A cute story with a single dad having a one night stand with a gorgeous guy. The little boy, Reggie, is freaking adorable and the story about his mom A cute story with a single dad having a one night stand with a gorgeous guy. The little boy, Reggie, is freaking adorable and the story about his mom was heart breaking. Nice, quick little read with charming characters.
Merged review:
A cute story with a single dad having a one night stand with a gorgeous guy. The little boy, Reggie, is freaking adorable and the story about his mom was heart breaking. Nice, quick little read with charming characters....more
Truman ripped out my heart in the first chapter. So much angst. I felt so horrible for this young man who felt he had to basically make himself inv3.5
Truman ripped out my heart in the first chapter. So much angst. I felt so horrible for this young man who felt he had to basically make himself invisible to be who he wanted to be and the anonymous hotel hook-ups were pretty horrible.
I really enjoyed Stasi's influence on his attitude but Stasi, while a pretty wonderful character in his own right gave me a few issues. Mostly with this line: (view spoiler)[Hunt complete. Prey caught. (hide spoiler)] Yeah, maybe amusing...but actually a bit of not amusing. There was definitely more of a stalkerish element to him than I was okay with but he was an incredibly caring individual so I tried to see it as more of a helpful protective thing.
There was a bit of over the top drama with one of the other frat brothers and I really enjoyed Jack and Tru's roommates. Once we got to the reveal with Tru and Stasi things progressed quite sweetly and this was a pretty gentle romance. I really enjoyed it. Engaging MC's, strong secondary characters, and a cute romance. I'll definitely check out the next in the series.
Merged review:
3.5
Truman ripped out my heart in the first chapter. So much angst. I felt so horrible for this young man who felt he had to basically make himself invisible to be who he wanted to be and the anonymous hotel hook-ups were pretty horrible.
I really enjoyed Stasi's influence on his attitude but Stasi, while a pretty wonderful character in his own right gave me a few issues. Mostly with this line: (view spoiler)[Hunt complete. Prey caught. (hide spoiler)] Yeah, maybe amusing...but actually a bit of not amusing. There was definitely more of a stalkerish element to him than I was okay with but he was an incredibly caring individual so I tried to see it as more of a helpful protective thing.
There was a bit of over the top drama with one of the other frat brothers and I really enjoyed Jack and Tru's roommates. Once we got to the reveal with Tru and Stasi things progressed quite sweetly and this was a pretty gentle romance. I really enjoyed it. Engaging MC's, strong secondary characters, and a cute romance. I'll definitely check out the next in the series....more
This is a freebie on the Dreamspinner site. Thanks to the author and to the pub for that because this was a gem.
Thomas has created his only little3.75
This is a freebie on the Dreamspinner site. Thanks to the author and to the pub for that because this was a gem.
Thomas has created his only little corner of the world in Kansas City where he tells his stories and I’ve gotten to know a few of his characters and locations over many of his books that I’ve read. This story touches base with quite a few of these characters and while we got to see where they’re at they’re firmly in the background, and I didn’t feel that they overwhelmed the main characters who had a lovely story of their own to tell.
The concept talked about here between Derek and Marshall I really found to be a beautiful one. Simple and it seems obvious but it’s really not. I really enjoyed these two men and their developing relationship. I found it funny and sexy but with a sharply emotional undertone. Just a great little read.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Merged review:
3.75
This is a freebie on the Dreamspinner site. Thanks to the author and to the pub for that because this was a gem.
Thomas has created his only little corner of the world in Kansas City where he tells his stories and I’ve gotten to know a few of his characters and locations over many of his books that I’ve read. This story touches base with quite a few of these characters and while we got to see where they’re at they’re firmly in the background, and I didn’t feel that they overwhelmed the main characters who had a lovely story of their own to tell.
The concept talked about here between Derek and Marshall I really found to be a beautiful one. Simple and it seems obvious but it’s really not. I really enjoyed these two men and their developing relationship. I found it funny and sexy but with a sharply emotional undertone. Just a great little read.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
What a beautiful story. Chico so hidden but fighting to get back to himself and smitten kitten Rafael who sees the man he's trying to get back to b4.5
What a beautiful story. Chico so hidden but fighting to get back to himself and smitten kitten Rafael who sees the man he's trying to get back to being.
I loved it. It ended HFN and that worked for me but I want more of these characters. More of Chico and Rafael. More of Davi and even maybe more of Jase.
I really wasn't quite sure what to expect with this one. I was confused to what exactly Spencer did as a relationship consultant. I'm glad I held o4.5
I really wasn't quite sure what to expect with this one. I was confused to what exactly Spencer did as a relationship consultant. I'm glad I held off starting it until after work because I powered through the read. I loved it.
This was sweet and fun with a touch of angst. I really enjoyed reading how the guys got to know each other and how Spencer's friends could tell that Andrew was some one different from his usual jobs by how Spencer reacted to him.
I'm really looking forward to the next two books to see where things go with these two guys.
This was cute and sassy. I enjoyed Gary and Ashley's story and I LOVED that Gary wore his costumes at home, LOVED that!! There were flashes of intensiThis was cute and sassy. I enjoyed Gary and Ashley's story and I LOVED that Gary wore his costumes at home, LOVED that!! There were flashes of intensity but because it's a short story that definitely ended up being just flashes which is too bad. I could read a much longer story about these men. Had a bit of a Kinky Boots feel to it which I liked. ...more
I'm just heading out but I'll write a review when I get home. This book? Awesome. So well written. Funny and fun but sweet and sexy. Single dad who4.5
I'm just heading out but I'll write a review when I get home. This book? Awesome. So well written. Funny and fun but sweet and sexy. Single dad who is gay but also a gay virgin. Loved it because the progression worked sooo well and it's the first in a series! I thought it was a one-shot but there's more!! Loved it.
*****
Finally did a proper review!
There's nothing better than finding an author new to you who writes in such an engaging manner that you can't put the book down. I'm so glad that I picked this book up!
It's odd to say but it was so readable but it was, the dialogue just flowed so naturally and
the story was sweet and sexy but also funny and just fun to get through. I couldn't stop smiling all through this one. I adored the slow burn between Gabriel and James, they start out as friends and that progresses to a few non-dates because it might actually work if they only look at the word out the corner of their eyes.
I know I mentioned the dialogue but I have to again. It's so snappy. I love all the conversations that happen between the MC's and the secondary characters who are just as richly layered as Gabe and James.
I loved James. I loved how he loved his son and how much he was willing to sacrifice so that Dylan could get ahead in life. He's just a good man who deserves good things. I think that Gabe thinks that as well. Gabe was great as well, I think he deserves James as much as James deserves him and that's the best kind of story to read.
Going into this I didn't realize it was the first book in a series. I was excited to learn that there's more to the story because there's a lot more I want to know about these men and their friends and family. Can't wait for book 2!
If you're looking for something that's slow but with a nicely sharp sexy edge that's smart and fun I'd really recommend this one.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review** ...more
I went into this not expecting to like it because I didn't like the sample chapter but colour me surprised because I enjoyed it more than the first4.5
I went into this not expecting to like it because I didn't like the sample chapter but colour me surprised because I enjoyed it more than the first one. Jake, Patrick and baby Maxine have strong cameos which made me feel better about their story which I felt ended oddly.
Davo turned out to be quite the charmer and he and Lee had a great story. Quite pleased with how this read turned out.
I'd say the only odd thing here was the bit with Thor's girlfriend which was creepy and uncomfortable.
I do love anthologies and I've always enjoyed RL stories that focus on random acts of kindness so reading this was a given when I saw the title. 3.75
I do love anthologies and I've always enjoyed RL stories that focus on random acts of kindness so reading this was a given when I saw the title. This was a pretty fabulous collection that provided me with some pretty unexpected emotional ups and downs and quite a few sweet and sexy moments throughout.
The Favor of Kings by Rebecca Long 4.5 Stars
Eli thinks he’s just being nice when he finds a notebook and returns it. But the notebook’s owner, James, insists on repaying him, and soon a favor war wages between them as a friendship forms. Over Thanksgiving break, James just wants one more favor—for Eli to pretend to be his boyfriend. Eli agrees, but it might change their friendship forever.
This was a lovely slow build to a friendship that turned from something rich to something richer. Great twist of angst as well.
A Table For Two by Emma Wilson 4 Stars
Stressed-out grad student Joey is already having a bad day when he finds his favorite coffee shop crowded. He really needs a place to sit, and fortunately Paul offers to share his table. The two men make a ritual of meeting for coffee and get closer, but the cute, shy librarian across from him is distracting Joey from the thesis he desperately needs to finish.
This was sweet. Kind of a prelude to something more. The men barely speak but there's a definite connection between them and the ending is the beginning. Great little story.
The Cambion’s Servant by Fil Preis 4 Stars
Cast out from the hermitage where he was raised, the young orphan Tomas agrees to work as a ruffian's servant, only to discover that his master expects far more than Tomas is willing to give. Even the heroic paladins turn their backs on a servant boy, but in the nick of time, Tomas is rescued by an unexpected savior. Discovering that his rescuer is a cambion, a half demon outsider, Tomas fears he's gone from the frying pan into the fire. Yet Tomas struggles with a different kind of heat entirely—the kind he's beginning to feel for his new master.
I could read many more adventures with Tomas and Gavin. This had a lovely innocence to it with intriguing world building.
The Jackson by Rob Rosen 2.5 Stars
Ben is successful and just got a raise, while Matt is homeless and in desperate need of the Jackson—the twenty—Ben offers him. Fate conspires with karma and the two men cross paths again. Matt invites Ben to see where his money went, and they get a room in a cheap motel, where Matt thanks Ben with a kiss that might mark the start of much more.
There's a generosity of spirit here but I kinda felt a bit uncomfortable with the circumstances. Would Ben have offered what he did if he and Matt hadn't slept together? If sex hadn't been in the mix I would have liked the story more I think.
Never Waste A Good Left Turn by Tray Ellis 3.5 Stars
Just about every morning, the friendly hatchback let Leif take a difficult left hand turn on his way to a stressful, uptight IT job. Leif appreciates the mystery man's kindness, but doesn't think much about it until he finds the hatchback in a ditch and Jason trapped behind the wheel. Now Leif has an opportunity to repay all those left hand turns, if he can figure out how to deal with a free spirit in his home.
Kind of a pay it forward story with Leif returning a kindness to Jason that turns into something more.
One Cold Night in Prague by Hannah Kollef 3.5 Stars
John-Jacob Jingleheimer left Iraq with a limp and a head full of bad memories. Virginia, filled with pity and smothering comfort, was almost as bad. Deciding to banish the desert heat with snow and a new career, he heads for beautiful Prague to start a quiet, solitary life as an English teacher. But when his wallet is stolen, a charming Czech man with legs to infinity and a sly smile reminds him that sometimes, heat is a very good thing.
Win for character name! Or lose maybe since I was singing John-Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt for quite a while after I finished this one. Singing it right now actually. Two men talking all night and getting to know each other over beers after one of them rescues a stolen wallet. Very much the promise of something more.
Pleased As Punch by Liz Makar 3.5 Stars
Carter Phillips’s momma taught him to have good manners, but it’s hard to remember them around obnoxious computer lab aid Liam Hidalgo. Liam is the bane of Carter’s existence whenever he uses the college computer lab, so Carter hates having to ask Liam for a ride one day. Surprisingly, as they get to know each other, Carter discovers Liam’s teasing might mean something very different than he assumed.
Sort of an enemies-to-lovers read. Or maybe pining on one side. Cute. So very cute.
Spin Cycle by Nina Francis 3.5 Stars
When graduate student Will Clarke arrives too late to the launderette (again) he resigns himself to looking rumpled for the rest of the week, if not the rest of his college career. Fortunately Jeremy, an ex-Marine returning to school, is able to help Will out. Will is relieved and grateful, but he doesn’t think much of the good deed—until he gets an opportunity to return the favor.
Two guys connecting over folded laundry and mathematics. A nice start to a relationship.
The Blue Umbrella by Lane Swift 4.5 Stars
Andy Haynes is terminally ill. During a final tour of Britain, he meets Vik, a friendly stranger who shares his bench and his umbrella. Vik then offers to fulfill Andy’s dying wish: to make love without leaving immediately afterward. But it's not out of pity. Andy discovers Vik is trying to come to terms with his homosexuality, and that together, they might both find what they need to move forward.
Well, I'm not sure what to say except that a few paragraphs into this I started crying and didn't stop until the end. Damn you story. Had a wonderful unexpected twist as well.
Two for Joy by Indra Vaughn 4 Stars
Matthias arrives at the University of Lincoln to find his promised dorm room has been overbooked. Despite his foreign student status as a Belgian, Matt is left to fend for himself. A very tall and very British young man steps in and offers him a place to stay. Matt goes home with Samuel, where he is confronted with milky tea, a gorgeous blond sister, and a slightly batty granny who sees no qualms in demanding to know why he only has one leg. What choice does Matt have but to keep calm and carry on?
Samuel opens his family's house to an unexpectedly homeless exchange student and in turn learns something about himself. Nice little family story.
The Healer and the Thief by Jessica Chase 3 Stars
Tobias is a healer in a small village, busy trying to keep those who live there safe from harm. One day he discovers that his house has been broken into. Inside, he finds Joshua, badly injured and attempting to hide a bag of stolen jewellery. He shelters Joshua from the King’s Guard and looks after him as he heals. Once Joshua has recovered, he leaves to return to adventuring. Tobias has his hands full with villagers falling into comas, but Joshua might find a way to repay the kindness Tobias showed him.
This was a nice story about a healer giving an injured thief a helping hand and having that given back to him.
Of Clockwork Marvels by Althea Claire Duffy 2.75 Stars
Awkward, solitary clockmaker Lorred gave up on love after a string of failed relationships with men who didn’t accept his need to pursue his intellectual passions as well as his romantic ones. But when a beautifully designed pocket watch he finds on the street turns out to belong to renowned clockwork engineer Tivian Ellimar—who's gorgeous, charming, and surprisingly interested in Lorred—he can't resist temptation, despite his fear that he'll only break another heart.
Sweet steampunk story but didn't quite work for me.
The Blue Arrow by Reni Keiffer 3 Stars
Lawyer Alec lives in Boston with his cat Monday and has always had a soft spot for the less fortunate. When he meets Steve, a man from Australia who’s been homeless for over a year, Alec wants to help. But to Alec’s horror, Steve believes Alec has ulterior motives for his generosity. Steve must move past his shame, take a chance trusting Alec with his story, and find faith in the kindness of another.
An interesting story but I found the style odd to read to the point where I'm a bit conflicted on how I want to rate it.
Humming A Different Tune by Amy Rae Durreson 4.75 Stars
When Neil’s twin sister announces she’s getting married in two weeks so their terminally ill father can attend, Neil assumes Lucy is cancelling her plan for a big, elaborate wedding. Then Monty, an eccentric online friend, reaches out to him with an extraordinary offer: with Neil’s cooperation and a little help from their friends, he can make Lucy’s dream wedding happen.
My favourite story of the anthology. A bit sad, a bit hopeful with some heat. Emotional story that I would have loved to see as a longer one.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
I enjoyed this one. Sweet, slow burn kind of read with touch of angst. I really liked the author's writing style and I'll be checking out the other3.5
I enjoyed this one. Sweet, slow burn kind of read with touch of angst. I really liked the author's writing style and I'll be checking out the others in the series....more
DNF'd this book but I'm sure I'll pick up the next story they write. This one though? Didn't like it. At all.DNF'd this book but I'm sure I'll pick up the next story they write. This one though? Didn't like it. At all....more
Miles is just one of those characters whose head I love to live in. He’s so sarcastic and witty and biThe delicious, delicious snark here. I loved it.
Miles is just one of those characters whose head I love to live in. He’s so sarcastic and witty and bitchy and he’s having a run of bad luck. Dumped by his boy toy and out of work for a year he’s been living off his savings and moving from one dead end job to another. He lands a security job at a corporate office building at what should be a dull night shift and ends up being so much more than that.
He meet-cutes his bosses boss at a Tim Hortons and begins a delicate dance of attraction with the former soldier and now head of building security, Colton.This had such an interesting art world mystery that was uncovered that featured a lot of up and coming as well as prominent Canadian artists. I found myself Googling the artists and their work and that added a lovely visual aspect to the read and really drove home the work that Miles was doing. This story had a nice Canadian angle to it that was authentic and fun and really added to my enjoyment of the story.
I think would have jumped even more in my ratings if I had gotten a peek into Colton’s head as well as much as I loved Miles being exclusively in his head meant that Colton’s characterization was lighter. He had a great meaty backstory I would have loved dipping into his thoughts. He was wonderful though and I loved his interactions with Miles and with his daughter, Hayley. I just can’t help wanting more.
I’d love to read a sequel to this book. I think there’s more story to tell here with these characters and their lives. As it was though this was a tremendously satisfying read that had me laughing.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
This was a fun and sexy little magical frolic. A workaholic wakes up thrown into the role of a perfect stranger’s husband thanks to a wish that a djinThis was a fun and sexy little magical frolic. A workaholic wakes up thrown into the role of a perfect stranger’s husband thanks to a wish that a djinn needs to fulfill. The magic is only supposed to last for a day and it was all puppies and Christmas until I got to the part where we found who made the wish…that got me right in the feels. There was an unexpected and clever twist that I never saw coming. Well done, L.M. Brown for taking an erotic short and adding an emotional layer that took this to another level. This was a smart and spicy story. I’ll be checking out more from the author.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
I’ll usually purchase an anthology for one of two reasons. One, there’s a story in it from one of my favourite authors so that’s always an auto-buy, oI’ll usually purchase an anthology for one of two reasons. One, there’s a story in it from one of my favourite authors so that’s always an auto-buy, or two, it has stories by authors I’ve never read before…which is a good way for me to find a new favourite. This collection falls into the new authors category and I have to say I was quite impressed with a lot the stories here. Some I loved and some didn’t work for me but regardless of my personal taste all of them were well written and there was a surprisingly diverse representation of the theme.
I’ve rated each story individually but I’m giving the anthology as a whole 4 Stars
Java Rocks by Julia Talbot 4 Stars
Jerrod writes thrillers and mysteries, and is doing research at Finn’s coffeeshop for his newest book—even though Jerrod hates coffee. Thankfully, his attraction to the coffeeshop owner is stronger than his dislike of coffee, and the two hit it off. Nothing is easy for them, though, and they begin to despair that a real connection will ever happen. Luckily they’re both stubborn enough to keep trying for a love beyond coffee or tea.
This was an awesome start to the collection. Reading Jerrod and Finn getting to know each other was sweet and sexy with more than a hint of awkward. So much fun.
On the Shelf by Eliza Maszar 4 Stars
For the past several years, bookstore owner Dan Hutchens has used his business to fill the gap left by his nonexistent romantic life, but he can’t stop thinking about one of his regular customers. Chris’s sweet smile keeps Dan optimistic even though Chris doesn’t respond to Dan’s attempts at conversation. With some unexpected help from his cat, Dan discovers Chris is deaf and wary of a relationship with a hearing guy. But Dan isn’t giving up on finding a way to connect with Chris.
Chris doesn’t want to date someone who’s not deaf but Dan is more than willing to try make things work. Great pairing and definitely the beginning of a wonderful romance.
Love in the Time of Magics by Fil Preis 3.5 Stars
Justin is a shy, geeky university student who spends his spare time writing and reading fanfiction based on his favorite animated TV show. When he meets a fellow fanfic writer online, they go from sharing comments on one another’s stories to steamy roleplaying sessions. Soon Justin develops a crush on his new friend’s character… and the person playing him. Fantasy collides with reality when Justin’s online friend invites him to visit, and Justin must find the courage to take his dreams from fiction to fact.
Cute NA about geeks, the show they love and the fanfiction they write that brought them together. Great feel for both the age and experience of both boys as well as an authentic fandom feel to it.
Author’s Note by Kim Dias 2.5 Stars
English professor John has always wanted to write a novel, but so far success has eluded him. This summer, he’s determined to finish his book at any cost. But his boyfriend, tattoo artist and hopeless romantic Zach, worries John is working himself to death. John isn’t eating or sleeping, and Zach misses him desperately. Longing turns to frustration, which leads to John growing annoyed with Zach. For their relationship to survive, they’ll have to find a balance between work and play.
I did not like John. I felt that Zach deserved so much better. I get that John recognizes what an ass he’s being but I spent most of the story not liking him. So it was hard for me to get past that even when the epic grovel started.
Late Edition by Jamie Sullivan 3.5 Stars
When a late-running basketball game leaves sports editor Brenden Turner stranded at the office, he thinks he’s going to have to sleep at his desk. But Forrest Tanaka, the impossibly handsome night editor, offers him a ride home. An instant connection leaves Brenden hoping for more, but he’s been disappointed in love before, when his crazy hours and devotion to his job have driven boyfriends away.
Brenden and Forrest meet at work one night and the chemistry is there but is the possibility of it being more than that there as well? I definitely think so.
A Perfect Ending by Anne Robins 5 Stars
Nicolas Fresh is struggling to write the last book in the series that made him famous. Too bad he’s so easily distracted by Jace Cast, a barista at the coffee shop where Nick writes. When Nick’s editor demands that he take some time off, Nick is convinced he will never give his series the perfect ending it deserves. But the forced vacation has unexpected benefits when Nick notices the man behind Jace’s flirtatious smiles and realizes Jace isn’t as innocent as he seems.
I loved this story. Jace was all sorts of awesome and Nick’s striptease was priceless. Sweet but also a few moments of heavy emotional reveals. My favourite of the collection.
Imp by Emily Moreton 3.5 Stars
Merec and Astria run a tiny printers, barely keeping afloat with a large anthology job for a difficult publisher. One day, Lief, a printer’s imp (notoriously rare and mysterious) appears in the shop, completes a day’s work in minutes, and then disappears—but only as far as Merec’s apartment, where he befriends Merec’s cat, hangs out naked, and refuses to say why he’s there. When Astria is injured, Merec needs Lief more than ever. What he doesn’t realize is Lief needs him just as desperately.
Interesting world building. I liked the story quite a bit and the ending was great.
Compulsion by Emma Jane 2.5 Stars
Edwin Peach is a kleptomaniac, and his compulsion leads him to steal one of crime novelist’s Kieron Carmichael’s books at a signing. Later, Edwin feels guilty and contacts Kieron via e-mail, offering to pay for the book. When they meet at a local pub, the two men discover they have more in common than they could have imagined, and that their flaws might bring them closer together.
Not for me. Writing was great but I didn’t like the story or the characters.
Secret of the Specter by S.S. Skye 2.5 Stars
Cayden may be among the city’s super-powered crime fighters, but it’s easier to face down the barrel of a gun than to risk losing his best friend, superhero gossip columnist Kateb Bashar, by revealing his feelings. A single press conference, however, may end up forcing his hand. If only he could keep his mouth shut….
For all my love of superheroes I just couldn’t get into this one. Interesting world building though.
McAvoy Made by Dawn Kimberley Johnson 4.5 Stars
At his uncle’s company, Duvall Cline’s reputation as the love ’em and leave ’em type is inescapable, so it’s a good thing he’s not trying to escape it. Preston McAvoy uses all his free time honoring his baby sister with a collection of handmade books. In fact, he hasn’t looked beyond that or his work as an accountant for nearly a year, but the day Duvall breaks his concentration, Preston’s focus shifts, and his world expands in the most delightful way.
Duvall is a player but then he meets Preston and he experiences a paradigm shift. Loved the message.
Jester Hinkel and the Thrust of Destiny by Madeleine Ribbon 3.5 Stars
Jester Hinkel, a book reviewer who specializes in romances, no longer believes in love because of his crappy luck. His roommate sends him a picture of a hot guy to cheer him up, but the man in the picture—Santiago—has been cursed by a witch to live in pixel form until he stops thinking of himself every time he does something good for someone else. Santiago might help Jester enjoy reading about love again—if he can convince Jester he isn’t a virus.
Ghost in the machine and some fun bantering dialogue.
The Fully Lit Review by Elle Katie Lune 2 Stars
Most of the reviews for Kevin Zhou’s first novel have been glowing, but one nasty review really gets under his skin, and he decides to confront prestigious editor and blogger Sam Calcutt. Angry barbs and snarky comments between the two build to an inescapable sexual tension, and the rivalry and physical passion lasts for months. Then Sam comes to Kevin with a book he’d like Kevin to read—one that might explain everything he can’t say out loud.
I didn’t like the concept here with the author tracking down the reviewer and the snark on romance novels. I’d check out something else by the author because I liked the writing but this story got my hackles up.
Perfect Bound by Jack Byrne 4.5 Stars
Michael Eldridge is a hard-working author trying to support his community by printing his books locally. He meets Daniel Saunders, the manager of the local print shop, and the attraction is immediate. But although they both look successful from the outside, the inside story is very different. Michael is struggling to make a living, and Daniel’s business is teetering on a knife-edge financially. The pressure might be more than their growing relationship can bear.
I liked these men and I liked their story. Fantastic chemistry. Great secondary characters as well.
Pagan Moon by Nikki West 2.75 Stars
Mark Larsson’s new urban fantasy novel just hit the bookstores and it’s hugely popular. His life ought to be complete, but without his partner Jerome, who is on a longterm overseas assignment, their apartment feels empty. Throwing himself into his research for his next novel, he does what the Internet warns you not to do: speaks the words of an ancient prayer aloud. But the supernatural being who answers is more known for causing chaos than answering prayers.
This one just didn’t hold my attention. The paranormal aspect wasn’t working for me and while I did like what I saw of the Mark and Jerome relationship Mark seemed like he may not be in it for the long haul. Time will tell for these guys.
Role Model by Becky Black 3.75 Stars
A late-night call brings reporter Paul Bradley out to cover the scene of an accident, where he witnesses heroic paramedic Drew MacGregor save a young girl’s life. Paul knows it will make a great story. The fact Drew is openly gay adds another dimension to Paul’s story, and he presents Drew as a role model for other gay people. It doesn’t hurt that Drew’s attractive, but he won’t date closeted men, and Paul made the choice long ago to keep his sexuality secret in favor of his career.
I really liked the story here. Drew was wonderful and Paul, less so, but I liked how he’s taking steps to change. I thought this had an interesting flip on why one character was closeted and the other out. I was expect the reverse so I liked the surprise there.
The Geometry of the Circle by Rhidian Brenig Jones 4 Stars
Zach Chandler is a successful businessman who worries men only want him for his money. Lately he’s had his eye on the handsome man scribbling away at the coffee shop Zach owns, but he doesn’t imagine Rowan Geldenhuis is interested in other men, and he’s reluctant to disturb a customer. When they connect over a stack of old books and decide to get to know each other, both men discover the true power of words—both written and spoken.
More please. Off the hook hot with such interesting characters. Not a lot happening but I was riveted. Love the man meets man stories where this could be the start of something or it could be a one off. I hope it’s the beginning for them, I loved the conversations and the chemistry.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review** ...more
A fun and sexy Christmas novella about a recently divorced lawyer and the man who cleans his chimney every year. We get POVs from both men which I reaA fun and sexy Christmas novella about a recently divorced lawyer and the man who cleans his chimney every year. We get POVs from both men which I really enjoyed because I found Dominic adorable with his crush and Reagan’s moment when he realized he was the object of it was priceless.
I had a great time with this read. I loved the MCs and the relationship between Reagan his mother was lovely. For a shorter read this packed a wonderful little emotional punch that didn’t rely solely on the incredibly hot sex but included the dialogue and fantasies as well.
Definitely checking out other books by the author.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
Unfortunately this story didn’t work for me. I found the POV’s jumped around too much for me to really settle in and enjoy the characters. As much as Unfortunately this story didn’t work for me. I found the POV’s jumped around too much for me to really settle in and enjoy the characters. As much as like a good thriller I found the reveal for the bad guy just came out nowhere. That robbed more than a bit of the excitement and tension that had been building up because I had a few suspects in mind, so when even my long shots didn’t make the grade the stalker story line just fell flat.
I found I was tremendously disappointed with what happened to Brad. I wish that we didn’t get a POV from him because it just saddened me to no end when he was killed. I thought he and Corey had a lot of chemistry and there was a great possibility with their encounters.I didn’t mind Scott but he really came into the story late in the game. Corey asks himself if he and Scott will still be together after eight months. I wonder the same thing because I don’t see Scott changing his line of work so I have to wonder how that’ll impact their future.
One of the things that worked the best for me was the relationship between Corey and his brothers. I found all their interactions fun and emotional and enjoyed the read quite a bit whenever they got together.
While there were flashes of interest here in some of the characters I found that too many POV’s and uneven thriller story line dragged this read down for me.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
What a great read. Olly was just so wonderful, a really happy together guy who has his life on track. He made this story for me. I liked him so much aWhat a great read. Olly was just so wonderful, a really happy together guy who has his life on track. He made this story for me. I liked him so much and I liked the friendships that he’s built. It took a bit longer for me to warm to Rich. Early in the story I had issues with his attitude but by the end of the read I was impressed with the strides he was making and felt he was well on his way to being a worthy boyfriend to Olly.
This also had a clever thriller that kept me guessing right up until the end, that, coupled with the passionate back and forth between Olly and Rich made for a fun, quick little read. I’ll be grabbing the first book in the series soon, not to fill in any blanks in this one, which for me came across as a standalone, but because I enjoyed the writing quite a bit and I’m intrigued with Nick and Jem. I want the details of their story.
**I grabbed the first book as an aRe freebie. Woot! Will read soon!**
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
I found this story to have an intriguing dreamlike quality to the telling as John moved from location to location and switched personas along his jourI found this story to have an intriguing dreamlike quality to the telling as John moved from location to location and switched personas along his journey. It interested me in seeing how his sense of self was affected by his environment.
I felt his pain at the destruction of his relationship with David. I’m conflicted about Melody in the story though. John did, in many ways, replace David with Melody. Looking to her for support and sharing his work life with her, essentially pushing David out of his life. I don’t blame David for his choices. I can also understand Melody’s feelings for John but the whole situation just turned so ugly in the end.
It’s unfortunate that John’s workaholic tendencies lead to the implosion of his personal life. I can appreciate and completely understand how work takes over a person’s life. Be it validation or the sense of accomplishment it becomes a sort of drug that’s easily addicted to and hard to shake free. I did find that John got a few undeserved passes on his actions and that the other people in his life were very willing to blame David when a lot of the responsibility was firmly on John’s shoulders. I’m surprised that the men lasted as long as they did, that may have had something to do with stubbornness and pride on both their parts. The scenes between him and John were uncomfortable but at the same time there was an underlay of anger and bitterness. A great dynamic there if a sad one.
The behind the curtain Capital Hill scenes were fascinating, a bit like watching an episode of the West Wing. I found myself being angry on John’s behalf as he struggled for respect in such a close knit community. It was frustrating that he was essentially invisible to the old boy network and I admit to being as shocked as John during his lunch with the Senator. To have worked so hard and then be dropped because your personal life was a low blow.
For all the wheeling and dealing in DC after finishing the read I want to go to Boston. There’s a real love of the city here that translates beautifully and makes me want to explore the places described. It was fascinating that in order for John to find himself again he needed to do it as Peter.
This quote was really telling: “Well, today is my very first day here,” Peter heard himself say. “So, I guess this is where my story begins.”
I liked the secondary characters that were introduced in Provincetown but I was at times confused by Danny and his mixed signals. He definitely had his own issues that he needed to work through and while I did enjoy the romance between the men I think I needed to be in Danny’s head to really understand the choices that he was making. I had some issues with how he played John and while I did come to understand his reasons for doing so I found it frustrating.
This was for me a story about balance. What happens when you lose it and the journey to regain it. That’s true of a few characters in the book. A lot of them are faced with choices and we see a real spectrum of how these different people deal with their problems. Some choose not to deal, some to ignore and some to avoid. To say that I was surprised when John began seeing a therapist is an understatement. I’ve never read a book where a character actively admits he or she needs help from a licensed therapist and seeks it out. I liked that John took the time to find his center and his balance and in helping Danny essentially find his own balance he helped himself. This was definitely a slow burn but I liked how things ended up. It’s not really the end though more like the beginning.
This isn’t a pretty read at times, the characters are flawed but all the more real for being so. I enjoyed the struggles and the payoff. I’m kind of hoping to see a story down the road about David, I think he deserves some happiness.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**...more
This was a slow burn romance, so if you’re looking for a lot of action between the sheets then this doesn’t really have that. What it does have though This was a slow burn romance, so if you’re looking for a lot of action between the sheets then this doesn’t really have that. What it does have though is a lovely friends to lovers story. The men take the time to really get to know each other as they work together to save Ben’s family house. Crofton Hall takes center stage here and I didn’t mind that. It’s a beautiful old house with a lot of secrets, secrets that I want to know more about. There is a lot of fascinating background on opening a great house to the public and the massive amount of work that it takes to accomplish it. That might not be to everyone’s taste but I loved reading about all the hoops they had to jump through.
Even though I felt a lot of the focus here was on the house, the characters were never skimped on and the both the main and secondary characters were well fleshed out. Ben’s family and Ash’s family were so interesting. I was surprised with the turn with Ash’s father but loved it and I couldn’t believe the crap that Ben’s mother kept pulling. I did find that there was a weird flip flop with how I initially perceived the main characters. I had reservations about Ben but ended up loving him and I started out really liking Ashley but with his actions and how he later treated Ben I had to work to regain my love of his character.
One thing that was odd for me, Ben made the worst first impression ever. It was an odd introduction because it really jarred with his personality for the remainder of the book. He’s supposed to be quite the player but other than the first scene in New York, where he highlighted his title in an extremely awkward way we never really see that again. I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy him as an MC but for the rest of the book he really won me over.
Despite those issues I enjoyed this read quite a bit and I loved the ending. I’m intrigued enough by the letters between Anthony and Sebastian to check out the previous series The Crofton Chronicles. I’m very curious about what happened between them and I wonder if the second book in this series will try to find the truth. Bring on the Secret Histories!
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review** ...more