♥♥ I Love Books ♥♥

Just as I was reaching the light...

2011-08-17T19:06:00.000-04:00

Yesterday at this time I was looking forward to 10 0'clock so I could go home and start my weekend. Now, I'm wondering how things could get so fucked up in just a few hours. Life was going pretty good, very busy but actually good but that all changed earlier today. Now I've got so much on my mind that I can barely stand it. I'm not sure what's going to happen during that next few days/weeks and that scares me so very much. So many thoughts are whirling in my head, even though I know there's nothing wrong with my heart I have such a pressure in my chest that it feels like I can barely breathe. My hands feel weak and shaky and I'd just like to find a dark corner by myself to just sit and cry and scream. But I CAN'T!!!!!!!!

I've always had to be the strong one in my fucked up crazy family and no matter how things go that's still my job. I can't lose it when I have to be strong for everyone else.

I hate the thought that I'm actually writing this but I need to get some of this out. There's no way I can talk in person without totally losing it so this will have to do. Please pray for me so that I find the strength to go on without totally going off the deep end. Please pray for my daughter despite the fact that she's brought everything that's happening now on herself... and us. Please pray for the kiddies so that their happy life isn't messed up and for my hubby whose mental issues will make this an even more difficult thing to go thru.

Just... please pray for us!

Friday... fun, sexy and a 56 too

2011-08-12T01:45:00.008-04:00

It has been a busy, busy week for me and even though Friday means I go back to work tomorrow I'm happy for TGIF. You know it's got to be bad if I'm looking forward to getting back to the office. LOL

I haven't had much of a chance to visit or post here on the blog so I thought I'd just put some fun into Friday. Hope ya'll are having a better week than me and that your weekend is absolutely fabulous.

This first video starts a bit slow but I enjoyed it when my son shared it with me.

What could be better than potato chips and a fun, jazzy beat? Listen and enjoy!

Social medias can be loads of fun!

That Johnny... such a playful, naughty boy!

I've been doing a lot of reading but until the kiddies leave it's hard to find the time or energy to sit down and put my thoughts on paper. Although with school starting Tuesday (and Emma finally going into Pre-K) I may have some time after all. We'll see. For sure I'll keep reading, reading, reading...

It's been a while, a long while, since I posted a Friday 56 so I thought I'd add one here now.

Rules:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like)

Today's Friday 56 is from Life Lessons by Kaje Harper.

"Sorry. I just... I was thinking. Something bad happened at school yesterday, and I guess I'm distracted."

Available @ MLR Press

Not a sexy excerpt but I'm enjoying the story so far. The heat is building between the teacher and the closeted cop and I expect things will only get hotter!

And what would a fun Friday post be without some delicious candy to bring some spicy sweetness...

Getting ready for some Friday night fun!

This boy was a bit too naughty Friday night... Discipline time!

Naughty boys who please their Master's always get rewarded... time to play!

TGIF and Happy Weekend!!

It's mini time... once again

2011-08-04T01:00:00.004-04:00

The Angel of 13th Street by Eden Winters
Get it @ Torquere Press
Contemporary/Novella

4 stars
I enjoyed this story. Noah is a former hustler who's made it his mission to help out the "boys" on the street. Jeremy is all alone and living on the streets while trying to finish his senior year of high school and stay out of the clutches of the local pimp. When Noah comes to his rescue both of their lives will be forever changed. The protags are interesting and likable and the slow progression of their relationship worked well, especially since Jeremy is so young. The subplot of Noah's connection to the bad guy of the story was good also. Angsty, sweet, sexy with a nice romantic feel as well as a bit of action.

Breaking Faith by M. King
Currently out of print but set for re-release
@ Dreamspinner Press in Oct 2011
Contemporary/Novel

4 stars
This book had been sitting on my TBR for ages, since 2008 to be precise. I'm so glad I finally read it. While it's not the typical M/M romance it is a wonderfully written story about two young men falling in love and dealing with some very difficult situations. If you're looking for a lighthearted romance this won't be the book for you but anyone wanting to read a well-written, emotional love story that also incorporates the effects of child/spousal abuse, homophobia and the harsh realities of life for an inmate and his loved ones then I definitely recommend Breaking Faith.

The end of their story left me wanting more as it's really a new beginning for them and I wanted to see how they adjust to finally being together after having been apart for most of their relationship. I'm looking forward to the sequel which is to be released hopefully later this year or early next year.

Allspice: Recipe of Love by Sean Michael
Get it @ Torquere Press
Contemporary/Short Story

3.5 stars
This was a cute story. Jack's dealing with a break-up when his barely legal daughter shows up pregnant. When they go meet with the baby's Daddy it's love/lust all around when he meets Daniel, the boy's uncle. This quick read is sweet and humorous at times and since it's a Sean Michael story it's also quite hot too!

Make A Right by Willa Okati
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Novel

3 stars
I had a hard time with this story. It's very angst-filled which normally isn't a problem for me but coupled with a protagonist that I just didn't like made for a difficult read. It's well-written and the storyline overall was interesting but I was just never able to fully connect with Cade and therefor his relationship with Tuck didn't engage me.

Clouds and Rain by Zahra Owens
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Western/Novel

3 stars
This was a nice story about an older rancher falling for the young ranch-hand he hires. I found both protags likable and their slowly developing May/December romance worked well for me. What I didn't like was the addition of the supposed best friend and the cheating ex-lover. I know I would have enjoyed Gable and Flynn's story much more without those two in it. I also really like this Anne Cain cover.

A few minis to start the new month...

2011-08-01T01:00:00.002-04:00

I've been catching up on reviews over on GRs and since I did start this blog to review books I guess I better post some here. Here's a small sampling of what I read during the first couple of weeks in July.

Hot Head by Damon Suede

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I had a hard time with this one. The writing was good but I just never connected with either character and felt the porn plot line was a bit unbelievable. For me the story dragged during the first half but the second half did get better. Overall a nice story and I'd definitely read the author's next release.

The Locker Room by Amy Lane

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

I absolutely loved this story. I love Amy's writing style and once again she's created two wonderful guys whose relationship completely engaged me from beginning to end. I found the cast of supporting characters varied and interesting and even the obvious "bad guy" worked in the storyline. Lots of angst at times but it was balanced well with the sweet love and hot sex. My one complaint and the reason it's a 4.5 was the ending. I wanted a clearer picture of their future together! That's my personal preference and may not bother all reading. Overall a great story. Recommended.

Deefur Dog by RJ Scott

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Really sweet story about a widower falling for his young daughter's nanny. I liked the characters and the storyline overall was engaging. The angst as he deals with the loss of his partner and falling in love again were well-done and the antics of Deefur add a nice lighthearted touch to the story. Very nice!

The Scientist and the Supermodel by Tara Lain

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It's been a while since I read anything other than a M/M but I have to read a "menage with girl cooties" for a challenge I'm in. This is the prequel to that book and contains a brief M/M/F scene. Up to that point I was enjoying the book as I liked both of the protags but that scene just didn't work for me. Amazingly though it wasn't so much the fact that the third is a girl it was just that I didn't like the character. As a trio they didn't appeal to me. Hopefully when I read the actual menage book, Genetic Attraction, it will be better since I've heard/seen good things about it.

Between Sinners and Saints by Marie Sexton

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Despite the fact that I dislike reading stories dealing with the overly religious and their anti-gay feelings I totally loved this story. Once again Marie has delivered a wonderfully written love story featuring interesting and very likable men. I loved the slow pace of their relationship and the touch of angst (on both of their parts) was just right. Despite their attitudes I also liked Levi's family. Overall a great read from beginning to end!

Conquest by S.J. Frost

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this entertaining and well-written story. The characters are interesting and the relationship between the two men kept me engaged throughout. This book has a bit of angst, lots of sweetness and love and just the right amount of heat. Definitely worth reading and I'm looking forward to the other books in the series.

The Nobleman and the Spy by Bonnie Dee & Summer Devon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed The Gentleman and the Rogue and Seducing Stephen but this story just didn't grab me as those did. My initial reaction was... "It's 1866, you're a secret agent/spy and within minutes of meeting your target you're rolling around the floor in a cleaning closet. Really??" and it didn't get much better for me. Although the writing was good and the sex scenes undeniably hot neither protag really appealed to me.

I'm off this week since we were supposed to go to Miami today but since Chris had a scheduling conflict at his job that's been cancelled. So I'll just be home playing around on the 'net... and doing laundry, cleaning, getting the brakes done on my car and trying not to pass out from the heat as we work in the yard. Lots and lots to do. Thankfully the kiddies aren't here this week so that frees me up quite a bit.

Happy Monday!

The latest releases in M/M books...

2011-07-28T18:40:00.000-04:00

The Truth About Al by M.L. Rhodes
Get it @ Amber Allure
Contemporary/Series/Novel

Blurb
Book two in the Rocky Mountain High: Campus Hearts series

To most, Al Baxter’s life seems charmed—he’s got looks, smarts, friends, and is headed to law school in the fall. But under the surface, things are far from perfect. Al’s mother is pursuing a career in national politics, and when her staff uncovers a potentially devastating secret Al’s been keeping from his family for the past four years, a painful rift forms in the once close-knit Baxter clan. Wanting to do the right thing to support his mother’s career, but conflicted over his growing desire to live his life in the open on his own terms, the last thing Al’s expecting, or needs, is to fall for stubborn and oh-so-serious Elliot Cullimore. Especially since Elliot has a protective fortress the size of Texas built around his heart.

Raised by a struggling single mother, Elliot Cullimore learned early that nothing in life was easy. That truth hit home when, at the age of twelve, a life-threatening illness left him partially deaf, making his teenage years difficult as he learned to cope with his new reality. Now, he works long hours to put himself through college. And he holds no illusions about ever finding love. He knows from painful experience that being a nerdy, hard-of-hearing guy doesn’t exactly make him a hot commodity. When he meets Al Baxter, however, he’s blindsided by his feelings for the man. The trouble is, Al is exactly the type of guy Elliot swore he’d never be with—rich, entitled, and one who has always had everything he ever wanted fall at his feet. And worse, Al’s hiding who he really is and pretending to be something he’s not. How can Elliot trust his heart to a man who can’t live his own life with honesty?

But for the first time, Al finally knows what he wants, and he’s willing to fight for Elliot. Even if it means risking everything...

Also new @ Amber Allure
Between Hell and El Paso by Derek Adams
Tales Of The Midnight Pearl Brotherhood: Newblood Initiate by Adrianna Dane

Psychic Moon by M.D. Grimm
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Novella

Blurb

Humane Officer Derek Wiliams has been toying with the idea of asking out Brian O’Donogue since the veterinarian started working at the Pet Rescue Center two years ago. So why hasn’t he made his move? It’s complicated… but it has something to do with the fact that Derek occasionally likes to run around on four legs instead of two.

Recovering from an abusive relationship and hiding supernatural abilities of his own, Brian takes a chance and agrees to go on a date with Derek. The ensuing relationship is better than either of them could have hoped—until a rogue wolf shifter attacks Brian while he’s walking his dogs. The abrupt attack forces Derek to confront his feelings, but the danger isn’t over. The rogue shifter is out there, and he’s hunting them.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
Baron's Last Hunt by S.A. Garcia
Crying for the Moon by Sarah Madison
In the Wings by Michael St. Anthony
Moonlight, Tiger, and Smoke by Connie Bailey
New Linen by Jaime Samms
Twisted by Jake Mactire

Dance with Me by Heidi Cullinan
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb

Ed Maurer has bounced back, more or less, from the neck injury that permanently benched his semi-pro football career, but every time he turns around, dance instructor Laurie Parker is in his way. But when a bargain lands him as an assistant in Laurie’s ballroom dancing class, everything changes.

As Laurie and Ed lose themselves in dance, their lives continue to spin around them: Ed’s injury makes it clear he’s nowhere near recovery, Laurie feels the pressure by friends and family to perform once more, and the community center that has become such an important part of both their worlds threatens to close. Alone, they haven’t had the strength or spirit to face what life has hurled at them. But as the turns of their personal paths lead them time and again to one another, Ed and Laurie begin to think that if they dance this dance together, they might be able to succeed.

Also new @ Loose Id
Bringing Him Home by Penny Brandon

Breaking Cover by Kaje Harper
Get it @ MLR Press
Contemporary/Series/Novel

Blurb
Book two in the Life Lessons series

For homicide detective Mac, it's been a good year. Having Tony to go home to makes him a better cop and a better person. For Tony, it's been hard being in love with a man he can't touch in public. Evasions and outright lying to friends and family take a little of the shine off his relationship with Mac, but Tony is determined to make it work.

As the Minneapolis Police Department moves into a hot, humid summer, Mac is faced with a different challenge. A killer has murdered two blond women, and the police have no real clues. Mac hates to think that another murder may be the only way they'll make progress with the case. But when that murder happens, it hits close to home for Tony. And suddenly Mac faces an ultimatum: come out into the sunlight and stand beside Tony as his lover, or walk away and live without a piece of his heart.

Also new @ MLR Press
As Time Goes By by Anna Lee
Green River by Jardonn Smith
I Imagine the Quay by Maggie Veness
The Six Year Itch by Neil Plakcy

Push Pull by Joely Skye
Get it @ Samhain Publishing
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book two in the Wolf Town series

Despite living together in Wolf Town for three months, Scott Lund and Rory MacIntyre share only one piece of common ground. Love. For Rory, life is all about connection—family, his pack, home. But for Scott, connections spell danger—for himself and everyone he cares about.

The bottom line is, Scott has only a small window of time to treasure every moment with his lover. In the not-too-distant future, real life will come knocking and he’ll be forced to return to his isolated existence.

Inevitably, a shadow from Scott’s past edges too close for comfort. Yet Scott discovers his plan to cut and run isn’t as simple as it sounds. Especially when Rory—and everyone else in Wolf Town—seems determined to convince him that holding on will cause a lot less damage than letting go.

Talon and the Falconer by Gale Stanley
Get it @ Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Vampire/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book three in the Symbiotic Mates series

Talon, a vampire-hawk is shot down over Lycan territory. Ben, a Lycan falconer, rescues him and helps him escape. When Ben is injured, Talon returns the favor. Neither man realizes they've forged a connection that can never be broken, and their only hope for survival is as mates.

Also new @ Silver Publishing
Mate Test by Amber Kell
Rearranging Stars by Diane Adams

Hearts Under Fire by H.J. Rayne & Kelly Wyre
Get it @ Torquere Press
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb

Ten years ago, Maxwell you-can-just-call-me Clark thought he would spend his life as a military man. But his world turned into a nightmare when a suicide bomber destroyed Clark's career. It's been a long road to recovery, littered with surgery, alcohol, and secrets, but Clark finally has peace. His bar, Glow, is the place to be in the city of New Amsterdam, the son of the mayor employs Clark as a confidential information man, and Clark’s side venture as part-owner of a BDSM club is quite the profitable release. Clark’s life is a good one, so long as no one gets too close.

Then a man walks into Glow who will forever change Clark’s rules and reality. Thinking Professor Daniel Germain is just another handsome face ripe for Clark’s kind of good time, Clark puts on his smoothest moves. When the professor turns him down, Clark goes on the hunt, and what he discovers shows him that even the deepest wounds can be healed by submitting to love.

Also new @ Torquere Press
Demonic Harmony by Rob Knight
Drawn by Sean Michael
Green Mountain Boys by Jay Lygon
Love On the Edge by Kate Roman
Used, Rare and Limited Editions by Chris Owens

Jack's Way by Em Woods
Get it @ Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb

When a down-on-his-luck architect meets a closeted cowboy with a cranky horse, can they find common ground or will ghosts from the past destroy their future?

Ben Morillo, a prominent architect, has a good life. He works for one of the leading firms in New Hampshire, owns his flat and stays out of the lime light. That is until his ex-lover shows up at his work months after their violent break-up, making a scene that gets Ben fired.

Jack Marr, ranch owner and closeted cowboy, can’t believe his bad luck when he has to pick up the handsome friend of his veterinarian. Convinced Ben won’t stick around, Jack struggles to protect his heart before the attraction between them leaves him broken.

Ben and Jack must feel their way through an amused veterinarian, a cranky horse and too many misunderstandings, but in the end, will Ben be able prove that Jack’s way is the only way for him?

Reader Advisory: This story has been previously released as part of the Saddle Up 'N Ride anthology by Total-E-Bound

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
Blood Slave by A.J. Llewellyn & D.J. Manly
Forgiving Jason by Serena Yates

Some hot new reads just in case you're not hot enough already...

2011-07-21T21:36:00.000-04:00

For One Night Only by Anne Brooke
Get it @ Amber Allure
Contemporary/BDSM/Short Story

Blurb

Jake Morrison's position as Dom has been deeply shaken by his unwitting role in the recent death of his sub. When he's allowed back into Langley's Pleasure House after a six-month ban, he longs to make amends in any way possible.

Club-owner Langley's surprising request for an unexpected encounter, however, tests Jake's sense of purpose to the core. He's willing to learn, but the lesson might not be one he expects...

Also new @ Amber Allure
Naked In Hong Kong by A.J. Llewellyn
Trust Me by B.G. Thomas

Little Boy Lost: Vanished by J.P. Barnaby
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Series/Novel

Blurb
Book three in the Little Boy Lost series

Brian McAllister’s story continues in San Diego, where he finds so much more than he ever expected: acceptance, friends, encouragement, and an entire world of sexual adventure he’d never dared to imagine back in his small Alabama town. He continues to search for one lost boy in a sea of humanity but slowly begins to realize that maybe dreams really don’t come true.

Encouraged by new friends Mike and Emilio, Brian struggles to find work and keep his spirits up while his hope of finding Jamie starts to falter. But when life comes crashing down, he’s desperate to keep his new life. Can Brian do the unthinkable to remain in California when his money runs out? When Brian meets a beaten and bruised boy no one seems willing to help, he knows that walking away is no longer an option.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
A Matter of Time: Vol 1 by Mary Calmes
A Matter of Time: Vol 2 by Mary Calmes
Auld Lang Syne by Tia Feldman
Momentos: Mick's Journey by Mickie B. Ashling
Slackline by Sarah Black

Ranger's Folly by Stephani Hecht
Get it @ eXtasy Books
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book twelve in the Lost Shifter series

Exiled from his childhood pack and hated by his family, Wolf shifter, Ranger vowed that he'd always protect others from sharing his same heartbreak. He fulfilled his promise, first by taking in stray shifters and then later on becoming a soldier for a feline coalition. So when he finds a strange Eagle shifter stalking one of his friends, it's only natural that Ranger becomes protective. Especially when said Eagle is in the company of two Ravens--the most evil of all shifters.

Eagle shifter, Xavier lost everything dear to him when tragedy struck his family years ago. Taken in and raised in extreme seclusion by a family of Ravens, he's always felt as if a piece of himself was missing. When he finds that his twin is alive and living with feline shifters, Xavier can't resist his curiosity.

Fighting their mutual distrust, Xavier and Ranger also find themselves becoming drawn to each other. In a world that's not always so black and white, can they get beyond prejudices and the taboo, or will their love be lost to hate?

Also new @ eXtasy Books
Alpha's Perogative by Charlie Richards
Here Puss by Jude Mason
Magolescence by Mark Alders
Manacled by A.J. Llewellyn
Master of Destruction by Blak Rayne

Quick To the Hunt by Cameron Dane
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Series/Novel

Blurb
Book seven in the Hawkins Brothers/Quinten, Montana series

War veteran Hunter Tennison returns home physically and emotionally scarred. Unable to bear feeling anything, Hunter uses pain to quiet the chaos and to keep his emotions from destroying him. Hunter dare not risk falling in love. He can’t let anyone get close enough to see the violence inside him.

In business and relationships, Alexander Quick is practical and rational. The first time Alex looks into Hunter’s eyes, he sees the damaged soul within, and adamantly tells himself not to get involved. Too many things could go haywire with a volatile man like Hunter, and Alex doesn’t enter into relationships where he cannot predict the outcome.

Then Alex learns his mentor is ill. The news sends him reeling. Alex suddenly sees his life isn’t as perfect as he thought. An ache for something meaningful stirs in Alex, and Hunter’s broken soul draws him in like a beacon on the blackest night.

Two men, one running like hell from love and the other opening himself to the emotion for the first time, collide. Hunter and Alex begin a darkly sexual relationship bound to explode. In the aftermath, can Alex make Hunter believe their love is powerful enough to heal his scars?

Also new @ Loose Id
Tribute by Lisa Henry

Spin Out by James Buchanan
Get it @ MLR Press
Contemporary/Series/Novel

Blurb
Book two in the Deputy Joe series

Right guy. Wrong time.

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.

Muscling Through by J.L. Merrow
Get it @ Samhain Publishing
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb

The bigger they come, the harder they fall... in love.

Cambridge art professor Larry Morton takes one, alcohol-glazed look at the huge, tattooed man looming in a dark alley, and assumes he’s done for. Moments later he finds himself disarmed—literally and figuratively. And, the next morning, he can’t rest until he offers an apology to the man who turned out to be more gentle than giant.

Larry's intrigued to find there's more to Al Fletcher than meets the eye; he possesses a natural artistic talent that shines through untutored technique. Unfortunately, no one else seems to see the sensitive soul beneath Al’s imposing, scarred, undeniably sexy exterior. Least of all Larry's class-conscious family, who would like nothing better than to split up this mismatched pair.

Is it physical? Oh, yes, it’s deliciously physical, and so much more—which makes Larry’s next task so daunting. Not just convincing his colleagues, friends and family that their relationship is more than skin deep. It’s convincing Al.

Under the Moon by Julia Talbot
Get it @ Torquere Press
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Short Story

Blurb

Jamie doesn't run with a pack, he doesn't date other werewolves, and he doesn't play role-playing games. So when Ty shows up and is hotter than any man Jamie has ever met, and is a werewolf, too, Jamie doesn't know what to do. Especially since Ty is at Jamie's apartment to game with Jamie's roommate. Can they find some common ground before disaster strikes under the full moon?

Also new @ Torquere Press
A Poor Sort of Vacation by K.C. Warwick
Five Spice: Yin and Yang by Kara Larson
Hurricane Season by Kiernan Kelly
Stormclouds by Dallas Coleman

Ride 'Em Hard Cowboy by J.P. Bowie
Get it @ Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb

Sheriff Joel Harper is being sued, but when he meets young attorney Jason Sherwood, he wants him to handle much more than just the lawsuit!

When Sheriff Joel Harper, ex-wrangler, is falsely accused of assault and battery by a rich rancher’s son, he turns to Royce Chandler and Charles Fletcher for legal advice. What Joel doesn’t expect is to fall immediately in lust with young attorney Jason Sherwood, Royce’s new recruit to his recently opened law office.

Their budding romance is hampered by burglary, hate-filled graffiti, hostile neighbours and co-workers, and by Joel’s own sense of responsibility to his younger brother, Toby. Can their love survive all that’s thrown at them or will Jason decide the ride is just way to rough for him to endure?

Reader Advisory: This story has been previously released as part of the Saddle Up N' Ride anthology by Total-E-Bound. It is also connected by characters and setting to Ride 'Em Cowboy and Ride 'Em Again Cowboy but not part of a series. It can be read as a standalone.

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
Surprise Sleep Over by Sara York

How to gain a daughter without morning sickness or swollen ankles.... and other fun facts

2011-07-16T00:30:00.000-04:00

Wow, it's mid-July, where oh where has the time gone? I just noticed when I commented at Chris' blog that I hadn't been here since my June blog crawl post. It's been a busy few weeks for me (no surprise there) but I did get a nice surprise with my son telling me he's getting married.

We're all very happy and excited for them both. Christina is a lovely girl, very smart and sweet, and they compliment each other really well. They've been friends since high school (close to eight years now) but only during the last year did things get romantic between them. They were going to wait a bit more but since she's going into the Air Force next year they've figured it's easier to be already married at that time. The wedding's set for November 12th and she's working hard with her Mom to get things done by then. I'll be helping when and where I'm needed but thankfully this time around I'm not the mother of the bride so the big responsibility isn't mine.

Aren't they just the cutest?

More news on the Lily-front~~~

My Sony reader died a few weeks ago but luckily with the help of Chris and Chris (I think it's so cute that their names are Christopher and Christina and when they get married both of their initials will be CJA) I was able to get a new one. This time I upgraded to the Sony PRS-950 Daily Edition. It has a touchscreen, I can make notes and highlight passages as well. It also has Wi-Fi capabilities but I haven't used that feature. My hubby also got me a cover for it which I love cause it has my fave color, purple. I'm very happy with my new baby!!!

Sadly due to the unexpected expense of the new reader (the kids helped but I still had to put out half) and now with the coming wedding I had to cancel my trip to GayRomLit in October. I'm really bummed about that but hopefully next year I can go. It was just too much going on at the same time. The kiddies birthdays, Chris & Chris plus my youngest daughter's birthdays are all in November, my 25th anniversary is also that month plus now the wedding and then Xmas would be just around the corner. Plus we're taking a couple of days in early August to drive to Miami so Christina can meet the family. It's just too much!

Oh My Goodness, I just realized I didn't even think to tell anyone I wasn't going to GRL anymore. Sorry guys! Hopefully it's still early in the planning stages as far as the house-hunting goes. Yikes, how totally inconsiderate of me. Sorry! :(

On the reading front~~~

I've had a really good year reading-wise. So far I've read 227 books this year and have managed to give some sort of "reviewette" in GRs to most of them. Go me for not procrastinating since last year I was really behind most of the time. :)

Fun facts (at least for me) about what I've read~~~

Jan --- 49 books
Feb --- 25 books
Mar ---29 books
Apr --- 29 books
May --- 48 books
Jun --- 31 books
Jul --- 16 books so far

From Jan to June I read 163 books that I acquired this year, 31 from my 2010 tbr, 14 from 2009 and 3 from 2008. I always have the intention to read the ones that have been languishing on my tbr for a long time but then I can't resist all the new shiny books that come out. So bad, lol! :)

From Jan to May I read/reviewed/rated 180 books. I'm still working on June/July reviews.

5 stars --- 11
4.5 stars --- 5
4 stars --- 75
3.5 stars ---21
3 stars --- 59
2.5 stars --- 1
2 stars --- 7
1.5 stars --- 1

Some of my favorites this year~~~

Life in Fusion by Ethan Day
One Real Thing by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox
Sins of the Heart by Allison Cassatta
Firecracker by Jaye Valentine
American Love Songs by Ashlyn Kane
Fun with Dick and Shane by Gillibran Brown
Immortality Is the Suck and No Rest for the Wicked by A.M. Riley
Outcast Mine by Jamie Craig
Truth In the Dark by Amy Lane
Shades of Gray by Brooke McKinley
The Girl for Me by Failte
Whistling In the Dark by Tamara Allen
Call and Answer by Val Kovalin
GhosTV by Jordan Castillo Price
The Coda series by Marie Sexton
Nothing Ever Happens by Sue Brown
Between Sinners and Saints by Marie Sexton
Visible Friend by K.Z. Snow
The Painting by Fiona K. Wallace

Last fun fact for this rambling post. I went with Alex to see the Harry Potter movie today and we loved it. It's sad to think it's the last one but since it's such a good series I know I'll watch them again.

So what's new with you guys? Work, family, reading? Feel free to ramble like I've done. It's only fair if you took the time to follow along with me.

Happy weekend, everyone!!!!!!

2nd Annual Author Blog Crawl... my turn to share the love

2011-06-27T01:00:00.001-04:00

This is the second year that Kassa from three am book reviews has organized this wonderful "author appreciation month" and it's a great way to share our thoughts on the great authors out there. Thanks, Kassa! Yesterday's letter was to Josh Lanyon written by Heidenkind from Truth, Freedom, and Books. Please continue on the Blog Crawl tomorrow by visiting Literary Escapism to see who their favorite author will be.

It's now my turn to write a letter to one of my favorite authors. Although the books I normally read and blog about are generally in the m/m romance genre my letter today goes out to an author who's brought the joy of reading to millions of children as well as adults.

Dear J.K. Rowling,

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for the many hours of reading pleasure your books have given me over the years. My love for Harry Potter and friends began when my youngest daughter brought home Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone from a school book fair in 2000. While she never finished the story (and boy did she miss out) I was completely captivated by Harry, Hermione and Ron and the magical world they live in.

Since childhood I'd been addicted to reading but at that time I found myself with little interest or time for reading. Three teenagers and a demanding job left little "me" time but Harry and his friends revived my reading "spark". I've read all of the books, multiple times in fact, and have seen the movies as well and I continue to enjoy your stories as much now as when I first began reading them. Despite the fact that my kids surprisingly never picked up my love of reading we have enjoyed the movies together.

As I look forward to the release of the last movie in July I've begun to share my love of reading, and Harry Potter, with my seven year old grandson. A new Harry Potter fan!!

So thank you for creating and sharing Harry and his magical world. And a great big thank you also for the upcoming release of the Harry Potter series as ebooks. I look forward to adding them to my Sony and reading them once again.

Lily

For more information on J.K. Rowling and the Harry Potter books please visit her official site here and for fun news and info visit the Leaky Cauldron.

Don't forget to continue on the Blog Crawl tomorrow by visiting Literary Escapism.

What's new this week...

2011-06-23T17:32:00.001-04:00

All Work and No Play by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox
Get it @ Amber Allure
Contemporary/Short Story

Blurb

Joshua has planned every detail of the vacation he’s going to take with his partner, Ciro. All Ciro has to do is show up. They’re headed for Dear Lake, Michigan, a tiny town built around a modest resort that’s been serving up peace and quiet for more than fifty years.

Showing up is harder than it seems. The day their vacation begins, a big client finally decides to move ahead with a project Ciro has been trying to get for months. Joshua is livid, angry enough to leave without him, but there’s nothing Ciro can do about it.

Or is there? Alone in his office before the meeting, Ciro finally sees that he has his priorities mixed up. This meeting is important, but not more important than Joshua. He postpones the meeting, to hell with the consequences, then takes off for Dear Lake to make things right.

But when he arrives, the cabin they were meant to share is empty and Joshua is nowhere to be found. Is Ciro too late to fix what he’s broken?

Also new @ Amber Allure
Sex, Lies and Edelweiss by J.L. Merrow
Your Whisper in the Dark by K.C. Kendricks

The Male Room by Carolyn LeVine Topol
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb

Craig just got fired from his dead-end job, and Jeff just got kicked out of his dead-end relationship. Frustrated with their unhappy lives, the two friends decide to let off some steam by going out to the Music Box, the town’s most notorious gay club. But after an unsatisfying night in the back room, Jeff decides there has to be something better for them out there, and he drags a reluctant Craig into starting a fledgling business called The Male Room, an online alternative for the gay dating scene in their area.

Jeff has another motive: Craig has picked up the pieces of Jeff's broken heart more times than he can count, and Jeff has loved him forever. The Male Room is Jeff’s last hope that helping others find love might lead Craig to the one perfect match right in front of him.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
Last Chance Ranch by D.G. Parker
Loving Luki Vasquez by Lou Sylvre
Rendezvous in the Palmeraie by Jay Starre
Sinnerman by Mary Calmes
The Finder by Brandon Fox

Sarge's Angel by Mark Alders
Get it @ eXtasy Books
Sci-fi/Shifter/Novella

Blurb
Book two in the Schism Universe series

Sarge is a hard as nails construction worker—as rough and tough and as well built as they come. All is well in his life. He’s a softy in the arms of Hayden. He’s a man deeply in love. One who’s touched by his angel on every level, which is a far cry from how he acts in front of everyone else. Life is perfect.

What could possibly go wrong?

Sarge is told the truth about Hayden—his angel is a peacock shifter from the doomed Boonta colony wiped out years ago by the Schism. What’s more, the Schism know this, too, and they are on the hunt.

Will his angel become nothing but a legend like all the other shifters over the eons?

Also new @ eXtasy Books
Master of Illusion by Blak Rayne
Pele's Fire by A.J. Llewellyn
Vengeance Paid with Blood by Stephani Hecht

Inside Daniel by Treva Harte
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Novella/Sequel

Blurb
Sequel to Maxxed Out

Max is ecstatic. He finally has the summer to actually live with Daniel instead of only visiting on weekends. But when he tells Daniel the good news, he can tell something is wrong. Daniel is closing up on him again.

Daniel loves Max desperately. He just knows he's not the right guy for a not-quite-kid who still hero worships him because he was his brother's best friend. Daniel has way too much baggage in his past to keep Max around. To add to all the things Daniel doesn't want to tell Max, he's found out he may be losing his job soon. He can't ask Max to stay with someone like that.

Max doesn't care about Daniel's past or his job; he cares about Daniel. So, if he wants to keep his lover, Max is going to have to get inside Daniel and heal him from the inside out.

Also new @ Loose Id
Fighting Chance by Viki Lyn

Exposure by Elizabeth Lister
Get it @ MLR Press
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb

When 23 year-old Jeremy Trask wanders into Martin Lewis' photography studio one bleak October day and requests photos for a modeling portfolio, neither man is prepared for the immediate and intense attraction between them. What follows is a series of progressively intimate encounters that leads them on a scintillating erotic journey together. But Jeremy has a secret. Will his revelation destroy the burgeoning intimacy between them? Or will Martin rise to the challenge of loving a 'less than perfect' man?

Hancuffs & Pretty Things by Kim Dare
Get it @ Resplendence Publishing
Contemporary/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book eight in the Rawlings Men series

Almost every man in the Rawlings family is a cop. Almost. Dane Rawlings likes the finer things in life. As a successful antiques dealer, imposing law and order upon society isn’t one of his main concerns. But that doesn’t mean he can’t appreciate the appeal of a man with handcuffs.

Ross O’Sullivan has worked with lots of Rawlings men, none of them prepared him for Dane. When he’s asked to babysit a Rawlings outside a suspected arson attack, he expects his charge to be tall, dark and handsome. A petite, delicate and pretty Rawlings comes as a shock, and it’s not the only shock Dane has in store for him.

Daniel's Dream by Andi Anderson
Get it @ Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Novella/Series

Blurb
Book three in the Men of Charlestown series

All eight year old, Daniel ever wanted was a family. When he lost both parents in a horrible car accident, he made a Christmas wish a year and a half ago to be part of a happy family once more. Young Daniel knew he'd been granted a Christmas miracle the day that Nick Kirkland walked into his and his Uncle Josh's lives. Ever since then, Daniel has grown and blossomed from the unconditional love and support that both men have given him.

But, Daniel wants more.

Daniel's dream has been for his Uncle Josh and his fiance, Nick, to finally tie the knot and truly give Daniel for once and for all the family and stability that he has always wanted. When the question of Nick becoming an official guardian to Daniel comes to light, Daniel realizes that the only thing that would be even better than having two loving Uncles taking care of him...is having the two men he loves most in the world married, and calling them both Father instead.

Also new @ Silver Publishing
A Nanny for Nate by Lisa Worrall
Call On Me by Catriana Sommers
Deefur Dog by R.J. Scott
Fire and Light by Berengaria Brown

Prove It by Chris Owen
Get it @ Torquere Books
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb

Warren and Silas meet for the first time at the age of five. It doesn't go well.

When they reach junior high they have a truce in place and Tal, a new guy in their class, acts as a catalyst, bringing them together as best friends. Together all through high school, they survive school plays, Tal's girlfriends, Silas' boyfriend and Warren's endless studying. College is more of the same, until Silas and Tal coax Warren out of the closet.

For Warren nothing changes, but for Silas the world has unexpectedly changed forever. He had no idea he was in love with his best friend at all, and when he finally tells Warren the reaction is another surprise.

Prove it.

Warren knows all about Silas, knows the tricks, the games, the very best and the very worst about him, and Warren loves him back. But Warren also knows that if they're going to be together it's got to be forever, and he can't just risk everything for what might be another one of Silas' whims.

Silas has to prove he loves Warren, and he wants to do just that. But how do you win the heart of someone who knows you better than anyone else?

Also new @ Torquere Books
Bruised by Sean Michael
Dragon Hunted by JB McDonald
Just Another Day at the Office by BA Tortuga
Perfect Knowledge by Alex Standish

Big congrats to Tam from Tam's Reads, whose short story was published @ Torquere this past Saturday. I really enjoyed reading it, click here for my mini review, and if you haven't already bought her story, what the heck are you waiting for?

Winterlude by Tam Ames
Get it @ Torquere Books
Contemporary/Short Story

Blurb

Eric hates the cold weather and his broken down car, which means venturing out on foot into the sub-zero temperatures. Navigating the icy sidewalks, he runs into Omar, literally. An impromptu hot coffee on the cold day finds that tattooed and pierced Eric, and government IT guy Omar might have more in common than they expected. When Omar is called away, before he can get the guy's number, Eric believes it may only have been a pleasant winterlude to temporarily distract him from the cold, or is there a possibility his winter will get a lot warmer?

Miles To Go by Bailey Bradford
Get it @ Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Western./Novel

Blurb

Book two in the Love in Xxchange series

Max Jenkins watched enviously as the love between his employers, Rory and Chance blossomed. He never thought to have someone of his own to hold until Bo shook up Max’s world and made him question everything he believed he knew about himself.

What might seem like an impossible dream for two wounded men can be a reality if they’ll only believe—in each other, and themselves.

Max Jenkins has been the foreman on Chance Gallagher’s ranch long enough to know love between two men can be a powerful thing. Despite his rigid upbringing, Max has watched Chance and his partner Rory, has seen the deep and abiding love they have for one another, and Max has found himself thinking about things he’d never acknowledged before. When Max’s friend, Bo Daughtry, is almost killed in a violent attack, Max realizes he has some decisions to make. Years of fear and ignoring his own needs make it difficult, but for the love of one man, Max will fight himself and Bo’s doubts and insecurities.

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
A Tender Roughness by Talia Carmichael
Taking Care of Charlie by Amber Kell

1, 2, 3... the last 3 books I read

2011-06-20T01:26:00.001-04:00

I read these three books in the past few days and really enjoyed them. They're totally different but all well-written and entertaining. Recommended for your reading pleasure.

A Thread of Deepest Black by Finn Marlowe

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this story. I liked both of the protags and the storyline was very interesting. I had a bit of a struggle following along for the first part but once I caught unto the shifter vs. shifter theme I was hooked. Killian and Colton's love story was a pleasure to read and the added bonus of the well-done BDSM theme made this an entertaining and at times very sexy/hot read. I'd love to read more as they go forward with the changes to their world.

The Painting by Fiona K. Wallace

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

While this story has elements which may not appeal to all readers it is overall a great read. At times sweet and tender as well as hauntingly sad and violent. Stefan's journey from Berlin in the 1930s thru the horrors of concentration camp life, the loss of loved ones and his subsequent years surviving and then overcoming the horrors he went through are told so well that I was swept away completely into his life. While not the m/m romance I usually read it's a story I'm very glad I read. Stefan went thru so much in his life and even though the ending is not the fairytale ending I normally look for it felt right for the story.

***There are some very violent and disturbing scenes in this book however I found it well worth reading. Highly recommended.***

Winterlude by Tam Ames

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Entertaining story from beginning to end. Well-written, fun and very sexy. I loved how Eric and Omar are so at ease with each other. Great chemistry and oh boy, the hunt for piercings was hot!

W... W... W...

2011-06-15T01:00:00.001-04:00

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

What are you currently reading?
What did you recently finish reading?
What do you think you’ll read next?

Right now I'm reading A Thread of Deepest Black by Finn Marlowe. Colton and Killian are mortal enemies but when Colton comes to Killian for a huge favor he can't help but say yes. However, the conditions he puts on his help are more than Colton bargained for. I like both guys and their interactions. I'm only about a fifth of the way in but so far I'm enjoying it. It's only barely begun but I can tell it's going to be a pretty hot story. Hope the sex doesn't overshadow the story though. My only quibble so far is I'm still not sure exactly what kind of shifter Colton is and just why they're mortal enemies.

I just finished reading Too Soon for Love by Kimberly Gardner and really enjoyed it. Michael is a blind man who has to adapt to life on his own after the unexpected death of Phillip, his lover of over twelve years. As he tries to deal with his lover's family and his own need for independence he turns to Alan, the nurses aid who helped them at the end. Alan has been attracted to Michael since he first saw him and as they become friends his feelings deepen. Then he discovers Phillip was cheating and has to figure out wether to tell Michael the truth or let it go. Of course it wouldn't be a story without misunderstandings, hurt feelings and someone getting in the way of the lovers so... it takes Michael and Alan a bit to get to their HEA but it's well worth it when they do. There was a sad little side story that didn't do much for the overall book except make me mad/sad but otherwise this was a very nice read.

Next I think I'll read The Painting by F.K. (Fiona) Wallace. I saw the review for this at Wave's a couple of days ago and then read the first few chapter's at Smashwords right away. The story deals with lovers during World War II in Germany and then goes thru decades more until, I was assured when reading the review, it reaches "an absolutely perfect ending." I was really swept up in Stefan and Gunter's story while reading the free chapters. Check it out here if you;re interested.

So what have you been reading and what are you looking forward to next?

That was then... this is now

2011-06-10T00:21:00.001-04:00

How did a few days turn into almost two months? I just needed some time to recharge but the days just kept slipping away from me. Almost eight weeks later I'm no closer to the uncomplicated, happy life I dream of but at least I've caught glimpses of light in this dark tunnel.

Not much has changed for me. Work is super busy and home is super complicated. We've had some really nice days as we celebrated birthdays and holidays together and we've also had some truly horrible days. A roller coaster... that's my life! I have been reading like crazy though and it's been fun to read only for pleasure. Reviewing had been adding tons of pressure and I've been enjoying my time off.

I have missed my online life though. Very much! I've missed my friends and the fun of visiting blogs. The other day I opened up my Google Reader for the first time in weeks and Oh My Goodness... I couldn't belive how many unread post I had. I promptly logged off. I couldn't deal with it at all. I think after this I'll go back in and just mark them all as read and hopefully just start fresh. And slow. I don't plan to start reviewing and blogging like before. I don't have the time or even the inclination. I just want a bit of my old life back.

Which brings me to this... what have I missed during my hibernation? I hope I've still got friends out there willing to stop by to say hi. And share some news/gossip with me.

So many to choose from... here are my favorite Sexy Men of Country

2011-04-15T09:30:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday!

My first 4x10 work week went well and I'm totally loving my extra day off. I've taken care of a ton of stuff and still have today to finish laundry and relax before going back to work. Yesterday I went for my yearly physical which was so not the highlight of my day but everything looks good so now it's just a Mammogram and I'm free for another year. Afterwards I went and had my hair cut. Oh my, what a relief that was. My hair was super long and it's been annoying me for a while. It's pretty short now which is perfect for the hot Florida summer coming up. And since I'm not fond of being in pictures here's a side view only.

Last night while playing FB games, visiting blogland and generally just vegging out in from of the computer I drank a frozen/slushy Strawberry Daiquiri and boy it was... Yum! I don't drink all that often so of course by the time I'd drank it all I was feeling a bit tipsy and mellow. Perfect!! ;)

While on the PC I generally listen to music on my Pandora account and I totally got into country music for a while. which then became the inspiration for this post... Sexy Country Singers.

Up first is Tim McGraw singing She's My Kind of Rain. I love the song, the video is very well done and let's face it... Tim looks really good in a cowboy hat. I love the end where you see him and Faith walking down the street with the girls. So sweet!

In case you can't see the video, click here.

Up next is Billy Currington singing Must Be Doin' Something Right. Oh boy, I so want to be on a beach rolling around with him. Sand or no sand I'm ready to kick that hussy right out of there!!

In case you can't see the video, click here.

Up next is Dierks Bentley singing Come A Little Closer. He is such a cutie with those curls. You know I'd be coming closer if he so much as crooked a finger at me. Alas, the chances of that are about as high as Tim and his sexy black hat showing up at my doorstep.

In case you can't see the video, click here.

Next is Keith Urban singing You'll Think of Me. I love his voice and yes, he's a cutie too!

In case you can't see the video, click here.

This video is from one of my favorite country groups, Rascal Flatts. The song I Melt is very sexy although I would love to see it redone as a m/m video.

In case you can't see the video, click here.

Hope you enjoyed my Sexy Country picks. I added a link in case the videos don't play right. Hope everyone's Friday, and weekend, is great!!!

Books, books and more books... hot off the presses :)

2011-04-14T17:20:00.000-04:00

Placing Out by P.A. Brown
Available at Amber Allure
Historical/Suspense/Novella

Blurb
At the age of ten, Dylan Daniels was a placed-out kid sent from New York's Five Points to a family in Nebraska. But Dylan ran away at the age of eighteen when he realized he preferred boys and didn't want to be a farmer. Once he made his way to Hollywood, he wound up as a popular and high-class hustler with a number of wealthy clients.

Now in 1933 near the end of the Prohibition Era in America, Dylan meets Ben Carter during a bar raid. Ben, who's a six-year veteran of the LAPD and deeply in the closet, is instantly both attracted and repelled by this beautiful man. Between them they struggle to overcome the barriers that keep them apart, including Dylan's career, and Ben being in a brutal squad that frequently raids pansy bars and beats the patrons, which tears Ben apart.

Will Ben let Dylan's love heal him or destroy him altogether?

Also new @ Amber Allure
Catch/Caught by Vivien Dean
Guilty by Innocence by Deirdre O'Dare
Time Rip by Mimi Riser
Wait for Night by A.J. Llewellyn

Buy them as a set in the Crime and Punishment Amberpax Collection.

Detour by Talia Carmichael
Available at Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb
Robert Berkus’s steady academic life seemed to be an open road until the day he took a detour... right into Officer Miguel Rodriguez’s path. When Miguel helps the sexy professor change a flat tire, Robert is absolutely oblivious to Miguel's interest. That suits Miguel just fine, though. He’s used to being the aggressor although it sure would be nice to get this sweet and staid college professor to make the first move.

When Robert gets his act in gear, the results prove explosive. Miguel wants Robert in his bed and in his life permanently, and Robert enthusiastically agrees—but they've already learned that life makes detours. Sometimes it takes love a little courage to arrive at its chosen destination.

First Time for Everything - 2011 Daily Dose
Alix Bekins, Dawn Kimberly Johnson, L.J. LaBarthe, Clare London, JL Merrow, Chrissy Munder, Ariel Tachna, Bryl R. Tyne, Mary Calmes, B.G. Thomas, Michael Gouda, K.R. Foster, R. Cooper, Rowan McAllister, Shae Connor, Jamie Fessenden, Lou Harper, Dawn Douglas, Brian Rowe, John Goode, Riley Shane, Monika Krasnorada, Anne Tenino, Jeanette Grey, Ryssa Edwards, Kristen Wyatt, Lydia Nyx, K.C. Beaumont, G.P. Keith, Tia Fielding

Blurb
From true love's first innocent kiss to finally getting down and dirty on the kitchen floor, there's a first time for every sort of cherry to be popped. Whether discovering the ravenous thrill of sex or the heartwarming power of romance, these men are going to take the plunge and try something new—something romantic or kinky, daring or safe, passionate or relaxed, even comforting or scary—all in the name of love. The First Time for Everything Daily Dose package delivers 30 M/M stories about all kinds of first times.

Summer reading fun! A story delivered automatically to your bookshelf each day in June. Over 1,500 pages of fiction selling individually for a total $81.20. Buy the package early and save:

April - $39.99 May - $49.99*

Beginning June 1, stories will be available individually as priced or as a bulk package for $54.99.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
At Days' End by Bryl R. Tyne
Gay Knights and Horny Heroes: Tales from the Court of King Arthur by Michael Gouda
Overdrive by Ariel Tachna
Shying Away by Kate Sherwood
Uniform Appeal - Anthology

House of Mirrors by Bonnie Dee & Summer Devon
Available at Loose Id
Historical/Mystery/Suspense/Novel

Blurb
Driven from his family when his sexuality is exposed, Jonah discovers drama, passion, and intrigue in a traveling carnival--and in the enigmatic owner, Rafe Grimstone. The preacher’s son and the lord who’s rejected his former life in England feel the heat of attraction from the moment they meet. Open-hearted Jonah is willing to risk hellfire and damnation for brief moments of pleasure with Rafe, but the older man is frozen in a past he can’t escape no matter how far he runs.

As Rafe struggles to choose between responsibilities of his present and his past, mysterious accidents assail the close-knit community of the carnival. Will the perpetrator be revealed before the traveling show is ruined, and will Rafe finally reveal his true self to Jonah or continue to mask his identity like the changing images in a house of mirrors?

Also new @ Loose Id
No Apologies by Tibby Armstrong

Broken Rules by Jade Buchanan
Available at MLR Press
Contemporary/Series/Novel

Blurb
Book one in The Broken Trilogy

Ten years ago, Jonah Chevalier was kicked out of his home for being gay. In a bid to escape his pain, Jonah moved halfway across the country to start over. Now, his mother's death brings him home where he will discover a shared passion with his childhood best friend.

Neil Brogan returns home hoping to reconnect with Jonah and ends up with more than he ever thought possible. They live on opposite sides of the country but the distance between them may be more than mere miles. Neil hopes to convince Jonah that some rules are made to be broken.

Also new @ MLR Press
Emerald Mountain by Victor J. Banis

My King's Seraglio by Ann T. Ryan
Available at Silver Publishing
Fantasy/Novella

Blurb
Tobey Mitchell dreamt of many things but none included being a part of any man's seraglio. That choice was taken away from him when the High King of Naverya, Adam Radcliffe, met Tobey and wanted him for his own. Against Tobey's will, his body and also heart fell prey to the man everyone called High King and the man he simply called Adam. As Tobey becomes Adam's favourite concubine, jealous rivals threaten to tear asunder the love that they have created together.

Also new @ Silver Publishing
Denying Dare by Amber Kell
Scent of Attraction by Pender Mackie

From Morocco to Paris by Lydia Nyx
Available at Torquere Books
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Zane Reed wants to be a movie director, but first he has to learn the ropes by taking every crap job in the industry. Employed as personal assistant to actor Elliot Butler, Zane hopes to further his education when Elliot works with famed director Saul Brennan on an epic movie about Napoleon Bonaparte. However, Zane gets an education in something else entirely when he meets Davey Alexander, one of the production's costumers.

Davey, vivacious and erotically-charged, shakes reluctant, sexually-confused Zane down to his core. Zane's feelings for Davey quickly grow beyond lust, but the two can't get it together. During filming, from Morocco to Paris, the two struggle with desire and muddled emotions. In the end, Zane will have to overcome himself if he wants to keep the most intriguing, passionate man he's ever known from walking out of his life.

Also new @ Torquere Books
Embracing the Dragon by Kathryn Scannell
Full Release by Marshall Thorton
Manifest by Julia Talbot
Surrender by Jourdan Lane
Waiting for the Sun by Alyx Shaw

Imperfect by Cassidy Ryan
Available at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Suspense/Novella

Blurb
They say the brightest lights cast the longest shadows. Zach thinks Logan’s been living in that shadow long enough, but can he convince him he deserves to stand in the light?

Detectives Zach Gibson and Logan Armstrong are partners, friends, and something more that they’ve never analysed or put a name to. But it works for them. For now.

When Zach’s grandfather asks them to investigate the theft of a ring from the finger of his recently deceased friend, it opens a can of worms Logan has been struggling to keep closed for ten years.

Secrets, guilt and revelations come tumbling out, and Logan is forced to finally deal with events from his past that have kept him emotionally bound and unable to move on.

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
Devon's Revenge by Jade Archer

My A-Z Reading Challenge... the end (for now)

2011-04-13T20:11:00.000-04:00

Just a quick update to say I lived through my first week of ten hour days at work and am now on the first day of my 3 day weekend. I was right in thinking ten hours was going to be really long yet at the same time it wasn't as bad as I thought. I lose two "free" hours a day but the third day off every week will be wonderful.

Here's the last of my challenge info. You'll likely notice right away the double R but I just couldn't wait to read the sequel since Rules of Engagement ends very, very abruptly.

Rules of Engagement by L.A. Witt
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/GFY/Novel

4 stars
Well written and interesting story about a man going through a divorce and unexpectedly finding himself attracted to another man. A bit emotional and angsty with well drawn protags and smoking hot sex scenes. Overall this was a great read until I reached the end. Unfortunately the ending feels very abrupt and was a bit of a let down. Fortunately I had the sequel ready to read otherwise I would have been a very unhappy reader.

Rain by L.A. Witt
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Sequel/Novella

4 stars
Great follow-up to Rules of Engagement. It's been a couple of years and Brandon and Dustin are getting ready for their wedding. Unresolved family issues are dealt with although not as both men would like it to be. Despite the fact that things don't end perfectly, or maybe because of it, this was a very good conclusion to their story.

Samhain Enchanted Evening by M. King
Get it @ All Romance eBooks
Contemporary/Free Story/Novella

3 stars
Well done, Halloween themed story about a man, slightly disillusioned with his life, and the handsome man he meets at a party. Could he have found a way to get over his slump? Cute and sweet and as an added bonus it's a free download at ARe.

Truth In the Dark by Amy Lane
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Fantasy/Novel

5 stars
Beautifully written story with a Beauty and the Beast twist. Emotional, funny, sad at times quite sexy and also romantic. Best of all are the truly original protagonists. The ending worked perfectly in large part because it wasn't a convenient, pat, fairytale ending. This is an entertaining, must-read for fans of the author and genre.

Unrequited by Abigail Roux
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novella

3 stars
Nicely done story about a man who's spent the last few years in a "relationship" with someone who thought they were just friends with benefits. When he finally decides he needs more a vacation with an old friend turns out to be a real eye, and heart, opener. I enjoyed it although I found it hard to believe that after so long none of the men really knew how the others felt.

Velvet Blade by Sean Michael
Get it @ Torquere Books
Futuristic/Series/BDSM/Novel

3 stars
Set in the Velvet Glove world this was a nice story filled to the brim with the author's usual formula of sex, sex and more sex. Although in this case it was more like sex, shaving, sex, shaving... luckily the sex scenes were nicely done because after a while the Dom's shaving fetish got old. The last third of the story was the best as the protags, and the central figures of the Velvet Glove, have to deal with stalker/terrorists. There was action, adventure, some sadness, lots of sex and a nice HEA in this story.

With Abandon by J.L. Langley
Get it @ Samhain Publishing
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Series/Novel

3.5 stars
Well written and entertaining story about a closeted werewolf whose worst nightmare comes true when the college student he's agreed to host in his home turns out to be his mate. I love this series, in fact I've really enjoyed everything I've read by Ms. Langley, but for the first time I've finished one of her books feeling a bit dissatisfied. I just couldn't warm up to Aubrey and his irrational need to stay in the closet. Poor Matt deserved better than someone who was constantly thinking of the time when he could send his mate away. The ending was sweet, the sex scenes hot and the cast of supporting characters were all good additions to the storyline. Overall a very nice continuation in the With or Without series despite a less than stellar protag.

Xavier's Way by Diana DeRicci
Get it @ etopia Press
Contemporary/Novella

3 stars
This was a nice story, GFY themed, about a man who's ex-fiancee left him, and his company, practically bankrupt after she embezzled funds. When he hires an accounting firm to help track the money he ends up finding more than he expected as he surprisingly falls for the gorgeous, male, accountant.

Yummy Indulgences by Andi Anderson
Get it @ Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Series/Novella

4 stars
I really enjoyed this super sweet story. Shiloh and Allen are both likable, nice guys and there's no angst or big misunderstand in this story. Just two guys meeting, falling in love and finding a HEA future. I did feel the resolution at Allen's job was too easy but otherwise I liked the second book in the Men of Charleston series and look forward to the next installment.

Zoner: Through Neon Eyes 1 by Michael Barnette
Get it @
Sci-fi/Futuristic/Series/Short Story

3.5 stars
Interesting story with a definite BDSM theme. It's short but quite hot and the world created by the author really caught my attention. Sci-fi themed stories aren't my usual cup of tea but I found this one enjoyable and worth reading.

And there you have it. The end of my A-Z Reading Challenge. I read my way through the entire alphabet from March 8th to April 6th... almost a full month to read 26 books. Really 27 with the double R when I read a sequel that I just couldn't wait for. Not bad.

Here's a breakdown of the 27 books I read...

2011 TBR ~~ 17
2010 TBR ~~ 6
2009 TBR ~~ 3
2008 TBR ~~ 1

Novel length ~~ 10
Novellas ~~ 14 although 6 of these were just a few pages short of 150 which is what I count as a novel
Shorts ~~ 3

Up next for me is another A-Z Reading Challenge this time using author first names. I'm up to the letter H with Miles and the Magic Flute by Heidi Cullinan. I'm only on page 35 so far and it's really good. I don't think I'll be able to do the complete alphabet this time but it's okay since my OCD side is happy with at least one complete run through. Next I may do author names again using the last name or possibly titles using series. May I'll just forget about a list and just read whatever comes along. Who knows....

So what's happening in your reading world?

For your reading pleasure...

2011-04-07T21:07:00.000-04:00

Bloody Queens by India Harper
Available at Amber Allure
Historical/Novella

Blurb
Recently discharged from the Union Army, Barrett Jennings is looking for a fresh start in a new place. After a chance encounter, Barrett ends up taking the job as the first sheriff of the small mining town of Danvers, Wyoming. Arriving with his few belongings and the promise of steady pay, Barrett has no idea what lies ahead.

Mordecai Jones has lived and breathed the theater from an early age. Leaving Chicago for the freedom and possibility of the West, Mordecai opened the Queen of Hearts theater to bring a bit of culture to the dusty town. And in Danvers he can finally play the role he desires on his own stage.

When Barrett meets Mordecai, the two men instantly connect, but their fledgling relationship is tested when first one girl and then another is brutally murdered, coming ever closer to Barrett and Mordecai. As the sheriff, Barrett has a job to do, but will Mordecai get in his way?

Also new @ Amber Allure
Getting Off the Ground by L.A. Witt
Seduced by T.A. Chase

Snowball in Hell by Josh Lanyon
Available at Carina Press
Historical/Mystery/Novella

Blurb
Los Angeles, 1943

Reporter Nathan Doyle had his reasons to want Phil Arlen dead, but when he sees the man's body pulled from the La Brea tar pit, he knows he'll be the prime suspect. He also knows that his life won't stand up to intense police scrutiny, so he sets out to crack the case himself.

Lieutenant Matthew Spain's official inquiries soon lead him to believe that Nathan knows more than he's saying. But that's not the only reason Matt takes notice of the handsome journalist. Matt's been drawn to men before, but he must hide his true feelings—or risk his entire career.

As Nathan digs deeper, it becomes increasingly difficult to stay one step ahead of Matt Spain—and to deny his intense attraction to him. Nathan's secrets may not include murder, but has his hunt put him right in the path of the real killer?

Previously published, newly revised by author.

Paris A to Z b Marie Sexton
Available at Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book six in the Coda series

Zach Mitchell and his lover Angelo Green are headed to Paris (along with their Coda friends Matt and Jared) to attend Jon and Cole's wedding. Matt will have to face Jared's former lover, and Angelo will have to spend an entire week with Zach's ex-boyfriend. Between Matt's jealousy and Angelo's temper, Zach thinks they'll be lucky to get through the week without one of the grooms being punched. But Zach soon realizes he should worry less about Angelo and more about himself. Facing the bittersweet memories of his past and his own guilt over breaking Jon’s heart is harder than expected, but Zach will have to find a way to leave his past behind if he's to have any hope of the future he wants with Angelo.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
Flesh & Blood by Ethan Stone
I Reach Through Time and Touch the Other Side by Sophia Deri-Bowen
Off the Page by Ryan Loveless
Taste by Mickie B. Ashling
Vamp In the Silver Mask by Wynn Wagner

Three Alarm Fire by Stephani Hecht
Available at eXtasy Books
Contemporary/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book eight in the EMS Heat series

If there is one thing Dustin is good at, it’s putting up a false front. While his friends and coworkers think he’s easy going, happy and flirtatious, inside, he’s really scarred, sad and self-conscious. After being in a destructive relationship that left him hurt in more ways than one, Dustin never really recovered and is determined to never trust anyone again. So he resolves to lose himself in his job as a paramedic while he continues to hide his true self.

Pontiac City Firefighter, Vaughn finds himself immediately attracted to Dustin the moment he spots the paramedic at the annual EMS Neighborhood Beautification event. Dustin is everything Vaughn likes in a man, cute, smart and sexy. Every time he tries to get close, however, Dustin pushes him away. Undaunted, Vaughn decides that Dustin is just playing hard to get and vows that he’ll get the other man in his bed if it’s the last thing he does.

When Vaughn learns the secret pain Dustin has been hiding, he realizes that everything may not be as it seems with the other man. Will Vaughn be able to convince Dustin to give love another chance or will the paramedic forever be lost to the horrors of his past?

Also new @ eXtasy Books
Only You by A.J. Llewellyn

Manning Up by J.T. Steele
Available at Loose Id
Contemporary/BDSM/Paranormal/Novella

Blurb
Elijah Kerrigan is gay with two big strikes against him: his father is a preacher and he himself is a professional baseball player. Divorced from a sexless marriage, he feels that coming out of the closet would destroy his life and, worse, hurt his parents whom he deeply loves. He plans on being alone for the rest of his life, but he doesn’t count on meeting Wesley Grayson.

Wesley Grayson is a tall, handsome young artist and the son of a famous rock star. The moment he lays eyes on Elijah, he knows the two of them are destined to be together. Wesley's developing psychic powers leave him so drawn to the handsome ballplayer that he is certain he’s found his eternal soulmate. Out of the closet and comfortable in his skin, Wesley introduces Elijah to hot, kinky gay sex and a leather club that melts his boy in his arms. But that doesn't make the relationship easy; Elijah's still deeply in the closet.

Two homophobic thugs team up with a female tabloid writer and threaten to expose Elijah's secret. Will he have to abandon the best thing he’s ever had to keep his family and his career? Wesley has no intention of letting go of him, but, in the end, unless Elijah mans up, it may not be his choice.

Also new @ Loose Id
A Weapon of Opportunity by Kiernan Kelly
Angel and the Assassin 2: Be Brave by Fin Alexander

Natural Instincts by S.J. Frost
Available at MLR Press
Contemporary/Paranormal/Vampire/Novel

Blurb
Andreas Nikandros has one focus, to kill the vampire he believes murdered his sister, and he knows with their greater strength, the surest way to kill a vampire is to become one. As a zoologist, he's used to looking at the world from a natural standpoint, but when he sets out on a quest to find a vampire to Turn him, what he finds in Titus Antonius Calidus is the last thing he expected. Titus has lived for over a thousand years, and in all that time has only ever given his heart to one man. As they follow their natural instincts, they discover something truly worth living forever for, each other.

Handcuffs & Ball Gags by Kim Dare
Available at Resplendence Publishing
Contemporary/BDSM/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book six in the Rawlings Men series

Police constable Andrew Rawlings is used to getting heckled while trying to maintain law and order at environmental protests. He’s not so keen on the guy shouting the insults being his flatmate, Ben. A protest is no place for a well-mannered school teacher, even if the guy is built like an ox. That’s why Andrew expressly forbade Ben from attending it, and Andrew isn’t used to his commands being disobeyed.

Ben has had enough of being bossed around by his best friend. He’s a grown man. If he wants to protest against the new motorway, he will. And, if Andy Rawlings doesn’t like it, well, he’ll just have to step up to the plate and start playing the dominant role full time, not just whenever it suits him.

Nudity, spanking and ball gags—the punishment for civil disobedience has never been so much fun.

Lipstick and Handguns by Gabrielle Evans
Available at Siren Publishing
Contemporary/Action/Suspense/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book one in the Lawful Disorder series

For three years after his lover left without a goodbye, the only people Detective Ryder Ward keeps close are his grandmother and his partner on the force. It's no wonder he's unprepared for the feelings Sidney Kessler awakens in him.

Finding himself naked and chained to a wall, imprisoned and tortured, and then dumped in the murky harbor weren't high on Sidney's list of things to do. Nor was waking up in the hospital and feeling drawn to the brooding detective stalking about his room. Still, he can't help but feel safe around Ryder.

Though reluctant to start a relationship with the vulnerable man, Ryder knows he's falling fast. He has a case to solve and a psycho to catch, though. He can't let his personal feelings stand in the way of his job, nor can he allow Sidney to become another body pulled from the bay.

Also new @ Siren Publising
Carson by Joyee Flynn
Winter and His Twins by Cooper McKenzie

Diamond: Double Cross by Winnie Jerome
Available at Torquere Books
Contemporary/Paranormal/Novella

Blurb
Twenty four years ago, naive trainee Randy Hughes lost his heart and virginity to the mysterious Cain. Randy expected to build a life with Cain, but his romantic dreams crashed down after he was abandoned.

Now an undercover paranormal investigator, Randy has the opportunity for revenge when Cain resurfaces. A raid has yielded a strange magical artifact, and Randy's ex-lover is the only one who has any information. He’s changed in more than a few surprising ways, but Cain still has feelings for Randy, a weakness Randy is ordered to exploit using any means possible. As the case heats up, Randy discovers that emotions he long thought dead are threatening one of the most important assignments of his life.

Also new @ Torquere Books
Compass Hearts by Maia Strong
Priorities by Tory Temple
Realize by Kerry Freeman

Fix This, Sir by Jaime Samms
Available at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/BDSM/Novella

Blurb
Book three in the Tales from Rainbow Alley series

It's always easier to run and hide than to face your problems. So what happens when you get your legs cut out from under you and running is impossible?

Jimmy's been hiding from his troubled past for a long time—in drugs, drink and dangerous sex. It's always been easy to find oblivion in the restraints of men who don't really care who he is or where he's come from. When tragedy puts him in a wheelchair and forces him to fix his legs—and his life—he's not so sure he has it in him to even try. Belligerence is the only weapon he has left.

Cliff is a physiotherapist with a big heart...and a dominant streak a mile wide. The instant Jimmy Phillips rolls into his clinic, he sees a submissive headed straight for self-destruction and every protective instinct kicks in. Ignoring the dangers of getting intimately involved with a client, Cliff takes Jimmy under his wing and pries under the broken man's guard. Getting behind the anger is a challenge the Dom in him just can't ignore.

What he finds is so much more than he bargained for. Now that he's reopened all of Jimmy's old wounds, he's not so sure he has what it takes to help his new submissive heal. All the control Cliff can muster can't hold Jimmy's crumbling world together, and now Cliff faces not just the loss of a sub, but his own fears that he was never worthy of Jimmy in the first place.

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
Dylan's Dilemma by Jude Mason & Jenna Byrnes
The Cake by A.J. Llewellyn & Serena Yates

A late celebration and the A-Z Reading Challenge continues...

2011-04-04T01:45:00.016-04:00

I can't believe that even with a countdown ticker on my blog page for the past few weeks I completely missed my Blogiversary. Yesterday my little blog turned two. I hope it'll be the Terrific Twos and not the Terrible Twos. I've had a wonderful time interacting with all of you guys and I hope the fun times continue for many years to come. Thanks for taking the time to visit me here. I appreciate and value your friendship very much.

Since Tam was mentioning stats the other day I decided to check mine out. Curious and nosy... that's me. :)

Pageviews all time history ~ 44,761
Not surprisingly the top three countries my visitors come from are:
United States ~ 22,652
Canada ~ 2,284
United Kingdom ~ 1,583
My most popular post...
Mature and sexy... for you, EH
Feb 5, 2010, 34 comments ~ 4,661 Pageviews
Teaser Tuesdays... Unexpected Guest
Aug 10, 2010, 14 comments ~ 606 Pageviews

My keyword search wasn't all that exciting. The most popular were...
dino hillas ~ 197 click here for a NSFW pic of this super sexy 51 year old hunk
farhad z ~ 24 click here for pics and an interview by Sarah @ Rain on the Roof
guys having sex ~ 17 sorry, no links for this one... you'll have to use your imagination on this one

On to book stuff now~~~

Here's the third installment of my A-Z Reading Challenge. I'm reading the letter W now so I'm almost finished. I think next I'll do the challenge but with author names instead of titles. And if I have to skip a letter I'm fine with it since I will be able to do the complete alphabet this time around thanks to the book recs I received from Chris!

Neon Yellow: Obsessive Adhesives by Andy Slayde & Ali Wilde
Get it @ Torquere Books
Contemporary/Novella

4 stars
Jason and Spencer are total opposites. Jason's a bit of a playboy while Spencer is a number's geek, and a virgin. After months of working together however Jason finally begins to "see" Spencer. Once his eyes are opened feelings begin to develop between them but with a stalker after Spencer will there be time to explore the possibilities those feelings bring? I really enjoyed this well-written story. Both Jason and Spencer are nice, likable guys and it was fun to see some of the characters from Sandalwood and a Potato and Mist Gray as well. The stories are connected by the characters but aren't really a series therefor it's not necessary to read them all although I recommend them. I enjoyed that Jason and Spencer didn't end up in bed right away instead their relationship develops slowly and I think, more naturally. The stalker plotline is the weakest point of the story but not enough to take away from my enjoyment of this sweet romance. Overall another entertaining story from Andy and Ali.

Outcast Mine by Jamie Craig
Get it @ Carina Press
Sci-fi/Novel

5 stars
While sci-fi may not be my preferred genre this book really impressed me. The setting, characters and storyline were all very well done and I was engaged, and entertained, throughout. Aleron, a human thief sent to a prison planet and Jasak, the head Athaki prison guard are both interesting characters and I enjoyed the slow progression of their relationship, definitely no insta-love in this story. There's action and intrigue throughout and the dark tone and the world building all combined to make this a story I couldn't put down and didn't want to end. I'd love to read more about these characters as they explore their love, and freedom, away from the prison planet.

Prey Time by Sue Brown
Get it @ Torquere Books
Menage (m/m/m)/Short Story

4 stars
Jeff is out looking for a good time when he spots a couple of guys that interest him. He's all set to play with, and Top, the guys but soon discovers that the smaller man with the blue eyes is definitely the one in charge. Going with the flow earns him a night of hot, sweaty, raunchy sex and at the end everyone's very satisfied. There's a unexpected little twist at the end of this entertaining and super hot quick read which added a bit more depth to the story.

Quinn's Hart by Cassandra Gold
Get it @ Amber Allure
Contemporary/Novella

3.5 stars
I enjoyed this sweet 'opposites attract' story. Quinn is shy, a really tall and large guy whose not had a lot of luck in the romance department while Josh is fun-loving and gregarious. Set against the background of Disney this was an entertaining story. The slowly developing romance between these two nice, likable guys worked well and the only thing I didn't like was when it ended. I would have liked to have seen them back home as a couple.

I've only got three more books to read to finish my challenge but nine to review. Overall this challenge worked really well for me. For the most part the books I read were already on my TBR so it helped, even if only a tiny bit, to reduce my TBR pile and since I knew it was alphabetical it made it easy to know which books to read. Fun, easy and for the most part stress-free... success!

This video is the first one I posted on my blog. It was actually a couple of months after I started but it's a beautiful song and the ending is oh so romantic. I hope you enjoy it!

And what would a celebration be without yummy cookies?

Wow, this turned out to be a very long post. Sorry about that! Happy Monday and I hope you all have a super fantastic week.

An old series, a new song and some hot stuff...

2011-04-03T00:59:00.000-04:00

I read this series a few months back. Late as always with my thoughts! :)

My Heart is Within You by Marguerite Labbe

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed reading this first book in the Triquerta series. Well-written, interesting characters and plot.

Haunted by Your Soul by Marguerite Labbe

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book two is a good continuation of the Triquerta series. The storyline is gripping and the relationship between Jacob and Kristair kept me engaged throughout. This is a fast-paced and well written story.

Our Sacred Balance by Marguerite Labbe

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story wraps up the series in a totally satisfying way. Jacob and Kristair really fight for their HEA and it's wonderful when they finally get it. Lots of action, hot loving and tender moments as well. Great ending to a really interesting series.

I really like Rhianna's voice and this song is so catchy. Sexy too!

I think these guys understand a bit of what she's singing about.

Happy Sunday!!

Available now in M/M land...

2011-03-31T19:30:00.002-04:00

Call and Answer by Val Kovalin
Available at Amber Allure
Historical (late 1950s)/Paranormal/Shifter/Interracial/Novella

Blurb
Small-town Louisiana in 1959 is a dangerous place to have a gay affair. But Henri can't help his instant attraction to Gabriel, a handsome black musician who accepts his advances with amused tolerance. Henri hopes for a summer of hot, uncomplicated sex before he leaves for college. He doesn't realize that Gabriel is a powerful shapeshifter who also lives as an alligator in the bayou.

When Henri first sees Gabriel transform into an alligator, he mistakes him for the Devil. Then he learns that Gabriel exists to raise power through sex-magic. For that, Gabriel needs a human lover. In the past, some lovers have helped Gabriel spend the power for the good of the land, and others have squandered it for personal gain. What will Henri do—given that he never wanted to be a magic-wielder in the first place?

As his summer romance with Gabriel deepens into passionate love, Henri must learn to face responsibility as he encounters prejudice, family feuds, and startling glimpses into the underworlds of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Can he persuade Gabriel to take a chance on a future with him?

Also new @ Amber Allure
Nightingale by Darcy Abriel
Wrong Number, Right Guy by Mia Watts

Return to Sender by Ashlyn Kane & Morgan James
Available at Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Emerson Blackburn really screwed up this time. He's finally pissed off Jonah, the sweet, patient, funny boyfriend he's loved as long as he can remember, to the point that Jonah isn't even speaking to him. Emerson hasn’t felt this awful since the summer after graduation when Jonah ruined their college plans by running off on a cross-country trip without even saying goodbye.

Jonah isn't just angry. He's furious and hurt. Devastated, even, because he's completely in love with Emerson, but although they've been together for a year, Emerson still doesn't trust him.

The full weight of their past mistakes drags Jonah and Emerson into memories of happier—and lonelier—times, but wallowing in their guilt isn't solving the problems. The only way to move forward is to learn from the past… but someone still has to be the first to apologize.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
A Troubled Range by Andrew Grey
Catman's Reward by Connie Bailey
Possession by Jessica Skye Davies
Prognosis: Forever by Etienne
The Untold Want by Catt Ford

Secrets by Adrienne Wilder
Available at Liquid Silver Books
Contemporary/Paranormal/Series/Novella

Blurb
After years of watching and never touching, Peter Forbes is finally mine. And I would do anything to make Pete happy, including sitting by while Georgia Tech’s Metaphysical Science Review Board strips him of his scholarship. But it doesn’t take the genius of a metaphysical scientist for me to figure out that something else is going on when Peter is handed his pink slip and kicked out of the program.

Apparently, Peter has a secret. Sweet Peter, gentle Peter, the love of my life Peter, isn’t going to be Human anymore.

And if that doesn’t take the cake, the Lesser-Bred who knows Peter’s secret and has put himself in charge of helping Pete become has decided that in order to keep people safe, to keep me safe, he needs to lock Peter away. Yeah, right. Over my mutilated, maggot-ridden body.

Resisting the Temptation by Valentina Heart
Available at Loose Id
Contemporary/Interracial/Novella

Blurb
When an unconventional meet gains Kyle a new roommate he is anything but prepared for the wild ride it takes him on. At first glance, one might think that having ‘walking sex’ around the house might be a good thing, but Kyle resists his unbearable attraction and is slowly going crazy at Mikey’s insistent advances.

As he’s gradually losing his resolve, both with jealousy Mikey’s boyfriends bring out in him and the constant erection that just won’t fade, Kyle curses his decision to stay friends. But soon fate takes things in its own hands as Mikey gets hurt and Kyle has to decide if his reluctance is worth losing Mikey for good.

The Mark of Cain by Cash Cole
Available at Resplendence Publishing
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Novella

Blurb
Book One in the Mystic Danger Series

After a night of hot sex with an elusive Native American, Gage is left with a bullet wound and a scarred shoulder from where a panther slashed him. The New Orleans police tell Gage that his lover morphing from man to beast is highly improbable and that whoever broke into his hotel room left no trace evidence, but Gage knows he hasn’t imagined any of this. He starts with the only clue he has, the name of a town in Oklahoma where his lover said he was born. But can he track down sexy Cain, who is in witness protection, before the assassins find and kill them both?

The Last Supper by Scarlet Blackwell
Available at Samhain Publishing
Contemporary/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book three in the Table for Two series

Luc Tessier finally has all the ingredients of a perfect future assembled. His beautiful English fiancé, Daniel, on his arm, five hundred wedding guests on the way, and the honeymoon suite reserved.

Now if only he can get Daniel to stop obsessing over last-minute details. So what if the date is set for Friday the thirteenth? After all they’ve been through to get to this point, what else is left to go wrong?

Plenty, starting with Daniel’s sudden determination to “save” himself for marriage. How does a healthy, hot-blooded Frenchman fend off a bachelor party stripper with one arm while trying to beckon his lover closer with the other—and not go insane?

Daniel wishes he had it as easy as Luc, who’s already finished preparing the extravagant menu. Between contending with a jealous best man, a spiteful mother-in-law, a bad haircut and Luc’s frustrated libido, Daniel’s ready to have a nervous breakdown of failed-pressure-cooker proportions.

Forget making it to the church on time. If they make it through the thirteenth without someone ending up face-first in the wedding cake, it’ll be a miracle…

My Maven, My Everything by Joyee Flynn
Available at Siren Publishing
Contemporary/Paranormal/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book one in the Sons of Thanatus series

Madden "Mad" Forrest is a Son of Thanatus, a secret order rumored to be descended from gods. The members possess the ability to hear the souls of the dead, and they travel the country speaking for those without a voice, helping to lay them to rest. After a particularly stressful job, Mad heads to New Orleans and picks up a hot twink in the hotel bar.

Josh McGreggor is out for a night of pleasure before heading off to a new job. The perfect man who invites him over to his table is the answer to his desires. What neither expects is the strength of their feelings after one night's passion or that, come the light of day, they can't bear to part.

Can these two men navigate through the minefield that arises from their roles to find love, or will they be destined to continue their lives all alone?

Also new @ Siren Publishing
Algerian Nights by Roland Graeme
Love Sexy by Stormy Glenn
Rogue Preacher by Kelly Conrad

Mandarin Orange: Sweet & Sour by TC Blue
Available at Torquere Books
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Riley has never been the kind of straight guy who sneers at gay men. Hell, most of his best friends are gay, and it only matters when Riley wants to drink a plain old beer at the froufy bars they drag him to. He can look and appreciate, but dudes just don’t do it for him. Or so he thinks, right up until the new downstairs tenant arrives almost literally on Riley’s doorstep.

The raging storm and motorcycle crash with which Kelly makes his entrance pale in comparison with the battle inside Kelly himself once he gets to know Riley. Riley is damnably hot, nice, and exactly Kelly’s type, except for one little thing -- according to all the evidence, Riley’s straight.

Is love truly blind, or does it just wear blinders? Riley and Kelly need to figure it out before the labels and categories drive them irrevocably apart.

Also new @ Torquere Books
Clue Game by Chris Quinton
Learning to Waltz by Jenna Jones
Shifting Perspectives 2: Jacey, Fynn & Aden by Nerine Petros

Tyler's Cowboy by Amber Kell
Available at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Western/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book one in the Cowboy Lovin' Series

When Tyler runs to his injured brother’s side, he doesn’t know it’s his brother’s partner that will take all his attention.

Tyler has three problems. His brother, Baron, was injured, his job sucks and Baron’s straight partner, Cody, is the hottest piece of ass he’s seen in a long time.

When jealousy lifts its ugly head, Tyler learns that all problems have a solution if you can only corral yourself a hot cowboy.

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
Nibiru Vampire Warriors by A.J. Llewellyn & D.J. Manly

My A-Z Reading Challenge... part two

2011-03-31T00:30:00.000-04:00

Fun with Dick and Shane by Gillibran Brown
Get it @ Smashwords
Contemporary/Menage (m/m/m)/Novel

4 stars
Entertaining story about a sub and his two Daddies. Lots of spankings, poor Gilli's bum sure feels it A LOT, and humor in this story. I really liked the dynamics in this relationship... Shane the stern older Daddy, Dick in the middle, both a sub to Shane and a Daddy to Gilli and then Gilli, their boy with attitude. Cheeky boy! I'm looking forward to reading the next installment, More Fun with Dick and Shane.

Guarding the Vampire's Ghost by Amy Lane
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Fantasy/Paranormal/Novella

3 stars
Angels Shepard and Jefi are assigned to watch over Adrien, the only vampire allowed into Heaven. The angels storyline is sweet while the portion that deals with Adrien is bittersweet. An entertaining and well-written story however it felt a bit off. Even though it's a stand-alone it's part of a series which I haven't read and it didn't feel complete to me.

High Flow by Stephani Hecht
Get it @ eXtasy Books
Contemporary/Series/Novella

3.5 stars
This is book seven and a nice continuation of the EMS Heat series. The story is about Forrest, a paramedic, and Patrick who is a doctor. They come from different backgrounds/life experiences and are both genuinely nice guys. Forrest has gone through a really horrible experience which left him unable to get close to anyone until Patrick comes into his life. It was nice to revisit some of the characters from previous books and overall I enjoyed reading this book.

Immortality Is the Suck by A.M. Riley
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Vampire/Action-Suspense/Series/Novel

4 stars
I really enjoyed this story. Adam is a cop who's gone over the line into bad guy territory. After a deal gone bad he "dies" in his lover's arms (Peter, also a cop but a good one) and then wakes up in the morgue as a vampire. This is a fast-paced, action-packed story and despite all his failings I really loved Adam. Definitely an anti-hero but Ms. Riley managed to make him lovable nevertheless. Great writing, fascinating characters and a plot that kept me hooked from beginning to end. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the series.

Jesse by Jan Irving
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Western/Novel

3 stars
Nicely done story with a bit of a twist. Jesse and his younger brother lived with their older brother until his death at which time their deadbeat father took them away. Back after a few years Jesse is now a grown man and he's ready to explore the connection between himself and Kyle, his brother's lover. I liked the unexpected twist of Kyle, 20 years older, being the submissive in their relationship but found their telepathic link strange. The younger brother was a nice character as well and overall enjoyed reading this story.

Knowing Caleb by Cameron Dane
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Paranormal/Series/Novel

4 stars
Book five in the Hawkins Brothers series is a double GFY western where one hero is a demon-cowboy and the other a widower still in love with his wife. Both are fascinating characters and their love story is well-written and interesting. Each man has his own pain to deal with but as their relationship slowly develops they're able to help each other. It was also nice to see the characters from the previous books as well. Definitely a must for those who've read the previous books.

Looking for Adventure by Valentina Heart
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Novella

3 stars
What would you do if you had just a couple of months to live? That's what Jonathan has to figure out after getting devastating news from his doctor. Enter Nino, a bicycle delivery guy that Jonathan inadvertently runs into. Total opposites they nevertheless click and by the next day are heading off to spend the summer by the lake. This was a nice GFY story but neither character ever really grabbed me and I found the plot and ending a bit too predictable.

My Summer of Wes by Missy Welsh
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Novella

4 stars
Mal has just graduated from high school and is finally getting free of the bullies who've tormented him for years. When Wes moves in across the street they become friends and slowly that friendship develops into more. It comes as a big surprise to Mal that he's gay but despite that there's not a lot of angst in this sweet coming of age story. Both protags are well-drawn and I quite enjoyed the slow pace of their relationship. Friends first and only when Mal is ready do they take things further. I'd love a sequel showing how their love holds up as they take off to college and how Mal deals with coming out and his parents. Well-written, sweet, sexy and with a bit of humor as well this was an enjoyable read.

Teaser Tuesdays... Truth In the Dark

2011-03-29T11:18:00.000-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

I do my own variation of Teaser Tuesday. Three teasers from three different pages. A brief peek into the story's progression.

Today's teasers are from Truth In the Dark by Amy Lane

I strolled through my village, knowing Aerie-Smith would be waiting, and I kept my shoulders as square as I could and my spine and hips square, in spite of the pain, so that I could minimize my limp.
Page 26

That hand on my shoulder lingered, stroked, and then took a chance and slid down my upper arm before his warmth was gone at my back and he stood.
Page 81

It must be hard to love someone and have to sweet talk them, open them, gentle them, every minute of every day. It was time I gentled myself, and let Aerie-Smith love me. Yes, yes, it made me a chubby bunny, waiting to be eaten.
Page 144

Truth In the Dark
Amy Lane

Get it HERE

My A-Z Reading Challenge... part one

2011-03-20T00:49:00.000-04:00

As you may know by now (if you read my previous rambling, and whiny, post) I've been feeling very blah (yet incredibly stressed) lately and while it's never dampened my reading enjoyment it was getting very hard to settle on which book to read. I found myself flipping back and forth through my ereader trying to pick the next story and that was starting to drive me batty. My solution... a personal A-Z Reading Challenge. I've decided to read in alphabetical order and so far I'm up to the letter K. It's working quite well although I think I'll be in trouble when I get to the last few letters.

Here are the first five books I read for my challenge...

Acquired Taste by Shayla Kersten
Get it @ Ellora's Cave
Contemporary/Short Story

3 stars
This is a short follow up to Icing On the Cake which I really enjoyed. In this free sequel Ollie and Jeff have been together for a few months but seem to be having problems. Hopefully a 'last night' before calling it quits will allow their true feelings to show. Nicely done and quite kinky but too short. On a personal note I wish the publisher hadn't used a m/f couple for this m/m story. It doesn't fit the story! :)

Brier's Bargain by Carol Lynne
Get it @ Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Series/Novella

3 stars
Although this is the first book in this series the characters are from the author's Men In Love series. I never finished reading that series and therefor felt a bit disconnected from this story. I did like both protags and it was interesting to read a story where one of the heroes is mentally challenged.

Catch Me If You Can by L.B. Gregg
Get it @ Samhain Publishing
Contemporary/Mystery/Novella

4 stars
A fun and entertaining read. I enjoyed the characters, the plot was interesting and the mystery aspect worked well with its fast pace and the red herrings thrown about. Ceasar and Dan have great chemistry and the sex was pretty darn hot as well. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next installment of the Romano and Albright series.

Dreaming of You by Ethan Day
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Novel

4 stars
Very entertaining story although I was a bit disappointed with the last couple of chapters. Aden and Logan are sexy and slightly over-the-top characters and their relationship, which reads like a fun quirky romantic comedy, was quite enjoyable to read. I'm a big fan of the author's writing which features fun plots, witty dialogue and interesting protags.

Everything Good Thing by M. Jules Aedin
Get it @ MLR Press
Fantasy/Historical/May-December/Novel

3 stars
There's a lot going on in this story about a young man forced into slavery. Lucky for him he's bought by a good man with a lot of patience. The story is well-written and the plot is quite interesting but there's a lot going on and at times it felt overwhelming. I liked both Arieh and Enitan and their slowly developing relationship was nicely done. The cast of supporting characters is very large and the world building in this novel suggest the possibility of future stories.

It's late, I'm tired and the kiddies come back early in the morning. Off to bed to recharge my batteries. Part two in a few days. Happy Sunday!!

This week's new releases...

2011-03-17T21:02:00.000-04:00

Beneath Dark Stars by KC Kendricks
Get it at Amber Allure
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Novella

Blurb
The sequel to Amber Allure’s Best Seller The Back Stairs...

Fallon Roxbury, seasoned detective and special police consultant, knows that appearances can be deceiving. Trained to gather the clues and arrive at logical conclusions, he fits the puzzle pieces of a situation together to find the truth. But there’s nothing reasonable in Fallon’s attraction to the sexy, secretive shapeshifter called Sundown.

Sundown has studied people all his life. Having his very own human male is all he ever wanted. In Fallon, he’s found a man he can trust with his secrets and reveal his true nature. Keeping Fallon happy is a joyful exercise into which Sundown puts his heart and soul—when he’s not teasing Fallon’s police partner by leaving strange footprints at crime scenes, that is.

Fallon’s new case ties into an old one. At a dead end, he knows it’s time to ask Sundown for a little help. With his special abilities, Sundown can get into places Fallon can’t. All Fallon has to do is figure out a way to prove what he already knows. But what’s a cop to do when the truth takes a shift that’s stranger than fiction?

Also new @ Amber Allure
Breathe Deep by Angelia Sparrow
The Wild Bunch Spark by Deirdre O'Dare

Spice 'n' Solace by KC Burn
Get it at Carina Press
Contemporary/Sci-fi/Novella

Blurb
Every year, Jathan One-Moon faces increasing pressure that he marry and have children. What Jathan really wants is a male mate that can enjoy both playful sex and his more dominant nature. To tame his stress, Jathan orders a male escort from Spice 'n' Solace, the premier male brothel in the Galactic Alliance—and is thrilled to be sent a man whose air of innocence and obvious desire for Jathan arouse him like never before.

Jathan doesn't know he has mistaken Kazha Deinos, the owner of Spice 'n' Solace, as his escort. Kaz doesn't intend to pleasure Jathan personally, but his powerful masculinity is irresistible. Kaz has dreamed of a man who'd take charge and indulge his hidden cravings—a man just like Jathan.

With their explosive passion and unexpected tenderness, Jathan and Kaz soon want to stay together—if Jathan's position and Kaz's secrets don't tear them apart...

Secondhand Heart by Scarlet Blackwell
Get it at Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Conrad Muller’s heart is the center of a web of friendships, fights, and love lost and found in a close-knit group of gay men in Orange County, California. Six months ago, Conrad died, and his organs were donated for transplant. A month later, Conrad’s lover, Christian, receives a letter from the recipient of Conrad’s donated heart.

Christian can’t stop thinking about the letter, and he’s not the only one affected by loss. Conrad’s best friend Eban is also brokenhearted, and he’s struggling with his lover Damien, who has always resented living in Conrad’s shadow. Though Conrad is gone, his friends and his lover will have to cope with their grief to move on and find new love.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
Crunch Time by Andrew Grey
Desert Falcon by Feliz Faber
Little Boy Lost: Enlightened by J.P. Barnaby
The Inventor's Companion by Ariel Tachna
Young Man in Paris by Sophia Deri-Bowen

Shane's Fury by Stephani Hecht
Get it at eXtasy Books
Contemporary/Shifter/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book ten in the Lost Shifter's series

Shane never prepared to do what no other Leopard shifter had done before and that was fall in love. Try telling that to his heart, though, because from the first touch of a certain Panther named Trevor, there was no turning back for Shane. Then just as Shane found his mate and true happiness, Trevor is brutally torn from him when a Cobra shifter, bent on revenge, captures the Panther. Now Shane finds himself helpless as he scrambles to find his lover before the Cobra enacts his final act of vengeance and kills Trevor.

Ever since his captivity, Trevor has known pain. He's known degradation. He's known terror. However, he also knows that Shane will be coming for him. And gods help the Cobra when Shane finally does arrive because hell hath no equal to a Leopard's fury. Trevor only hopes that Shane finds him in time, or else all hope will be lost.

Also new @ eXtasy Books
Italian Weddings and Funerals by A.J. Llewellyn
The Flying Duo by Mary Suzanne
The Soldier by Mark Alders

Trifecta by Kate Sherwood
Get it at Loose Id
Contemporary/Menage (m/m/m/)/Novel

Blurb
Mark and Alistair think they’re happy with their open relationship -- they can have all the anonymous sex they want, and still come home to each other for love and affection. That changes when they discover that they’ve both hooked up with the same guy, and, worse, that they’re both falling for him.

Tyler is a take-it-as-it-comes type, happy to coast through life on his good looks and charm. He doesn’t have ambitions and doesn’t make plans, but when he finds himself involved with Mark and then Alistair, he starts wishing that he could have something more long-term.

Nobody has any doubt that sex between the three of them would be fantastic, considering how hot things are when there’s only two involved. But can they make it something more? Is the threesome destined to be a scorching memory, or can they find a way to overcome their challenges and hit the trifecta?

Also new @ Loose Id
Passing Time by Ash Penn

Anything for You by Ethan Day
Get it at MLR Press
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Jason Miller is still in the closet. He's never found a reason to kick the door open, walk into the light of day, and tell the world he's gay. At least that's what he keeps telling himself -- along with a multitude of other solid arguments. As an ad man, he's used to hawking a bill of goods, he just never imagined he'd fall victim to his own hype.

When ex-activist/coming out guru, Chad Wellington came along, he was the one thing Jason never saw coming. Like a moth to a flame these two opposites ignite leaving Jason to decide if he can handle the heat.

Also new @ MLR Press
Out There In the Night by Laura Baumbach

A Place To Run by Diane Adams
Get it at Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Series/Novel

Blurb
Book two in the Making of A Man series

School’s out and Alex is home, but things aren’t going as smoothly as he hoped. Jared is hesitant about advancing their relationship and fixated on the fact that Alex’s mother doesn’t know he’s gay. When she discovers the truth, her extreme reaction drives Alex back to school early. Jared is stunned. Motivated by his need to protect Alex, Jared begins to question the wisdom of their planning a future together. How will their love flourish when every circumstance makes it seem predestined to fail?

Also new @ Silver Publishing
All the King's Men by RJ Scott

Of Cocoa & Men by Vic Winter
Get it at Torquere Books
Contemporary/Shifter/Novella

Blurb
Dayton is a werewolf and a loner, and even though it's not good for him he has a weakness for chocolate in any form. Especially hot chocolate. He also has a weakness for human men, even though both humans and gay men are frowned upon by the pack. He just knows that his mate is a human male, even if he hasn’t found the right one. It's fun looking for him. There's an edge of danger and whole lot of fun.

Connor is the town's only baker. He makes bread, cakes, cookies and pastries that he sells out of the local diner. What's for dessert depends on what he’s in the mood for, and you don't want to make him angry because it totally affects the food. While some of the townsfolk don't appreciate that he's gay they all have to admit, the desserts rock when he's happy. What happens to the desserts when Dayton and Connor's worlds meet?

Also new @ Torquere Books
Ermine & Bougainvillea by ID Locke
Learning to Wag by Julia Talbot
Life Out There by Alyx Shaw
Little Jamie, A Hammer Story by Sean Michael
Walking Spencer by Chris Owen

Spring by Carol Lynne
Get it at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Series/Novel

Blurb
Book one in the Seasons of Love Serial

Seasons of Love follows forty years in the lives of two men, Sidney Wilks and Grady Nash, from the Spring of their relationship when love is new and shiny through to the Winter of their partnership when thirty years of being a couple has begun to lose its sheen.

On the day of his mother’s funeral, ten-year old Sidney Wilks is silently comforted by the presence of one man, ranch hand Grady Nash. Little did Sidney know that Nash would become the only stable figure in his life for the next forty years.

Years later, after an evening of typical college fun, Sidney is involved in a serious car wreck. It’s Nash who once again steps in to rescue Sidney and nurse him back to health.

While trying to get close enough to Sidney to help him heal, Nash’s feelings begin to change towards the twenty-one year old. For him, loving Sidney was nothing new, but when his body begins to desire the small man, Nash is forced to re-evaluate his protective instincts.

What kind of future could the two men possibly have? Nash’s life is centred on horses and cattle, while Sidney has dreams of escaping the small-town Kansas life to build skyscrapers. How can two men who want opposite lifestyles come to a compromise, or will Nash be forced to allow Sidney to spread his wings without him?

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
Understanding Mark by Serena Yates
Wait Until Dawn by Bailey Bradford

Highs and lows...

2011-03-16T09:26:00.002-04:00

**Warning: major personal whining up ahead. Read at your own risk.**

Today is my parents 50th wedding anniversary. WOW!! That's a pretty big achievement and so I'd like to wish them a very Happy Anniversary! Not that they'll see this post... my blog would probably give them coronaries.

Sadly while it's a very special day it's also very bittersweet. My Mom's mental health seems to be deteriorating faster than ever. About three years ago we began to notice her having problems sometimes remembering things. Mainly it started with her repeating stuff she'd already said and forgetting names. Then about a year ago there was a marked difference to her personality. My sister noticed that she had suddenly become the life of the party when she went out. She would dance and joke around, things totally out of character for her, and while it was nice to see her having fun like that it simply wasn't our Mom.

Mom's always been very reserved, one of those old-fashioned women very conscious of how she (and her family) is perceived by others. Lord knows growing up one of the major problems we always seemed to have revolved around "what would the neighbors think". What if they saw me coming home late, or going out with different guys or Heaven forbid kissing someone outside my front door. She cared and I simply didn't. Not that I was a total slut and rule-breaker but you get the picture. That's not how things were done in Cuba when she was a girl so my teenage years in Miami were turbulent to say the least.

In fact sadly we were never close like most mothers and daughters are. When my sister and I grew up, married and had children she did loosen up a bit. It was a nice change and we did manage to build a good relationship. Still tense at times but better. When I moved to North Florida eleven years ago it became better still. Instead of the obligatory weekend visits we saw each other a couple of times a year and began to really appreciate each other more. Finally, we achieved the closeness I'd always wanted. Close in spirit but with distance seems to work the best for us.

Now a new distance is coming between us. Sometimes in conversation she can't even remember my name. She's gotten lost walking in her neighborhood. Luckily it's a gated community but on a busy street so it's still a scary situation. She went shopping the other day with my sister and tried on the same pair of pants three times, without remembering she'd already tried them on, before my sister took them out of the dressing room and gave her just one at a time.

We had thought to get together to celebrate today. In fact I've got the day of and was going to fly down but my Dad vetoed the idea. He's not much in the mood for celebrations plus says a big to-do, along with a change in her routine, would probably do more damage than good. So instead my sister will drop by for dinner and I'll call later on. So instead of a quick trip down to Miami I'll spend my day immersed in FB games trying to get through another day. I wish Mom's problem was the only worry I had right now but it isn't and unfortunately there's not much I can do about anything.

This picture taken right before Christmas pretty much contains all my worries. Mom and her health problems, Dad's advancing age and how he'll cope with Mom, my son thankfully is working through his problems and seems to finally be on the right track so he's not as much of a worry as a few months back. My daughter however is a walking disaster right now and frankly I just don't know how things will end up with her. Well really I hate to think about it because that brings me to my biggest worry... my precious kiddies. I love them so much and I'm trying to steel myself for the day when, it feels inevitable, the day comes when I lose them. I'm doing all I can to prevent it but there's only so much that can be done if she won't admit to having a problem and getting help. Life really sucks right now. But I continue to pray for help even though sometimes I don't think I can take another minute of worrying and stressing life goes on and so do I.

Before ending this whiny sob-fest, and I am sorry that's what it turned into, I just want to say that I know as bad as things are for me it doesn't even began to compare to what's happened to the people of Japan. The tragic events of this past week and the aftermath that they will have to deal with for years to come is unimaginable to me. My prayers along with the little I've been able to do go out to the victims and their loved ones.

To not end on such a sad note I do have a few things good things to share. Here's my happy list in no particular order...

GayRomLit in October
Starting a 4x10 work week in April which will give me 3 days off in a row
My youngest daughter who continues to amaze me
My hubby who's been a rock for me lately
Books that help me escape
My wonderful online friends
and Alex and Emmy

Teaser Tuesdays... Fun with Dick and Shane

2011-03-15T01:00:00.001-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

I do my own variation of Teaser Tuesday. Three teasers from three different pages. A brief peek into the story's progression.

Today's teasers are from Fun with Dick and Shane by Gillibran Brown

I don’t care whether it’s old fashioned or not, but I really like being the gay equivalent of a stay at home housewife.
Page 20

What the hell was I doing there...seeking approval, making amends, appeasing guilt, or just being a fucking idiot?
Page 104

We were not two, we were three and it didn’t feel odd, it felt right and good.
Page 150

Fun with Dick and Shane: Memoirs of a Houseboy by Gillibran Brown

Get it HERE

New M/M releases...

2011-03-10T19:08:00.000-05:00

Why I Love Geeks by T.A. Chase
Get it at Amber Allure
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Chuck Davidson’s a homicide detective in Boston, and it’s put a damper on his relationships. It’s hard to find a guy who will put up with his crazy hours. Plus, Chuck has an aversion to modern technology. He likes sports, beer, and classic cars instead. How is he to know that planning the impending death of his newest phone will bring him in contact with a cute geek who just might have a thing for rugged, "slightly out of touch with the newest gadgets" older men?

Herbert Pommerest has never been on a date or even kissed a man before. Oh, he knows he’s gay. He did all the experiments to ensure it was true, didn’t just go through a rebellious phase or a knee-jerk reaction because women scared him to death. For Herb, it’s easy to hide himself behind his research and daydream about what having a boyfriend would be like. But saving an expensive phone from an early demise brings him in contact with a street-wise mature detective. Suddenly Herb wishes he knew how to flirt because he’d love to take some lessons of the sensual kind from the sexy Chuck Davidson.

Can a geek and a detective find common ground between their vastly different worlds before one of Chuck’s cases threatens to put Herb in danger from a ruthless killer?

Also new @ Amber Allure
Mask of Night by Helen Louise Caroll
Smoke by Aislinn Kerry

Nothing Even Happens by Sue Brown
Get it at Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Andrew’s life is a cliché: he’s a gay man trapped in a loveless marriage, thanks to his religious, overbearing mother. Then a new couple moves in down the street, and Andrew finds himself falling for Nathan in a big way. Nathan is straight, married, and just about to be a father, but after one fateful night out together at a club, Nathan has to face the fact that his feelings for Andrew go way beyond that of a friend and neighbor.

When Andrew’s wife asks for a divorce, both men’s lives are thrown into disarray. Arguments about their responsibilities to their wives and children, doubting themselves and each other, and some harrowing lies pull them apart… but they never leave each other’s thoughts.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
Canes and Scales by S.A. Garcia
Homecoming by Rick R. Reed
Red Skies by Joann Kells
Starting Over by Ethan Stone
Undercover Sins by Hayley B. James

Bound Forever by Ava March
Get it at Loose Id
Historical/BDSM/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book three in the Bound series

Lord Oliver Marsden’s life is perfect...well, almost perfect. His bookshop is doing well, his bank account isn’t empty, and his nights are filled with a deliciously dominant man...who tends to be a bit too domineering outside of the bedchamber. But Vincent loves him and that’s all that should matter. Right? And of course, Vincent still firmly holds the reins of control. Yet while Oliver feels Vincent is finally ready to give himself fully to him, to make good on the offer Oliver refused a year ago, the looming threat his lover could someday be forced to marry keeps him from tugging the reins from Vincent’s grasp.

Then Vincent receives a letter that changes everything. Oliver seizes the moment and pushes Vincent toward a night neither of them will ever forget. Yet come dawn, Oliver awakens to an empty bed. Lord Vincent Prescot knows he loves Oliver. The man’s his best friend and he trusts him. So why does submitting to Oliver leave him so shaken? It doesn’t take him long to find the answer, yet his solution could drive his lover away for good.

For Gom's Sake by AKM Miles
Get it at MLR Press
Contemporary/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book three in the Scarcity Sanctuary series

Gom Marsh is all grown up, but he looks years younger than he is. A police officer, he works undercover as a high school student to help fight the extreme bullying cases that school staffs can't solve. The work is heartbreaking and wearing, but lucky for Gom, there's a new man in his life. Casey Tanner, though, doesn't like to be touched. That could be a problem. Gom's still at Scarcity Sanctuary to keep up his cover, so Soldier and Dillon are always there to help. Can Casey redeem himself after a bad first impression? Hopefully so, Gom needs him.

Also new @ MLR Press
Traveling Light by Lloyd Meeker

Settling the Score by Eden Winters
Get it at Torquere Books
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Closeted mechanic Joey Nichols' life is good. His boyfriend landed a major Hollywood role, and is well on the way to superstardom. Joey's bags are packed and soon he'll leave small town Georgia and join the man of his dreams in California, to live out, proud, and together. Days before his planned departure, his lover outs Joey during a televised interview and announces that they've broken up, leaving Joey to face the bigotry of the locals alone.

Bestselling author Troy Steele knows all about having life turned upside down by the media. Now a recluse, Troy shuns all the trappings that come with writing books made into blockbuster movies. He spends his time exacting revenge on a former flame via his novels and hiding out in rural South Carolina, watching celebrity gossip shows. Joey's fifteen minutes of fame bear an eerie similarity to the plot of Troy's latest work in progress. What if Joey could be transformed into everything the fickle ex wanted, as Troy is writing for his fictional hero, and secretly wishes for himself? Once polished, could a diamond-in-the-rough good ole boy confront his ex, then walk away, pride intact? These are Troy's questions, and he's counting on Joey for answers.

Also new @ Torquere Books
In Safe Hands by Cassidy Ryan
Promenade a Deux by ID Locke
Tortoise Interruptus by JL Merrow
Undercover Nights by Patricia Logan
Yarotanji, A Dark Masters Story by Mara Ismine

The Duty of a Beta by Kim Dare
Get it at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Shifter/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book three in the Pack Discipline series

Caught between duty and sweet temptation, what's a wolf to do?

Gunnar has a job to do. He was brought into the pack to be mated to Alfred and that's what he's going to do. Beta's have always been charged with taking control of the trouble makers in their packs, and Gunnar is going to do his duty by his new pack if it kills him.

Just because his eyes constantly stray towards another wolf, that's no reason to alter his plans. His alphas might believe in love matches, but Gunnar believes in duty - no matter how sweet the temptation to let his thoughts wander to a very different wolf might be.

The blahs... a couple of minis and Pink

2011-03-09T01:19:00.000-05:00

I've been dealing with a severe case of the blahs for the past couple of weeks. Hmm, it's probably been much longer but it's gotten really bad these last few weeks. Lots of stress, both at work and home, combined with getting a really bad cold twice in the past couple of months have left me feeling drained. I decided to take a break from reviewing at Wave's because I was getting really stressed out with having to write long detailed reviews on deadline. Hell, I've been having problems writing a few sentences here. I've got one more to write and then it'll be a while before I start reviewing over there again, if at all.

Luckily between the kiddies giving me lots of love and reading lots of books I've managed to not go totally crazy. It was a close call though! LOL

I noticed today it's been two weeks since I posted anything here. Bad Lily!!! Neglecting my little corner of the 'net. I could practically hear crickets chirping when I came back here tonight.

I do have some good things going on so it's not all bad. The biggest thing is GayRomLit in October. I can't wait to head to New Orleans and meet up with my friends and be a full-time fangirl for a few days.

A friend posted this status on FB a couple of days ago and I just had to "borrow it".

Breaking News: The Pity Train has just derailed at the intersection of Suck It Up & Move On after it crashed into We All Have Problems before coming to a complete stop at Get the Hell Over It. Reporting LIVE from Quitchur Bitchin'.

So, it's time to Suck It Up and Get the Hell Over my blahs. Hopefully I can stick to it!

I read these two books a few days ago and really enjoyed them both.

Perfect Score by Susan Roebuck
Get it @ Awe-Struck Publishing
Historical (1960s)/Novel

4 stars
This is the first book I've read by this author and I really enjoyed it. Set in the late 1960's this story sucked me in completely. Sam and Alex are very different men but they compliment each other very well. The story is complex, emotional, intense, very well-written and filled with a varied and very interesting cast of characters. Sam especially is a fascinating and unique hero. The story dragged a bit at times but ultimately is well-worth reading. Recommended.

The Heart of Texas by R.J. Scott
Get it @ Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Novel

4 stars
This entertaining story has a lot to offer. Interesting characters, lots of drama and emotion, sexy men having hot sex, a bad guy finally getting what he deserves and through it all lots of love. The love of family and of friends as well as two headstrong men who appear to have nothing in common but slowly find themselves falling in love. While reading The Heart of Texas I was reminded quite a bit of the great night-time soap operas that I've enjoyed so much in the past. In fact, there was even a small reference to Dynasty which made me smile. Recommended.

I love Pink's new song so I'm sharing the video too.

Happy Hump (Friday) Day

The Mistletoe Experiment by Serena Yates

2011-02-24T10:45:00.001-05:00

The Mistletoe Experiment by Serena Yates
Available at Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book three in the Mistletoe Science series

Lance is on cloud nine. His lover Magnus has proposed to him, making Lance the happiest man on Earth, and they are planning to move their family to Sweden for Magnus's new job at Stockholm University. But when an old enemy resurfaces, followed by an unexpected new threat to their relationship, their new life in Europe with Magnus's nephew Jakob turns out to be very different from what they had hoped.

Will Lance and Magnus's love be strong enough to make their Mistletoe Experiment a success?

Review
4 stars

Lance and Magnus are back in this sweet and satisfying conclusion to the Mistletoe Science series. Their story began in The Mistletoe Phenomenon and continued with The Solstice Mistletoe Effect, both books were reviewed here. At the end of book two the lovers had reunited after a brief separation and were happily looking forward to getting married and moving to Stockholm.

As this story begins Magnus, Lance and Magnus' nephew Jakob are on their way back from Sweden to Mistletoe, Wyoming where they live. Lance and Magnus are looking forward to making a permanent move back to Stockholm where they are planning to get married. Magnus has been offered a great job at the university and since Lance's relationship with his future in-laws is now a happy one they're all excited to begin their new life as a family.

Before they can make their move however they have to deal with the trial of Jakob's kidnappers and the effects of their move on Lance's family. Finally they make the move and they begin to settle into their new lives. With Magnus busy at work it's up to Lance to plan their wedding and keep their household running smoothly. Luckily for Lance he loves his role as a househusband and when he strikes up a friendship with a neighbor he has someone happily willing to help with the preparations. Just as thing settle down however Magnus is forced by his job on an extended research trip to Antarctica. How will this affect their upcoming wedding plans? And will there even be a wedding when Magnus' life is threatened while on the expedition?

I really enjoyed reading the third and final chapter in Magnus and Lance's story. They've been through quite a lot since their first kiss under the mistletoe and are looking forward to getting married and living a normal, happy family life. They are nice, likable guys although at times throughout the series I've wanted to shake some sense into them both. Just like in the first two books there is great chemistry between them and now that they've been together a while and they are secure in their love their relationship is loving, fun and still very hot. I also really like how Jakob is portrayed. The poor boy has gone through a lot in his short life beginning with the loss of his parents and then his subsequent kidnapping and new family situation but he's still overall a well-adjusted kid. Magnus, Lance and Jakob have formed a really nice family together.

Something else I really like about this series is the setting. Books featuring Sweden and the Swedish culture are rare in the romance genre which made this series all the more interesting. I've enjoyed the glimpses into the country and it's people and customs that the author incorporated into the story. I can't even imagine living without a full day of sunshine much less for weeks on end having just a bit of real daylight. It was interesting to read how Lance tried to adjust to that and other things.

Overall The Mistletoe Experiment is a well-written, entertaining and very sweet story. It may be too sweet for some readers but having read and enjoyed the previous two books it felt right to me. At times emotional, fun, interesting and quite hot as well this series is sure to please fans of the author as well as those looking for a sweet, romantic story. While this could be read as a stand-alone I do recommend reading all three of the stories to get the most enjoyment.

Music and Man Candy... a Hump Day treat

2011-02-23T01:00:00.000-05:00

It's the last Wednesday in February and I'm feeling too lazy to write up a review, even a mini. It's my Friday and I'm looking forward to the next couple of days off after a long hard work week. Hopefully it'll be a somewhat easy day for us all. :)

It's been a while since I've done a Music and Man Candy post. This video is set to I Just Haven't Met You Yet by Michael Bublé. Love the song. Love his voice. And wow, JJ has come out with another great video. Hope you enjoy it and the cookies that follow.

TGIF to me and Happy Hump Day to you!!!!!!!!!

Teaser Tuesdays... Three Wishes

2011-02-22T00:40:00.000-05:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

I do my own variation of Teaser Tuesday. Three teasers from three different pages. A brief peek into the story's progression.

Today's teaser is from Three Wishes by Sean Michael.

He could pierce it, ink it, whip it, fill it...
Page 30

The ache and pain and pleasure mingled together, and his eyes opened, trying to see through the blindfold.
Page 108

He could do this now, knowing it was just him, that it would always be just him.
Page 162

Three Wishes by Sean Michael

Get it HERE

Monday minis...

2011-02-21T00:30:00.001-05:00

Blacque/Bleu by Belinda McBride
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Vampire/Novel

4 stars
Blacque/Blue is an entertaining and well-written story about a closeted werewolf and the vampire he falls for. Both main characters are well-developed, interesting and likable and the sexual chemistry between them is hot. The story flows well with an interesting plot and nicely varied cast of supporting characters. There's a bit of angst, hot sex scenes with very lite BDSM, an angry ex-lover, homophobic pack members and a love that simply can't be denied in this engaging story.

For Love of War by Kiernan Kelly
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Fantasy/Novella

4 stars
Fun, fast-paced story featuring the Gods of Olympus in a modern day setting. Ares, the God of War, is bored with the lack of good fights in modern times. When he gets a chance, or so he thinks at first, to start a war he doesn't pass up on it. He just needs to kill a human for Zeus. But what happens when you give your word and then fall instantly under the spell of your target? If you're Ares you have lots of hot sex, some fighting/action/adventure and a well-deserved HEA compliments of your scary aunties. A fun, sexy and entertaining story.

Call Me Sir, Boy! by Kim Dare
Get it @ All Romance eBooks
Contemporary/BDSM/Novella

4 stars
Kinky and sweet with a dash of humor. A perfectly entertaining story about a Dom, an inexperienced sub, a lost bet and the baseball cap that leads to a super sexy case of mistaken identity.

Bus Stop by Pepper Espinoza
Get it @ Amber Allure
Contemporary/Novella

3 stars
A nice story about an American and the sexy Italian guy he meets while waiting for the bus in Rome. It's sweet and sexy with a HFN ending.

Copping a Sweetest Day Feel by Andrew Grey
Get it @ Rainbow eBooks
Contemporary/Short Story

3 stars
A nicely written but very brief look at an established couple. There's a bit of conflict and a sweet, happy ending to this story but due to the short length there's no real character/plot development.

Eat Me by Mia Watts
Get it @ Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Paranormal/Short Story

3 stars
Nicely done paranormal story about a man who's been cursed for the past 400 years to live as a lynx. He's hoping to get the curse broken but the last remaining member of the witch family he belongs to isn't aware of his magical abilities. There's plenty of humor in this well-written and entertaining story.

By Your Side by Willa Okati
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/May-December/Novella

2 stars
I've enjoyed many of this author's stories but this one was a disappointing read for me. Roman and Matthieu are nice enough characters but their romance never engaged me. The fifteen year age difference between them was useful to create the book's tension but I just didn't "get" their love. They only know each other for a week, have sex on Roman's 18th birthday and then don't see each other at all for seven years. I just didn't buy the all consuming love Roman has for the older man. For me personally it would have worked better if they had fallen in love after the seven years they spend apart.

Demon's Dance by Evey Brett
Get it @ Carina Press
Contemporary/Paranormal/Novel

1.5 stars
The blurb for this story was interesting and I was looking forward to reading it unfortunately it turned out to be the best part of the book for me. Of the three main characters, Blanco, the leader of the incubus Wardens, Cory, a young photographer and Tristan, a half human/half incubus runaway only Tristan comes across as a likable guy. I frankly couldn't stand either Blanco or Cory and didn't enjoy the plot line of this story past the first couple of chapters. Although both said they cared for Tristan neither of the men behaved as if they did and a couple of scenes between them really squicked me out. Poor guy definitely deserves much better. I really hate giving up on books which is why I forced myself to finish it. I did for the most part like Tristan and the beginning was interesting otherwise I would have rated it a 1 star.

I received this story from Net Galley for review.

Saddle Up 'N Ride - Anthology

2011-02-19T09:30:00.002-05:00

Saddle Up 'N Ride - Anthology
J.P. Bowie, Jan Irving, Simone Anderson, Jambrea Jo Jones, Jaime Samms, Em Woods
Available at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Western/Anthology

4 stars
Ride ‘Em Hard Cowboy by J.P. Bowie

The first story in this anthology features Sheriff Joel Harper and Jason Sherwood, an attorney who works with him on a case. This is a well-written and entertaining novella length story. Both main characters are likable and as they work together to clear Joel's name and catch the bad guys they go from lust to love very quickly. Their relationship, despite how fast it develops, is interesting and fun to read. Ride 'Em Hard Cowboy is fast-paced, with a plot that flows well and characters that are engaging. A great way to start off this anthology.

Roping His Man by Simone Anderson

Colton Greenleaf heads back home for a couple of weeks time before starting a new job in New Orleans. The first person he sees when he arrives is Hawk, the older man he's been lusting over for years. Despite a mutual attraction that neither man can deny or hide there's just too much standing in the way of a relationship. Not only is Colton twelve years younger but he's also his boss' son. Add in the distance between New Orleans and Wyoming and Hawk is sure nothing can come of their feelings. In Roping His Man, Colton and Hawk find that sometimes love really can overcome all obstacles. This was a sweet and sexy story.

A Fistful of Emmett by Jambrea Jo Jones

When the ranch Emmett's worked at for years goes under he's forced to look for a new job. Kit is trying to make a go of his place but finds he just can't do it alone anymore. When Kit first meets Emmett he's shocked at the instant attraction he feels for the other man. Afterall he's not gay and he's sure the big cowboy isn't either. But love has a funny way of blindsiding people and before he knows it Kit's in love... with a man! This GFY story was entertaining and fun to read. Both men are likable and engaging and their relationship was interesting. A very nice story.

Sing For Your Supper by Jaime Samms

Sing for Your Supper is an interesting, if somewhat confusing, story. Taylor is down on his luck after having been thrown out by his family for being gay. He's also running from someone who's out to hurt him. Jobless, homeless and with very little money he's in desperate need of a friend when he meets Matt at a small town diner. After a great night together Matt sends him to his friend Jim for a job. Feelings develop between Taylor and Jim but just as Taylor is starting to feel safe and happy his past catches up with him. And there's a surprising twist in his relationship with Jim and friendship with Matt. The writing is solid but I was never able to really connect with the characters and found my attention not as focused as it should have been.

Jack’s Way by Em Woods

After losing his job due to a fight with his violent ex, Ben decides to get away and visit his old friend Matt. There he meets Jack, a rancher deeply in the closet, and sparks fly from the moment they lay eyes on each other. But can anything good come out of the attraction between a city boy and a cowboy? Misunderstandings and closely guarded hearts have to be dealt with if they're going to have a chance at a happy future. Jack's Way is a humorous, emotional, sexy, sweet and fun read. I found both men likable and interesting and was engaged in their story from beginning to end.

Straight Cowboy by Jan Irving

In Straight Cowboy we meet Josh, a cowboy hired to find a band of wild horses so that his client Matt can photograph and write about them. As they track the horses Josh finds himself more and more intrigued by Matt which isn't something he's used to. Despite a stint the previous summer as a 'gay cowboy' in porn films Josh is sure he's not gay. But then why can't he stop staring at and lusting over the other man? I enjoyed reading this story very much. The protagonists are both likable and engaging and their relationship was interesting to read. I especially liked the scenic backdrop to Josh and Matt's love story as the author's wonderful, descriptive prose shines through. I also felt Ms. Irving did a good job with Matt's hearing impairment. It was nice change to read a book featuring regular, everyday heroes and not the "perfect" men found in some M/M stories.. Both Josh and Matt are conflicted in their feelings for each other but all was nicely resolved in the end. This is a well-written, interesting and entertaining story.

Overall I found this collection of western-themed stories kept me entertained throughout. I enjoyed some more than others with Ride ‘Em Hard Cowboy, Jack's Way and Straight Cowboy being my favorites. If you enjoy reading well-written stories about modern-day cowboys, with a bit of adventure, some angst, humor and sexy guys falling in love then this anthology is for you.

What's new this week...

2011-02-17T01:00:00.002-05:00

Remember Me? by Lynn Lorenz
Get it @ Amber Allure
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb
For Chad and Jeff, summer camp had been a time of discovering each other and making promises. One of those promises was to stay in touch and keep seeing each other. But Chad never called, and Jeff remained behind to finish high school. Chad broke Jeff’s heart, but both men suffered. Chad couldn’t forgive himself for being a coward and not standing up to his parents, and Jeff wouldn’t let anyone into his heart again to hurt him.

A year after Katrina and ten years after that fateful summer, Chad and Jeff meet again, only this time it’s in the ER of a local hospital. Chad is the attending doctor and Jeff is an assault victim, on the brink of death. Chad is once again swept into the past by the only man he’s ever loved, and like before, Chad makes promises to Jeff—promises he will keep, or else.

When Jeff awakes from a coma, he finds the man who broke his heart sitting in his hospital room. Angry, confused and scared, Jeff has no defense against this man. And he also has no one else to care for him, only Chad.

After all these years, Jeff’s dream has finally come true, Chad is back in his life. But for how long? And is Jeff willing to open his heart to the man who broke it?

Also new @ Amber Allure
Chance Encounter by Christiane France
December Promise by KC Kendricks
Embrace My Reflection by TA Chase
In from the Cold by Carolina Valdez

Also available together in the Amber Pax collection Where the Heart Is

Outcast Mine by Jamie Craig
Get it @ Carina Press
Futuristic/Sci-Fi/Novel

Blurb
There is nothing Aleron Pitre can't steal, nobody he can't con and no situation he can't slip out of—until he's sent to the prison planet Tantoret, where every sentence is death. If the prisoners don't kill each other, they'll die slowly from mining the poisonous drug chojal. Yet Aleron still hopes that he can escape.

Only thirty Athaki guards keep the chaos of Tantoret in check, a race of aliens stronger and faster than their human charges. Most intimidating of all is the head guard, Jasak, who has his own reasons for being sent to Tantoret.

Amidst the darkness and desperation, Aleron and Jasak share an unexpected attraction. An attraction neither can resist when Jasak claims Aleron as his mate to protect him. Then they discover that both guards and inmates are planning a coup, while a traitor from an enemy nation threatens the whole planet. Suddenly escape from Tantoret isn't just Aleron's dream—it's a matter of survival for them both.

Accompanied by a Waltz by Andrew Grey
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Jonathon Pfister’s life has settled into a maudlin existence since the death of Greg, his lover of seventeen years. But Greg’s daughter Jeana has decided she’s had enough, so she rents a small apartment in Vienna for him as a Father’s Day present. Jonathon agrees to go, against his better judgment.

Surprisingly, Jonathon finds the change of scenery refreshing, and he even makes a young friend in Hans, his landlady’s son. Then Hans’s older brother returns home, and Jonathon begins to truly awaken. Fabian touches something inside him, especially when the younger man takes it upon himself to woo Jonathon in full Viennese style, with a waltz. But shadows of the past and expectations for the future loom over them both and will have to be banished for their lovers’ dance to stay in step.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
Cabin on the Hill by Shae Connor
In Dreams He Came by Trina Lane
Home Again by Cardeno C.
Paxton's Excellent Valentine's Day Adventure by Lori C. Hawkins
Putting Out Fires by Marie Sexton
Sweet Dreams My Love by Julie Lynn Hayes
Wings of Love by Scotty cade

An Assassin's Touch by Stephani Hecht
Get it @ eXtasy Books
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book nine in the Lost Shifters series

Nobody realizes better than Shane that he has no real future. As a Leopard, he's destined to live alone and be reviled by his fellow feline shifters. Instead of letting that hurt him, Shane just throws himself into his work as the coalition's top assassin. A job that his breeding makes him perfect for. He tells himself that he doesn't need anyone else--that he's fine living a solitary life. Then one, brief encounter with a bratty, Panther shifter named, Trevor, changes everything. Now all Shane can think about is the Panther and how to get the man back in his bed. The only problem is Trevor hasn't given Shane so much as a second glance since their one time together. A situation that frustrates and intrigues Shane even more.

Trevor has always enjoyed playing the field. With so many sexy temptations at his disposal, he doesn't see why he should have to settle for the same warm body in his bed night after night. While the sex with Shane had been great, Trevor is determined to put the encounter behind him. A task that's not as easy as it would seem. Not when every night he continues to dream of the Leopard. Or how, whenever they're in the same room, Trevor can't stop himself from wanting to reach out and caress the Leopard. Trevor knows that there can never be anything between them and resolves to put his desires behind him.

Then Shane needs help on one of his assignments and he turns to Trevor. The mission proves more dangerous than either one realizes. They soon find themselves fighting for their lives. Will they be able to learn to trust each other in time to save themselves, or will their past doubts destroy them?

Also new @ eXtasy Books
Abyssal Zone by Lazuli Jones
Jake Westerby: Deep Undercover by Derek Adams
Sunday In the Park with George by AJ Llewellyn
The Nourisher by Mark Alders

Nowhere Ranch by Heidi Cullinan
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Western/Novel

Blurb
Roe Davis is a man who works hard, keeps to himself, and never mixes business with pleasure -- until he takes a weekend away from his new job at Nowhere Ranch and runs into the owner at the only gay bar for two hundred miles. Getting involved with the boss is a bad idea, but Travis Loving is hard to say no to, especially when it turns out their kinks line up like a pair of custom-cut rails. As Loving points out, so long as this is sex on the side, no interfering with the job, they could make it work.

The truth is, there’s good reason Roe never settles down and always spends his birthdays and holidays celebrating alone. Shut out in the cold by his family years ago, Roe survived by declaring he didn’t need a home. As his affair with Loving grows into more than just sex, Roe finds out what happens when he stays put a little bit too long: the past always catches up with you. Eventually, even a loner gets lonely, and home will grow up through whatever cracks you leave open for it -- even in a place called Nowhere.

Also new @ Loose Id
Looking for Adventure by Valentina Heart
Mi Amor by Neil Plakcy

Light and Water by M. King
Get it @ MLR Press
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
Venice is supposed to heal Dan's heart-not make him lose it all over again.

After breaking up with his boyfriend, London-based photographer Dan takes a trip to Venice. All he wants is a little time alone, and to lose himself in the city he's dreamed of visiting for years. He isn't looking for a holiday fling... until he meets shy, closeted schoolteacher Cesare. The attraction between them is undeniable but, as flirtation gives way to passion, both men are drawn to each other with an unexpected intensity.

Once the dreamy, hedonistic days of Venice are over, neither really wants to let the other go, but can the fantasy they lived ever become truly real?

Also new @ MLR Press
Beneath the Shield by Diana DeRicci
Too Soon For Love by Kimberly Gardner

Love Revisited by Barbara Sheridan
Get it @ Noble Romance Publishing
Contemporary/Series/Short Story

Blurb
Love Revisited: Nick and Tetsuji from Beautiful C*cksucker II: Such a Good Boy

Tetsuji Nabeshima is every bit his father's son in terms of attractiveness and determination. Set to graduate at the top of his law school class, qualifying early for--and passing--the New York bar exam, the Japanese transplant's career star is on the rise.

Yet one thing holds him back, the mad crush he's developed for his mentor and boss, Nick Denison, his father's best friend.

Also new @ Noble Romance Publishing
Back In the Closet by KevaD

Hooked by Sara Winters
Get it @ Ravenous Romance
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb
Carlos Valendez has everything under control: his boxing career, his academic life and the string of men who never manage to encourage more than a passing interest. When his friend Michael Dywer moves into his dorm room, he never imagines how easily it could all change.

Michael is a distraction. A sexy, bewildering temptation who entices Carlos with the briefest of looks but refuses to act on, or even acknowledge, the tension between them. When Michael hints that his fantasies have the potential to be more, Carlos finds his priorities shifting to accomodate the unexpected complications of exploring a relationship he never knew he wanted and can't easily control...

Never Say Never - Anthology
Get it @ Silver Publishing
Contemporary

Blurb
Stripped by Shae Connor- When Blake O'Leary and Jon Harrison meet in a Manhattan club on Valentine's Day, it's far from a typical pickup: Blake's an exotic dancer, and Jon's one of his customers. A private chat in place of a private dance piques interest on both sides, and bending any of a number of professional and personal rules, they spend a hot night together. Afterward, they're both left wondering if it's just a holiday fling, or if there might be more between them. Could this become their best Valentine's Day ever?

Valentine 2525 by RJ Scott- In the year 2525, Samekh Taw designation #65572 aka *Sam* is a Companion. A cloned human - a lab creation. Made specifically to order to serve any and all of the needs of Max Absolom III. A deliberate act of sabotage adds emotions to Sam that he should never have. Max is the one man who never wanted a Companion in the first place, only agreeing to the whole uncomfortable situation because his social standing demanded it. When it becomes clear that Sam is flawed and he seeks to end his existence before he is erased, it is up to Max to convince Sam to hold his secrets close and that love isn't just for one day.

A Secret Valentine by BG Thomas- Knowing that only by being open about who he is will he find happiness, Steve Manchester gets divorced and comes out as a gay man. But happiness isn't fast coming. All Steve finds are cheaters and liars and men who want anonymous sex. Then he meets Bill Cameron, a man who is everything that he wants. But Bill only wants to be friends. Steve tries everything he can think of to make "just friends" work, but every time he sees Bill, his heart aches with longing. Just when Steve realizes he can't take it anymore and decides to move to San Francisco to get away from his hopeless situation, Bill invites him to a Valentine's Day Ball.

A Valentine for Evrain by Xavier Axelson- Evrain runs a chocolate store in a small town and is not above using the storefront for hot encounters with local guys. But love is definitely not in the cards, at least until he meets Ambrosio. The Sexy Latino soon teaches Evrain a lesson in love that neither man will soon forget.

Also new @ Silver Publishing
Bound by Love by Pia Veleno
Claiming Cupid by Jaxx Steele
Love Bytes by Gale Stanley
Positive Reinforcement by Mathilde Watson

Yearning by Amy Lane
Get it @ Torquere Books
Contemporary/Paranormal/Series/Shifter/Novella

Blurb
Book one in the Green's Hill Werewolves series

Jack and Teague are human ‘hunters’ who have been recruited to work as liaisons between the preternatural world of Green’s Hill and the ignorant humans who surround it. Teague’s in the game for redemption -- and Jack’s in the game for Teague. Teague Sullivan is damaged, haunted, and about the loneliest man Jack has ever met. But Jack sees beyond his scars and his gruffness to kind and valiant man underneath. Teague sees beneath a green idealist under Jack’s overtures, and although Teague loves Jack, he makes it cleared that a scarred old dog like himself will never be good enough for a sweet young pup like Jacky.

While the argument rages, Jack is injured in the line of duty and the two hunters are abruptly sucked into the paranormal world that they’ve been defending. Teague is forced to reevaluate everything he’s believed about their relationship. He may be old and damaged, but that doesn’t mean he can let his Jacky go somewhere without him, does it?

Also new @ Torquere Books
My Secret Valentine by M. Durango
On Solid Ground by DC Juris
Rosemary for Remembrance by Syd McGinley
Tabled Discussions: Inches of Trust #8 by AR Moler

Paper Valentine by A.J. Llewellyn
Get it @ Total-E-Bound
Historical/Novella

Blurb
London, 1840. At the height of Victorian hypocrisy, two men meet and fall in love. Their romance is forbidden, punishable even by death, but their passion blossoms thanks to a paper Valentine.

Saint Valentine’s Day has become a new and very popular day for lovers. Thousands of Londonites are clamouring for the ideal romantic gift. While men buy chocolate and posies, they yearn for something more unusual, more personal. Enterprising brothers Aldon and Samuel Barnaby hit upon the idea of paper Valentines, creating lavish presentations decorated with silk, lace, and paper flowers.

Aldon is fortunate to have his perfect valentine going to his expectant wife, Geneve, but Samuel still longs for his own true love, pouring his heart and soul into his beautiful creations. Samuel’s romantic verses inside his paper Valentines are in huge demand, yet not a single local girl can lay claim to his heart…because his passion lies not in a woman, but another man—Jude, a handsome but shy widower.

Jude's heart, haunted by grief, hasn't been ready to consider marriage again. But slowly, through his inclusion in the Barnaby family's lives...and his frequent excursions to stop and stare at the Barnabys’ shop window...he begins to wonder in what direction his future lies.

Can Samuel possibly allow his heart to explore love with another man? Could Jude ever love him in return? He sends Jude an exquisite, anonymous paper Valentine, not suspecting that his entire world is about to be turned upside down…

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
All of the Voices by Bailey Bradford
Ghost of the Past: Cattle Valley #22 by Carol Lynne

It's mini time... again

2011-02-16T00:50:00.000-05:00

American Love Songs by Ashlyn Kane
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novel

5 stars
I really enjoyed reading this entertaining and wonderfully written story. The main protags are nice, likable, "real" guys and the slow progression of their romance worked really well. The story's format, blog entries & interviews amidst the actual story, was a bit unusual but it flowed well throughout and gave the story added depth. The slow pace of Jake and Parker's relationship was a nice change from the "insta-love" stories I've been reading lately and it kept me engaged throughout. The secondary characters are interesting and believable as well. Overall this is a well-written, sweet, sometimes humorous, at times a bit emotional journey of friendship and love. Highly recommended.

Being Taught by Ethan Stone
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Short Story

4.5 stars
From the very first sentence this short but super hot story kept me totally engaged. Despite it being not much more than an extended sex scene the author's writing style brought the protags to life for me. The last sentence left me with a happy, satisfied smile on my face. A total "aww" moment. Overall a very entertaining story and a definite must read for fans of the author. I debated a bit on the rating so I reread the story again. I was just as entertained and happy with it the second time.

The Beach House by Shawn Lane
Get it @ Amber Allure
Contemporary/Novella

4 stars
Sweet story about a gorgeous model trying to get his life back together post-rehab and the man he falls for. I liked both of the protags and enjoyed reading their story. On the plus side the writing is solid and the characters are likable and interesting. On the down side it's feels a bit rushed and I would have liked to see a bit of their relationship after they finally come together.

Beached Hearts by Scarlet Blackwell
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novel

4 stars
This well-written story is both an interesting and a frustrating read. Both protags are appealing and the setting is wonderfully described so that it's easy to feel a part of Conor and Eli's world. That said, the progress of their relationship is hindered by Conor's continued "yes/no" attitude. He's been hurt in the past and finds it very hard to get close to Eli yet he's also very drawn to him. The story is at times very emotional but the plot is interesting and overall I found Beached Hearts worth reading.

And Is Never Shaken by Alexi Silversmith
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novella

3 stars
This is a nicely written May/December story with likable protags. The relationship develops quickly, maybe too quickly, and the premise of the past "love" which led to a big misunderstanding didn't appeal to me.

Beg for More by AJ Hardcourt
Get it @ Digi Books Cafe
Contemporary/Short Story

2.5 stars
Very short story about a steamy late night encounter between co-workers. The premise is nice and would have made a nice, entertaining story if it had been longer.

The Best Man by Morgan Lee
Get it @ Digi Books Cafe
Contemporary/Short Story

2.5 stars
A nice short story about a couple of friends meeting and hooking up during a friend's wedding.

Teaser Tuesday... The Heart of Texas

2011-02-15T01:00:00.030-05:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

Today's teaser is from The Heart of Texas by RJ Scott

Emotions flooded through him— shock, disbelief, pain, and anger at the blatant lies.
Page 37

Jack sighed inwardly, wishing he could just relax and enjoy, but all he could do was watch Riley's freaking throat as he swallowed the beer, watch the cold liquid clinging to Riley's lips, watch Riley's tongue as it chased the stray drops— just watch.
Page 142

It was Jack that said it first, but Riley repeated it, a litany of confirmation, that they were in this together, that there was nothing they couldn't do if they were together. I love you— I love you— I love you…
Page 296

The Heart of Texas by RJ Scott

Get it HERE

Obviously I seem to have a problem following directions since I do my own variation of Teaser Tuesday. Three teasers from three different pages. A brief peek into the story's progression.

What are you reading now? Super hot, very sweet, a bit of both or somewhere in between... Whatever it is I hope you're enjoying it.

How about sharing a tease or two...

It's mini time...

2011-02-13T01:30:00.001-05:00

Firecracker by Jaye Valentine
Get it at Noble Romance Publishing
Contemporary/Short Story

4.5 stars
Well-written, kinky, fun, entertaining but way too short. I liked both protags and while their relationship may seem strange to some it works very well for them. The author did a great job in a short length of showing how well, and how much, these guys loved each other. I really enjoyed reading Firecracker!

Driftwood by Harper Fox
Get it @ Samhain Publishing
Contemporary/Novel

4stars
Very emotional, character driven story. The protags are three-dimensional, interesting yet flawed. Neither is a perfect man, they've suffered and made mistakes and I loved their interactions. The writing is excellent although at times the pacing dragged a bit.

The Cowboy Poet by Claire Thompson
Get it @ Romance Unbound Publishing
Contemporary/Western/Menage (m/m/m/)/BDSM/Novel

4 stars
Wonderfully written story about a cowboy and the reporter he meets during a cowboy poet and music festival. I really liked both protags and enjoyed the course of their sometimes emotionally-charged relationship. There are elements of BDSM, or rather D/s, in the story but it's fairly lite dealing more with the protag coming to terms with his need to sexually submit than heavy scenes. I enjoyed the setting and learning about cowboy poets which I'd never heard of. Interesting and entertaining story.

Morning Report by Sue Brown
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Western/Novel

4 stars
I love reading stories about established couples and this one was a joy to read. Luke and Simon have been together for ten years, their relationship is solid and they're still very much in love. I loved how comfortable they were with each other. On the downside I found parts of the storyline unbelievable and predictable. After having lived together for ten years and not having problems with the townsfolk I thought it was strange that almost everyone turned against them so easily. The ending felt a bit too convenient and sugary but was satisfying as well. Overall I found this to be a nice entertaining story well worth reading.

Dogged Pursuit by Berengaria Brown
Get it at Torquere Books
Contemporary/Shifter/Short Story

3 stars
This story was a nice read although for the length it felt a bit too sex-filled. Dwyer is a werewolf and when he finds his mate it's a surprise cause he's a human. Luckily for him Nelson quickly, way too quickly, accepts Dwyer and decides to become a shifter too. The story would have worked a bit better for me if it had been longer and Nelson hadn't totally rushed into his turning. I would imagine it would take a bit to adjust to the fact that werewolves exists, you're potentially mated to one and you can turn into one... all in a very short time. Nevertheless, it was an entertaining story.

Nathaniel by Jan Irving
Get it at Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novella

3 stars
This was a sweet story about a young cowboy and the older man he falls for. They appear to have very little in common at first, one is a young happy-go-lucky cowboy and the other is older and very serious. He's an ex-Mennonite complete with beard, simple clothes and suspenders and a sweet innocence to him but as their relationship turns from friendship to love there is an evident connection between them. The protags as well as the supporting characters are nice and it was easy to like them all. The story is perhaps too sugary and I found the easy acceptance of their relationship a bit strange but overall it was nice. The one thing I really didn't like was the cover.

Brothers without Borders by Leiland Dale
Get it at Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Brother-cest/Novella

3 stars
This was a nice read although I was expecting more of an emotional impact to the story. For me it would have worked better if the emphasis had been placed on their feelings and new relationship and less on sex. While it's not my favorite from this author I look forward to reading more from him in the future.

Simply Perfection by Trina Lane

2011-02-12T07:00:00.003-05:00

Simply Perfection by Trina Lane
Available at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Menage (m/m/m/)/Suspense/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book four in the Perfect Love series

Three men whose life trails converge must find a way to forge a new path together if they are to celebrate the love destined to be theirs.

Niall Roberge has patiently waited years to find the two men who are destined to hold his heart forever. He believes his prayers have been answered when he meets Dr. Matt Lincoln and Trevor Mitchell.

Matt has hungered for the closeness of a ménage relationship and is amazed at the instant connection he shares with Niall after being disappointed so many times before. Trevor has led a solitary life and is leery of entrusting his heart to two men who are capable of breaking through the protective walls he’s managed to build with a single touch.

As the three come to terms with the love building between them, they learn that someone is determined to unravel the bonds woven between their souls - a man determined to remind the three that Trevor belongs to him.

Reader Advisory: This book is best read in sequence as part of a series

Review
4 stars

This is the fourth book in the Perfect Love series and although I've only read one of the previous books I didn't have a problem following the thread of the stories. In this installment we first meet Niall, an accomplished photographer of Native American descent who's been searching for the two men who will complete him. Raised by his grandmother and two grandfathers he's known since a young age that his destiny lies with two men. We're then introduced to Matt, a dedicated doctor also looking for a menage and Trevor, a hard-working crime lab tech who leads a pretty solitary life. The men are very different, from their backgrounds to their personalities and life experiences, but when they meet an almost instant connection forms. When someone begins to threaten one of them they, along with their friends, will have to work together to figure out where the danger is coming from before their triad is broken forever.

The main characters are likable and despite their differences I felt they connected well. Their interactions both with each other and their friends are interesting and I was engaged throughout the story. I liked the way the author introduced Niall, Matt and Trevor separately before they came together. It was nice to see them as individuals before they became a triad.

Although I liked this story very much I also felt that the beginning of the relationship between the three men developed too quickly. Niall and Matt had both been looking for a menage relationship but Trevor had never thought of such a thing and his quick and easy acceptance of it felt to me a bit strange at first. That said he does question it and his feelings later on as the story progressed which felt more in character for him.The soul mates/insta-love angle works better for me in a Paranormal setting but as time passed and their connection deepened it was easy to let that go and simply enjoy their relationship.

The stalker plot worked well in two ways. First, it was useful in highlighting the bond and friendship between the men and their friends. This is the part where having read all of the previous books would have been nice. Although it wasn't too difficult to follow the thread between the stories I'm sure it would be easier having read them all. What I most liked about the stalker plot though was how Trevor dealt with it. It would have been easy to have Niall and Matt, both physically bigger and stronger than Trevor, come to the rescue of the smaller man but Ms. Lane fortunately didn't take the easy route which made for a much more satisfying conclusion.

Overall I really enjoyed reading Simply Perfection. It's well-written, entertaining, sexy and sweet. The story moves along at a nice pace and the action/suspense scenes flowed well. Fans of the author and this series are sure to enjoy this installment. If you’ve not read the previous stories I suggest reading them in order if possible for maximum enjoyment although I must advise that the first story is a M/F/M menage. Books two and three are M/M and book six in the series will be M/M/F.

The Friday 56... Perfect Score

2011-02-11T01:30:00.002-05:00

Rules:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.

Today's Friday 56 is from Perfect Score by Susan Roebuck

“Yeah. It might do him good.” He took his drink over to the pool table while Sam picked up beer nuts from the floor, blowing on them and putting them back in their little saucers on the bar. Retreating into a quiet corner, he ignored the customers for quite some time until he heard his name.

Perfect Score by Susan Roebuck

Get it HERE

Thursday's Treats... what's new in M/M romance

2011-02-10T15:30:00.001-05:00

Call Me Sir, Boy! by Kim Dare
Get it at All Romance eBooks
Contemporary/BDSM/Novella

Blurb
Losing a Valentine's bet just might lead Jack to the best night of his life...

Jack’s Valentine’s evening started with him losing a bet and being stuck wearing a baseball cap with a bloody stupid slogan emblazoned across it for the rest of the day. Bored with the submissives that populate the local club scene, he doesn’t expect things to get any better as the night progresses. But, when a stunning stranger kneels naked at his feet and offers Jack his submission, he soon finds himself mastering a man whose kinks match his perfectly. The cap fits. The only question now is, does the dominant who’s wearing it?

How the Other Half Lives by Clare London
Get it at Amber Allure
Contemporary/Short Story

Blurb
Martin Harrison keeps himself to himself and his flat as neat as a new pin. His friends want him to loosen up and enjoy more of a social life, but in Martin’s mind, that’s tantamount to opening the floodgates to emotional chaos. He agrees, however, to join the flat-sitting scheme in his building. He’ll look after another tenant’s flat in exchange for a similar watch over his when he’s traveling for his work as an antiques dealer.

A floor away in the same building, Russ McNeely is happy with his life as a freelance cook and a self-confessed domestic slob. His best friend Don persuades him to join the flat-sitting scheme, both to be neighborly and to help keep his flat in order, as Russ also travels for his work.

For a while, the very dissimilar men never actually meet. Martin is horrified at the mess at Russ’ flat, while Russ finds Martin’s minimalist style creepy. But in a spirit of generosity, each of them starts to help the other out by rearranging things in their own inimitable way. Gradually, the changes extend beyond interior decoration and into the habits of the men themselves.

Until the day a hiccup in the schedule brings them face-to-face at last...

Also new @ Amber Allure
Going the Distance by Anah Crow & Dianne Fox
Weeping Roses by D.J. Manly

Clouds and Rain by Zahra Owens
Get it at Dreamspinner Press
Contamporary/Western/Novel

Blurb
Flynn Tomlinson has drifted for several years, working odd jobs when he needs the money and moving on when he doesn’t. He’s content with his freestyle life, not tied down, not responsible for anyone but himself. Then he comes across a Help Wanted ad in a post office in Idaho and meets Gable Sutton. Gable can’t pay Flynn until he sells his horses, but a serious accident has left him unable to work his ranch alone.

Working with horses beats stacking shelves at the supermarket, and so Flynn agrees to Gable’s terms. What Flynn doesn’t bargain for is being captivated by this gentle, lonely man who captures his heart and moves Flynn to take on an incredible burden: saving Gable’s ranch.

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
A Dance of Love and Jealousy by Roland Graeme
And It Is Powerful by K.R. Foster
Bodies of Work by Etienne
Desert Crossing by B.G. Thomas
Rediscovery by Ariel Tachna

A Rose Is A Rose by Jet Mykles
Get it at Loose Id
Contemporary/Short Novel

Blurb
When his latest sugar daddy drops him like yesterday's news, Carson's got more than a bruised ego to deal with. He's broke! No designer clothes, no baubles, and while he loves his job with the burlesque show he needs to pay the bills.

Should be no problem. Carson's young and pretty, so it should be no trouble finding someone new to pick up his tab.

Instead, he finds Eddie. The superintendent of Carson's apartment building, Eddie couldn't be further from Carson's usual type, financially or physically, but his gift of a single red rose touches Carson's heart.

For the first time, Carson doesn't want to be just a kept man.

To live the life he always thought he wanted, he needs to find a new sugar daddy. But how can he part with the support of someone who seems to really love him?

Also new @ Loose Id
Red Light by Thom Lane

Touchdowns: An Erotic Colleciton of M/M Football Stories
by Ryan Field and Bradley Church edited by Lori Perkins
Get it at Ravenous Romance
Contemporary/Sports/Anthology

Blurb
Ryan Field gives us a story about old love made new, and Garland's amusing romp between the football captain and the team mascot is not easily forgotten. Bradley Church's Hall of Famer should make your M/M Hall of Fame, and you'll love the "play" between the All-American NFL star and his P.R. handler in Giving Him Fitz. So, relax, grab a beer, and go, team, go! Touchdowns!

A Thread of Deepest Black by Finn Marlowe
Get it at Samhain Publishing
Paranormal/Shifter/Novel

Blurb
The seduction of his enemy is the ultimate hunt…

When his mortal enemy, the handsome and deadly Colton Dècarie, shows up on his doorstep asking an unspeakable favor, Killian Frost is cautious—and curious. What could drive a shape-shifter to beg a werewolf for an honorable death in the line of duty—defending humans from soul-stealing Lycans? Moreover, why ask Killian, who has kept his own feet off that dark path?

Colton’s conflicted heart can take no more of the violence that consumes more of his humanity with every hunt. Even now, Killian’s werewolf scent makes him burn with the instinctive urge to shift and destroy. Death would be a mercy, but the price is impossibly simple: one night of submission in Killian’s bed.

Yet as Killian extracts payment in flesh and pleasure, Colton finds himself giving all that’s demanded of him and more, feeling something he hasn’t felt in a long time. Alive. And Killian discovers the hidden cost of sleeping with the enemy. To keep the balance between light and dark, Bella Luna binds his Lycan blood with a quest to unravel a conspiracy threatening all his kind. If he’s brave enough, he’ll discover a love that means more than the power of a dead man’s soul.

The Heart of Texas by R.J. Scott
Get it at Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Western/Novel

Blurb
Riley Hayes, the playboy of the Hayes family, is a young man who seems to have it all: money, a career he loves, and his pick of beautiful women. His father, CEO of HayesOil, passes control of the corporation to his two sons; but a stipulation is attached to Riley's portion. Concerned about Riley's lack of maturity, his father requires that Riley marry and stay married for one year to someone he loves. Angered by the requirement, Riley seeks a means of vengeance on his family: blackmailing Jack Campbell into marrying him "for love" suits Riley's purpose. There is no mention in his father's documents that the marriage had to be with a woman. And Jack Campbell is the son of Riley Senior's arch rival.

Riley marries Jack. Abruptly, his entire world is turned inside out. Riley hadn't counted on the fact that Jack Campbell, quiet and unassuming rancher, is a force of nature in his own right. This is a story of the struggle for power, murder and deceit, lust and love, the sprawling life of a rancher and the whirlwind existence of a playboy. But under and through it all, as Riley learns over the months, this is a tale about family and everything that that word means.

Dragon's Bloodmoon by Scarlet Hyacinth
Get it at Siren Publishing
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Vampire/Novel

Blurb
For two years, Jared waited in vain for his dragon mate to return. As he struggles to forget, a new man appears in his life. Only he isn’t a man. He is a vampire, and his task is to kill Jared.

Tomas has been entrusted with the important mission of retrieving the powerful amulet, Gaia’s Spirit--and killing its keepers. When he meets Jared Grayson, he finds that he cannot do as asked. He kidnaps Jared, hoping to keep the young werewolf safe.

Sentenced by the dragon elders to forced hibernation, Zongxian awakens only to find out his mate has vanished. Desperate, he goes in search of Jared, and in his quest, he meets a handsome vampire who takes his breath away.

Together, Tomas and Zongxian have to fight impossible odds to save Jared. Can the three-way bond survive the ruthless power of the vampire nation?

Also new @ Siren Publishing
A Caleb Footlong by Joyee Flynn
Belonging by Pat Cunningham

Hot Lava by Rob Rosen
Get it at Torquere Books
Contemporary/Mystery/Suspense/Cross Dressing/Novel

Blurb
Multiple double-crosses and scams are afoot involving two scheming pimps, several rogue cops, dangerous Japanese businessmen (one with a rather large butt-plug up his, well, butt), a cross-dressing lawyer, Mormon bad guys, and incarcerated drug dealers, all under the watchful surveillance of our heroes, Chase and Brandon, not to mention their drag alter-egos, Liza and Judy.

“Hot Lava” is a romantic comedy/murder mystery, not to mention a hysterically funny and often deadly romp from one end of Oahu to the other. This heart-pounding thriller is about a dream vacation that quickly turns awry, with escaped convicts washing up on shore, bad guys scheming to do harm to our heroes, and sexy romps in unusual settings. It’s chock-full of witty banter and outlandish escapades, death and depravity, and friends, lovers, and other assorted crazy characters that fairly jump off the page. Take a vacation with Chase and Brandon and get yourself into Hot Lava!

Also new @ Torquere Books
A Scary Package by Mara Ismine
Apples & Gin: Wedding Cake by Jenna Jones
Himiko: Bonding by C.B. Conwy

Chocolate Dreams by Em Woods
Get it at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Short Story

Blurb
One part lover-running-scared plus one part sexy-Italian-chocolatier equals the perfect Valentine’s Day recipe for love.

For as long as the doors to Chocolate Dreams have been open, Joel Raner has been stopping every night on his way home from work to get his ritual treat. They're always ready when he gets there and always handed over by the chef himself.

Chocolatier Aaron Neilson takes the time out of his day to talk to the handsome accountant, not for the sake of his business, but because the more he gets to know Joel… the deeper Aaron falls in love. When the Lovers’ Holiday rolls around, Aaron decides it’s time to make his move.

Will Joel see the love waiting right in front of him or will Cupid’s arrow miss this Valentine’s Day?

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
Jett's Gift by Jude Mason
Max's Italian Romance by Serena Yates

Bloodlines by Jessica Lee

2011-02-10T09:30:00.002-05:00

Bloodlines by Jessica Lee
Available at Breathless Press
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Novella

Blurb
Evin KinKaid, the only son of the KinKaid pack's alpha, has a secret. One that will tear his family apart. In one year, Evin is to succeed his father as alpha leader and continue the dominant bloodline of his family. There's only one problem: Evin is gay. When Evin is pushed into the bed of his intended female mate, he's forced to reveal the truth. And for an alpha male wolf shifter promised to a female whose goal is to one day be queen, coming out has never been more explosive.

To Mason Thorne II, heir to Thorne Global Inc., life is a lie. To sustain his father's love, Mason has agreed to stay in the family business and to one day assume his place as CEO. Instead of reaching for his heart's desire, he's settled for a life he never wanted. But an unexpected auto accident will send Evin and Mason into each other's arms and down a path toward a destiny neither man can escape: an eternity sealed in blood.

Review
4 stars

Evin KinKaid is a wolf shifter, the son of the pack Alpha, and also a deeply closeted gay man. The woman that's been chosen to be his mate is more than ready to become his queen and when she pushes to consummate their relationship he has no choice but to come clean with her. Before the night is over Evin finds himself an outcast, banned from his home and pack. He finally settles down in a small town and finds work as a car mechanic.

Mason Thorne is on his way home when his car breaks down and despite the inconvenience, the delay is a welcome respite from his regimented life. When he takes his car into the shop he meets Evin and sparks fly as the men are instantly attracted to each other. Luckily for them there's a delay in the part coming in and they spend the next few days together. Things heat up between them, and feelings quickly develop, but can anything real happen between a shifter and a human? A near tragedy brings about major changes in their relationship and soon Evin finds himself turning to an unexpected source for help. Will his past be the key to a happy future or will he once again find himself a pawn in pack politics?

I really liked both Evin and Mason. Both have grown up in the shadow of dominant, controlling fathers and have spent their lives trying to earn the love and respect of their fathers. I found both men interesting and likable and enjoyed their interactions. The shared family issues added a nice layer to their relationship as each was able to relate to the other. The sex scenes are plentiful and very hot but never to the point of overpowering the story. I also liked the slightly unique take on the dynamics of a shifter pack that the author was able to place in this story.

While the story borders a bit on insta-love the paranormal theme made it work in the end. There is a nice mix of supporting characters, some of which were easier to like than others. I did have a slight niggle with the ending which felt a bit too convenient but even that worked well for the storyline. There is some angst in the story as well especially towards the end when Evin is forced to make a difficult decision in order to save Mason. This is the first book I've read by this author, and from what I was able to find it's her first M/M story, and I'm looking forward to reading more from Ms. Lee in the future.

Overall I found this paranormal story entertaining, well-written and smoking hot. Fans of the author and those who like shifter romance stories may enjoy reading Bloodlines.

Still trying to catch up... a few more 2010 reads

2011-02-09T01:00:00.010-05:00

The One That Broke Free by T.C. Blue

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The fourth book in T.C. Blue's One and One series is just as well-written and entertaining as the previous stories. I really liked both of the protags. Travis is a wounded veteran who lives in a small Southern town and Vincent is a flamboyant "queen" from the big city. Despite outward appearances they were interesting characters and well suited to each other. Their relationship kept me interested throughout and I loved visiting with characters from the previous stories.

Vieux Carre Voodoo by Greg Herren

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in the Scotty Bradley Mystery series and although I haven't read the first three stories I didn't have a problem following along. Scotty is a PI in a relationship, both professionally and personally, with Frank who's an ex-FBI agent. This story is mainly a mystery story with just a dash of romance thrown in. I really liked Scotty and enjoyed the mystery storyline. There's a nice mix of supporting characters as well. This is the first story I've read by Greg Herren and I found it to be well-written and entertaining.

Broken Bones, Mended Hearts by William Cooper

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Very nice story about college friends, one gay and the other straight, who after one is badly beaten discover that perhaps they're more than just friends. The story is very short unfortunately but is overall entertaining and sweet with nice, likable protags.

Reasonable Doubt by Mia Watts

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this sequel to Bad Boys, Bad Boys Geo and Mack have been living together for about a year. They're happy and in love but not out although Geo would love to make it public. A serial killer case brings back his beautiful ex-girlfriend and creates tons of stress for Mack. Luckily he finally gets his act together after acting at times like a paranoid idiot and they get back to being in love and happy. The mystery is pretty much background filler in the story as the focus is on the relationship of Geo and Mack. I liked Andy, the ex-gf's FBI partner, and look forward to reading his story at some point. Entertaining, fast-paced and pretty darned hot too!

The Game in Spain by Lydia Nyx

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This short story is entertaining and quite hot as well. Gabriel tells his ex-bf and his coach whoever catches him first gets him. The race is on between the men as they chase Gabriel during Carnival. But what will happen to Gabriel when he's caught by both men at the same time? I enjoyed the descriptions of Carnival and the fun, sexy, surprising ending.

Livin' on a Prayer by Jude Mason

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Nice, fast-paced story about an ex-convict and the unexpected love he finds with a man of the cloth. Both are young likable guys, the storyline was interesting and the sex scenes hot and frequent. Overall I liked this story.

Sculpting Clay by Linda Reilly

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars

This was a nice read with interesting protags and a slight paranormal thread to it. Although for the most part I liked the characters and the storyline was entertaining I did have a couple of issues. Most annoying was the continual "product placement" found throughout the book as well as some editing issues and stilted, strange writing ("ha ha ha" to express laughter instead of saying "he laughed") which took away from my enjoyment of the story. Not all readers may have the same reaction as I did but for me this story just didn't quite live up to my expectations.

View all my reviews

Teaser Tuesday... And is Never Shaken

2011-02-08T08:59:00.000-05:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page

Today's teaser is from And is Never Shaken by Alexi Silversmith.

"I moved in last week, which you would know if you pulled your head out of your ass long enough to bother greeting your new neighbors."
Page 26

He wished he’d been a giant man-ho like Ben and knew how to tie cherries in knots with his tongue.
Page 55

And is Never Shaken by Alexi Silversmith

Get it HERE

What I read last week...

2011-02-07T01:25:00.000-05:00

Unbelievably we're already heading into the second week of February. Last week was so amazing and fun despite being sick for part of it. The time I spent with my sister and niece was wonderful and already I'm looking forward to next year's Sisters Birthday Vacation.

Those days I was stuck in bed I managed to read a lot and my total for the week ended at 20 books. This week I was only able to read five books but luckily they were all entertaining stories. Here's what I read...

The Oasis by A.J. Llewellyn
Get it @ Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Novella

4 stars
I really enjoyed this friends to lovers story. As usual when reading a story by this author the characters grabbed me from the start and didn't let go til the end. Elias and Josh are best friends but a weekend away at a gay 'party' weekend at The Oasis resort finally opens their eyes to how they really feel about it each other. There is quite a bit of sex in this story, much of it including other people, but the amount of sex scenes surprisingly didn't overpower the story. I liked both Elias and Josh, the secondary characters were also interesting and the author's wonderful writing style brought everything together quite nicely. The subplot of Elias' struggle to reunite with his young son was sweet and the ending was very satisfying. Recommended.

The Wild Side by Janey Chapel
Part of the Reflections of Love anthology
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Short Story

3.5 stars
Nicely written story about a college student waiting tables to help a friend and the quiet young man he meets there. I liked both characters and enjoyed this story. Ryan is a love 'em and leave 'em guy and Nick is most definitely not a one-night stand type of guy. Is there a chance for these two seemingly different men? Maybe the magic of Valentine's will work in their favor.

The Red Thread of Forever Love by Nicole Kimberling
Get it @ Loose Id
Contemporary/Paranormal/Novella

4 stars
This was a surprisingly entertaining story. Hank Caldwell is a Canadian folklore researcher in Japan who finds himself the love interest of a yokai, a supernatural creature that he names Fingers. He's traveling with translator Daisuke Tachibana who it turns out is more than just a translator. I really loved the humor in the story as well as the more emotional moments. The folklore of the yokai was interesting to read and although I'm no expert it seemed to me that the author did a good job of depicting the Japanese culture. Very well written and entertaining.

Simply Perfection by Trina Lane
Get it @ Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Menage (m/m/m)/Suspense/Novel

The review for this book will post this week at Wave's site.

Opposites Distract by Stephani Hecht
Get it @ All Romance eBooks
Contemporary/Short Story

3.5 stars
This was a cute, opposites attract story featuring a college student who likes to party hard and the geek he surprisingly falls for. I liked both Pryce and Clayton and enjoyed their sweet, insta-love romance.

So how was your reading week? Did you read a lot or a little? Good, bad or so-so?

Hopefully it was a good week for everyone and may this one be even better.

Happy Monday!!

Better late than never... this week's new releases

2011-02-03T22:53:00.000-05:00

Opposites Distract by Stephani Hecht
Get it at All Romance
Contemporary/Short Story

Blurb
Sometimes your heart doesn't know what's best for you...

Pryce has always been attracted to a certain type of man. What he’s looking for in Mr. Right is someone like him; fun, spontaneous and full of life. What he doesn’t want is a stuffy, boring man who only cares about being an activist and making the world a better place. But that doesn’t stop Pryce from falling for a dark-haired stranger when they bump into each other at the local GBLT center.

Clayton needs to stay focused on school and work. He doesn’t have room in his life for distractions. So when a cute, carefree blond makes a move on him, Clayton turns the guy down flat. But walking away turns out to be harder than he thinks. Clayton, driven to distraction, can’t get Pryce out of his mind.

Will Clayton be able to push aside his doubts long enough to give love, and Pryce, a chance?

Also new @ ARe
A Fated Love by Diana DeRicci
Call Me Sir, Boy! by Kim Dare
Strangers with Candy by G.A. Hauser
Wooing Master Jones by Amber Kell

He Said, He Said by Jamie Craig
Get it at Amber Allure
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
He said: “So what if I thought he was gorgeous? He was also kind of a jerk. But then our kids decided to be best buddies, and I kept having to see the guy, and...well, keeping him strictly as fantasy material who never opened his mouth got a little harder after that...”

And he said: “I don’t have time for a personal life. I have a son whose medical history requires my full attention and a company I need to keep afloat in this awful economy. Making friends just isn’t a priority. At least until the choice got taken away from me...”

On the surface, the only things single dads Peter Irving and Aaron Hardison have in common are their eight-year-old loner sons, who strike up a friendship. But the continued play dates with the boys and meetings in the park force the men to re-evaluate that position. When Peter discovers Aaron isn’t as straight as he thinks, they agree to a “friends with benefits” arrangement. Sex for the sake of sex.

But the men soon find out, even those appearances can be deceiving...

Also new @ Amber Allure
Speed Demon by Rick R. Reed

The Mistletoe Experiment by Serena Yates
Get it at Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Novella/Series

Blurb
Book three in the Mistletoe Science series

Lance is on cloud nine. His lover Magnus has proposed to him, making Lance the happiest man on Earth, and they are planning to move their family to Sweden for Magnus’s new job at Stockholm University. But when an old enemy resurfaces, followed by an unexpected new threat to their relationship, their new life in Europe with Magnus’s nephew Jakob turns out to be very different from what they had hoped. Will Lance and Magnus's love be strong enough to make their Mistletoe Experiment a success?

Also new @ Dreamspinner Press
Long, Lonely Howl by Lyn Gala
School of Discipline by John Simpson
Stroke to His Cox by J.L. Merrow
Two Sides of the Same Coin by Jake Mactire

High Flow by Stephani Hecht
Get it at eXtasy Books
Contemporary/Novella/Series

Blurb
Book seven in the St. Michael's series

When Forrest learns that he's being transferred to Pontiac, the young paramedic is excited. Not only did he grow up in the Michigan city, but the move will put him closer to his ailing father. Then the night before he leaves Flint, he's viciously attacked in a bar parking lot and nearly dies. After he moves to Pontiac, he vows to put the horrible experience behind him and never speak of it to anyone. He soon finds out that he can't forget that night of terror or the anger that still lingers inside him.

Patrick is new to Pontiac as well. A physician who just moved into the state, he soon finds himself intrigued by the attractive, yet brooding paramedic. As he tries to get closer to Forrest, he is dismayed and annoyed when the punk brushes off his advances. But, Patrick has never been one to give up on something he wants and he's never wanted anything more than to finally have Forrest all to himself.

Forrest wants badly to be able to return Patrick's affection, however, the attack has left him vulnerable and unable to even be touched. Will Patrick be able to heal Forrest, or will they both be doomed to be alone?

Also new @ eXtasy Books
The Phoenix Rises by Mark Alders
Wedded Bliss by A.J. Llewellyn

These Haunted Heights by Ally Blue
Get it at MLR Press
Contemporary/Novel

Blurb
The tiny town of Sebastian's Bluff is a photojournalist's dream come true. But Ron Winters doesn't expect the moody, mysterious man next door to get under his skin and stay there.

When Drew LaSalle meets Ron, feelings he thought twenty years gone stir to life again. He wants what he could have with Ron. But does he want it enough to get past his own walls and grasp it?

Secrets, spirits and tragedy converge as Ron peels back the layers of Drew's past and Drew fights both Ron and his own ghosts on the haunted road to happily ever after.

Also new @ MLR Press
Death's Desire by Stevie Woods

Handcuffs & Spreader Bars by Kim Dare
Get it at Resplendence Publishing
Contemporary/BDSM/Novella/Series

Blurb
Book five in the Rawlings Men series

Harland Rawlings might have chosen to be a scene of crime officer rather than a “proper” policeman like so many of the men in his family, but that doesn’t mean he can’t hold his own with any cop who comes his way. Any evidence belongs to him until he says otherwise, and if a sergeant manages to roll around in evidence while tackling a suspect, then that man belongs to him until Harland has finished with him.

Detective Sergeant Alasdair Grant doesn’t have good luck with men. He resigned himself to that fact after his ex turned out to be the worst kind of sadist, so he’s not best pleased when being processed by Harland gets him hot and hard and he has no way to hide it. When Harland offers to fetch a spreader bar if he doesn’t stop wriggling, he knows the other man is merely laughing at his expense. There’s no way the scene of crime officer could know how much Alasdair liked the idea.

Harland can’t work out why Alasdair keeps blowing hot and cold, flirting one minute and running away the next. All he knows is that for some reason, even after the other man stopped being evidence, Harland can’t stop thinking of Alasdair as belonging to him…

All Lessons Learned by Charlie Cochrane
Get it at Samhain Publishing
Historical/Novel/Mystery/Series

Blurb
Book eight in the Cambridge Fellows Mysteries series

He’s at the end of his rope…until fate casts a lifeline.

The Great War is over. Freed from a prisoner of war camp and back at St. Bride’s College, Orlando Coppersmith is discovering what those years have cost. All he holds dear—including his beloved Jonty Stewart, lost in combat.

A commission to investigate a young officer’s disappearance gives Orlando new direction…temporarily. The deceptively simple case becomes a maze of conflicting stories—is Daniel McNeil a deserter, or a hero?—taking Orlando into the world of the shell-shocked and broken. And his sense of Jonty’s absence becomes painfully acute. Especially when a brief spark of attraction for a Cambridge historian, instead of offering comfort, triggers overwhelming guilt.

As he hovers on the brink of despair, a chance encounter on the French seafront at Cabourg brings new hope and unexpected joy. But the crushing aftereffects of war could destroy his second chance, leaving him more lost and alone than ever…

Unexpected Mate by Toni Griffin
Get it at Silver Publishing
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Novella

Blurb
Book one in the Holland Brothers series

After being rejected by his parents and kicked out of his pack for being gay, Brian gets in his truck and drives. Breaking down outside small town, Leyburn, Brian never thought he'd meet his mate, let alone have his mate reject him as well because he's straight.

Marcus is shocked by the unexpected appearance of a cute man claiming to be his mate. Marcus can't be gay. He's the police inspector of a small town, and those two things don't go well together. Let alone the fact that all his brothers are gay. Someone needs to get married, settle down and have a family to continue the Holland name.

Can Marcus come to terms with the fact his mate is a man or will he risk loosing Brian forever. However, not everyone in the pack is entirely happy with this mating.

Cowboy Keeper by Stormy Glenn
Get it at Siren Publishing
Contemporary/Western/Novella/Series

Blurb
Book two in the Blaecleah Brothers series

Billy Thornton is a known troublemaker. He's spent the better part of his life doing whatever his brother Clem wanted him to--from intimidating people to stealing from them. The consequences if he resists are life-threatening. Billy has spent more than one night healing after his brother got pissed at him.

The one thing Billy can't do is allow Rourke Blaecleah to be hurt. Billy has loved Rourke for as long as he can remember, even though he knows it is wrong. The only way he can deal with it is to do everything in his power to keep Clem away from Rourke, and that means putting himself in harm's way more than once.

When Rourke corners Billy one night and kisses him, things come to a head. Rourke realizes that the man he has been looking for all of his life is right under his nose. Billy finds that he might actually be able to experience what loving Rourke is like in real life and not just his fantasies. And both men realize that what they have found together has put their lives in danger because Clem is coming for them, and he's not happy.

Also new @ Siren Publising
Sheriff Found by Joyee Flynn

Persimmon: Love Basically by Suzi Jaymz
Get it at Torquere Books
Contemporary/Novella

Blurb
It's been five years since Cal Grand was dumped and Devon Michaels, in town for a few months and not looking to announce to the world that he finds men attractive, seems like the perfect guy to take a first few tentative steps back into the dating world with. So what happens when Cal, despite his best intentions, falls in love with the man?

Is he destined to have his heart broken yet again? And what do persimmon colored cravats have to do with anything?

Also new @ Torquere Books
Celadon by KIL Kenny
First Impressions by Josephine Myles
Sleep Walk with Me by Alyx Shaw
The Amethyst Eye by Julia Talbot

Simply Perfection by Trina Lane
Get it at Total-E-Bound
Contemporary/Menage (M/M/M)/Series/Novella

Blurb
Book four in the Perfect Love series

Three men whose life trails converge must find a way to forge a new path together if they are to celebrate the love destined to be theirs.

Niall Roberge has patiently waited years to find the two men who are destined to hold his heart forever. He believes his prayers have been answered when he meets Dr. Matt Lincoln and Trevor Mitchell.

Matt has hungered for the closeness of a ménage relationship and is amazed at the instant connection he shares with Niall after being disappointed so many times before. Trevor has led a solitary life and is leery of entrusting his heart to two men who are capable of breaking through the protective walls he’s managed to build with a single touch.

As the three come to terms with the love building between them, they learn that someone is determined to unravel the bonds woven between their souls - a man determined to remind the three that Trevor belongs to him.

Reader Advisory: This book is best read in sequence as part of a series

Also new @ Total-E-Bound
Finders, Keepers by Jaime Samms
Wolf Wanted by Marie Harte

A horrible start but a fabulous ending... my week in review

2011-02-02T02:08:00.000-05:00

The last week of January had to be one of the weirdest I've had in ages. I was very sick the first half but ended the week feeling absolutely great. Last Monday night I called my sister and told her I wasn't sure I'd be able to go on our planned Birthday vacation only to have her tell me she was dragging me along no matter what. Thankfully by the time she arrived Wednesday afternoon I felt like I was going to make it through and Thursday I was feeling like a normal human being again.

The only saving grace to those days of being sick was that I read a ton of books. I was dizzy and nauseous every time I got out of bed so for 2 1/2 days I did nothing but stay in bed reading and sleeping. Amazingly this week I read 20 books and of those 13 were read Monday/Tuesday. The other 7 books I read from Wednesday to Sunday night. In all I read 4 novels, 10 novellas and 6 short stories. I'm not feeling too bloggy yet so no reviews for now.

My sister and I spent two days in Columbia/Sumter SC with my niece and then Saturday morning all three of us drove down and stayed in Savannah GA until Monday morning. OMG, what a fabulous time we had. We did lots of touristy stuff and it was so great to spend time with them both. I'd thought to bring my laptop but in the end decided to leave it at home and I must say I really enjoyed taking the time off. I missed my online friends and reading/commenting on blogs but it was nice to just hang out and talk after getting back to the hotel every night. I've been taking it slow getting back online and just relaxing a bit. The only bad part is Emma's got a cold and has been on me like white on rice all day. I hope and pray not to go back to work Saturday sick again.

I've been playing with, supposedly putting in order, the hundreds of pictures my sister and I took while on vacation. Here's a bit of what I saw/did.

Sumter, SC is home to both an Air Force base and the National Guard.

My niece's hubby is in the Air Force so we took a tour of the base and got to see some F16's getting ready for take off. Pretty cool!


I couldn't resist taking a picture of the biggest Golden Corral I've ever seen. This is my MIL's favorite restaurant.

We walked around for a couple of hours in Swan Lake - Iris Gardens. So beautiful!!

We saw loads of ducks, geese and swans too.


Unfortunately since it's winter there were no flowers in bloom but the views were gorgeous nonetheless.

Here's a pic of us at Swan Lake and here we are with my niece having a drink before dinner Friday night. I don't normally drink a lot but I did have quite a few this weekend. ;)

Saturday, my sister's birthday, we woke up late and took our time heading to Savannah. After checking into the hotel we walked around a bit, had dinner at the Mellow Mushroom (gluten free pizza for sis) and ended the night at Lulu's Chocolate Bar. OMG, white chocolate martinis are to die for and paired with white chocolate covered strawberries... YUM!!

Sunday we toured the historic district of Savannah and saw tons of gorgeous homes and churches. There are also beautiful squares located throughout the district with many statues and trees as well as areas of shops and restaurant/bars.

This is one of only a few bridges designed and built by a woman. From what we learned it came in on time and under budget. What else can you expect, huh? The picture doesn't do it justice. It's really a beautiful looking bridge.

I loved this fountain located in one of the largest squares. The day had warmed up and there were tons of people out and about with their kids and dogs just enjoying their Sunday afternoon. That's one of the things that I noticed about Savannah. So many people walking around with their dogs. The parks/squares all have signs saying to Scoop and people do because everything was nice and clean. The sculpture in this picture is by the riverfront and was built to commemorate the Olympic torch.

Here we are back at Lulu's Chocolate Bar on our last night. My sis loved the Caramel Martinis there. This time I went for the Sparklebomb... and a couple more white chocolate covered strawberries. Absolutely delicious!! A great way to end our vacation.

So there you have it. The 2011 Sisters Birthday Vacation. We had tons of fun, I got to do some grown-up bonding with my beautiful niece, spend some quality time with my sis and visit two beautiful cities. I also walked so much more than I normally do, ate delicious food and drank more than I usually do in a year. Fun, fun, fun!!! I'm off til Saturday and though I hate to get back to the grind of work I'm feeling recharged. Hopefully it lasts more than a couple of days.

Happy Hump Day everyone!!

The week in review... and why does my life have to suck so much???

2011-01-26T00:30:00.003-05:00

This should have posted Monday morning but I've been super sick since Sunday afternoon and wasn't able to get it finished on time. I've barely gotten out of bed since I came home early from work Sunday. Of course, I picked the absolutely worst time to get sick since my sister is driving up from Miami and Thursday we are taking off on our sisters "birthday" vacation. Some vacation this is going to be with me not being able to get out of bed for more than 30 minutes without getting dizzy and nauseous. Life sucks right now!!!!!!!!!!!

I think I'm feeling the teensiest bit better tonight so maybe by then I'll be good enough to go. *fingers crossed and knock on wood* My sister says she's dragging me along anyways and she's got Lysol and bags in the car in case I get sick. LOL I guess either way it'll be an adventure of some sort.

If things go well I'll be back sometime early next week at which point I'll have about a thousand posts in Google Reader but I'm off till the 5th so I should have time to look at them. Maybe. :)

Hope everyone has a great rest of the week and a fabulous weekend.

The Handler by Stefan Seabourne
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Suspense/Novella

2.5stars
Review posted here.

Taking You Home by Cooper Davis
Get it @ Samhain Publishing
Contemporary/Novel

5 stars
I really loved this sequel to Boys of Summer. Hunter and Maxwell are in love and have decided to get married. But before the wedding there's a ton of details to work through and the hardest may be meeting the in-laws. Humor, a bit of angst, three-dimensional characters, hot sex, sweet romance and even some super sexy cross-dressing... this book has it all.

Anchored: Belonging Book One by Rachel Haimowitz
Get it @ Noble Romance Publishing
AU/Slavery/Novella

4.5 Stars
This story has elements outside of my "comfort zone" yet I really loved it. There's violence, rape and slavery... all issues which normally I do not want to read about but the author brings the narrator Daniel to life in such a way that I was totally invested in him from beginning to end. Intense, emotional, painful, hard to read yet hard to put down.

By the Chimney with Dare by Leigh Ellwood
Get it @ Rainbow eBooks
Contemporary/Short Story

3 stars
Nice story set in the author's Dareville series. It's Christmas time and Jimmy has to chauffeur Santa to the big party. In the end Jimmy gets the best present of all.

Sins of the Heart by Allison Cassatta
Get it @ Dreamspinner Press
Contemporary/Short Story

5 stars
What happens when you simply can't go on in a relationship? Dominic decides to end things but then finds it hard to stay away when his ex-lover heads down a destructive path because of their breakup. This was a wonderfully written but oh so very sad story. I had never planned to read a Bittersweet Dreams story because I really, really love happy endings. But the blurb really intrigued me and when the author offered to donate the price of the book to the flood relief efforts in Australia I broke down and bought it. I read it all in one shot with a tissue in hand late at night. *sigh* I can still get teary eyed thinking about it but I'm so glad I read it. Sometimes you don't realize what you have until you lose it and it's a very painful lesson to learn. I probably won't be reading anymore from the Bittersweet Dreams line but I'm not sorry I read Sins of the Heart.

Savage Awakenings by Stephani Hecht
Book three in the Lost Shifters series
Get it @ eXtasy Books
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Novella

4 stars
I enjoyed this story quite a bit but I've got to say that the editing was terrible in this one. Lots of misspelled words and some sentences that had to be read more than once to make sense took away some of my enjoyment. Aside from that I liked Rat a lot in the previous books and was happy to see him get his own HEA story. His snarky comments and tough guy attitude has been hiding a vulnerable side and in this one we get to see it.

Carnal Intentions by Stephani Hecht
Book four in the Lost Shifters series
Get it @ eXtasy Books
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Novella

3.5 stars
This was a good continuation of the series although I wasn't really drawn into Mitchell and Dean's love affair as I was to the previous couples. Mitchell's been in love with Dean for years but Dean keeps putting his brother and pack ahead of Mitchell. Finally in this one he figures out they're mates and after a bit Mitchell finally get his own HEA.

Bloodlines by Jessica Lee
Get it @ Breathless Press
Contemporary/Paranormal/Shifter/Novella

I read this story for review at Wave's site. Look for it in a few days. Nice story overall.

Fire on the Mountain by P.D. Singer
Book one in the Mountain series
Get it @ Torquere Books
Contemporary/Novel

4 stars
Well written story about a couple of young men working as fire rangers in the mountains of Colorado. I enjoyed the slow pace of their relationship and the author's description of the countryside and fighting fires was very interesting. Very good start to the series.

Snow on the Mountain by P.D. Singer
Book two in the Mountain series
Get it @ Torquere Books
Contemporary/Novel

4 stars
Jake and Kurt from Fire on the Mountain are now working in a ski resort during the winter season. They've been together for six months and for the most part are comfortable in their relationship. This time around the action focuses on outside influences, Jake rescues a little boy and ends up with two little stalkers while Kurt takes a job with some very surprising, and unwanted, duties. There's a couple of bad guys, a few too many skiing references that I didn't understand as well as nice guys in love, humor, hot sex and some exciting action scenes. Lovely ending and I'm looking forward to the next books in the series.

Just when you thought you knew it all...

2011-01-23T00:10:00.000-05:00

1. ONE OF YOUR SCARS, HOW DID YOU GET IT? 3 kids, 3 C-sections, ugly yet totally worthwhile scar.

2. WHAT IS ON THE WALLS IN YOUR ROOM? Paint and photographs.

3. DO YOU SNORE, GRIND YOUR TEETH, OR TALK IN YOUR SLEEP? I still don't believe it but my hubby says I snore a bit. If I do I bet it's very dainty snoring. :D

4. WHAT TYPE OF MUSIC DO YOU LISTEN TO? Rock and Country

5. WHAT TIME WERE YOU BORN? I can't remember that far back.

6. WHAT DO YOU WANT MORE THAN ANYTHING RIGHT NOW? To not have to (need to) work again.

7. WHAT DO YOU MISS? My youngest daughter.

8. WHAT IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION(S)? My kids and grandkids although they're not really possessions, just what I most prize.

9. HOW TALL ARE YOU? 5'4" if I stand up really straight.

10. DO YOU GET CLAUSTROPHOBIC? Nope

11. DO YOU GET SCARED IN THE DARK? Nope

12. THE LAST PERSON TO MAKE YOU CRY? My oldest daughter.

13. WHAT'S YOUR WORST FEAR? That my oldest daughter will keep f*cking up her life and lose her kids to her ex. That would just about kill me.

14. WHAT KIND OF HAIR/EYE COLOR DO YOU LIKE ON PEOPLE YOU'RE ATTRACTED TO? I've always thought blond/blue eyes is super sexy yet both my 1st and present husbands have brown hair/eyes.

15. WHERE CAN YOU SEE YOURSELF PROPOSING? Nowhere

16. COFFEE OR ENERGY DRINK? Coffee

17. FAVORITE PIZZA TOPPING? Cheese

18. IF YOU COULD EAT ANYTHING RIGHT NOW, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Sushi

19. FAVORITE COLOR OF ALL TIME? Purple

20. HAVE YOU EVER EATEN A GOLDFISH? Yes, in several of their flavors although the regular cheese is my favorite.

21. WHAT WAS THE FIRST MEANINGFUL GIFT YOU'VE EVER RECEIVED? Life

22. DO YOU HAVE A CRUSH? No

23. ARE YOU DOUBLE JOINTED? No

24. FAVORITE CLOTHING BRAND? I don't have a particular favorite for clothes but I'll only buy/wear K-Swiss sneakers.

25. WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE FEMALE/MALE CELEBRITY? Don't really have one.

26. DO YOU HAVE A PET RIGHT NOW? Yes

27. WHAT KIND IS IT? Kitty, my tuxedo cat.

28. WOULD YOU FALL IN LOVE KNOWING THAT THE PERSON IS LEAVING? In a way we're all leaving.

30. SAY A NUMBER FROM ONE TO A HUNDRED? 17

31. BLONDES OR BRUNETTES? Either, both ;)

32. FAVORITE QUOTE? "I cannot live without books." Thomas Jefferson

33. FAVORITE PLACE? Home

Thank you for playing this week on Sunday Stealing!