Something In Common Collection by Talia Carmichael

talia-carmichael-something-in-common-collection-coverTitle: Something In Common

Series: Something In Common #1-7

Author: Talia Carmichael

Genre: Gay Erotic Romance, Contemporary

Length: Novel (886 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (October 7, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

Blurb: In this collection, explore seven stories of men who don’t think they can possibly be a match… until they discover that sometimes all it takes is a little something in common. From rough starts, to friends hesitating to take that next step, to complete opposites, Talia Carmichael’s series shows the ways that love can conquer many odds.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-625-7

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/something-in-common-by-talia-carmichael-7607-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: When I came across this nice bundle of books, I knew I wanted them. Which was kind of crazy since I own all them when they first came out. So let’s just say that this was one series that I have read many times over. Each character is unique in their own way and some have gone through some horrible times in their lives. They have lost loved ones and gained love ones, found new loves in the most interesting places. Each story is fascinating and fresh as the first time I got to read them. They caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end. No matter how many times I read them they are still as new as can be. 

talia-carmichael-detour-coverDetour ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

Robert Berkus’s steady academic life seemed to be an open road until the day he took a detour… right into Officer Miguel Rodriguez’s path. When Miguel helps the sexy professor change a flat tire, Robert is absolutely oblivious to Miguel’s interest. That suits Miguel just fine, though. He’s used to being the aggressor although it sure would be nice to get this sweet and staid college professor to make the first move. When Robert gets his act in gear, the results prove explosive. Miguel wants Robert in his bed and in his life permanently, and Robert enthusiastically agrees – but they’ve already learned that life makes detours.

Sometimes it takes love a little courage to arrive at its chosen destination. It also shows that family does not have to be blood related and that was the perfect type to me.

So here you have Robert cheating to get to his luncheon with an old friend. Running a red light might not get him a ticket but it sure does get him his man. Although it would take a sign to get Robert to see that Miguel is definitely interested in him. These two are perfect for each other and a big hit with me.

It is a very funny little story with the perfect array of characters backing them all up. Now it does have a part that will make you cry your eyes up, but don’t worry. It just shows how true it is when you are talking about police officers and the dangers they face. Also the ones left behind. However Robert and Miguel love strengthens each day. These two were so damn funny that I spent most of the time laughing while reading. Poor Miguel would have to strip in front of the man to get the man to realize Miguel wants him. From that moment on though it sure does get very hot.

Hold on for the ride because book two is next. This was one story that rocked it perfectly for me. 

talia-carmichael-sparks-coverSparks ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

Bernie Jenkins knows longing for Tomas is futile. The strong, sexy man sees him as nothing but an obligation, a burden he took on out of pity. He even calls Bernie “kid.” Bernie knows all about burdens and how they can consume you, so he pushes away feelings for Tomas.

Tomas Rodriguez likes Bernie. He’s a buddy, a friend. No matter what anyone says, there is nothing going on between them… or so he believes until Bernie surprises him one night at a club. Tomas realizes there’s more to the clumsy geek than he ever knew, but being attracted to someone isn’t the same as acting on it. For that to change, Bernie will have to take a chance and allow Tomas into his heart. 

Now Bernie is one of those characters that has innocence about him but when you look into his eyes you can see the mischief. He is sex and innocence rolled into one feisty young man. However there is a part of him that is hidden and a past that is full of pain. Whereas Thomas comes off as a hardass, but when it comes to family he is the first one there. From the moment Bernie enters the picture, he is considered family. We are still waiting on that formula to stop people from speaking though.

Now this one does not have the spark to it but it has an emotional tone to it. It will take the whole gang to help Bernie with his past and to welcome his brothers into the picture.

Although it is only one that shows up. Bernie has been a favorite of mine from the start and he will probably continue long well after the books are all read. It also shows that some parents should never be parents, as Bernie’s is the one that cause him all his pain and grief. I love how Tomas jumped in and helped without Bernie really realizing that was what he was doing. The way these two fought was a blast. 

Now I am off to read the next book. It just keeps getting better and better after each read. I sure do love these guys.


talia-carmichael-resonate-coverResonate 
♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

When Gerald Ramirez and retired rock star Bur Jenkins meet; it’s not exactly love at first sight. Actually, Gerald thinks Bur is using their mutual friend, and Bur seems to get a kick out of messing with Gerald.

To be honest, Gerald’s never been attracted to another man. But then Bur admits he’s attracted to Gerald, and now Gerald can’t stop thinking about what the two of them might be like together. After proving to himself he’s not interested in any other men, Gerald comes forward with an admission of his own: he’s interested in Bur, and he wants to give dating a shot.

Bur never dared to hope for this, but the chance to get close to Gerald is too tempting to resist, even though Bur is sure their relationship will crash and burn. After all, they’re completely mismatched….

Now we have our very own straight man falling for another. Now most families would wonder and question, but let’s just say he thought about it. I loved how he was always paying for everything and trying to get Bur to get a job. His reaction when he finds out who Bur really is was the funniest moment ever.
Now here you have a sexy cop who is not only loyal but dependable. He fights for his friends and tries to help his best friend’s husband after his death. He thinks Bur is using him but damn do sparks fly between these two. I do love how the author worked the ex-fiancée moving into Gerald’s house. Could have been dicey but she turned it out perfectly.

Light, funny, sweet and so damn sexy is what you get from this story. I have got to tell you that with all of the characters running around, there should be a lot more stories for me. Well I am off to read the next book. Amazing is all I have to say.

talia-carmichael-irresistible-coverIrresistible ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

Del Jenkins prefers to be alone—or so he tells himself until his younger brothers try to make him a playdate with bookstore owner Harper Hillman. Del’s brothers just want him to make a new friend, but there is no way he can be friends with Harper. Not unless Harper’s definition of “friends” includes jumping into bed together and getting naked and sweaty. When Harper turns him down flat because he doesn’t sleep with strangers, Del shrugs it off and suggests they get to know each other better. He already sees something wonderful in Harper, and he won’t give up so easily.

Harper is still mourning his dead husband, and a casual sexual encounter with Del is the last thing he wants. But getting to know each other—platonically, of course—should be harmless. In no way is Harper getting close to another man. But as he and Del spend more time together, Harper realizes it’s too late—he’s already involved. His heart is set on Del, and Harper is powerless to resist.

Now Harper has been morning his husband’s death for a while, and he at one time had thought his best friend was going to propose to him just to help him. Talk about a blessing when Bur stepped up to the plate on that one. However Harper is just not sure if he wants to give Del a chance. Now with Bernie, Bur and Del, these three and the twins have gone through hell and made it out. Their stories are a bit more painful to hear but so worth it in the end. Del is one closed off jackal who doesn’t really let anyone in. However when the twins are found out, Del is the one who runs and takes them in, not that the others had any clue what was going on since none of them have seen each other since they were teens. But damn it will have you in tears.

The stories are taking a new turn and making it more personal for some. You will see how each character reacts to each other and how hard they rush to help.

Amazing story and full of love for these guys. Now off to read the next book.

talia-carmichael-trouble-coverTrouble ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

Alex Hayes doesn’t get involved. He’s been hurt before and has no desire to repeat the experience. Besides, his friends are his family. He doesn’t need anything else. Or so he thinks until he comes face-to-face with Leslie “Maestro” Hannigan… again.

Two years ago, Alex was the one that got away. But now Leslie knows his name and he isn’t going to lose him twice—especially when it’s plain to see that Alex is interested in Leslie too. Alex may think Leslie is trouble… but he’s the very best kind.

Alex is really good at fixing homes and then re-selling them, but the man doesn’t know jack about cars. He has purchased a real sweet one and he thought a book would help him. Thank god he listened to Bernie and the others and decided to get help. To top it off he is still searching for his dead lover’s wife to see if she is ok. Here he has this sexy man fixing his car and he is about to run away. Thank god Alex uses his brain sometimes; otherwise I am pretty sure Leslie was going to tie him to the bed.

Damn each story just keeps getting better and better with each turn of the page. I do get a kick out of Alex though. And when Leslie goes all car god on someone…well let’s just say that even the cops won’t mess with the Maestro. I sure do get a kick out of these two.

Wow this one rocked it out of the ball park for me. On to the next book.

talia-carmichael-chances-coverChances ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

Treble Duo, the haven facility, is now up and running, and that is Theron Longoria’s one and only focus until he sees Aristotle Berkus. He’s met the grouchy, crowd-hating man several times, but each time, Theron is more and more intrigued. After meeting Theron, Aristotle realizes what a wonderful mystery of a man he’s found, and although he plans on taking things slow, he’s not planning on letting Theron go.

Between a barbecue get-together and a chance to help a little girl find a new home, Theron and Aristotle discover they need each other to navigate the new life they are starting together. 

Bernie, Del and Bur have gotten together with their friends and family and made a rescue for those who have been kicked out of hurt by their parents. Things are looking up for them all. Aristotle is a master at making normal wood turn into beautiful furniture. He is one big man with a big heart; however he is not going to let anyone have his picture. Theron sees children and wants to help them, so the perfect place to work was at the facility. When these two finally hook up you can see the sparks. That is if they can ever get some time alone, damn Theron has a big family. Don’t let his mother watch sports though, not a good thing.

I got a kick out of this book and Theron’s mom rocks. She is even more passionate about children being hurt then the guys. She will kick some major ass to save them. I love it about these guys how big their hearts are. This story rocked perfectly and made me cry at the same time.

I am off to read the next book. Amazing story is all I have to say about this one.

talia-carmichael-magnetism-coverMagnetism ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

Taggart Monroe wants to know what makes Rhodes Winslow tick. Rhodes finds the friendly barbs he and Taggart exchange intriguing, fun, and sexy. He wants Taggart and knows Taggart wants him even though he won’t admit it. Taggart studies people the way he studies the details of his cases, so he’s drawn to a man who is an enigma. Getting to know Rhodes is an adventure Taggart can’t resist, just like the magnetism between them.

Get some cute puppies how hard can it be… Well let’s just say I hope you guys get some new cushions soon. These two are so damn cute together and so sweet. They act like best friends, fight like cats and dogs but it is so sexy to see it. Cases are rolling in with the kids and things heat up real fast with these guys. I love how they are with each other and how they are with their friends and family. I wish I had this kind of family. 

Now I have to admit that it took me a while to remember who these guys were, but it didn’t really take that long to go back and look it up. These two didn’t hit me like the others did, there didn’t seem to be that big spark that there was beforehand. It was more sweet, tender and just fun to be with these two. They were perfect for each other even if they were a bit quirky. I have to admit that these two different have the chemistry that the others had and they were a bit boring. However for me it didn’t really take away from the whole story.

I had a blast reading it and look forward to future books.

Overall ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts 

Now with this series, it is not all fun and games. There is some serious tension in some of them and some triggers that might bug you a bit. If you can’t handle child abuse then this probably wouldn’t be the one for you. Although these guys deal with it and they fix it, they try to make it better for the child. Now you will find some of the characters from Talia’s Encounter series making an appearance in the last book. I was glad to have been given this complete series, even though I read all of the stories many times over. I love the fact that you get all of the stories in one nice big book and don’t have to wait. Now normally I can’t stand stories with so many characters in them because it does get hard to keep them all separate but it wasn’t like that with this series. They all complement each other and make the story so much more memorable for me. I enjoyed reading them once more and look forward to reading them many times more. Talia Carmichael is a book goddess and I absolutely have moved her to my top ten favorite authors. Amazing series is what this was.

Jade & Conrad by Talia Carmichael

81042OWb95L._SL1425_Title: Jade & Conrad
Series: Storming Love: Wild Fire, #5/Carrington,#1
Author: Talia Carmichael
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (50 pages)
Publisher: MLR Press (October 2nd, 2015)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Life brings an unexpected complication to a man who was only seeking some relaxation, yet what he found was a man who would light his soul on fire…

Jade Blakstone wanted some time away from his hectic schedule and took a trip to get away. He never expected to find a man who would strike all the right notes within him. Together they burn hot and fast, making Jade wonder if there is more between them than just a passing dalliance. But as hot as they burn for each other, so do the wild fires that have broken out. Conrad is a firefighter and Jade fears that they will be over before they begin when he goes to fight the fires raging in Northern California.

From their very first meeting, Conrad Kendrick knew Jade was something special. Now he just had to convince Jade that although they have chemistry, there was something that was even sweeter-the connection of two souls who have found their corresponding rhythm.

ISBN: MLR-1-02015-0457

Product Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=SLS5__TC

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Talia Carmichael is one of my top five favorite authors. She writes a beautiful contemporary that usually has a great bit of humor in them. I love how the characters just seem to come together perfectly. I got a kick out of a rock star who is quirky and a fireman who is more than just heat.

Jade is a drummer in a band that is well-known. He decides he needs a bit of time off to rest and meets a sexy fireman that makes his fire burn hotter. Conrad takes one look at Jade and knows he wants the hot little number. There is a slow burn to make the flames hotter and their love is getting stronger.

I absolutely loved this book and look forward to the next story. It gave me just a bit of seriousness and quite a bit of humor that I love. I loved the bit of danger that is in it. My attention was captured from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end. Actually my attention was caught with the cover. It made me want the book before I even read the blurb. It gave me everything I could ask for in a book.

I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book. I would definitely recommend this story.
 
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Unbound Reaction by Talia Carmichael

unboundreaction_exlarge_PNG-210x336Title: Unbound Reaction
Series: The Prentiss Series, Book 4
Author: Talia Carmichael
Genre: Cowboys/ Westerns
Length: Novella (81 Pages)
ISBN: 978-1-78430-119-4
Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing (August 15, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: When someone sees all that he is, they can delve deep within his soul, and there is no hiding from what the heart desires…
Kendall Weston thinks living in Prentiss is a welcome change from his past. He enjoys working for his former boss in a law firm as his assistant, yet there is one thing that is messing things up. When he took the job, no one said anything about four-legged demons that could crush him with their big legs. He’s not getting on a horse, no matter what anyone said. At his supposed lesson, he has his argument all ready for the reason he can’t ride a horse. That is until he meets a man who knocks him for a loop. The man looks so solemn, but the sparkle in his gaze makes Kendall want to see how he would look if he smiled.

Thomas Ward takes over the lesson for the man who is obviously out-of-place. Something he can’t define draws him to the man. Kendall’s sharp wit and humor draw him in even more. Thomas is more comfortable with horses than people. But Kendall is different from any man he has ever been attracted to. To get Kendall, he’s going to have to soothe the skittish man as he does his horses—with lots of steady touches and soft words, then he will let Kendall have his way before holding on for the ride of his unbound reaction.

Reader Advisory: This book is best read in sequence as part of a series.

Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/unbound-reaction

Review: This was an amazing story. Each book in The Prentiss Series focuses on a different romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, we recommend reading the series in sequential order. It keeps me from getting a bit lost in the stories and gives me an insight in to their world. A world that captured my attention from the start and kept it all the way to the end. I love the way each character just mixes with the others. How fast they are to defend what is theirs and what they believe. This story was amazing and I loved it.

Kendall was sent to learn how to ride a horse, something he did not want to do. He was scared to death of horses or any creature that had more legs than a human. One that actually couldn’t kill you. However once he gets to the ranch and is told that Thomas is the one who will be teaching him. A very sexy cowboy whom he wanted but was afraid to get attached to. His past was coming in to mess with his future. He just couldn’t seem to get it in his head that he was falling faster for this man.

Thomas and his brothers were all adopted and were loved by their fathers. He had taken one look at Kendall and knew that this man was going to be his. He had known it might be like taming a wild horse but it was getting harder to hold his feelings in. He was in love with Kendall. He knew that he would run, and that he would have to let him because he knew Kendall would come back to him.

I loved this series and cannot wait to read the next book. The characters just mix so well with each other and make the story so much fun. I love the way Thomas is so gentle with Kendall giving him time to realize that he is loved more than anything. That he will never cheat on him, never lay a hand on him in anger and will love him for life. I have always love Talia’s stories and this one is on the top five list.

I would recommend reading this book because it will draw you in with the flow of the words and the great story, then will keep your attention till the end.

Slow Burn by Talia Carmichael

81KxY7eCw3L._SL1500_Title: Slow Burn
Series: The Impressions Series, Book 5
Author: Talia Carmichael
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (70 Pages)
ISBN: 978-0-85715-668-6
Publisher: Totally Bound (April 10th, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: After an unexpected kiss, a man finds himself with a dilemma…
Gregory Morris has a problem. He isn’t gay, but he’s attracted to one of his best friends and has no clue what to do about it. Gregory decides the best way is just to kiss him and let nature take its course. With that one kiss, Gregory finds himself wanting his friend even more. Now he just has to prove that he is serious.
Braden Charles notices his friend Gregory seems to be avoiding him and he has no clue what he’s done. When Gregory finally says he wants to talk, Braden is relieved to find out what is wrong, that is until Gregory kisses him. After the kiss, the idea that his friend wants him when he is not gay bothers Braden. He’s not going to be drawn in by a man who is only gay for him—it is myth and will only lead to heartbreak.
Gregory’s next action is something Braden never expected and he has to face the fact that Gregory is serious. Braden has a man who he can see in his life forever but does Gregory think it’s an experiment? Attraction builds in a slow burn that will last forever.
Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/slow-burn
This is book five in the Impressions series. See the full series listing here
Review: This is book five in this series and they should be read in order. However they can be read alone also, it would just make it better to read book one first. Talia always gives me a wonderful book to read. There is always humor that can be found in them. Even when it is serious, you can always see the humor in it. I love the characters that she comes up with. They are people who you can fall in love with and want to see them get everything they deserve and desire.

Gregory has always dated women, never even wanted a man. That is till Braden came into his life. They work for the same men and it always made Gregory curious about certain things. However, the feelings he has for Braden is getting stronger, he is just not sure how to tell Braden that he has feelings for him. That it is not just a phase or curious about being gay. The problem was he just didn’t know how to tell him. So he did something better, he kissed him.

At first Braden avoids him, but Gregory shows him that he wants a life with him. Now all he has to do is get Braden to agree. To understand that what he is feeling is just for him and that it is strong. I did feel bad when Gregory told his father, but in the end his father shows him that it doesn’t matter who you love, just that you love them deeply.

I am amazed with this story and I hope there are many more to come after this one. I would recommend reading this because it will show you that love proves to be right no matter who you are with. That with love all things can be won. It caught my attention from the start and kept it all the way to the end.

Wicked Intentions by Talia Carmichael

91PRGICcmxL._SL1500_Title: Wicked Intentions
Series: Bonds of Justice, #1
Author: Talia Carmichael
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (80 Pages)
ISBN: 978-1-78184-021-4
Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing (June 18th, 2012)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: An unexpected meeting leads a widower on a journey that will change his life forever and possibly give him a new love.

Evan Murray is working hard to get back to as close to normal as he can after the death of his husband. An attempt on his life shatters the hard-won peace he has achieved. Meeting Ian, one of the detectives sent to handle his case, Evan finds himself feeling something he didn’t expect to feel for any other man again-attraction. Evan doesn’t believe anyone wants to hurt him, yet with each new attempt, he realizes he might be in more danger than he expects. Although he might be in danger, he won’t let the unknown person control his life. As he gets to know more about Ian, Evan finds himself drawn to this man who is working to find the one out to kill him. Evan doesn’t want to be just another case. There is so much more he needs from Ian…things that include being more up close, personal, and wicked.

Ian Walsh finds his professional detachment shattered by his latest case. Evan’s optimism in the face of everything, and his guilelessness, makes for an interesting puzzle. His stubbornness, on the other hand, aggravates Ian. Yet he can’t help but be captivated. Keeping Evan at a distance has become a problem. The lines between case and personal are blurred, but Ian is powerless to stop what is happening. With each new attempt made on Evan, they are baffled by the randomness of it. Ian will not let anything happen to this man who has captured him with his wicked intentions.
Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/wicked-intentions
Review: This is the first book in this wonderful series. I can guarantee that once you pick up this book you will not be able to put it down. You will get caught up with the first paragraph and it will keep your attention all the way to the end. That is what it did for me. It is put together perfectly. I love the way it can make you cry at the pain Evan must have went through when his husband had been killed in a car accident two years ago and when he is talked about you can tell how he feels. However Evan knew when the detective that walked in the door, that he might have found away to move forward. Someone had shot at him and obviously wanted him dead, but he was not as good a shooter.

When Ian first walks into the building to see the victim, he realized that he wanted this man. He wanted this man more than anything in this world. However, he had a job to do. He had to protect Evan, whether Evan thought he needed protected of not. Now all he had to do is convince his man that he was getting protection whether he wanted it or not. I laughed my ass off at Evan’s expression every time they argue about it.

What makes it even better is the fact that Ian’s partner cannot stand Brooks who happens to be partnered professionally with Evan’s brother Gio. Now those two take protection to the ultimate high spot. Also the fact that Brooks and Hunter are always going at it. Then there is Paul who is very pushy however, he might surprise even Evan in the end. I love their attitudes and their quirky ways.

This is a perfect start to a new series. It is amazing and you will absolutely love it. I would recommend this to anyone who loves a good story with a tender heartbreak, hot and sexy men, a sexy novelist, two hot and sexy detectives and two hot and quirky military men, danger and lots of excitement. I would recommend picking this one up and start reading you won’t be disappointed.

Wicked Alliance by Talia Carmichael

91XTI7fpP8L._SL1500_Title: Wicked Alliance
Series: Bonds of Justice Series, Book 2
Author: Talia Carmichael
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: Novella (134 Pages)
ISBN: 978-1-78184-091-7
Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing (October 8th, 2012)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: To find a family heirloom a man must ask for help from another who he has been fighting his attraction for. They join forces and find that they have more in common than either expected.

Detective Hunter Montgomery finds himself personally involved when a family heirloom is stolen. To find the culprits of the robbery ring he has to approach Brooks-the one man who pushes all his buttons. He is attracted to Brooks but knows he’ll never go after him, since they’re looking for different things. They form an unlikely alliance to track down the heirlooms. As they work together, Hunter can’t figure Brooks out. The man comes across as if nothing bothers him, yet when Hunter asks for his help Brooks not only agrees he becomes more to him than Hunter expects. As the case gets more complicated, so do his interactions with Brooks. The need he feels flares and Hunter is unable to resist the temptation of Brooks. As the heat between them rises, so does the danger in the case they both want solved.

Brooks Walters is willing to work with Hunter even if the man doesn’t like him. Since their first meeting, Brooks has gone out of his way to antagonize the usually infallible detective. Each and every time the man gets annoyed and rude with him, Brooks finds it is more amusing than anything else is. There is something about the tall, sexy detective that he finds irresistible. Hunter has all the things he likes in a man-he’s loyal, protective and is able to match wits with Brooks. When the case he is working on with Hunter heats up so does their passion. With each new clue on the robberies, it becomes apparent that the case is more complicated that either of them had known. Brooks will go out of his way to make sure the man who has slid into his life will succeed in their Wicked Alliance.
Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/wicked-alliance
Review: This is book two in this series and you really need to read book one. It gives you a heads up on the characters and you will love it more.

Hunter and Brook had met when Hunter came to find out who had shot at Brooks best friends brother. Let me tell you these two fought like cats and dogs when they first met. Seems like a good foreplay to me. I loved the way they act together. It will give you a good laugh. Brook calls Hunter idiot when he is mildly irritated at him and detective when he is royally pissed off at him. This actually means, for most part, he calls him detective. They are always going at it. This makes it even that more heated up.

Hunter has really taken a liking to Brook. He even liked the way they argued, just made everything hotter. However, he knew that deep down this was a man he would want for all times and it was returned in spades. These two men get together and they set the sheets on fire. In this story Hunters mom’s jewelry and a clock were stolen when Brook had sent them out. Hunter goes to Brook to ask him for his help and actually gets more than he bargains for, but at least he gets his man.

He gets his man for life and he is happier with it. They both are stubborn and mule headed but you can tell that their love will be deep and strong. I love this story almost as much as I loved book one. Talia gives you wonderful characters in all of her stories and she never disappoints you. She has a wonderful gift at telling a story and will always be one of my favorite authors.

I would recommend this story to anyone who loves hot and sexy cops, gorgeous military men who own a gallery, two sexy men coming together for all time, lots of danger and excitement. Not to mention the love and sex so full of passion it will make you fall in love with everyone.

Wicked Pursuit by Talia Carmichael

19548378Title: Wicked Pursuit
Series: Bonds of Justice, #3
Author: Talia Carmichael
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (91 Pages)
ISBN: 978-1-78184-942-2
Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing (February 7th, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Level: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: An unexpected meeting leads two men on a path that will change them both.
Giovanni Murray speeds home after hearing his house is on fire. When he gets there, a man behind him captures his attention. The stranger claims to be there to help, which rings true, but when the man’s persistence causes an altercation between them, Gio becomes intrigued. Trusting his instinct, Gio is willing to explore where their meeting might lead. Now he just needs to convince the man who has captured his interest.
Mercer Nelson knows fires—he’s good at his job as a fire investigator. The fire he calls in seems suspicious, however the man who owns the house seems even more so. A look in Gio’s eyes makes Mercer struggle—should he reach for his gun or kiss him? Even after the fire, Mercer he finds himself at odds with his instincts. He is still captivated by Giovanni Murray and wonders what is beneath his suspicious exterior.
As he gets to know Gio, he realizes that he is as complex as he seems. Despite his instincts screaming danger, Mercer decides to go after him. He hopes Gio can handle it…then again from what he’s seen there doesn’t seem to be anything Gio can’t handle.
When the hunter becomes the hunted, who will win this match of wills in a Wicked Pursuit.
Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/wicked-pursuit

This is book three in the Bonds of Justice series. See the full series listing here

Review: This is book three in the series and you really need to read them in order to get an idea of who the guys are. Although this is the first time for meeting Mercer. Once you get a hang of Gio, you will want to either shoot him or love him. I am more in mind to just want to beat him. He is a very funny guy who loves deeply. He also protects those that he loves with all that is in him. He meets Mercer when someone burned his house down. Mercer tried to stop him from going inside his house and he turns around and knocks him out.

It gets even better when Mercer tries to arrest him for knocking him out, Gio used his gifts and got out of his handcuffs, handing them to him and with a smirk walks off. Talk about some major foreplay. These two are even hotter than the fire burning Gio’s house down. Gio served in the military but has some high contacts, because when people look him up they get this mysterious call telling them to back off.

You can tell by just looking at all that heat that these two are going to set the sheets on fire. You can also tell that they will love deeply and forever. I love the way they are together. They just make you want to fan yourself down. Someone is out to get Gio and Mercer is going to solve this puzzle with everything in him. However, it brings him into the dangers site also.
I love the way this story plays out. You can tell that these two men belong together, from the first signs of jealousy, two the way they touch each other tenderly. Also, the way they are taking everything slow just getting to know each other before they take it any further. There is so many sparks that you can’t wait to see more of them. I loved this story and I definitely can’t wait for another book in this series.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves firemen, policemen, military men who are retired from it but still has the strength to back it up, danger, excitement and two very hot and sexy men. Not to mention the way the sex just makes you tingle. I loved this book and this author. She always gives you wonderful characters to fall in love with and a great story line that will catch your attention from the start and keep it all the way to the end. It definitely caught my attention and kept it, so much so that I read this story twice.

Opposites Attract by Talia Carmichael

oppositesattract_exlarge_PNG-210x336Title: Opposites Attract

Series: Prentiss Series, Book 3

Author: Talia Carmichael

Length: Novella (96 Pages)

Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing (December 5th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate to Hot

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: Drake throws HC for a loop, but he’s going to teach the aggravating man he is everything HC needs…

HC Wagner has clashed with Drake—the foreman for MGR Ranch— right from their very first meeting. HC enjoys flirting with—and teasing—the stuffy cowboy. It’s just too bad Drake is so damn sexy…and straight. But when Drake becomes exceptionally friendly and rather openly inviting, HC is scared as to what this might mean, sending him on a trail of discovery to find out exactly who the real Drake Finley is.

Meanwhile Drake is fascinated by the conundrum that is HC Wagner—the smart mouthed, tattooed, Harley-riding chef. He enjoys surprising the man who seems so set on aggravating him. One kiss to shut HC up starts the beginnings of one roller coaster ride he never thought he would find himself on. After Drake has a taste of the stubborn chef, he finds himself with an unquenchable desire to teach him that not only do opposites attract, they can thrive…as long as they work on it together.

Product Link:https://www.totallybound.com/opposites-attract

Review: I have laughed with many different types of books, but this one made me laugh throughout the whole book.

What, with HC and his antics and Drake trying his best to egg him on. This book is number 3 of a series and you should read it in order so that you would get to know and love the characters as much as I do. They are both so alpha type males with strong personalities that makes you want to strangle them and love them at the same time. HC is a bit insecure about where he stands sometimes, but he still goes for what he wants and that is Drake. He always thought Drake was straight, but he still goes after him. Drake wants him back.

There is so much love throughout this book but they hide it with the arguing and theatrics that makes it so much fun to read. The sex between them is so damn hot that you can feel the heat from it. This story is one of the best I have read, and when it comes to Talia Carmichael that is saying a lot. I have always loved her stories and this tops right up with the others.

I love to sit on the couch, with the fire roaring and a soda on the stand beside me and read her books. I am very glad to have this book in my library.

One Good Man by Talia Carmichael

18455009Title: One Good Man

Series:   Book 4 in the Impressions Series

Author: Talia Carmichael

Genre: Contemporary

Length:   Novella (116 pages)

Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing (October 11th, 2013)

Heat Level:   Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Reviewer:   Eli/Mandingo

Blurb:   When a man who has lost his belief that there are any good men meets a man who sees inside his hidden depths, he’s unsure what to do…

Gabriel Simmons loves his work at Vaughn Choppers. Building custom bikes and restoring cars is his passion. He has a knack for it and for bringing out their hidden depths. The man he meets while doing a favor for his boss and friend tests him, drawing him out of his shell. He wants to find out what makes Mace tick. The man resists him yet looks at him as if he wants all Gabe has to give. Gabe is more than willing to take him up on the offer he sees in his eyes. But first, he needs to get Mace to verbalize his desires.

Mace Hutton is being driven daft by a man who is nothing like any other man he has been attracted to. Gabe is a danger to his hard-fought plan to keep free from entanglements. The contrast of his big bear of a man size and his gentleness makes Mace long to feel Gabe’s touch. He can’t take the chance…yet Mace cannot get the man out of his mind. He’s been burnt enough to know there are no good men out there. Or have his assumptions been wrong? Is there one good man who is just right for him?

Purchase Link: https://www.totallybound.com/one-good-man

Review: If you are a gearhead, you will love this book. There are lots of great descriptions of cars and renovations and all the things that gearheads like. This serves to create the connection between Gabe and Mace. In betwixt and juxtaposed within all the gearhead information, there is a story about trust and acceptance. I’m never one to recommend shorter, but I think that this could have been more effective had it been shorter. Yes it would mean cutting out some of the car discussions and some information that didn’t move the story forward.

I loved the interaction with some of the secondary characters, especially Gabe’s family.  Mace’s mother, Susan, was also a key secondary character and both Gabe’s and Mace’s interaction with her was well written and pivotal to Gabe and Mace’s HEA.

The development of the relationship between both men is believable and you do feel that both men want to be together, but that there is something holding them apart, ergo Mace. The final conflict is understandable and comes so late in the story, but that must be resolved quickly to lead to the HEA and so it seemed a little rushed rather than being something the reader could anticipate. However, the author had already set up the reader to want to root for the couple so all’s well that ends well. So grab a beer and some pretzels and you’ll be ready to enjoy this ride.

Irresistible by Talia Carmichael

Title:  Irresistible

Series:  Something in Common Series # 4

Author:  Talia Carmichael

Genre:   Contemporary

Length:  Novella (143 pages)

Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press (August 22, 2012)

Heat Level:  Medium

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥2 ½Hearts

Blurb:   A Something in Common novella

Del Jenkins prefers to be alone—or so he tells himself until his younger brothers try to make him a playdate with bookstore owner Harper Hillman. Del’s brothers just want him to make a new friend, but there is no way he can be friends with Harper. Not unless Harper’s definition of “friends” includes jumping into bed together and getting naked and sweaty. When Harper turns him down flat because he doesn’t sleep with strangers, Del shrugs it off and suggests they get to know each other better. He already sees something wonderful in Harper, and he won’t give up so easily.

Harper is still mourning his dead husband, and a casual sexual encounter with Del is the last thing he wants. But getting to know each other—platonically, of course—should be harmless. In no way is Harper getting close to another man. But as he and Del spend more time together, Harper realizes it’s too late—he’s already involved. His heart is set on Del, and Harper is powerless to resist.

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3167

Reviewer:   Any

Review:  Not irresistible enough for me.

Firstly, keep in mind I haven’t read the author’s other stories, so this review is based on the book as a standalone.

I tried to get into this, I did, but I struggled. Some moments I got a feel for the story, but it didn’t ever quite stick. Though, I think there are many aspects of the book that have so much potential.

  • There were moments of wit.
  • Sweetness between Del and Harper (and the 6 year-old twins).
  • Interesting backstories of both main characters.
  • Moments of sexiness.
  • I also liked the image Harper had of Del as a tiger.

 

However, these things were overshadowed by a lack of story focus. I didn’t find myself curious to find out answers to things (other than the band Del wore around his wrist), because there weren’t many questions raised. So the story had a slow feeling to it.

The biggest issue for me was there were too many characters in this book. So many were important to the main characters, but I didn’t get a feel for any of them, because there were simply too many to concentrate on. This would be less of a problem, I’m sure, for those who have read the other stories, but reading as a standalone, it was overwhelming and got confusing.

The other thing that felt off in this story was how things jumped so fast. From Del and Harper disliking each other to wanting each other; and when Del tells Harper his secrets—something he’d never been able to tell anyone before—and then suddenly, he was telling all his friends and family about it. I didn’t feel the struggle I should have for such an important turning point in the story.

However, these things aside, if you like to read about sweet everyday moments and if you like family and friend dynamics in your story, then you might enjoy Irresistible.

 

 

Ralston's Way by Talia Carmichael

Title: Ralston’s Way

Series: Prentiss 01

Author: Talia Carmichael

Genre: Western

Length: Novella (80pgs)

Publisher: Total E-Bound (22 August 2011)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥3 1/2Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: When the computer guru meets the rancher who likes things his way, who will have their way?

Blayne Dalton knows from their first introduction he will need all his calm reasonable skills to deal with Morgan Ralston. The rancher is aggravating and determined to avoid him. The calm he is known for goes out of the window. He can’t decide if he’d rather deck him or kiss him senseless. How do you rope a cowboy? You teach him that not everything has to be his way.

Morgan Ralston likes things his way. On his ranch, he is the one who make the decisions. Well at least he is supposed to be. When his brother decides to hire a new office manager and cook he knows it will lead to nothing but disruptions. What he gets is not what he expected. The man who becomes his office manager is not a problem to the ranch. The trouble is of a more personal nature—to his libido. Avoiding him doesn’t work. It’s time to approach this as he does everything else. After all when it comes down to it…there isn’t any other way but Ralston’s Way.

Review: I liked this book as it was a cute read.  Morgan is a typical cowboy he’s grouchy, likes things his way and has a soft heart under a hard shell.  Blayne is not your typical computer geek and he is interested in finding out more about Morgan.

The story line was good and has laid a solid foundation for future Prentiss books. Morgan is a great guy who exhibits gruff thoughtfulness and great sense of humor.   He doesn’t come across as romantic but it is all the little things that he does that shows he cares.   Blayne is smart, sexy and has a temper (with Morgan that is) and Morgan’s behavior confuses him.   He actually asks his dad about it and he’s told that Morgan is courting him.  At times there doesn’t seem to be any emotion between the two MC’s, but I think that might be because of the way things are described.   Because, the actions of the two show us that there is quite a bit of feelings involved. The rest of the characters who we were introduced to seem cool and the interaction between them as a family was heart-warming (you know the teasing, the irritating, the annoying, the little slaps and the joking) and I look forward to the future books.

This is a lovely light read that has hot sex, a misunderstanding, lots of hot men and a happy ever after, so really what are you waiting for.