Yearly Archives: 2015

Book Review: The Way Things Are – A.J. Thomas

Posted on May 12, 2015 | Leave a comment

The Way Things AreBlurb: A night of drunken confusion at nineteen resulted in Patrick Connelly fathering a child. Determined to be there for his son, Patrick walked away from a sport he loved and forever hid his sexuality. After Patrick’s brutal divorce and a vicious hate crime, his son, Jay, has become obsessed with graffiti. Hoping for a fresh start, Patrick moves Jay to his childhood home in Seattle. Within two weeks, Jay is arrested again. On his way to pick Jay up, Patrick stops an assault, then finds himself in handcuffs too. Thinking things can’t get any worse, he’s confronted by the sexiest man he’s ever seen—his son’s new probation officer, Ken Atkins.

The hardest part of Ken’s job is working with difficult parents, and the undeniably handsome Patrick Connelly is going to be a difficult parent. A chance encounter and steamy hookup with Patrick leave Ken blindsided. As they work together to try to keep Jay on the right path, the passion between them proves impossible to resist. When the assault Patrick prevented comes back to haunt them and Jay gets into trouble again, Ken must convince Patrick that ensuring his son’s happiness doesn’t have to mean sacrificing his own.

Review: The Way Things Are is an easy-breezy read with very solid characters. I loved how Patrick and Ken easily complemented each other. They have regular jobs, regular friends and even things about their past were very much realistic making them both very human balancing each other.

There’s not much to say about the twist in the story since it was really predictable but sometimes predictable is good right? I wish there was more resolution regarding Patrick’s son Jay but I feel okay knowing that he’s getting there.

I also want to have Corbin’s story! His backstory about his closeted ex was so good I feel that there should be more of his story!!! It’d totally be fun to see him and David finally hooking up – or not.

This is a beautiful story from A.J. Thomas that I would gladly recommend to anyone eying for an easy read.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Published January 30th 2015 by Dreamspinner Press

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Book Review: My Zombie Boyfriend – T. Strange

Posted on May 11, 2015 | Leave a comment

My Zombie BoyfriendBlurb: Edward Grey is a medical student by day, necromancer by night. He lives alone with the first zombie he ever raised, his childhood cat, Boo. Edward’s life is simple: studying medicine, training his necromantic powers with his mentor, Mariel, and having weekly dinners with his parents. When he finds a very attractive corpse in a park and brings it home to reanimate, he creates a sassy, free-willed zombie who believes Edward is the one who murdered him.

With no memory of his former life, Edward names the zombie Kit and tries to win his trust. Kit slowly adjusts to his new un-life with Edward’s help, though he’s still suspicious of Edward’s role in his death and is convinced that Edward is hiding his former identity. Edward is very attracted to Kit, but understands why Kit doesn’t trust him. As they become closer to one another, Kit turns to Edward for comfort and love. The fragile trust they’ve built together will be tested when Kit unexpectedly regains his memory and seeks revenge on his murderers.

I absolutely adore this quirky romance between a fashionista zombie and a medical student necromancer! I initially thought I was going to get some sort of variations of “Warm Bodies” but I was rather surprise of its cliché but very much endearing storytelling!

I just loved Edward (the necromancer) and his adorable necromancer ways! I was glad that his character isn’t over the top. I loved it even more that despite his quirks, he’s still very much normal in comparison to similar characters in other literatures. Oh and his chemistry with Kit!!!! *sigh* Speaking of Kit, isn’t he just the cutest and funniest zombie ever?! He’s like 101% adorbs!

Then we have the supporting characters – Edward’s parents, Mariel and Bone (I’d definitely look forward to his story!!!)

I’m still grinning from ear to east thinking about this book. If you want to have a good laugh then this heartwarming, romantic comedy and eccentric love story is definitely for you!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Published April 15th 2015 by Torquere Press

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Book Review: Blinding Light – Renae Kaye

Posted on May 10, 2015 | Leave a comment

Blinding LightBlurb: Jake Manning’s smart mouth frequently gets him into trouble. Because of it, he can’t hold a job. Combined with some bad luck, it’s prevented him from keeping steady employment. A huge debt looms over him, and alone he shoulders the care of his alcoholic mother and three younger sisters. When a housekeeping position opens, Jake’s so desperate he leaps at the opportunity. On landing, he finds his new boss, Patrick Stanford, a fussy, arrogant, rude… and blind man.

Born without sight, Patrick is used to being accommodated, but he’s met his match with Jake, who doesn’t take any of his crap and threatens to swap all the braille labels on his groceries and run off with his guide dog unless he behaves.

Jake gets a kick out of Patrick. Things are looking up: the girls are starting their own lives and his mum’s sobriety might stick this time. He’s sacrificed everything for his family; maybe it’s time for him to live his life and start a relationship with Patrick. When his mother needs him, guilt makes his choice between family and Patrick difficult, and Jake must realize he’s not alone anymore

Review: Blinding Light is a beautiful, feel good story typical of Renae Kaye’s works. You just gotta love the MC’s voice here. Jake was different from the MCs of the other three novels I’ve read from the author but there’s the same humor, the feels, and the chemistry between characters.

I’m not sure how comfortable I am regarding that big decision concerning the couple and Jake’s mother. I just don’t buy the “gift” thingy. I thought that was just selfish and way too premature considering Patrick’s blindness.

Other than that, I thought the rest of the story was solid albeit the weak (or rushed) ending.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Published July 14th 2014 by Dreamspinner Press

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Book Review: The Cellist – Elaine White

Posted on May 9, 2015 | 1 comment

The CellistBlurb: After six years, cellist Roman returns home with boyfriend Ben, in search of more than just international fame. There’s one complication he didn’t count on. His high school crush, the straight, untouchable, Jaxton is there when he arrives.

One performance at local club Crimson 8, stirs emotions that were better left forgotten.

With prior warning that the club is a gay man’s fantasy come true, where anything and everything can happen, Jaxton is dragged along with a group of his friends, to see Roman play.

What happens next, will change the course of all their lives forever.

Review: This is probably my favorite if not the strongest story I’ve read involving a polyamorous relationship in this genre. For male to male ménage stories, it’s always difficult to separate the sex from the “actual story” – that’s just dumb I know since they should go hand in hand but you get the drill right?

The chemistry between Roman, Ben and Jaxton was just off the chart I feel like combusting and that was just the effect of the sexual tension between these guys. At the beginning, I thought it would be better if Roman will just end up with Ben because the latter was just perfect and it hurts that he’s hurting. Initially, I thought Roman was being stupid for even thinking about Jaxton when he’s got the most perfect guy waiting for him at home. But then, this was supposed to be a ménage right?

Along with Roman’s backstory as a sixteen year old cello player unloved by his parents, we also got to know Jaxton as his first love. In Roman’s case, first love never dies and luckily for him, he was also Jaxton’s first love. Their bittersweet history was all we need to know why they can’t seem to let go of each other.

And we have the handsome and ever-helpful Ben. This guy was just perfect in every sense! I loved that he accepted Jaxton wholeheartedly into their relationship. That is true love he’s got there for Roman. Although I find their first get together and the decision making a bit too fast, I thought it was just too sweet at the same time.

The conclusion was just as perfect as the trio and I’d definitely love to read more from them because it feels like there’s more to their story that they need to share.

Miss White, this was a truly masterful piece! Congratulations!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars                                                       

Published April 10th 2015 by Hot Ink Press

Buy now:
Amazon US| Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble

About The Author
Elaine White grew up in a small town on the east coast of Scotland. She is an author of paranormal romance, crime and MM romance.

Fighting cancer in her early teens taught her that life is short and dreams should be pursued. She lives vicariously through her independent, and often hellion characters, while living comfortably at home with a pack of wolves cleverly disguised as one standard poodle.

A self-professed geek, Elaine has fallen in love with the research linked with her novels. The more obscure the better. She has recently delved into reading and writing MM romance/erotica and is now a happy addict of the genre.

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National HIV Testing Week by DOH from May 11-15, 2015

Posted on May 8, 2015 | Leave a comment

The Department of Health is offering free HIV testing from May 11 to 15 in various social hygiene clinic nationwide.

HIV AIDS

FYI – as of February 15, 2015 the Department of Health has reported a total of 23,709 confirmed HIV cases since it started its survey in 1984.

There were 646 new recorded cases in February 2015, of which:

28% are aged 15-24;
51% are aged 25-34; and
96% are males.

The testing is also in lieu of the AIDS candlelight memorial to be held on May 17 to remember folks who died of AIDS.

To locate social hygiene centers nearest you, call any of the following 24/7 hotlines: (02) 256-3472; (0915)198-6978; (0922) 635-0270; (0936) 183-8963; and (0919) 638-5401.

Wag kayong mahiya na magpunta sa mga lugar na ito mga kababayan. Ako mismo eh nagpapasuri twice a year just to be safe. Mas mabuti ng may peace of mind at alam mo kung may dapat kabang alalahanin o wala. Besides, ang mga gagawing pagsusuri ay pawang confidential at ikaw at ang mga tagasuri lamang ang makakaalam. Kung kayo o may kakilala kayo na kinakailangan ang ganitong pagsusuri – makipag ugnayan lamang po sa mga numerong nasa itaas.

via http://www.doh.gov.ph/

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Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 3 Episode 7 Photoshoot – The Girl Who Finally Cracks

Posted on May 7, 2015 | 2 comments

This week’s episode left me reeling after one of my favorite models in any cycle of this franchise was ousted!!! Ouch!!!!

Things are heating up between Monika and Gani (unknowingly yeah? lols). The filipina model who landed at the bottom last week also patch things up with Tahlia which I’m not quite convinced from both sides tbh.

At the ridiculous very top model posing challenge with a hoola hoop, my dear, dear Melissa totally killed it  – lol – so crazy but so cute!!!

At the shoot, a big prize is up for grabs because the numero uno girl in said shot will be the new ambassador of Subaru – whew! pretty big!!!

During the shoot, Gani was okay but I’m starting to rethink my opinion about her. Amanda’s doing great IMO minus her blinking problems. Barbara was amazing so as Monika – yeah – what a revenge right??? This is Aimee’s worst shot IMO and Tahlia was just there – mediocre at best. And my dear Melissa ohlawd!

Monika is back on top!

Monika is back on top!

First Call Out – Monika and became the newest ambassador of Subaru along with Barbara!!!

Barbara

This is beyond what I expected from Barbara! She’s stunning! Just stunning!

Aimee

Aimee

Aimee’s theme is Wild along with Gani, I thought she delivered but it’s just too tame IMO

Amanda

Amanda

Gawd! Cutie Amanda looks “powerful” enough for me here! And Georgina, please this girl has got more potential than your favorite! *cough*

Gani

Gani

This is a great shot but I don’t see powerful here.

KB

KB

I honestly do not know what to make of KB  – she’s just sailing in the middle of the competition at this stage and girl needs to step up!

Tahlia

Tahlia

Say hallo to Monika for me girl ^_^

Melissa

Melissa

“I can’t believe what you said to me last night we were alone……”

2. Barbara
3. KB
4. Gani
5. Amanda
6. Aimee
7. Tahlia

Eliminated: Melissa (can you actually believe this guys??? she’s like one of the strongest model in the competition arrrggghhhhh!!!!!!)

I need some time to get over this loss….

images via Asia’s Next Top Model.

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Book Review: Delsyn’s Blues (Vasquez & James, #2) – Lou Sylvre

Posted on May 7, 2015 | Leave a comment

Delsyn's BluesBlurb: Sonny James and Luki Vasquez are living proof that the course of love never runs smoothly. Ambushed by grief, Sonny listens to a voice singing the blues from beyond the grave. While revisiting the sorrows and failings of his past, in the here and now he puts up a wall against love. Just when Luki chips through that barricade, the couple becomes the target of a new threat from outside: an escalating and unexplainable rash of break-ins and assaults.

Thoughts of infidelity rise between them, a threat that may strain their newly mended love past its limits. To come through the trials alive and together, Luki and Sonny will have to unite against enemies who were once friends and overcome crippling hatred and overwhelming fear. If they succeed, maybe then they can rekindle the twin flames of passion and love.

***

I always find it annoying when an author intentionally makes her story predictable for the sole purpose of making the main character do something utterly stupid or commit some blunder.

I thought this story was just as shaky as the first book. It was erratic even due to Sonny’s “crazy moments” regardless of the supposed reason behind them. His characterization was just way too inconsistent.

And if you think about it, Luki brought all these debacles into Sonny’s life yeah? Hate crimes, drugs and all ( Hello?! Mariano Royce then Ladd??!!!)

I also find the repetitive sentiments in the book annoying – the ringtones, the cartoon references, the cigarettes, Sonny’s ESP-like intuition. Too over the top and indulgent.

I did not enjoy this as much as the first book but I’d definitely give the next book in the series a try.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Published January 2nd 2012 by Dreamspinner Press        

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Australia’s Next Top Model Cycle 9 – Episode 1 Girl Gotta Do

Posted on May 6, 2015 | Leave a comment

Australia's Next Top Model Cycle 9The new season of Australia’s Next Top Model is very different from the last 8 cycles – this time, it follows the new format of the original franchise where the judges will give a score from 1 to 10 and will add it to the contestants challenge score (minus the social media score)

12 girls are vying for the title this cycle and Jennifer Hawkins will still be hosting and judging the show and returning judge Alex Perry is still part of the show (thank the gods for small blessings)

The first episode was aptly dedicated to the late Charlotte Dawson – one of the funnest judges in any Top Model series. I’m gonna miss ya big time girl!

The girls’ first challenge was (as usual) a fashion show with Lucy Markovic leading the scoreboard! Ayieda struggled thus getting the lowest score along with Cassie. The prettiest are the worst walker I swear!

The photoshoot was just perfect to gauge their ability to show their beauty in black and white portraits! And guess who actually went on to coach the girls?? fcuk! it was THE Alessandra Ambrosio! OMG!!! IKR????!!!

Here are the 12 girls in what looks to me a very intimate photoshoot in black and white. I just loved these kinds of shoots.

I personally loved Tanahya’s shot the most and I do not understand why Alex was totally way up there!

gone girl.

gone girl.

And did you agree with the judges eliminating Kaitlyn???

Scoreboard
1. Alex
2. Brittany
3. Izi
4. Tanahya
5. Phoebe
6. Jess
7. Lucy
8. Cassie
9. Jordan
10. Lauren
11. Ayieda

Watch Australia’s Next Top Model S9 Thursday at 730pm EST on Fox8

via Australia’s Next Top Model

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Book Review: Loving Luki Vasquez (Vasquez & James, #1) – Lou Sylvre

Posted on May 6, 2015 | Leave a comment

Loving Luki VasquezBlurb: Reclusive weaver Sonny Bly James controls every color and shape in his tapestries, but he can’t control the pattern of his life—a random encounter with Luki Vasquez, ex-ATF agent and all-around badass, makes that perfectly clear. The mutual attraction is immediate, but love-shy Sonny has retreated from life, and Luki wears his visible and not-so-visible scars like armor. Neither can bare his soul with ease.

 While they run from desire, they can’t hide from the evil that hunts them. After it becomes clear that a violent stalker has targeted Sonny, Luki’s protective instincts won’t let him run far, especially when Sonny’s family is targeted as well. Whether they can forgive or forget, Sonny and Luki will have to call a truce and work together to save Sonny’s nephew and fight an enemy intent on making sure loving Luki Vasquez is the last mistake Sonny will ever make.

***

I actually find the story a bit odd yet very endearing. Odd because Sonny’s supposed “recluse artist” persona contradicts his actions in the book. He’s not withdrawn, he’s quite socially functional and he’s got a smart mouth which was pretty funny.

There was also the twist that was so out of nowhere I felt that the back-story wasn’t enough to support the whole premise. See, before our couple met, Luki was (supposedly) already under surveillance from his somehow very devious and smart half-brother Mariano Royce who’s already surmising that Luki will end up with Sonny James. Assuming much? Coincidence? Nah. That was just one of the weakest parts in the story.

I am however very much in love with the great chemistry between Luki and Sonny. The story telling was shaky but our couple is solid enough to merit this first book in the series 4-stars rating.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Published June 20th 2011 by Dreamspinner Press

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Book Review: Healing Hunter’s Heart (A Little Bite Of Love #2) – Charlie Cochet

Posted on May 1, 2015 | Leave a comment

Healing Hunter's HeartBlurb: Months after being forced to leave his lover and mate Ari Jannsen behind, Hunter Devin settles into his role as Enforcer for the newly formed Deagan Clan under the rule of his new Alpha and best friend Tristan “Trip” Hagan. Along with Hunter’s brother Boone, their nephews, sister, and mother, Hunter finally has the family he’s always wanted, but without his little rebel Ari, his heart is incomplete.

The Hagan Clan is unable to accept the Deagan Clan’s betrayal for walking away and taking the clan’s pups with them. War looms. As both clans plan their attack, a greater enemy plots against them. But Hunter is determined to get his Ari back. Bonds are put to the test and unexpected alliances are made as Hunter and his clan set out to protect their own and end the spreading heartache.

I would like to say that I absolutely enjoyed this the way I enjoyed the first book An Intrepid Trip to Love but unfortunately, it just went flat for me.

Hunter and Ari’s love story lacks that vibrant flare we’ve seen from Trip and Boone. There weren’t enough dialogues as well. In all fairness to Hunter and Ari, the first book was injected with so much humor while this one just fell short with it. It was obviously more subdued but there ya’ll know that there is a good kind of subdued right? This story isn’t one of them though.

To sum this up, I thought there are just so many things happening in it, too many names to remember and too many contrived scenes. I am very sad that this didn’t go well for me. I will still be getting the next book in the series though because I loved me some Charlie Cochet and she’s a great author – this one just didn’t work for me.

Published April 24th 2015 by Dreamspinner Press

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

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