cover 1Title: Somebody to Die For

Series: Dreamspun Beyond 27 / Requiem Inc. 03

Author: Kris Bethke

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (218 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (4th September 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: Dying is easy. New love is terrifying.

Avery Wagner quit ghostwalking when he lost his beloved anchor to cancer. Now teaching others who have the ability, he’s beginning to live again—but he’s not looking for another lover, not now, maybe not ever.

But then he meets Jameson… younger, talented, dedicated, almost perfect, even though his mouth sometimes opens ahead of his brain. And Jameson wants Avery desperately, though he’ll settle for friendship if he can’t have more.

When an emergency demands they work together in the field, Avery discovers just how perfect Jameson is. But he had a perfect love once before, and he’s scared to even consider that he might have a chance at another. Can he trust Jameson with his newly healing heart?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-537-8

Product Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Somebody to Die For is the third book in Kris Bethke’s Requiem series. I think it’s fair to say that Kris Bethke is a new author that I’d love to read again after going reading three of her novel’s one after the other. I loved the first book and adored the second book. While I would have to say that the second book in the series, Lost Souls Found, was my favorite book, I also loved Somebody to Die For.

The concept of the series is different to what I’ve read in the past. There is a special group of people that work for a company called Requiem Inc. It’s not an ordinary company in that the people are charged solely to ensure that spirits are at peace and do not become malicious entities. There are people, Ghostwalkers, with a special gene which means they can die and come back to life, their body heals with some Wolverine type accelerated healing and as a result they can live up to a couple centuries. Then there are another group of people which have a gene which makes them, essentially, the perfect care giver, called anchors. Each ghostwalker needs to be paired with an anchor so that they can go through the trauma of being killed, helping dead spirits who are usually traumatized, coming back to life, living and doing it all over again.

We met Avery and Jameson in book two, through the eyes of Michael King, the boss of this branch of Requim. Avery Wagner is a broken man. He lost his anchor, and the love of his life, to cancer and ever since Avery has refused to ghostwalk. His anchor went into the light when he died, and no doubt wanted Avery to be happy, no matter what direction his life took. However, Avery is caught in the past and with his baggage. So much so that he fights the prospect of new love and new life.

Between training and a desperate situation requiring all ghostwalkers on deck, Avery has to start the process of facing his demons, so to speak. After being convinced to help with a new ghostwalker and anchor training program, Avery finds himself drawn to a young ghostwalker, Jameson. Jameson is young and idealistic, but he is also strong in every sense of the word. He knows that in order to get his happily ever after, he has to get Avery to realize that he is allowed to open his heart to love again. And somehow, in between all that, they have to contend with a potentially dangerous situation in the spirit realm.

Fans of the previous books will like this one, although I don’t think it’s absolutely essential to understand the background of the world Bethke has created. This is great for anyone who loves paranormal but open to something a little different. At the heart of it all this is a wonderful second chance romance that has a healthy dose of paranormal happenings in the background.

Lost Souls Found by Kris Bethke

Kris T. Bethke - 02 - Lost Souls Found Cover 1 sTitle: Lost Souls Found

Series: Dreamspun Beyond 18 / Requiem Inc. 02

Author: Kris Bethke

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (212 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (17th April 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Dying is all in a day’s work. Love is more dangerous.

Ghostwalker Sam Jones has been half in love with Michael King since he started working at Requiem Inc. But Michael is his boss and a Guardian, to boot. Sam thinks they could make it work anyway, but Michael uses his position and his age to keep Sam at arm’s length.

When Sam continues to volunteer for the most dangerous cases, Michael has to intervene. He tells himself he’s just doing his job, but he’s always seen Sam as more than another operative, and he can’t bear the thought of not taking his chance. The connection between them has been strong from the beginning, and Michael’s telepathy adds unexpected depth and an edge to their new romance, but working together while they try to build their relationship might be the hardest part of their job if they don’t make some sacrifices.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-453-1

Product Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Lost Souls Found is the second book in Kris Bethke’s Requiem Inc. series. After reading the first book in the series, not knowing what to expect and totally satisfied and amazed with what I had got I was really looking forward to more in this series. However, after getting a glimpse into the characters, Sam Jones and his boss Michael King in the first book, which was the romance of Sam’s big brother, I was desperate to get to this one.

The concept of the series is different to what I’ve read in the past. There is a special group of people that work for a company called Requiem Inc. It’s not an ordinary company in that the people are charged solely to ensure that spirits are at peace and do not become malicious entities. There are people, Ghostwalkers, with a special gene which means they can die and come back to life, their body heals with some Wolverine type accelerated healing and as a result they can live up to a couple centuries. Then there are another group of people which have a gene which makes them, essentially, the perfect care giver, called anchors. Each ghostwalker needs to be paired with an anchor so that they can go through the trauma of being killed, helping dead spirits who are usually traumatized, coming back to life, living and doing it all over again.

As I said earlier, I was really excited to read this story because I felt that as secondary characters both Sam and Michael had a lot to say. They had been wonderful compliments to the story, one as the little brother and the other as the boss. Together I knew they were going to be wonderful and I was not disappointed. Sam Jones is a ghostwalker, when it was discovered that his older brother had the ability to be a ghostwalker, he got tested and found out he too could be a ghostwalker. The brothers lost their parents but they still had each other as they became valued members of the largest Requiem team in the country.

Sam has always had a crush on his boss, Michael King. However, Michael forces himself not to give in to any desire that he felt for the younger ghostwalker. He’s a natural anchor, but being the boss for their branch of Requiem, means that Michael oversees killing ghostwalkers before pulling them out of the spirit plane and back to life. He’s also a telepath. Really, all in all, Michael is a complicated man and uses his job to keep Sam away from him romantically because he’s too scared. The usual type of story.

Sam doesn’t want to let go of his feelings for Michael. It’s hard not to feel sorry for the younger man when he starts to take more dangerous missions, with spirit that require more of his attention and potentially dangerous, leaving his body dead for almost too long, because there are dangers associated ghostwalking.

I really loved this story. It is one of those classic unrequited love stories, filled with danger and spirits. It’s a wonderful balance between romance and angst, because lets face, Michael has a lot of baggage to get through. I really enjoyed this novel and I can’t wait to get to the next one!

Ghost of a Chance by Kris Bethke

Title: Ghost of A Chance

Series: Dreamspun Beyond 12 / Requiem Inc. 01

Author: Kris Bethke

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (216 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (16th Januasry 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: Only love makes life worth living—over and over again.

Ghostwalker Blake Jones dies every day. It’s his job and how he helps trapped souls cross over. But to return to life, he needs an anchor. His new partner, Derek Scott, is a surprise. Not only is he male, but his appearance belies a caring and gentle heart. Despite attraction and a strengthening relationship, they know they shouldn’t take things further.

But there’s a big difference between knowing and doing.

Their growing love presents a problem, though not the one they expect. Blake and Derek have to decide if they should take their relationship to the most permanent level—an unbreakable metaphysical bond. Doing so offers both risk and unimaginable reward. Can Blake let go of his fears and put his complete trust in Derek in order to have the happily ever after he’s always craved?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-034-2

Product Link: Dreamspinner | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked up Kris Bethke’s book, part of Dreamspun Desire imprint, Ghost of a Chance. Firstly, I’ve never read anything by the author before. Secondly, reading the blurb I was a little concerned because I had been burned by books that featured “dream walkers” before, but luckily this is nothing like that I just wasn’t understanding the blurb properly when I was reading it. My bad.

Turns out I really loved this book and I was keen to get onto the next two installments in the series.

The concept is different to what I’ve read in the past. There is a special group of people that work for a company called Requiem Inc. It’s not an ordinary company in that the people are charged solely to ensure that spirits are at peace and do not become malicious entities. There are people, Ghostwalkers, with a special gene which means they can die and come back to life, their body heals with some Wolverine type accelerated healing and as a result they can live up to a couple centuries. Then there are another group of people which have a gene which makes them, essentially, the perfect care giver, called anchors. Each ghostwalker needs to be paired with an anchor so that they can go through the trauma of being killed, helping dead spirits who are usually traumatized, coming back to life, living and doing it all over again.

We are introduced into this complicated world by Blake Jones, a ghostwalker who is without an anchor. Despite being gay, or because of being gay, Blake prefers females anchors so that he can’t form a romantic attachment to his anchor. However, his new anchor is a good looking, kind and very male who happens to be a bit of a rarity. Derek Scott possesses the gene to be a natural anchor, which by all accounts is a unique experience for ghostwalkers when under the care of an anchor.

Derek dives into his job as the new anchor for Blake with enough cheer to melt the most bitter, or the most reluctant, of hearts. Which is pretty much Blake. He doesn’t want to get close to Derek, but their chemistry and attraction is off the charts, and Derek is just what Blake needs in his life. Of course, there is always complications when it comes to office romances, but being a paranormal romance this means that there is also the possibility of the guys getting together on a more intimate, literally soul binding level. While Derek is happy to take the plunge, Blake needs a lot more persuasion.

This was a fun and cute story with a good sprinkling of paranormal. I loved the uniqueness of the whole ghostwalker concept. I loved the romance between Derek and Blake, it was a relatively simple love story, the main guts of the story was how the world of Requiem Inc. works. Yes, there is a little angst from Blake’s part but it was definitely vital to making the story a fantastic read.

Falling Into Love by Nell Iris & Kris T Bethke Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Nell Iris & Kris T Bethke - Falling Into Love RBBanner

Hi guys, we have Nell Iris & Kris T. Bethke stopping by today with their new release Falling Into Love, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~

Falling Into Love

(Family Found 01)
by

Nell Iris & Kris T. Bethke

Liam O’Donoughue is happy with his life. He runs V Wilderness Adventures with his best friends, his chosen brothers, and gets to spend his days hiking in the gorgeous Adirondacks. What’s not to love? But when he meets Austin on a hike, he thinks he’s found something he didn’t even know was missing.

Austin Jock is content with his work as a radiology tech and playing bass in a cover band. Someday he wants to find his forever person but doesn’t believe in romantic fireworks and isn’t sure it’ll ever happen. Then Liam comes crashing into his life, igniting sparks. Huge, life-altering sparks.

The connection between the two men is instant, and things move fast. But Austin isn’t sure what to do with everything he’s feeling inside. Can Liam convince him falling in love is the easiest thing in the world?

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Beholden by Kris T. Bethke Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Kris T Bethke - Beholden RBBanner

Hi guys! We have Kris T. Bethke stopping by today with her new release Beholden, we have a great excerpt and a fantastic giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~

Beholden

by

Kris T. Bethke

Julian Thomas made the unpopular decision to become Beholden and focus his magic only on scrying. Because of it, he’s the best at his job and the top scryer for the Department of Extranormal and Magical Affairs. Which is why Investigations Agent Wes Caldwell goes right to Julian for help locating a missing person.

When Wes needs to use his magic to boost Julian’s, they find a magical resonance between them that quickly leads to more. Julian doesn’t want to move too fast, but Wes knows Julian is it for him. He’s fine with waiting, as long as Julian stays close as they work through it.

But then Julian falls ill, and it’s clear there’s a magical reason. Wes will stop at nothing to find out what’s plaguing Julian, and when they realize just how deep the plot goes, they have more questions than answers. Magic is increasing in the world, and no one can figure out why. Julian and Wes have found love, but will it be enough to get them through what’s to come?

Continue reading “Beholden by Kris T. Bethke Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!”

A Timely Gift by Kris T. Bethke

Title: A Timely Gift

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Kris T. Bethke

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 14, 2017)

Length: Short Story (39 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Sometimes the right gift can be life-changing….

On the solstice, Rory’s grandfather gives him a pocket watch that he claims will have Rory’s life sorted and his problems solved by Christmas. Rory starts out skeptical, but when he reconnects with an ex he never thought he’d see again, he has to admit there might be some holiday magic working after all.

Deacon’s life is in shambles, and he’s returned to Syracuse for a fresh start. Running into Rory again feels like much more than a coincidence, and neither of them can deny the passion between them is still smoldering. With the watch behaving oddly at just the right moments, Rory and Deacon might receive the gift of a lifetime—if they’re willing to accept it.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-299-5

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Rory’s grandfather is a very sweet old man. He has decided that Rory needs to start a family. He wants Rory to find the man of his dreams. Rory’s grandfather gave him an old pocket watch that would help him get his life settled. So when his ex shows up, well things heat up. Deacon has lost quite a bit in his life and has came home to start over. When he ran into Rory things look up for him. Gramps is going to get a big head.

This is a sad little story but it has a great ending. I love his grandfather and his way of helping. Although I still have no clue what they were celebrating, it seemed like a lot of fun. I enjoyed reading it although I will admit that it comes off a bit slow paced to me.

It was still fun and I would definitely recommend it.

Hearts and Hazelnuts by Kris T. Bethke Guest Post & Excerpt!

Hi guys! We have Kris T. Bethke stopping by today with her upcoming release Hearts and Hazelnuts, Kris tells us about her inspiration for Hearts and Hazelnuts and we have a great excerpt. So check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Hearts and Hazelnuts

(States of Love 32: Oregon)
by

Kris T. Bethke

Mechanic Jordan Hart is down on his luck, so he gladly accepts a temporary job servicing tractors at a hazelnut farm in Newberg, Oregon. He doesn’t expect to be attracted to his boss, Beckett Shaw. Still working on embracing his bisexuality, he’s reluctant to start anything, but Beckett’s gentle coaxing convinces Jordan to take a risk.

Beckett has vowed not to get involved with anyone until he can restore the Shaw Farms name as a leader in hazelnuts. But there’s no denying his interest in the shy mechanic who shows up at his door. Just as they begin to find a balance, outside forces threaten to tear them apart. Job opportunities force Jordan out of the Portland area he loves so much. But when danger comes too close to Beckett, Jordan must decide if he can follow his heart to the Willamette Valley… and straight back to Beckett.

Release date: 29th November 2017
Pre-order:
Dreamspinner Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Continue reading “Hearts and Hazelnuts by Kris T. Bethke Guest Post & Excerpt!”

His Needs by Kris T. Bethke

Kris T. Bethke - His Needs Cover sTitle: His Needs

Author: Kris T. Bethke

Genre: Contemporary, Holiday 

Length: Novella (113 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 14, 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: When State Trooper Travis Kinslow is injured right before Thanksgiving, the only positive is that for once he won’t be working during the holidays. Since he has no family, Travis was absorbed into his best friend, Joe’s, and he considers them as good as his own. Everyone except Joe’s brother Noah. Travis has been in love with the younger man for much of his life, but he’s always kept his distance.

As an ER nurse, Noah is a caretaker by nature. When his brother’s best friend is hurt, he’s happy to help Travis while he heals. He’s only ever allowed himself to think of Travis as the next best thing to an older brother, but by the light of the Christmas tree, Noah finally sees Travis’s true feelings. And in that moment, everything changes.

When faced with opposition and a Christmas nothing like they imagined, will their hopes for the future be enough to carry them through?

ISBN: 978-1-63477-729-2

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/his-needs-by-kris-t-bethke-7890-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  The first thing I want to say about this story is that the cover was one of the best ones I have come across in a long time.  For me it just shows the heart in the two guys.  Now I have had the pleasure to read a couple of stories by this author but out of those that I have read this is my favorite one, but then again there are more to come.  However I really loved that it was the perfect Christmas story in a way.  

Travis has been in love with Noah for over twenty years.  He has known Noah and his family since he was a small child, when he needs a safe haven to heal from his physical as well as mental injuries caused by his family.  Noah’s mother considered him one of hers.

Noah has always wanted Travis but never thought he could since he was the little brother in the family.  It wasn’t until Travis was injured that he saw the love the man had for him there.  Now all they had to do is to tell the family, or not.  Wonder what mama is going to say, well you will just have to read the story.

I got a kick out of this and Mama really needed a smack at Christmas time.  However I can understand the feeling that comes from change.  Hard to deal with it sometimes.  This story was full of heart and joy, not to mention some hot sex.  I loved reading it and can honestly say that it is one that will be read for many Christmas to come.

Love Wins ~ Anthology

Anthology - Love Wins CoverTitle: Love Wins

Series: Anthology

Author: Lucie Archer, Kris T. Bethke, Deja Black, M.A. Chruch, David C. Dawson, Jana Denardo, Nicole Dennis, Ravon Silvius, L.A. Marrill, Grace R. Duncan, Xenia Melzer, Jude Dunn, Julie Lynn Hayes, Tray Ellis, Troy Storm, Alicia Nordwell, Renee Stevens

Genre: Paranormal, Holiday, Contemporary, Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy 

Length: Novel (330 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 12, 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts (Combined)

Blurb:  With time comes healing, but Orlando and the LGBT community are still recovering from last June’s tragedy. To show our ongoing support for those affected by the Orlando shooting, our authors, editors, artists, and staff have volunteered their talents to create this second benefit anthology. All proceeds will be donated to LGBT organizations in central Florida. Join us as we reaffirm that no matter the obstacle, love always wins.

ISBN:  978-1-63533-429-6

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/love-wins-7898-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I think that this was one hell of a perfect gift in my eyes.  The proceeds are going to be given to the LGBT in Florida after the tragic shooting in June. It was an amazing book and for the perfect reason.  I do admit though I just couldn’t read the ones with females in them because I don’t do girly parts at all.  However the hot men in this book made up for the girly parts in spares.  

Abstract Heart by Lucie Archer ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Nick spends nearly every lunch break at the modern art museum, hoping to catch a glimpse of docent Kris. Kris has noticed the cute guy hanging around the exhibits too but never manages to approach him. It will take a matchmaking security guard to bring these two introverts together.

Thank god for friends because if it was left up to these two they wouldn’t get past hello and you can definitely see the heat between them.  It is a very cute little story about finding that one person you want to be with.  

Cats and Christmas Trees: Trouble Waiting to Happen by M.A. Church ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

What’s a half human to do when Christmas rolls around? Kirk tries ignores it, but his shifter mates Tal and Dolf, being sneaky kitties, persist in finding out what’s troubling him so they can make it better.

This was the perfect Christmas story for my favorite shifters.  I love how this author just makes these two cats, well like cats.  When I received this anthology I had not even realized that this story had been included and let’s just say I jumped for joy.  Tal is the perfect omega and Dolf is the perfect alpha, then you add in Kirk and you have got one hell of a threesome.  

A Chance for Hope by Deja Black ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

In the aftermath of tragedy, freelance writer Brad Truscott is drawn to ease Paul Bachman’s grief. But will Paul ever be ready to take another chance on happiness?

I think that this story will hit closer to home for those who suffered from this loss the most.  It shows the heartache, but it also shows hope.  A second chance at love and the tenderness found in each other.  I enjoyed reading it.

Changing Things by Nicole Dennis ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Despite his allergies, Ryan puts up with the two rescue cats his boyfriend, Seth, adores. But when an especially severe asthma attack sends Ryan to the hospital, Seth realizes something has to give—either his relationship with Ryan or his guardianship of Fili and Kili.

This was a cute little story that was a blast to read.  I think Seth picked the right choice also, but you really need to read it because I am not telling.  I enjoyed reading it though. 

Especially in Orlando by Troy Storm ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

When bighearted mover Dalton is hired to haul away a hot young guy’s belongings after a breakup, he can’t help returning to see how the good-looking older man is dealing with the transition. George is happy to take Dalton up on his offer of solace. But then George’s ex, Peter—aka Mr. Prissy Pout—has second thoughts, and while George isn’t interested in taking him back, he and Dalton are willing to share their experience—and more.

Now this one was more sexual then actually fun to me.  I didn’t much care for it but then that is me.  I hate to admit that I basically skimmed over the story and read parts of it.  Which for me was a bad thing because it just gave me an eye of what was going on.  

Free to Love by Kris T. Bethke ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Henry is tired of hiding their relationship, but Shane is afraid to risk losing his job and his parents by coming out as gay. When his worst fears prove true, Shane finds that life outside his parents’ repressive control is so much better than anything he could have imagined.

Parents can be just as cruel as a stranger it would seem.  I felt bad for Shane but the end result rocks.  I enjoyed reading this story and will definitely be checking for these guys to have a longer story in the future, with more juicy details.

Happily Ever After, After All by L.A. Merrill ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Once upon a time, Princess Aubergine dreamed of a fairy-tale wedding to the girl of her dreams. Things haven’t exactly worked out that way. Locked in a tower for ten years, Aubergine managed to scare off all the princes coming to rescue her. Now it’s up to her to do the rescuing—until a band of students from the local Ladies’ Academy happen upon her tower and devise a daring escape plan.

Now the story is a fantastic story, however I hate female characters so the story didn’t do anything for me.  I hate to admit that I just skimmed it and didn’t really read it.  When I received it I was told it was m/m or m/m/m romance so to my shock this came up and well you can guess.  

The Importance of Pride by Ravon Silvius ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

College history professor Patrick Levine is looking for a subject for a research proposal when he discovers his granduncle’s journal. To his shock, not only was Uncle Marty gay, but he’d been at the Stonewall riot in 1969. Will learning more about his uncle’s history help Patrick face his own fears about coming out?

I just can’t imagine what his uncle went through to get where we are now.  It is still a fight for the LGBT to be considered equal and I fear what the future will be like.  This is a very sweet story of a young man who is not out but finds out that his uncle was a true believer.  I don’t know if I said any of this right, but I will tell you that this was an inspiring story.

The Insomniac Sommelier by Julie Lynn Hayes ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Kirk Westmoreland dreams of owning his own restaurant someday, but for now he fights insomnia while working at family-owned Venezia with his control-freak older brother. After work he tries to de-stress at Sweeties, a small diner run by his sister and her wife. When Kirk meets the diner’s new server, Ashley, he ends up going home with him—to the best sleep he’s had in forever. If he can’t keep his life at Sweeties compartmentalized from his life at Venezia, Kirk will have to decide which one he’s willing to give up.

I definitely can understand insomnia.  This is a really cute little story if not a bit off, but was still a fun little story.  I just felt like it wasn’t for me though, because there was just something missing but I couldn’t figure it out.  Other than my issues, this is a cute story.

Looking for George by David C. Dawson ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Betty’s innocent crush on actor George Clooney became something more when he saved her from a fall at the hotel she works at in London. When she discovers her Italian holiday trip will take her only a few miles from the actor’s summer villa… well, surely fate means for them to meet again.

Now the story is a fantastic story, however I hate female characters so the story didn’t do anything for me.  I hate to admit that I just skimmed it and didn’t really read it.  When I received it I was told it was m/m or m/m/m romance so to my shock this came up and well you can guess.  

Love Over Lotto by Jude Dunn ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Craig Batson and Tom Rendelle have plenty of joy together but not so much money. Determined to improve their finances, Craig borrows a library book on the secrets of winning the lottery and empties their rainy-day fund to buy dozens of lottery tickets. Tom explodes when he finds out, leaving Craig to wonder if their love can survive.

This is a very cute story however it is a bit blown out.  I got a headache within the first few minutes afterwards.  As for the characters, they just seem a bit off to me.  Tom, who works blows at almost everything and then there is Craig who stays home and paints.  They don’t really have that much going for them until the lotto.  Other than those issues it is still a cute story but not really my idea of fun.

More Than His Scars by Jana Denardo ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Facing the anniversary of the day he lost his arm while serving in the Middle East, Aaron is understandably depressed. It’s up to his lover, Rhys, to plan a special day to help Aaron see how amazing he really is.

This story has many different aspects to it, if that is the word for it.  On one sense it has the paranormal or fantasy seeing as Rhys and his children are not human.  Then you have Aaron who is not only human but was military until his arm was taken in the war.  It is a sad story with a happy tilt toit.  I am afraid that no matter how good it was, it just wasn’t for me.

Overcoming Fear by Grace R. Duncan ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

In the year since a global pandemic ravaged their world, Duncan has done everything he can to ease Mark’s fears of losing him. When a minister and his wife seek out Mark for help, Duncan sees an opportunity to show Mark another level of commitment—if Mark will dare to take it.

One is afraid of losing another person in his life, the other wants forever.  I liked this story quite a bit, no to Christmas themed but it was a lot of fun to read.  I get a kick out zombies, apocalypse and pandemic stories.  This was a lot of fun and look forward to reading a bit more from this author.

Prevailing Zzz’s by Tray Ellis ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

After eight months together, Greg wants Win to move in with him. But how can Win agree when Greg’s snoring leaves him sleep-deprived and miserable?

Let’s just say that if I had left it up to the blurb for this particular book I would have just went on past.  I believe if you love someone deep enough, then their snoring is no big thing.  It is a fun little book if not a bit quirky to me.  

Pushing Back Oblivion by Alicia Nordwell ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Fighting a rapidly growing brain tumor, Cohen promises his partner, Jaime, that he’ll never give up. Through surgeries and setbacks, at times that promise and Jaime’s voice are all Cohen has to cling to.

Now this one was just a tease.  It is a sweet story but way too short to get any more than a hint of what is going to happen.  It went from one time, then to another, then two months after the fact that it left a good portion of the story out.  Other than that it was cute.

Reluctant Valentine by Xenia Melzer ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

A best-selling thriller novelist, Dean writes romances as a relaxing hobby. But when writer’s block strikes, sexy handyman Morgan shows up to provide all the inspiration he needs.

The first thing I have to say is I could have done without the first few lines in this story.  Even if he is the author and it was just about his book, it was well gross.  I hate anything female in my story and almost just put it down to skimming this book.  Other than that we have an author who needs some inspiration and it comes to him in a sexy man.  It is a very cute love story about finding first love.  I enjoyed it quite a bit.

Taking a Chance by Renee Stevens  ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Gabe and Toby work for the same company, Gabe in the US and Toby in London. After meeting at a convention, they spend nearly every moment of their time together, but when they both have to return home, their only option is to attempt a long-distance relationship.

This was just a teaser.  Moving away from home to be with the man you love and then that is it.  It is a cute little story but I sure do wish the author might make it a longer story later.  I would love to see how these two do in the future.  

Overall
Overall some of the stories rocked, some were just stories and then of course the girly parts but the basis for the book still stands.  This is to help the LGBT community and for that we need to pick up those books and start reading.  Or maybe I should say we need to start buying these stories.  I enjoyed reading them and was glad to have a extra from one of my favorite paranormal love stories mixed in.  I would definitely recommend it.

His Needs by Kris T. Bethke Guest Post & Excerpt!

Kris T. Bethke - His Needs Banner

Hi peeps, we have Kris T. Bethke stopping by today with her upcoming release His Needs, we have a fantastic guest post from Kris and a great excerpt to have a peek at so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Kris T. Bethke - His Needs Cover

His Needs

by

Kris T. Bethke

When State Trooper Travis Kinslow is injured right before Thanksgiving, the only positive is that for once he won’t be working during the holidays. Since he has no family, Travis was absorbed into his best friend, Joe’s, and he considers them as good as his own. Everyone except Joe’s brother Noah. Travis has been in love with the younger man for much of his life, but he’s always kept his distance.

As an ER nurse, Noah is a caretaker by nature. When his brother’s best friend is hurt, he’s happy to help Travis while he heals. He’s only ever allowed himself to think of Travis as the next best thing to an older brother, but by the light of the Christmas tree, Noah finally sees Travis’s true feelings. And in that moment, everything changes.

When faced with opposition and a Christmas nothing like they imagined, will their hopes for the future be enough to carry them through?

Continue reading “His Needs by Kris T. Bethke Guest Post & Excerpt!”

Love Wins ~ Anthology & Guest Post by Ravon Silvius!

ANTHOLOGY - LOVE WINS Banner

Hi guys, we have the charity anthology Love Wins and one of it’s authors (Ravon Silvius) popping in today to let you know a little about the anthology before it’s release next week. Ravon Silvius explains a little about his story so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Anthology - Love Wins Cover

Love Wins

by

Lucie Archer, Kris T. Bethke, Deja Black, M.A. Church, David C. Dawson, Jana Denardo, Nicole Dennis, Ravon Silvius, L.A. Merrill, Grace R. Duncan, Xenia Melzer, Jude Dunn, Julie Lynn Hayes, Tray Ellis, Troy Storm, Alicia Nordwell, Renee Stevens

With time comes healing, but Orlando and the LGBT community are still recovering from last June’s tragedy. To show our ongoing support for those affected by the Orlando shooting, our authors, editors, artists, and staff have volunteered their talents to create this second benefit anthology. All proceeds will be donated to LGBT organizations in central Florida. Join us as we reaffirm that no matter the obstacle, love always wins.

Full list of stories below.

Release date: 12th December 2016
Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press

Continue reading “Love Wins ~ Anthology & Guest Post by Ravon Silvius!”

Love at Roades End by Kris T. Bethke

LoveAtRoadesEndLGTitle: Love at Roades End
Series: NA
Author: Kris T. Bethke
Genre: Daydreams/ Contemporary/ Holiday
Length: 32 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (Feb 9th, 2016)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Blurb: Sean Newvine is looking forward to his weekend at Roades End Inn so he can review his stay there for inclusion on his travel website. What he never expects is for the owner, Hunter Roades, to capture his attention from the very start.

The only problem is Hunter thinks Sean’s been sent by his brother on a blind date so that Hunter doesn’t have to spend Valentine’s Day alone. Once the awkward misunderstanding is resolved, Sean is charmed by Hunter’s formality and hospitality. And when they have a chance to really talk, sparks fly.

A passion-filled night has them both wanting more, but Hunter pulls away knowing Sean doesn’t live in town and the distance might be more than they can overcome.

Sean and Hunter must figure out if they can make it work for longer than one night, or if their chance at love will end at Roades End Inn before it can begin.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-041-5

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=7399

Reviewer: Cat

Review: Sean is enjoying his perk of a free weekend in a B&B for the travel blog he works for. It is a beautiful place, and so is the owner.
Hunter is embarrassed at his outburst, assuming the cute guy coming in was sent by his brother as a Valentine’s Day gift.

The two men hit it off well, but can their attraction last more than the weekend?

I really liked this story. I loved the descriptions of the hotel, the town and the way the relationship went with Hunter and Sean. The story is well-written and cute.

If you like a short story that is romantic, descriptive and sweet this one is for you!

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

Pumpkin Rolls and Porn Sounds by Kris T. Bethke

PumpkinRollsAndPornSoundsLGTitle: Pumpkin Rolls and Porn Sounds
Author: Kris T. Bethke
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (52 pages)
ISBN: 9781632164056
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (February 11, 2015)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts
Reviewer: Zane
Blurb: Will Grant only attends the PFLAG meeting because his mother guilts him into it. But the instant he hears the night’s speaker, Will is glad he showed up. Joshua Rhinehardt is dynamic and engaging. Although Joshua isn’t physically Will’s type, Will can’t get the man out of his head.

Joshua may be comfortable in his own skin, but it isn’t often men like Will are attracted to him, and he’s not comfortable changing for someone else. He wants to make a life with Will, but his own insecurities keep getting in the way.

Will’s unwavering acceptance helps Joshua see that when two people connect, physical appearance just might not matter at all.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=6033

Review: Who doesn’t enjoy a heart warming, feel-good novella? I’ll read adorable MCs who fall happily in love like Will and Josh any day. It’s so refreshing to see characters (both main and supporting) that are just overall good people. There’s no angst here, no meanness, no major brokenness, just reality with a dose here and there of ‘stuff happens’.

Like Will, sometimes in life we do fall for the person that is not our type. Like Josh, there are moments in life where we must confront personal issues in order to find and/or keep our own happiness.

I loved their honesty, how Will and Josh don’t hide from who they are individually or how they feel about each other. There is no game-playing here, no miscommunication, and no angsty drama. What we are dealing with here is just real life and real people, who sometimes react based on their own hang-ups.

For such a short read there is a great depth of character here and tremendous growth on the part of the MCs. Even so, there is lightness to this story, a fluffy sweetness that just makes you smile.

‘Pumpkin Rolls and Porn Sounds’ – The title definitely captured my attention. You’ll have to read it see why it was named (very appropriately, I might add), but this book is way more than the wacky yet enticing title. If you’re looking for a quick read that puts a smile on your face and a little skip in your heart, this is one I definitely recommend.

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