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Book Review: Winter Kill – Josh Lanyon

Posted on July 25, 2015 | Leave a comment

Winter KillIt’s should not come as a surprise how good this one would turn out. I mean, it’s Josh Lanyon and he’s like one of the best writers in the MM genre and shall I say, in general.

Winter Kill centers on Special Agent Adam Darling who is trying to resurrect his career after a high profile case set a dent on his professional record. Now handling a new case with a new partner, Adam finds himself in the midst of a quiet mountain resort in Oregon searching for a serial killer.

He then meets Deputy Sherriff Robert Haskell – the closeted and very efficient cop townie who isn’t too thrilled about the FBI’s involvement despite their initial attraction towards each other. Now, it’s up to them to work well together and bring the case down to a close and their budding romance – well, one has got to give.

Now this one, I really did enjoy to bits. This is only the fourth book I’ve read from Josh Lanyon and I can already tell his style from other authors, which promise so much for me in the future since I am planning to read a lot off  his catalogue!

I just loved the whole feel of the story. There’s this melancholic vibe at the beginning about the guy who got murdered by his (apparently) lover and that angle of the story alone already set a precedent on how the mystery of the story will go about and to discover the reason behind it in the end. Ugh. I’m like, damnittohell! That was totally heartbreaking!

The boys are equally likable. Adam reminds me so much of Ty Grady from the Cut and Run series or maybe it was just a different version of J.X. Moriarity from the author’s Holmes and Moriarity series. I also loved that Rob’s such a *whispers* slut. The term casual sex totally defines his lifestyle. Of course, there’s a turn around with our two MCs who can’t seem to get enough of each other and now I am so thrilled about how it ended because it seems to be that we’ll be getting one more book out of these two! I sure can’t wait to have that one!!!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Published May 31st 2015 by Just Joshin

About The Author
A distinct voice in gay fiction, multi-award-winning author JOSH LANYON has been writing gay mystery, adventure and romance for over a decade. In addition to numerous short stories, novellas, and novels, Josh is the author of the critically acclaimed Adrien English series, including The Hell You Say, winner of the 2006 USABookNews awards for GLBT Fiction. Josh is an Eppie Award winner and a three-time Lambda Literary Award finalist.

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Book Review: Blame the Fireworks – Riina Y.T.

Posted on July 24, 2015 | 1 comment

Blame The FireworksThis story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group’s “Love is an Open Road” event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.

Dear Author,

My roommate’s brother is visiting again and sleeping on our couch. I tiptoe around and pray I don’t run into anything or cause a clatter that would wake him. All knees and elbows, that’s me— while he’s all strength and grace. Looking at him, I can’t help my wistful sigh. He’s beautiful, but that’s not it. It’s his gentle smiles and kindness. Unlike everyone else, he doesn’t treat me like I’m one stumble away from being declared a walking disaster zone.

Unfortunately, he also treats me like a kid brother. He ruffles my hair and calls me ‘kiddo’. I wish I wasn’t so awkward. I wish I was sexy so he’d want me the way I want him. I wish I was the one he dreamed about as he slept on the couch.

§§§

I was already expecting this story to be all mushy and stuff based on the given prompt and I wasn’t wrong. Harlie and Tabby are just all kinds of adorable!

Harlie’s totally into his roommate’s brother Tabby. The latter is gorgeous, graceful and kind while he’s alright in the looks department, a total klutz and totally not like Tabby. But that’s not how Tabby sees him.

When Tabby unexpectedly dragged Harlie for a little summer road trip, both discovered something they shared in common and harboring for the longest time…

This quick read is all kinds of bright stars, unicorns and butterflies that I’m positive that it will make you giddy pre and post-reading it. I know I did because I’m a sucker for – well unicorns and butterflies (?) hahaha. Nah – just one solid word to describe it though all – TOOFUCKINGCUTE. Oops!

I wished the ending was longer and not rushed but I’ve a feeling that there’s more to these two waiting for us.

I wouldn’t mind getting it sooner 😉

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Published June 13th 2015 by M/M Romance Group @ Goodreads

Download your FREE COPY at
http://www.mmromancegroup.com/?p=277074

About The Author
Riina currently resides in Germany. She spent countless exciting days in the UK and US and lost her heart in Tokyo.

She would be thrilled if one day her stories could brighten someone’s day in the way those beautiful romances always lighten up her dull everyday life. Riina is looking forward to sharing many more stories with the world.

When she doesn’t daydream about boys in love, and isn’t glued to her Kindle, Riina loves to travel the world and explore the unknown.

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Book Review: Penn’s Woodland – David Connor

Posted on July 23, 2015 | Leave a comment

Penns WoodlandDuring his eighteenth birthday, Penn’s family blamed him for his lover’s attack in the woods that led to his imprisonment at the confines of his room with only his mind as his companion and his sister Georgia as his sole caretaker. When Ewan Parrish, a world-renowned architect was contracted to build a secure walkway through the woods, Penn finds himself drawn to the man.

Ewan who also got intrigued by the whole set up is determine to find all the answers to his questions especially now that he’s developed a burgeoning feelings towards the young recluse.

Based on the blurb, I didn’t peg this to be an historical romance set in the 1920’s. Let me tell you, I’m not a big fan of historical fiction and I seldom read those types of literature but there are some books that really gets to me and this is one of them. I loved a writer who could keep my interest about something I’m not really fond of in the first place. Penn’s Woodland is so full of purple prose that at times I almost get lost in it. That’s not a bad thing though, I loved the consistency of the dialogues here. It makes me feel like living in that era myself.

There’s also a whole vibe of terror in this book. It’s subtle but very effective. You know there’s a monster in there masquerading him /herself and there will come a point in the book that you just find yourself reading faster to get to that part.

There was insta-love here that may or may not work for some people and somehow Penn and Ewan didn’t get much shit about their relationship given the era they’re living in. Still, I find myself enamored by how they both complemented each other. Both are very likable and the author obviously did a good job in providing ample connection between the two.

This is the first book I’ve read by David Connor – a great first read at that and I can totally see myself reading more from his catalogue in the future.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Expected publication: July 29th 2015 by Less Than Three Press

This title is available for preorder and will be available at approximately 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time on July 28, 2015.

About The Author David lives in a small, rural town in New York with a cat, Molly, and his vivid imagination. It refuses to shut down, even when he sleeps. “Penn’s Woodland” started as a dream–literally, as do many of David’s works. David can be found on Twitter at @DannyCinicic and has a Facebook page with his writing partner: https://www.facebook.com/mmromcomsinprint

The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. 

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Book Review: Lucky Linus – Gene Gant

Posted on July 22, 2015 | Leave a comment

Lucky LinusThis is the first book I’ve read by Gene Gant and I am not disappointed at all. Lucky Linus is one good book that I’ll probably recommend to all of my friends because it speaks volume despite the simple storytelling. I loved that the drama was heavy, and very much so (realistically) for a 14-year-old boy yet the writing isn’t too complex.

Fourteen-year-old Linus Lightman has bounced through the foster care system since he was six-years-old when he was taken away from her neglectful mother. With his newest foster family, the Nelsons, Linus didn’t really want to get too close because he’s very much sure that they will let him go once they found out he’s gay. Building a friendship online with Kevin Mapleton, young love blossoms between them until a sex scandal involving the two was discovered that may very well cost Linus’s new home and sense of belonging.

You just got to love how the author delivered the story in such a way that is more telling than showing. I think the style was very apt with the age of our main protagonist Linus. Here, we watch Linus as he goes with the flow of the system with a foremost aspiration of getting adopted – finally belonging. There is a line that cause me much a bit of heartache when Linus was  narrating it.

“The chances of finding forever parents shrank as foster kids got older, especially for those of color or with disabilities.”

The kid just wanted to belong and I feel like giving him a warm hug and adopting him myself. So obviously, there’s a lot of heartbreaking details about our little Linus but perhaps, it could only get better in time…

When the storm passes and Linus thought that it’s the end for him, we’re gifted something that is so beautiful. In a rather hopeful tale albeit heartbreaking at the beginning – we see Linus getting his own personal rainbow.  Despite everything that he went through his young life, Linus discovered how strong he was more than he could hope for to be… Linus is lucky to finally be granted his wish and readers will be lucky to be on a journey with him.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Expected publication: July 23rd 2015 by Harmony Ink Press

About The Author
I’m Tennessean by birth, a resident of Memphis for most of my life. I tried living in a few northern cities after graduating from college, but I couldn’t take the brutal winters, and I missed good ol’ southern barbecue. Now I make my home on a country lane outside of Memphis. When I’m not reading, working out, watching movies or spending time with family and friends, you can find me tapping away at my computer.

The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. 

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Book Review: In Memoriam – Cari Z.

Posted on July 21, 2015 | Leave a comment

In MemoriamThis short story will definitely tickle your mind regarding the twist in the end. It was sort of somber all throughout about a gardener named Lee Summers who is past expecting to find love. In short, he was just drifting through life until one fine day while checking out a farmer’s market in Colorado; a dog stole his lunch that led him to meeting its owner Felix Clymenos.

Felix is the exact definition of enigma especially after he started appearing in Lee’s dreams. Now, as they explored their blossoming feelings – things started to unravel right in front of Lee’s eyes that could mean something big for their future but first, he’s got to make a choice for himself.

I am a total fan of Cari Z. I loved most of the works that I have read from her and this one is no different. Here, I see a more fluid storytelling from her. In Memoriam reminds me so much of Heidi Cullinan’s writing style in The Devil Will do but I liked this way better.

The story will definitely lull you into a certain subdued mood until you discover its twist. I don’t know why I’m expecting vampires to jump off its pages but I was sure glad that no “undead” materialized from it. Now, before I divulge what the twist is – I recommend you getting a hold of the book ASAP. It’s a neat short story that you won’t regret buying.

Again, thank you Cari for this amazing story!!!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Published July 8th 2015 by Dreamspinner Press LLC 

About The Author
Cari Z. is a Colorado girl who loves snow and sunshine. She has a wonderful relationship with her husband, a complex relationship with the characters in her head and a sadomasochistic relationship with her exercise routine. She feels like Halloween should happen every month, which is why you get this picture of her, and hopes that you enjoy reading what she’s put out there as much as she enjoyed writing it in the first place.

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Book Review: Victim Of Love – Darien Cox

Posted on July 20, 2015 | Leave a comment

Victim Of LoveUsed to long hours of work and a deluge of monotonous musings about his life, young lab scientist Olsen Westergard believes that his life does not need any complications and he’s very content with what he has.

When he goes on a summer holiday vacation with his friends, he didn’t expect to stumble upon a drunken stranger with a surprise identity to awaken something in him that overwhelms even him. Only, problem is – the stranger, Beckett Turner claims that he isn’t real. With a dark secret keeping Olsen in the dark about Beckett, will they be able to get past it and be what they need for each other?

I really enjoyed this one. It’s fun, easy, a wee bit dramatic here and there but yes, very much enjoyable. This is my second book from the author. The first one didn’t work for me well so I was a bit hesitant with this one at first but I’m glad I listened to my fellow Goodreaders here because it’s such a delightful read.

I’ve only two light criticisms – one was the insta-love Olsen felt towards Beck. Hmm, I dunno why I find that odd and not very Olsen – I guess he’s just really lonely. And what he mentioned at first about abandonment issues and all – I guess I’m just being anal about details ^^

The second one would be the massive reveal of Beck’s secret which isn’t that secret at all apparently and not that “shocking” at all…at least for me. That scene though – I just wanna cuddle with Beck forever…

Overall, this one more than made up with my disappointment over Fit For The Job and definitely see myself reading more of Darien Cox in the future.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Published July 11th 2015 by Dusk Notes

About The Author
Darien Cox lives in New England, bouncing back and forth between the mountain and the ocean states, anywhere there’s a wave or a ski slope. A nature lover and thrill seeker, he enjoys exploring the intensity, insanity, humor and chaos that accompanies cupid’s arrow, whether it’s love at first sight or just the overwhelming power of lust.

Website: http://dariencox.com

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Book Review: Tigers on the Run (Tigers and Devils, #3) – Sean Kennedy

Posted on July 15, 2015 | Leave a comment

Tigers On The RunTigers on the Run is by far my most favorite Tigers and Devils installment for oh-so-many reasons! Here, Simon Murray and Declan Tyler are still stronger than ever on their eight years being together (Wow! I’m getting good at rhyming!). Simon was still adorably snarky, cynical and sarcastic – traits I loved most about his character. I laugh out loud and giggled so many times with all of his antics here. I just really loved this guy! Declan Tyler™ is still swoon-worthy and always the perfect boyfriend! These two are totally one of the loveliest couples in the genre.

The story was solid-proof that their magic’s still there and I’m sure any fans of the series will enjoy it and won’t complain one bit about it. There are times that I feel that Simon was right about Declan taking everyone’s side except his side but yeah – I could relate more with Simon because I am a bit cynical at times, so at first I was totally on his side. I know this is getting weird but yeah Dec of course wanted the best for Simon, is all I’m saying but still…tsk.

I loved the angle about Coby! I thought he should’ve grovel more though. That traitor. I may have been hoping for a massive catfight but we all know that Simon is such a class act. LOL

“Didn’t Jesus forgive Judas? I like to think, in my own way, I am like Jesus.”

“Don’t forget,” I called after him. “Only one sugar. I’m sweet enough as it is.”

“Then we’ll make sure Jasper gets the poisoned chalice.”

Then we have little Micah Johnson and all of his shit. He’s just seventeen alright but he’s fucking annoying as hell! I still loved his part in the story though. It says more about Declan and Simon and the dynamic of their relationship. I’ve a feeling that we’ll be hearing more from him. A spin-off series Mr. Kennedy?

Now, now, now – that ending was exciting though. Am I right to assume that my boys will soon be shopping for cribs and little bassinettes? God, I hope so. I keep on hoping that they’ll have it by the end of the book but knowing Sean Kennedy – he’s surely a believer of happy endings but he just want to drag us all to that journey and that is totally cool with me so bring it!

What a fabulous follow-up and long overdue as it was – the wait was all worth it. It was just perfect! Thank you Mr. Kennedy!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars   

Published July 13th 2015 by Dreamspinner Press

About The Author
Sean Kennedy was born in Melbourne, Australia, but currently lives in the second most isolated city in the world (although there still seems to be conjecture over whether it is actually number one). Living in such deprived circumstances can only affect his writing, which is published by Dreamspinner Press.

You can find him at http://www.seankennedybooks.com

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Book Review: Burning Up (Fitting In, #3) – Silvia Violet

Posted on July 14, 2015 | Leave a comment

Burning UpThis third book of the series Fitting In did not stray much from its first two book’s premise. It’s still a ménage but this time, it is between firefighters. Bryce has been a firefighter for ten years and when a horrific house fire pushed him to move into a new city, he found himself thrown into the temptation that is Matt and Toby – two hot young firefighters in the closet who are looking for a third in their relationship.

As they indulge in a night of passion, Bryce realized what he’s been missing but refuses to hide sexuality. Given that they are working together professionally, they now have to make tough choices in order to stay together and make their personal relationship work.

I am not a fan of this ménage at all. I didn’t connect very much with Bryce despite having him narrating the whole thing. It felt very uncomfortable whenever he interacts with Matt and Toby. The sex was very hot in a way but it’s also awkward at the same time. The kinky side of these three guys would have worked if not for Bryce’s awkward demeanor towards it. So BDSM is one more thing they have in common with the first couple featured in the first two books.

It is also very disconcerting how immature Matt and Toby sounded especially with all the whining about Bryce initially not wanting to sleep with them. I’m like, seriously guys? You two are like the hottest thing in the room and you are worried about an older guy who is more uptight than a brand new Speedo?

The writing was repetitive at times and lacks original material. I wish there was more connection I could pull out the story itself but alas, there’s just so much of a threesome I could take in a series. I will recommend this if you’re looking for some scorching sex scenes but other than that – I’m inclined to keep my mouth shut.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Published February 18, 2015 by Silvia Violet Books.

About The Author
Silvia Violet writes erotic romance and erotica in a variety of genres including sci fi, paranormal, and historical.

Silvia Violet can often be found haunting coffee shops looking for the darkest, strongest cup of coffee she can find. Once equipped with the needed fuel, she can happily sit for hours pounding away at her laptop. Silvia typically leaves home disguised as a suburban stay-at-home-mom, and other coffee shop patrons tend to ask her hilarious questions like “Do you write children’s books?” She loves watching the looks on their faces when they learn what she’s actually up to. When not writing, Silvia enjoys baking sinful chocolate treats, exploring new styles of cooking, and reading children’s books to her wickedly smart offspring.

You can email Silvia at silviaviolet [at] gmail [dot] com

Silvia enjoys chatting with fans on Facebook. You can find her at http://facebook.com/silvia.violet.

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Book Review: In the Middle of Somewhere – Roan Parrish

Posted on July 13, 2015 | Leave a comment

In the Middle of SomewhereDaniel Mulligan is the bright, snarky and tattooed professor from the city who arrives in the small town of Holiday, Michigan to teach in their community college.

Rex Vale has always loved the quiet and solitude of his little cabin in the woods. Despite living in town for years, his imposing size and shyness makes connecting to people difficult.

From the very first time they met, they’re already attracted with each other and both explored their passion and blossoming romance. Rex however fears that Daniel will leave Holiday eventually and this would leave him lonely yet again.

When a secret of Rex was revealed and Daniel was called to apply for a job back in Philly, changes unraveled between them that will either break or make their relationship.

I enjoyed reading this book at most parts – well, mostly the scenes between Daniel and Rex (gaahhh… can I have one just like him?), Daniel and Ginger, and Daniel and Leo. Daniel’s internal ramblings = golden!

And again, Rex – he’s just the most perfect character ever. I just wanna cuddle with him all throughout the story.

Daniel is part a-hole and part character from the Les Misérables. There’s something about him that you want to root for but there’s also a selfish part of him that people might find off-putting.

And Rex – he’s just the most perfect character ever. I just wanna cuddle with him all throughout the story.

Also, I seriously do not get Daniel’s family though. It doesn’t feel like it’s about the whole gay thing because they’ve been like that since he was a kid. I almost wondered if he was actually adopted – seriously, I’m like – okay, part of the ending would be like,

Dad: Daniel, there’s something you need to know.

Daniel: Uhm. Yes Dad? (inner monologue insert)

Dad: No. Do Not Call Me Dad. I am not your father. Your real dad left you at our doorsteps that’s why we’re all such a-holes towards you and your brothers – again, not your real brothers – use you as their punching bags.

Ugh. It’s just so fucking strange. Now, don’t even get me started with Collin. Ugh. Please author, do not make him a main character in your upcoming books. His dealio was so cliché it’s almost funny. A redemption arc? Hah! No thanks!

The author’s story telling was very pleasant though. At the beginning it feels too slow – like the pacing was snail-like slow but once it picked up when the MCs finally got together, the narration became fluid.

I’m on the fence about this book. There are some sucky moments in the book, but I just loved some of its characters especially Rex so yeah – I’d definitely read more from this author and see where this series will go from here.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Published July 10th 2015 by Dreamspinner Press

About The Author
ROAN PARRISH grew up in Michigan and lives in Philadelphia, but is always a few minutes away from moving. A former academic, she’s used to writing things no one reads. She still loves to geek out about books—now, though, she’s excited to be writing the kind of romantic, angsty stories that she loves to escape into

When not writing, she can usually be found cutting friends’ hair, listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and cheese. But mostly cheese.

Roan’s website
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Book Review: Speechless – Kim Fielding

Posted on July 12, 2015 | Leave a comment
Speechless

Speechless is a lovely short story about two lonely men – one who’s afflicted with aphasia after developing it from a vehicular accident. The other is a one-eyed machinist simply drifting through life with a disdainful cat as his lone companion. Both are looking for someone to love that holds no judgment over their condition.

As Travis walks home every day, he passes the handsome guitar player Drew sitting on his front steps. As days passed, Travis mustered the courage to approach Drew, whom he learned he couldn’t speak because of aphasia. This didn’t deter Travis from getting closer to Drew until their friendship blossoms into romance. Due to his financial situation, Travis must relocate to keep his job, leaving him no choice but to leave Drew. But what exactly is more important for Travis?

I loved the tenderness of the story’s narration. There’s something extraordinary about this couple. It’s like fate has put them together to be each other’s rock. The inability of Drew to talk may seem like a challenge at first, but I guess it was the reason that made them much closer. You know that people genuinely care about you if they can see beyond such limitations. I never knew that this couple has their own story until I read Astounding! – the author’s most recent release. I’ve met them first in Bone Dry (the third book of the Bones series) and have been wondering about their story. So glad that I finally got a hold of this.

I very much recommend this one for readers looking for some nice and tender love story.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Published July 18th 2012 by Dreamspinner Press (first published July 2012)

You can also download the subsequent short story following their reunion  via Dreamspinner Press for FREE called The Gig. [click image for the download link]

The Gig

 

About The Author
Kim Fielding lives in California and travels as often as she can manage. A professor by day, at night she rushes into a phonebooth to change into her author costume (which involves comfy clothes instead of Spandex and is, sadly, lacking a cape). Her superpowers include the ability to write nearly anywhere, often while simultaneously doling out homework assistance to her children. Her favorite word to describe herself is “eclectic” and she finally got that third tattoo.

All royalties from her novels Stasis, Flux and Equipoise are donated to Doctors Without Borders.

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