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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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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Asia’s Next Top Model Season 3 – Episode 1 Photoshoot (The Girl In A Spin)

Bias aside, I think Amanda totally killed this shoot! I'm so inlove with it!!!!

Bias aside, I think Amanda totally killed this shoot! I’m so in love with it!!!!

The first episode saw the the fourteen lucky hopefuls settled into their new house. They then meet with host Georgina and fellow judge Joey to evaluate their runway walk which will be part of their very first challenge. As per Top Model outrageous tradition, the girls were asked to walk the runway with a turn table at the end. Barbara (JPN) won the runway challenge although the judges were unanimous about Monika’s runway prowess. (just gotta get that out yeah? home girl and all LOL) Their first shoot was a swimsuit shoot where the youngest contestant Amanda from the Philippines easily stood out from the rest along with Barbara and Monika. Meanwhile, Shareeta (so gorg btw) struggled so much which led to her untimely demise on the show >a bit extreme I know< but I really loved the girl and thought that she’d go so far!!!! Too bad really!!!

Barbara

Barbara

I loved the proportion of her body although I was a bit distracted by the angle of her face. This was a beautiful shot overall.

Monika

Monika

The girl whom the judges thought was born for runway! I couldn’t agree more. Loved this shot but found her waist too thin! Still, that face! that face!

Tahlia

Tahlia

I’m not really a fan of this shot but I loved her face so I’m okay with her position so far.

Gani Ayu

Gani Ayu

Gawd! You gotta love that Asian flavor! Not my favorite shot in the bunch but I so love her oriental beauty!

Aimee

Aimee

I’m not that impressed with her facial expression here but the neck below was almost perfect!

Loretta

Loretta

This one though reminds me of an underwear catalog from Avon – dunnowhy?

KB

KB

This for some reason reminds me so much of a GUESS? ads!

Chesca

Chesca

Gaaahhh. I don’t understand this one. It’s too pedestrian.

Melissa

Melissa

A wee bit cliche yeah? Remember Anamaria from America’s Next Top Model Cycle15?

Kiana

Kiana

I actually loved this shot!! The feel is very “Tropical” and I loved the contour of her body. What drag this down though was her eyes. Too bad really.

Rani

Rani

Not exactly a good shot of her – proportions were off and the styling. Just tsk.

Celine

Celine

Great face. Lacks inspiration.

Shareeta

Shareeta

As much as I loved the beauty of this girl, I just have to agree with the judges. It’s the weakest photo in the bunch. I won’t be blaming it all to Shareeta though. I thought her styling overall does not suit her.

Call Out Order First Call Out: Amanda 2. Barbara 3. Monika 4. Tahlia 5. Gani 6. Aimee 7. Loretta 8. KB 9. Franchesca 10. Melissa 11. Kiana 12. Rani 13. Celine ELIMINATED: Shareeta Do you agree with the judges’ decision to eliminate Shareeta this early in the competition?

images via starworld

Book Review: Starting Point (Turning Point #3) – N.R. Walker

Starting PointBLURB: Matthew Elliott is a recovering man. As an ex-cop and ex-fighter, his new job teaching kids at the local community gym about drug awareness and self-defence, is a little bit of both. His new focus on helping street kids is helping him heal, and with Kira by his side, he’s making strides.

Brother and sister, Rueben and Claudia, are homeless kids and they’re very much alone. As they strike a chord with Matt, he does everything in his power to help them.

But when Ruby and Claude need more help than he bargained for, it stops being about work, and starts being about home.

The day he met Kira, Matt’s life changed direction, and it’s only now he realises that everything he’s been through was a lead up to this. It was never about endings. His life, his purpose, was just beginning.

***

I really thought that after the disappointing second installment, the third book will be able to pick it up but oh lawd! No! It spiraled down even deeper. Like it “cannot be saved deep,” “Like what the hell happened deep?”

After finally reaching his breaking point, all Matthew Elliot can do now is to start over. And when I said start over – he decided to become Superman trying to save everyone. I think he was punched really hard in the second book and something happened with him psychologically. I don’t even know this new Matt. I’m not sure if he’s downright annoying or just too much everything.

I’m so glad that Kira somehow stayed in character but I really thought that he’s way better with someone else. That’s just for me though. I’d stop now because I’ve nothing more good to say about this third book. This was a fluke for sure at least for me. It’s just…tsk tk tsk.

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

Published May 23rd 2014 by Totally Bound (first published May 22nd 2014)

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