Book Review: Dominic (Slater Brothers #1) – L.A. Casey

via Goodreads

via Goodreads

“I more than like you but don’t feel near love yet, so I put the word love and life together and got live so I live you. I’m in live with you, pretty girl” – Dominic

From a debuting author from Ireland, the story of Dominic Slater was penned that would surely make the tweens [as of press time, they already are] and not so tween-nation swoon all over this bad-ass, hot, cocky and slightly immature 18 year old American expat in Ireland who tormented Bronagh Murphy’s life and introduced her to the world of underground fighting, his equally demigod-like brothers and found a way to shatter Bronagh’s heavily guarded heart.

I ordered this one right away when a friend of mine recommended it after discussing the Beautiful Disaster series. I looked it up and with stunning reviews, I figured that this would probably be a good fix after soaking myself up with all the fantasy and sci-fi reads I’ve had so far. And if this is nearly as good as “Beautiful Disaster,” well then, I’ve no problem losing some money over it.

Okay, here we go…

So at first, I wasn’t entirely convinced of Bronagh’s character. I was already expecting that she’d go Bella Swan on me like “I’m a weak girl, I cannot defend myself. I’m such a klutz and can’t live without my man and all” but I was utterly and completely wrong. Bronagh’s everything but weak. What a feisty character and I totally loved her! I mean seriously, she’s like a dream. I’m tired of all the female MC being all so annoying and overly conflicted with themselves but Bronagh’s a refreshing gal that I even find myself comparing her with Pidge of Beautiful Disaster [Hhhmm, Lucky 13 still edge her out though].

Now let’s go over Dominic – it has to be about him mostly right? After all, he’s the guy in the title and well – he’s like the most perfect book boyfriend based on the author’s description – at least physically. See, I’m trying to really assert my thoughts about this guy but I just can’t get over the fact that he’s only freaking 18 years old! I mean yeah, he’s handsome, cocky and all but he’s basically a baby – ugh. No further comment.

Now let’s move on with the rest of the Slater brothers I’m mostly interested more than Dominic himself. Let’s start with Ryder since he’s dating Bronagh’s sister – he’s kind of off limits for now so let’s also not discuss him any further. LOL

We have Kane, the one with the scar in the mouth for apparently doing some of the hoodlum jobs for Marco Miles (See, I really cannot really you more about Marco because then I have to spill everything here). Let’s move forward with their bisexual brother Alex. He’s like my favorite If I’m being honest [perhaps because of my affinity to MM genre] I could just imagine what his story will be, I reckon it’ll be a great idea for the author to cross over the MM genre at least just for this character. [DEAD – apparently, Alec’s story was already released and he was paired with a woman –it sucks I know].

Lastly, Dominic’s twin brother – the white haired Damien. I love his adorable image in the book but for the life of me, I can’t imagine his snow-white hair. The only time I saw a snow-white hair person was while watching Top Model series. Okay, nuff said.

Going back to the story, though I find the premise a bit over the top which was very intentional by the way, I still went along with it because of the smooth way the story was written. Now I’m just a bit worried with the upcoming series because they may be a bit repetitive, I still believe though that the author will rise to the occasion. This first book in this rather exciting series is not that bad. Not bad at all.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Book Review: Laying Ghosts – James Buchanan

Laying Ghosts[Book 3 of the Deputy Joe Series]

Finally settling after getting kick out from his church, living with his boyfriend Kabe and still solving cases after coming out – Deputy Joe Peterson now needs to deal with officially coming to his family with his parents return from their mission and a whole deal of family reunion. It’s also time for both Joe and Kabe to lay all ghost of the past which includes a grim family tragedy that gripped the Peterson family for decades and an unwanted thing from the past that Gabe never wants to remember.

I really do love this series. It’s actually surprising for me because I’m usually not that into reading a book {much more a series] with religious shit all over it and it actually does not have much of it if I’m being honest. The first two books have more of that undertone and this [final book?] has that mere acceptance that one plus one won’t result into two. This third installment definitely showed us the development of Joe’s relationship not only with Kabe but with the rest of his small town involving his work and family. I loved that the consistency of Joe’s POV is still there from the first book up to this one.

I’m still now comfortable with the BDSM aspect of this series to be honest. I still find it slightly odd and rather scary whenever Joe goes all dominant with Kabe during all their sexy times. It was a bit uncomfortable because Joe’s plenty scary and I feel like he might snap (totally) anytime especially with the ever so patient and loveable Kabe. I think this is the only factor which I didn’t like about the series.

The whole family tragedy that got Joe all worked up was quite predictable but it was a great transition for most of Joe’s family to finally accept him and Kabe. What’s really so great about this book and the series in general is how utterly realistic the story was. There’s depth, there’s true emotion and a character like Joe is really quite hard to forget.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Book Review: Six – Tara Spears

via Goodreads

via Goodreads

This story is part of Goodreads Don’t Read In The Closet Event in 2013 – Love Has No Boundaries Volume 2 and is only my second read from Tara Spears who penned the dark and unbelievably stunning “The Darker Side Of Trey Grey”. Again, I’m astounded by how insanely good she tells her story! The title “Six” represents the number of years the two men in the story spent their lives on something that dramatically changed their lives before meeting each other. Angel is a kindergarten teacher who became a single parent after his partner for six years left him bereft but thankful at the same time because of his daughter – a little angel of his own. Marcus on the other hand had stayed married with his wife for six year before realizing that it won’t ever work for them. They divorced but not without his wife leaving him with two young children. I particularly loved these kinds of stories. They’re the kind of stories that goes straight and tug to your heart. I adored Marcus’s character – what an amazing guy! Angel on the other hand was just adorable! This story has everything you could ask for a beautiful romance between two loving men. Their chemistry is strong, their dynamic beautiful and the dialogues are just WOW! The sex scenes are freaking hot and both MCs are just perfect for each other. Tara Spears – you are amazing!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Battle-Ready: MJ Lastimosa At The Miss Universe Website!

MJ looking fiercer than ever! via missuniverse.org

MJ looking fiercer than ever!
via missuniverse.org

The supposed 2014 edition of the Miss Universe pageant will be held on January 25 of next year at the U.S. Century Bank Arena in Doral, Miami, Floria and every pageant fans and pundits are totally bubbling up with excitement!

Philippine delegate Mary Jean Lastimosa (who waited for almost a year and is the last 2014 Binibining Pilipinas queen to be fielded internationally) is also gearing up in the hopes of winning the third Miss Universe crown for the Philippines. It’s been a good 41 years since the Philippines won the crown when Margarita Moran won in Greece – just three years after Gloria Diaz won the 1969 edition.

Most recently, the Philippines have consistently placed in the Top 5 from the last four years where Janine Tugonon almost snatched the crown in 2012 from eventual winner Olivia Culpo of the USA.

And I’ve a feeling that the 63rd edition of the pageant in January will be a battle royale of beauty, poise and wits! I’m also getting a good feeling for MJ! She just look extremely ravishing!!!

America’s Next Top Model Cycle 21 Photoshoot #13 For GUESS

One of the biggest prizes this season is US $100,000 campaign with Guess so whoever wins this season is sure getting the big bucks!

Who do you think work it big time in this shoot and who should get the first call out?

ANTM Adam Smith

Adam Smith

 

ANTM Keith Carlos

Keith Carlos

 

ANTM Will Jardell

Will Jardell

 

ANTM Lenox Tillman

Lenox Tillman

 

Catch the part one of the finale on  December 5, 2014 (8/7c) and the part two on the same day at (9/8c) on CWTV

Book Review: Spin Out (Deputy Joe Book 2) – James Buchanan

via Goodreads

via Goodreads

Deputy Joe Peterson understood the risks when he got involved with ex-con Kabe Varghese. He didn’t, however, see fit to warn Kabe. Now, in the middle of searching for the killer of a local boy, he has to contend with his career and his relationship spinning out of control. Solving the case may be easier than repairing broken trust.

After Deputy Joe came out of the closet and was excommunicated by his church, he’s now trying to move on with his life making some major adjustments. He’s now very much involved with ex-convict Kabe Varghese and is trying to make things work with the guy. This was a really good follow up to Hard Fall. The story is more dynamic and we learned more about the couple. I really enjoyed the crime-solving side of this series; it’s very CSI and much more focused this time around. I noticed though, a subtle shift to Kabe’s character. He seemed less masculine compared to his bad-ass characterization in the first book. I really loved it when Dev’s character made an appearance. That hotel room scene with him and Joe was almost sensual. I was like, c’mon guys – just freaking do it already! The other side of my brain though, was like “Joe, you don’t wanna do this to Kabe!!!”. I’m very much happy with it but I’m still uncomfortable with their semi-BDSM set up. Nevertheless, I’m still looking forward to get my hands on the third book of the series. ‘never thought I’d like this series this much.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Book Review: Hard Fall (Deputy Joe Book 1) – James Buchanan

via Goodreads

via Goodreads

Deputy Joe Peterson is Mormon and in the closet. Then ex-con Kabe Varghese lands in town on parole. When a tourist falls off the mountain, Joe finds he needs the help of this cliff climbing adrenaline junky to solve the case. Will Kabe tear him apart or does Joe need to fall hard before he can start living?

This book was very easy to like and both MCs have their unique charm which made them pretty much relatable. I loved Deputy Joe’s character because of his unpretentious way of looking at things. I’m not really a big fan of stories with religion getting in the mix but I’m not against authors who could write well within the subject. James Buchanan explored a lot of things here – the life of a closeted homosexual man in the law enforcement who also practiced his religion and is living in a very small town. Now try to top that picture! That’s a total no-no to read right? Fortunately, the seemingly predictable and boring storyline was saved by the appearance of ex-convict adrenaline junkie Kabe (like Gabe with a K), turning Deputy Joe’s life upside down. The CSI-ish side of the story was a bit predictable but is convincing enough so it was not so bad. I do not like the BDSM undertone of it because it feels a bit off with Joe’s persona but like what they always say – it’s always the quiet ones. J So there, I’d say this was a good first book of a series. The second ought to be better though.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

The Royal Bride: Marian Rivera In 4 Preview Magazine Covers!

Marian For Preview

Photographed by Paolo Pineda Styled by Liz Uy Art Direction by Vince Uy Makeup By Omar Ermita for Shu Uemura Hair by Jay Wee Nails by Arlene Santocaras of I Do Nails

Here’s GMA’s Primetime Queen and soon to be bride to Dingdong Dantes, the ever ethereal beauty of Marian Rivera gracing four covers of the December 2014 to January 2015 issue of Preview Magazine!

Photographed by Paolo Pineda Styled by Liz Uy Art Direction by Vince Uy Makeup By Omar Ermita for Shu Uemura Hair by Jay Wee Nails by Arlene Santocaras of I Do Nails  Shoot Assistants: Maura Rodriguez and Yanna Lopez

Photographed by Paolo Pineda / Styled by Liz Uy / Art Direction by Vince Uy / Makeup By Omar Ermita for Shu Uemura / Hair by Jay Wee / Nails by Arlene Santocaras of I Do Nails / Shoot Assistants: Maura Rodriguez and Yanna Lopez

Photographed by Paolo Pineda  / Styled by Liz Uy / Art Direction by Vince Uy / Makeup By Omar Ermita for Shu Uemura / Hair by Jay Wee / Nails by Arlene Santocaras of I Do Nails /Shoot Assistants: Yanna Lopez and Maura Rodriguez

Photographed by Paolo Pineda / Styled by Liz Uy / Art Direction by Vince Uy / Makeup By Omar Ermita for Shu Uemura / Hair by Jay Wee / Nails by Arlene Santocaras of I Do Nails /Shoot Assistants: Yanna Lopez and Maura Rodriguez

Photographed by Paolo Pineda  / Styled by Liz Uy / Art Direction by Vince Uy / Makeup By Omar Ermita for Shu Uemura / Hair by Jay Wee / Nails by Arlene Santocaras of I Do Nails /Shoot Assistants: Maura Rodriguez and Yanna Lopez

Photographed by Paolo Pineda / Styled by Liz Uy / Art Direction by Vince Uy / Makeup By Omar Ermita for Shu Uemura / Hair by Jay Wee / Nails by Arlene Santocaras of I Do Nails /Shoot Assistants: Maura Rodriguez and Yanna Lopez

The much awaited wedding of Marian and Dingdong is slated on December 30, 2014 at Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Cubao, Quezon City.

images via preview magazine
p.s. yes, grab your copies now!

Book Review: One True Thing – Piper Vaughn & M.J. O’Shea

One True Thing[Book 2 of One Thing Series]

We met Dustin Davis in One Small Thing as Rue’s bestfriend and now that Rue’s all in love with Eric and his daughter Alice, Dustin was left to wonder when his prince charming will swept him off his feet. Then he meets Archer Kyriakides whom he thought was the one when he initially saw the guy but something’s telling him that there was off about their budding romance – until he meets Archer’s identical twin Asher.

 Asher Kyriakides dreams of snapping fashion shots but he’s stuck with a job he hates and with an irresponsible twin brother. He’s got the shock of his life when he saw that he’s playboy twin is dating the cute blond he initially saw and can’t seem to forget. When things goes wrong with Archer and Dustin, the latter took comfort from Asher and that’s when feelings started to bloom between them – but now without his wicked twin getting in the way of their relationship.

I really loved the first book of this series. Rue and Eric are just so adorable and the combo of Piper Vaugh and M.J. O’Shea is just something that has magic in it. This time though, I didn’t quite see that magic from One Small Thing. Dustin’s character came off a bit whiny with very low self-esteem. Of course, I’ve known that he’s got trust issue with the guys he was dating especially after his tumultuous experience with his previous ex but like in the first book, Dustin didn’t deliver the charm. The same could be said about Asher’s character. It was a bit trying hard and his character was even less charming than Dustin. Don’t get me wrong though, I still enjoyed the book but the predictability of it all and my apathy towards the MCs just dampen that enjoyment for me. It’ll still be good for you to try reading it out guys!

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Book Review: Rifter Series by Ginn Hale (Book 1-10)

Rifter Series Book 1-5 Covers

Rifter Series Book 1-5 Covers

[Warning: This review contains spoilers.]

I ought to write my individual reviews for each book in the series but I figured that it’s more proper for me to consider each book as part of a whole saga (containing seven arcs) encompassing thirty years in the life of John, a human transported into another realm – a world where his housemate Kyle came from.

The epicness of this series is just beyond me! I enjoyed and loved every second of reading this ten-part series. What I appreciate most though is the fact that as much as possible, the author tried solving all the loopholes in it. What totally bugs me is the conclusion which I would be discussing a little later on.

So John along with his friends (a couple named Laurie and Bill) were accidentally transported into Basawar (think of a Narnia-like world minus the talking animals), the place where his odd housemate Kyle “apparently” came from. Kyle is the “Kahlil” who was destined / ordained to kill John who’s the incarnation of their god. He’s the human seen by the oracle who will be destroying all of Basawar.

Rifter Series Book 6-10 Covers

Rifter Series Book 6-10 Covers

The plot of the story thickens as John meets the young handsome priest Ravishan who is training to become the next Kahlil. Meeting Ravishan made their tumultuous entrance into Basawar more bearable but their world is about to get more complicated as John and his friends found themselves under the Bousim household where John was forced to accompany Firiki (The son of the lady in Bousim household) into the doors of Rathal’pesha to train as an ushiri (in contention of becoming a Kahlil). There, John meets Ravishan again and has shown potential to become a priest himself. Due to discrimination, he was relegated as some sort of a medic priest. As the story goes by, John was able to piece everything together coming to the conclusion that Ravishan and his housemate were one and the same, although John first meets Kyle as a Kahlil and this kahlil in training – Ravishan is the guy he fell in love with.

At times, the story tends to be a tad bit confusing because of the interchanging timeline in it especially during the second arc but as it went by, it’s just like reading some sort of backstory although at one point – the past and the present (see, Kyle followed the trio into Basawar) meets (ala Lake House meeting of some sort) and their reunion was truly one for the books.

I actually cried a little for John who is now known as J’aitbaya. I cried because he’s been living in Basawar for 30 years and was still nursing his broken heart from his separation from Ravishan. Although one and the same. Kyle still felt different from Ravishan. It’s like he’s simply a replacement of his young self. But all the same, John still love Ravishan and gave the same affection to Kyle.

Now the question bugging me at the end, is Kyle immortal now like John? After he passed on, he was possessed by the holy bones of the young Ravishan. Did he become immortal himself the way the oracles are immortals? I sure hope so because these two more than deserved to be together especially after what they have gone through.

To conclude this, I wished that more people would read this series because of its exceptional story that you’d regret missing. The humanity in it is truly heartfelt and the way John and Kyle have proven their love and devotion for each other was truly an amazing feat. It’s just so beautiful it almost hurts.

‘tis definitely one of my favorite series – another great feat to achieve by one of my new favorite authors – Ginn Hale who brought us the amazing Wicked Gentleman and the stunning Lord Of The White Hell. Indeed, Hail Ginn Hale!