I've been waiting to get my paws into this novel for MONTHS I tell you, months. The wait was worth it. I think everyone knows I'm the demon bear daddy -I've been waiting to get my paws into this novel for MONTHS I tell you, months. The wait was worth it. I think everyone knows I'm the demon bear daddy - right? I write the dark stuff. Hold on to your f@cking hats kids, my crown has been snatched.
I had to read this in the light of day. But let me tell you why...
Even though this is a piece of fiction - I happen to know MD rather well so I know he went out and interviewed people directly involved with paranormal, parapsychology, and ghost hunting experience and backgrounds. He also interviewed folks from the Catholic church and an ex-exorcist - yes you read that right. Not sure how he managed to get those interviews because the church is notoriously hush hush on this topic. What did he find out?
The events listed in Golden Hills Haunting aren't as unusual or rare as you might expect. Let that sink in to your already goosepimpled flesh. Are you going to sleep tonight? I didn't, for the last week - THANK YOU MARVIN.
In other words - THIS STORY IS BASED ON REAL EVENTS. Made up for the novel? Sure. But the elements of it? Garnered and gleaned from real-life stories. (Jesus, please take the wheel, and may the spirits calm me down).
Now, I'm a good pagan boy—I've been for years. I've had my fair share of run-ins with ghosts, entities, and even a demon once—no lie—and this book portrays them in every single terrifying, sweat-inducing, spine-tingling reality. I've also felt that all-calming, love-filling, and safety of a god being present - knowing that everything will be okay.
This is not for the faint of heart. Be warned, forge ahead carefully - but my gods, go read this.
Now - one criticism - sometimes the dialogue gets a bit clunky - even MD will admit to this - but who cares - the chills this story delivers will wipe that from your memory.
Holy crap - now I gotta come up with something really terrifying to get my soul-snatching, blood dripping, hellbound demon summoning crown back....more
I love a good Urban Fantasy story. I also love it when a book shows life from a different perspective. Seymour is an author out of Queensland, AustralI love a good Urban Fantasy story. I also love it when a book shows life from a different perspective. Seymour is an author out of Queensland, Australia, and as you might expect, her tale is one hundred percent Australian. Instantly, all the characters had accents as they read to me from the pages of the book.
For me, as a Canadian, that's a different perspective, one I wasn't expecting and it was a pleasant surprise.
Callum was our lead character, a wolf shifter (not a werewolf, that's different), and professionally was a rule-breaking cop who stumbles upon a case that is already being investigated by the SICB (Supernatural Investigation & Crime Bureau). Quickly, Callum gets seconded over to the SICB where he takes on a lead position in the investigation of a criminal organization that is using the blood of shifters to create a potent elixir for Vampires.
Callum is gruff, likable, unpredictable, and definitely swoon-worthy. Through some twists and turns, the case ends up having ex-pack and family connections which certainly adds to the tension in the book.
Thatch is our romantic interest, Callum's boss at the SICB, and one tough-as-nails law enforcement officer.
I liked the story. There were a few things that didn't work for me, and I had to pull myself back into the story in order to get through it. I desperately wanted more world-building, background on the shifters (there were a handful of different species), how they came about, why they were different than werewolves. There are vampires in the mix too, and play central key figures, but we never really get a good handle on them...and at one point I thought perhaps maybe I had missed a previous book? As far as I can tell this is a stand-alone. For me, I need the magic and culture behind the creature. Some may not need this. So if that's not a prerequisite, you'll never notice.
I've seen some of the other reviews talk about how the romance in this story is insta-love, and I'd have to disagree - somewhat. In shifter lore, there are a lot of stories that revolve around the 'fated mate' trope. Wolves in the wild can form monogamous pairs, although pack alphas will be more promiscuous, and let's face it, evolution favors wild and rampant sex. That's how you ensure the continuation of the species, right? So, as much as Thatch and Callum are attracted to each other and become mates straight away, it fits in with the genre, and so I can't fault that.
The romance is steamy, although there isn't a lot of it - which is fine - it's not the main focus of the book.
The action is certainly well written, and Seymour has her skills well-honed here.
I had a bit of a tough time believing that a cop who has family ties to a case was still allowed to participate in the investigation of that case. Normally, the minute a case establishes close familial ties the affected law enforcement officer is removed in order to mitigate any bias. So again, if you can just go with the flow, and ignore that aspect, you'll be fine.
Overall, I enjoyed the book but was left wanting a little more in terms of the magic and urban fantasy background.
Merged review:
I love a good Urban Fantasy story. I also love it when a book shows life from a different perspective. Seymour is an author out of Queensland, Australia, and as you might expect, her tale is one hundred percent Australian. Instantly, all the characters had accents as they read to me from the pages of the book.
For me, as a Canadian, that's a different perspective, one I wasn't expecting and it was a pleasant surprise.
Callum was our lead character, a wolf shifter (not a werewolf, that's different), and professionally was a rule-breaking cop who stumbles upon a case that is already being investigated by the SICB (Supernatural Investigation & Crime Bureau). Quickly, Callum gets seconded over to the SICB where he takes on a lead position in the investigation of a criminal organization that is using the blood of shifters to create a potent elixir for Vampires.
Callum is gruff, likable, unpredictable, and definitely swoon-worthy. Through some twists and turns, the case ends up having ex-pack and family connections which certainly adds to the tension in the book.
Thatch is our romantic interest, Callum's boss at the SICB, and one tough-as-nails law enforcement officer.
I liked the story. There were a few things that didn't work for me, and I had to pull myself back into the story in order to get through it. I desperately wanted more world-building, background on the shifters (there were a handful of different species), how they came about, why they were different than werewolves. There are vampires in the mix too, and play central key figures, but we never really get a good handle on them...and at one point I thought perhaps maybe I had missed a previous book? As far as I can tell this is a stand-alone. For me, I need the magic and culture behind the creature. Some may not need this. So if that's not a prerequisite, you'll never notice.
I've seen some of the other reviews talk about how the romance in this story is insta-love, and I'd have to disagree - somewhat. In shifter lore, there are a lot of stories that revolve around the 'fated mate' trope. Wolves in the wild can form monogamous pairs, although pack alphas will be more promiscuous, and let's face it, evolution favors wild and rampant sex. That's how you ensure the continuation of the species, right? So, as much as Thatch and Callum are attracted to each other and become mates straight away, it fits in with the genre, and so I can't fault that.
The romance is steamy, although there isn't a lot of it - which is fine - it's not the main focus of the book.
The action is certainly well written, and Seymour has her skills well-honed here.
I had a bit of a tough time believing that a cop who has family ties to a case was still allowed to participate in the investigation of that case. Normally, the minute a case establishes close familial ties the affected law enforcement officer is removed in order to mitigate any bias. So again, if you can just go with the flow, and ignore that aspect, you'll be fine.
Overall, I enjoyed the book but was left wanting a little more in terms of the magic and urban fantasy background....more
It's no secret, I'm a huge fan of E.M. Hamil's writing, and if you haven't read Dali you need to check it out (Here). But this book is a bit of a diffIt's no secret, I'm a huge fan of E.M. Hamil's writing, and if you haven't read Dali you need to check it out (Here). But this book is a bit of a different beast. Where Dali was Sci-Fi, this story is more Urban Fantasy, but clever fantasy and I've always said: "I'll read anything as long as it's a clever story."
Our heroine is Callie, short for Calliope - a name which should ring bells. In Greek mythology, Calliope was the muse of eloquence and epic poetry, an apt name for our character if you ask me. The very beginning of our tale starts off with Calliope, as she stumbles into a bar while being chased by a banshee, seeking refuge, and she finds that and so much more.
I can't possibly tell you anything more than that, otherwise, it would be a spoiler and I really want you to read this.
What I will tell you, is that every pantheon of gods shows up throughout this book, and the dynamics of who they are, what they've been doing and why they haven't been around are discussed and explained. Brilliant. Utter brilliance. I've read a few similar stories but Hamil has finally come up with a concept that works, is exceptionally told and kept me flipping the pages. And by the way - I might know a thing or two about several pantheons of god (being the pagan sort of lad I am - and having read a good chunk of many myths). The research and knowledge shown in this book regarding the various diety was nothing short of masterful!
I devoured this book in a few quick reading sessions.
But then, how could you not with gleaming passages like these:
"The scarlet cape swirled about him like blood in water as he jumped to his feet."
and
"I may be a few biscuits short of a tin, but I can shoulder my part of the burden."
and my favorite
"A twitch distorted the side of her mouth as the goddess picked up her daiquiri and drained the glass of icy slush in an impressive show of brain-freeze immunity."
Clearly, the muse herself was sitting elbow to elbow with the author when she wrote these lines.
Now for those of you who read my reviews, you've already noted that the books I read have lead characters who are LGBT, and this book drives in the opposite direction, but here's why I made the exception: The secondary main character, Florian, the bartender is Bisexual, and the host of gods and demigods that show up have no qualms about who they select as potential partners.
Seriously? You mean I could have had sex with Ares, God of War? Sigh .
Oh, and a quick "Wow, that's gorgeous!" to whoever did the cover, because it couldn't have been more perfect.
Hamil's book Dali was bloody brilliant, and Nectar and Ambrosia, I dare say, was as good, if not better. Guaranteed from this moment on, I'll be picking up and reading anything E.M. Hamil decides to put words to.
I suggest you do the same!
Merged review:
It's no secret, I'm a huge fan of E.M. Hamil's writing, and if you haven't read Dali you need to check it out (Here). But this book is a bit of a different beast. Where Dali was Sci-Fi, this story is more Urban Fantasy, but clever fantasy and I've always said: "I'll read anything as long as it's a clever story."
Our heroine is Callie, short for Calliope - a name which should ring bells. In Greek mythology, Calliope was the muse of eloquence and epic poetry, an apt name for our character if you ask me. The very beginning of our tale starts off with Calliope, as she stumbles into a bar while being chased by a banshee, seeking refuge, and she finds that and so much more.
I can't possibly tell you anything more than that, otherwise, it would be a spoiler and I really want you to read this.
What I will tell you, is that every pantheon of gods shows up throughout this book, and the dynamics of who they are, what they've been doing and why they haven't been around are discussed and explained. Brilliant. Utter brilliance. I've read a few similar stories but Hamil has finally come up with a concept that works, is exceptionally told and kept me flipping the pages. And by the way - I might know a thing or two about several pantheons of god (being the pagan sort of lad I am - and having read a good chunk of many myths). The research and knowledge shown in this book regarding the various diety was nothing short of masterful!
I devoured this book in a few quick reading sessions.
But then, how could you not with gleaming passages like these:
"The scarlet cape swirled about him like blood in water as he jumped to his feet."
and
"I may be a few biscuits short of a tin, but I can shoulder my part of the burden."
and my favorite
"A twitch distorted the side of her mouth as the goddess picked up her daiquiri and drained the glass of icy slush in an impressive show of brain-freeze immunity."
Clearly, the muse herself was sitting elbow to elbow with the author when she wrote these lines.
Now for those of you who read my reviews, you've already noted that the books I read have lead characters who are LGBT, and this book drives in the opposite direction, but here's why I made the exception: The secondary main character, Florian, the bartender is Bisexual, and the host of gods and demigods that show up have no qualms about who they select as potential partners.
Seriously? You mean I could have had sex with Ares, God of War? Sigh .
Oh, and a quick "Wow, that's gorgeous!" to whoever did the cover, because it couldn't have been more perfect.
Hamil's book Dali was bloody brilliant, and Nectar and Ambrosia, I dare say, was as good, if not better. Guaranteed from this moment on, I'll be picking up and reading anything E.M. Hamil decides to put words to.
MEDIUM RARE is here! It's the eighth installment in the Haunted Hearts series of MM paranormal romance stories. Pre-order now to get your copy on OctoMEDIUM RARE is here! It's the eighth installment in the Haunted Hearts series of MM paranormal romance stories. Pre-order now to get your copy on October 21!
I had the exceptional opportunity to read this early as an ARC.
As a debut novel from a new author, this is a great read. Body diversity is something wI had the exceptional opportunity to read this early as an ARC.
As a debut novel from a new author, this is a great read. Body diversity is something we don't see often in the MM world, and it's about time. The trials and tribulations these boys went through in order to get to their HEA is representational of so many in the community, especially in the 90s and earlier.
There were some pacing issues, and at times I was yelling at the characters but if nothing else, the author pulled emotion out from me - so WELL DONE!
I know Cannon is penning more stories that continue to represent the Bears in the community - and I am here for it!
This wildly popular book left me a little cold, to be honest. Although the writing is solid, and the story is intriguing, I found it difficult to relaThis wildly popular book left me a little cold, to be honest. Although the writing is solid, and the story is intriguing, I found it difficult to relate to the main characters. I feel like the popularity of the Young Adult Gay storylines (Heartstopper, Red White and Royal Blue, etc) lack the in-depth gay cultural experience, the grittiness of our lives, and the roller coaster of emotions we go through (especially as teenagers trying to figure out who we are and how we fit in to the rest of society). This "straight wash" of gayness leads me to believe that it's more palatable to the broader audience, which I suppose is okay - at least we're getting representation - still - I want more.
Not a bad book - just wasn't the book for me....more
A sweet novella about a trailer park called Magnolia Ridge, the owner, Jeannie who sells it, Travis, the real estate developer who buys it, and Levi, A sweet novella about a trailer park called Magnolia Ridge, the owner, Jeannie who sells it, Travis, the real estate developer who buys it, and Levi, a young punkish twenty-something who causes all the trouble, but ends up helping out the new owner...in all kinds of ways!
An early story from Sanderfer, and the point of view can be a bit confusing at times, but overall a delightful, and often steamy story....more
This was my first Kristian Parker book - but won't be my last!
Wonderfully written colloquial dialogue gave texture and character to two men in their lThis was my first Kristian Parker book - but won't be my last!
Wonderfully written colloquial dialogue gave texture and character to two men in their late twenties/early thirties who are looking for their purpose in life. One has a doting, accepting, and loving family, the other deals with homophobia while still trying to garner approval and acceptance from a spiteful parent.
The two not only find solace and comfort but lift up and support each other as they find paths forward with love, careers, and family.
Steamy at times, a little kinky (they do meet each other while working at a sex toy company), but overall sweet and heartwarming. A quick easy read. Thumbs up!...more
Serbu has long been on my list of authors to read, and I finally had a chance.
Witch in the Wind is a historical fantasy tale following the Salem-born Serbu has long been on my list of authors to read, and I finally had a chance.
Witch in the Wind is a historical fantasy tale following the Salem-born Alexander, the development of his witch abilities, and the unlikely and tumultuous relationship he forms with Crispin. There are barriers and hurdles to overcome, family drama, professional difficulties, and prejudices against his supernatural powers. All these obstacles pull Alexander to a life as a pirate witch, in the Caribbean sea, becoming the bunkmate of the pirate captain Henri. Pirate life is difficult, violent, and dangerous, but Alex's travels lead back to his first love.
Serbu creates a wonderful world that will slip you back into the past of puritanical America. The love story is heart-warming, but the pirate life and high adventure on the seas are as tawdry and delicious as you'd expect.
Get your hands on a Serbu novel. I'll be sure to pick up his vampire books next! ...more
I had heard so many good things about this book, and they were all true!
Vin George created a fantastical world based in the UK, filled with vampires, I had heard so many good things about this book, and they were all true!
Vin George created a fantastical world based in the UK, filled with vampires, werewolves, and fae. The layers and textures of the story made for breathtaking reading, the visuals created with words left me flipping the pages to discover what would happen next. I did not want to put this book down.
There are twists and turns aplenty, with a 'coming of age' type of story as Charley discovers who he is, and why he has never fit in.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Claw'd.
This is delicious. Gurl, sit down, grab a cocktail, and straighten that wig because this ride will surely jar it loose!
Morton has created the perfect bThis is delicious. Gurl, sit down, grab a cocktail, and straighten that wig because this ride will surely jar it loose!
Morton has created the perfect beginning to an intriguing serial. A murder, a mysterious writer, a small town, a handsome new sheriff, and secrets, secrets, secrets galore!
I have to go read the next one now...because I need to know what happens!...more
I think this was one of my favorite (Like top 3) Laura John books. Surprisingly kinky, but not over the top. The dynamics between the two main characterI think this was one of my favorite (Like top 3) Laura John books. Surprisingly kinky, but not over the top. The dynamics between the two main characters are steamy and hot, yet gentle and supportive.
So damn good! This is my first Hank Edward book but it sure won't be my last! At first, I thought...cowboys and vampires...okay, how is this gonna work?So damn good! This is my first Hank Edward book but it sure won't be my last! At first, I thought...cowboys and vampires...okay, how is this gonna work?
But work it did! Hot damn. Have you wondered how vampires came to the North American continent seeing as how they were born of myth and legend out of Eastern European culture? Well, look no further. Although we don't get a solid story, we know that Balthazar was the great granddaddy of all North American vamps.
Take your western pioneer town, your saloon brawls, horses, and guns, and saddle up to take on an ancient evil that is spreading out like snakes sunbathing on hot rocks in Venom Valley.
This is book one of a series, and it ends on one helluva cliffhanger, so make sure you have book two ready to go.
Superb. Makes me want to be a cowboy. And the romance between Josh and Dex is hotter than the desert valley they rode through. I don't mind saying that the creepy factor was pretty high. Off to start book two!...more