Yearly Archives: 2015

Book Review: Pretend (Blackcreek, #3) – Riley Hart

Pretend BLURB: Mason Alexander thought all he wanted in life was something to call his own—something without the family name attached. He got that when he bought his bar in Blackcreek…but then a hard truth opens his eyes that he’s been lied to his whole life, and he’s tangled amid the family that loves him, a truth that haunts him, and torn between the life he wants for himself and the obligation he feels for his family.

Gavin Davis knows a thing or two about living a double life. Being a gay man with strict Christian parents who believe he’s going to Hell, has never been easy. Instead of dealing, Gavin lost himself in his career. Teaching music gives him solace. So when he loses his job at a private school for helping out a gay kid, he feels like he lost more than a job. He lost his identity.

Blackcreek is a new start for both of them, two men, loyal to a fault, who both feel obligated to people in their lives. What Mason and Gavin don’t expect to find in each other is the place where they can be real. They know they want each other, it’s the rest of it they can’t figure out. Caught between loyalty, obligation, fear, tragedy and family, Mason and Gavin’s lives threaten to pull them away from each other if they don’t get real, and stop playing pretend, for good.

***

but...

but…

And here I thought that this would be an awesome third book for the Blackcreek series. So not the case! Just so not the case! Mason and Gavin’s story started out great until all their issues mostly revolving around their respective families started to get annoyingly repetitive. Gavin with his uber-religious parents and the “your soul is going to hell” speech started to get on my nerves just after the third time he visited his mom – like every single interaction with his Mom were like that. Mason on the other hand acted like the most sensitive prick to ever live and was always guilt ridden like Gavin for shunning his parents after it was revealed that he’s not their biological son. I mean, lawd – is he like twelve or something?!

This is Too mUch

Don’t even get me started with Isaac – Mason’s annoying ex-boyfriend. And then there’s Braden – I know that he’s Gavin’s first boyfriend and he really cared for him but this dude need to get it in his head to mind his own business just for once. Ugh. ANNOYING! ANNOYING!

I can’t believe the story turned out like this, I really do like the start but somewhere in there – it was like the summation of the whole series – repetitive, weak plot points and lost potentials. Sadly, it’s the weakest amongst the series so far…

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

Book Review: Perfect Imperfections – Cardeno C.

Perfect ImperfectionsHollywood royalty Jeremy Jameson has lived a sheltered life with music as his sole focus and only friend. Before embarking on yet another international concert tour, he wanders into a bar in what he considers the middle of nowhere and meets a man who wins him over with his friendly smile and easy-going nature. Accountant slash bartender slash adventure-seeker Reg Moore has fun talking and drinking with The Jeremy Jameson and can’t say no when the supposedly straight rock star makes him a once in a lifetime offer: keep him company on his tour by playing the part of his boyfriend.

Listening to music, traveling the world, and jumping off cliffs is fun. Falling in love is even better. But to stay with Jeremy after the stage lights dim, Reg will need to help him realize there’s nothing pretend about their relationship.

***

There are some books where I usually complain because of the very slow pacing, some because they’re too fast. Perfect Imperfections falls under the latter – the story in my opinion was maybe a bit too fast for my liking that I ended not connecting well with Reggie and JJ. Don’t get me wrong though, they’re great characters and they have this amazing chemistry at first but throughout the story, I just lost that with them.

The story was okay in a predictable way, the premise light though a bit incredulous if you think about it and like what I’ve mentioned; the whole thing was overly rushed. Another thing, I’m still not convinced about JJ’s preference. ^_^ that’s just me though. Perhaps, I was expecting the story to be discussing more about the music (ala Conquest by SJ Frost) and the travels and not just the internal battles of JJ and Reg babying him all throughout the story.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

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About The Author
Cardeno C. – CC to friends – is a hopeless romantic who wants to add a lot of happiness and a few “awwws” into a reader’s day. Writing is a nice break from real life as a corporate type and volunteer work with gay rights organizations. Cardeno’s stories range from sweet to intense, contemporary to paranormal, long to short, but they always include strong relationships and walks into the happily-ever-after sunset.

Heartwarming Stories. Strong Relationships. Forever Love.

Book Review: Raven’s Mark – Jade Archer

Raven's MarkRaven’s stutter and previous abusive relationships with the people he thought cared for him led him to be overly introverted with anxiety attacks looming his already closed-off personality. But for Ryan’s sake, his four year old kid –Raven is trying to venture out more and be the best parent he could be. Meeting Mark, the head chef of the Sandpiper’s Restaurant made Raven feel things that he knows he’s got no right to feel because this would only lead to more complications.

Mark who took care of his two younger siblings until they went to college finally has all the time to take care of himself. When he meets Raven, he was immediately drawn to the painfully shy guy and hopes to get to know more about him including the haunted look his carrying around and the fierce protectiveness towards his son Ryan. With both father and son around, Mark’s protective instinct kicked in and wanted to take responsibility of caring for them. Will Raven be able to overcome his painful past and finally move on and will Mark be able to show Raven that he’s up for the long ride?

The first book of this series was a good one. I loved the whole chemistry between the three guys. With Raven and Mark, it was also good but the plot was too thin for the story to develop easily. It was pretty much predictable all throughout and the chemistry between the MCs was not properly established. It became apparent that Mark was acting more as Raven and Ryan’s protector which was actually insinuated by Raven in the story. I think it was the case even though it was refuted at the end. I’m not saying I didn’t like the story altogether but it’s lacking the romance part of it. The sex scenes were dull, the dialogues not enough and the narrative was longer than necessary.

I’d still recommend this for those who loved an easy read since it was pretty quick to read but don’t go looking for much depth in it.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Book Review: Soufflés at Sunrise (Just Desserts, #2) – M.J. O’Shea & Anna Martin

Soufflés at Sunrise (Just Desserts, #2) M.J. O'Shea & Anna MartinThe first book of the series has set the tone of M.J. O’Shea and Anna Martin’s collaboration into something that is maybe a hit or miss for both authors’ fans. These two are in my top 10 favorite authors from this genre and for some reason; their partnership doesn’t quite equate into something spectacular as a fan of both (moi!) would expect. That’s not to say the book was awful though, it’s actually far from that.

Soufflés at Sunrise is a cute story – two guys who found each other in the midst of a reality cooking TV show. Kailua Chin is a chef who left Hawaii and settled in California to try out for the show. He’s confident and very intense and sees himself already winning the top plum in the show. Country boy Chase Christensen grew up in a farm and has his own Ice-cream business in Wisconsin. He’s shy, sweet and very easy in the eye. At the show, they were pitted against each other with the producer orchestrating a mock rivalry for the viewers. But behind the scenes and off cam – they can’t seem to get their hands off each other.Things went wrong when their personal involvement started to get in the way of the competition. And then Chase discovered something that may change their plans for the show…and change things with Kai.

The first half of the story was a bit dull for my taste. I thought it was repetitive until Chase and Kai spent their days off at Kai’s loft (If I remember it right, it was during chapter seven when things started to pick up. Thank gawd!) The sex scenes between them were hot but there’s not too many of it. I thought the D/s tinge in those scenes was such a treat but I’m glad that the authors didn’t overdo it. I would’ve been mad if they did. It was already out of character from Chase and if they went beyond those verbal “domination” then I’m totally refunding this book!

I think it’s safe to say that anyone who’s into cooking / baking desserts would have an orgasm reading this oh-so-sweet story. The chemistry between Chase and Kai was incredible and the oh-so-many desserts in the story was almost info overload for me since I didn’t care one bit about it.

 Needless to say, the story has its moments and just like the first book in the series – there are some things that’s still lacking (I want excessive romancing from the MCs next time please!) but overall, it’s still an enjoyable read.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Published February 23rd 2015 by Dreamspinner Press

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Dreamspinner Press | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

About The Authors
Anna Martin is from a picturesque seaside village in the south west of England. After spending most of her childhood making up stories, she studied English Literature at university before attempting to turn her hand as a professional writer.

Apart from being physically dependent on her laptop, she is enthusiastic about writing and producing local grassroots theatre (especially at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where she can be found every summer), travelling, learning to play the ukulele, and Ben & Jerry’s New York Super Fudge Chunk.

Anna claims her entire career is due to the love, support, pre-reading and creative ass-kicking provided by her closest friend Jennifer. Jennifer refuses to accept any responsibility for anything Anna has written.

***

M.J. O’Shea has been writing romance since algebra class in sixth grade (when most of her stories starred her and Leonardo DiCaprio). When she’s not writing, she loves listening to nearly all types of music, painting, reading great authors, and on those elusive sunny days in the Pacific Northwest, she loves driving on the freeway with her windows rolled down and her stereo on high.

She can be contacted at mjosheaseattle@gmail.com

Book Review: Trapped in Oz (Tales from Kansas #3) – Andrew Grey

Trapped In Oaz[Book 3 of Tales From Kansas Series]

BLURB: Martin Long has plans and dreams, but they are derailed when his parents move and must sell their house. In need of a place to stay, fast, he answers an ad for a roommate, and even though the house needs work, the owner seems nice so Martin agrees to move in.

Gary Hunter is barely making ends meet, with mysteriously disappearing tips at work and tuition to pay. Disowned by his family and left with a house in need of repair, Gary desperately needs the extra set of hands along with the money.

When Gary confesses that his family disowned him for being gay, Martin makes his own confession that opens a world of possibilities. But Gary has paid a heavy price for being who he is, and Martin’s unwillingness to open up to his family puts strain on the fledgling relationship.

***

This may be my favorite book in the series only because I just loved Gary’s character and really feel for him dearly. The characters are very well developed although Martin who keeps on repeating himself about not wanting to come out fearing his parent reaction did get on my nerves a bit but with that beautiful ending, I decided to let go of it. One of Gary’s friend was named Larry and I thought he’s the same bully from the second book – it would have been nice if he was able to turn his life around yeah? I’d love for this story to be much longer because I feel that the ending was rush to stay with the series’ 7 chapters policy. I loved that we get to see Roger and Lyle here and the timeline was like years here. I was hoping that we’d get to see Nate and Jeremy as well but perhaps, the author will revisit them in the next book in the series. I decided that I liked this series after all. It’s not overly dramatic, a bit predictable but very easy and fun to read.

 Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Published October 8th 2014 by Dreamspinner Press

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Book Review: Stuck in Oz (Tales from Kansas, #2) – Andrew Grey

Stuck In Oz[Book 2 of Tales From Kansas Series]

BLURB: When Jeremy and Petey’s mother died, their house was taken to pay the debts she left behind, leaving them homeless. Afraid Petey will be put in foster care, they have no one to turn to but their Uncle Milt, so they pack up Jeremy’s beat-up car and leave San Diego for Wamego, Kansas.

They arrive in the middle of a snowstorm and stop at the local diner to contact their uncle, where they meet Nate. Nate and his aunt help them contact Uncle Milt, and he agrees to help.

Jeremy and Nate hit it off quickly, but Jeremy runs when he’s made to believe their new home isn’t permanent. Nate goes after him, finds him, and convinces him that he’s wanted. However, just as Jeremy and Nate begin to trust each other, Petey’s estranged father appears and threatens to tear Jeremy’s new life and fledgling family apart.

***

Okay, as much as I’d like to ignore this one – I figured that I may have judged the first book too harshly. Thinking back, the first book felt like watching “Elizabethtown,” perhaps because I was thinking of Shoebox. Never mind…

Stuck in Oz was actually a much better read than the series’ first offering. The story is much more solid though a bit predictable. I loved Jeremy and Nate’s instant chemistry from the very beginning. There’s also a bully that was a wee bit predictable and very similar to the first book’s evil-bible-thumping siblings. Uncle Milt’s character was okay but rather than being oblivious (as Nate pointedly mentioned), I rather find him too dense. Petey’s such a sweetheart. I love kids in books! They’re just the most adorable thing ever with the things they say. We also got a glimpse of Roger and Lyle here from the first book going steady and stronger than ever! I realized that this series isn’t so bad after all…

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Published April 30th 2014 by Dreamspinner Press (first published April 29th 2014)

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Book Review: The Dating Game – Jay Northcote

The Dating GameFive sex-free dates was the deal. Owen doesn’t do dating but to get to Nathan’s pants – a boy got to do what he ought to do.

I’m now getting Jay Northcote’s style. Her stories so far have that similar light-feel vibes and characters with identical POV from her other stories. This novella is no different. Both Owen and Nathan have had crush with each other since their uni days but neither of them know that of course. Owen was openly gay then and Nathan was still securely hiding in the closet. When they see each other again, the five sex-free date was made because according to Nathan – he doesn’t want to be another Owen’s conquest —Ookay.

So the cute and bubbly dates went on – it was an easy read from start to finish and does not have unneccesary drama. I’ve expected more at the end but I guess since they’re still at the dating stage, I just have to make do with that. Both MCs are sexy and adorable and the whole story was just fun. I highly recommend this for those who seeking low-angst stories.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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Book Review: A Marked Man (Assassin/ Shifter #1) – Sandrine Gasq-Dion

A Marked ManSandrine Gasq-Dion is one of my go-to authors whenever I feel like reading light-feel books. And this book falls between too angsty and too light.

Mateo Esposito loves his job as a hired assassin by the US Government. When he lands a job to get rid of CEO Riley Flynn of Flynn Electronics, something does not sit right with him and for the first time in his career – he begun to question himself.

Riley Flynn was comfortably hiding in the closet but has always wonder how it would feel to be with a man – when he crossed path with Mateo, something tells him that things are just about to change.

Now this one I find sweet and just  a-okay. It’s not exactly as memorable as the other stories from the author but it’s alright. I didn’t connect well with both characters but loved the way the story developed and its introduction of other characters. I must admit that I got a bit surprised with the little twist behind one of Mateo’s friend and the assignment to get rid of Riley. I thought that was really good.

The secondary characters are okay as well but I didn’t remember their names that much so I really have to find some time to read the succeeding stories in the series. This was definitely a great start of a series if I’m being honest. Not spectacularly good but definitely a good starter.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Published January 10th 2012 by DIASQ

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Book Review: The Luckiest (Lucky Moon #2) – Piper Vaughn, M.J. O’Shea

The Luckiest MoonThis one was an okay follow up for Moonlight Becomes You. It  focuses on Shane Ventura’s brother – Nick Ventura. Yup, he’s the a-hole brother of Shane who’s jealous of his brother’s love life so he succumb to his usual vices and ends up crashing into a department store leading him into a rehabilitation center.

There he meets the openly gay nutritionist Luka Novak. The soft spoken Luka is the type of gay man that Nick usually sneered at. [Just a note, in the blurb it says Luka was flamboyant and effeminate but reading the book – I really didn’t get that vibe. NOT AT ALL]. What started out as a nutrition consultation turns into a friendship and when Nick was released from the rehab, he started to pursue Luka until the other guy finally gave in.

But Nick’s not ready to come out and is more concern with his reputation. Given an ultimatum by Luka, will he do the right thing or will he be left alone as always?

I honestly wanted to bitchslap Nick every time he messed up with Luka. I mean, how many more chances is Luka willing to give for him to change? If I were Luka, I would’ve let him suffer more. He’s really such a dick and doesn’t deserve the third and fourth chances even. In the end, I’m still not convinced with Nick’s sincerity but I’m still happy that somehow, Luka was able to worm its way into his life and perhaps help him change for the better. I still loved the writing though although I’m really not a fan of Nick but as usual, Piper and M.J. does not know how not to deliver! Bravo!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Published March 27th 2012 by Loose Id

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Book Review: Moonlight Becomes You (Lucky Moon #1) – Piper Vaughn, M.J. O’Shea

Moonlight Becomes YouThis is a story of redemption, forgiveness and second chance at love. I loved the history between this couple and their young love was obviously a bittersweet one.

Eleven years ago, Shane Ventura made the biggest mistake of his life when he was pressured by his record label to kick his best friend Jesse Seider out of their band, Luck. Guilt-ridden until now, he still can’t fill that gaping hole Jesse left behind despite the success they’ve accomplished.

When he meets Kayden Berlin, the front man of  Britain’s hottest band Moonlight – instant attraction ensues but for whatever reason, Kayden keeps on pushing him away.  Until one night, secrets from Kayden have been revealed that left Shane yet again with another broken heart.

The story actually has a fairly simple plot. The ugly guy got kick out from the band, he made himself better. He changed his name and looks and got successful and voila! Instant revenge from hell! But it’s not easy to hurt a person who wronged you especially if that person is the same person you used to love or still in love with.

The whole revenge thing from Kayden would have been better if he made Shane grovel more for his affection. I loved the turnaround he did on his looks and I wonder why it took so long for him to plot his comeback into Shane’s life.

Anyhoo, the story was wonderful as usual – if you’ve enjoyed reading the authors’ collaboration in the One Thing series, you’d definitely enjoy this one as well.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Published August 9th 2011 by Loose Id

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