I was pleasantly surprised at the length and quality of the majority of the stories in this collection. It was fascinating to discover how m4.25 stars
I was pleasantly surprised at the length and quality of the majority of the stories in this collection. It was fascinating to discover how many ways Valentine's Day could be worked into the theme, and even when there were some similarities in the events, each author managed to make a distinct story.
“Rory” by Minerva Howe is the first book in the ‘Calhoun Brothers’ series, but it is also connected to the various ‘Dragonveil Universe’ books. Rory’s“Rory” by Minerva Howe is the first book in the ‘Calhoun Brothers’ series, but it is also connected to the various ‘Dragonveil Universe’ books. Rory’s position with his unusual pack as the human who runs errands and takes care of the wolf shifters’ children is suddenly altered when a wounded wolf shifter named Fen shows up. Suddenly, everything Rory has believed all his life is changing, and there are even more mysteries to be solved than just where the dragons have gone. Things will never be the same…for either male.
This adult male gay paranormal romance covers a lot of territory in one book, but there are plenty of snippets to keep one informed about this well-established world. I hadn’t quite paid attention to the fact that this was an m-preg romance, so certain events startled me, although I liked the birthing process in this world better than some I’ve encountered. Things moved fast in this quick read, but there are plenty of dangling threads to make one curious about both events that preceded this book and ones still to come. I connected with both the main characters and the secondary ones, and will be looking for both the sequels and for the other series that connect so I can learn more of the backstory.
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“You Spin Me Round” by Felice Stevens centers around baker Benji, who would love to make a connection with his taciturn neighbor, Gil, who s4.25 stars
“You Spin Me Round” by Felice Stevens centers around baker Benji, who would love to make a connection with his taciturn neighbor, Gil, who sells spices. Although things start progressing the way Benji would like, there is one tiny detail that will need to be resolved before the two of them can explore how truly complementary they are, and Hanukkah seems like it will be the perfect time…barring complications.
This adult gay contemporary romance novella is a perfect celebration of both the holidays and the fake boyfriend trope. This is one of those stories that makes you hungry even as you cheer for the progression of the romance, and I immediately liked Benji and cheered him on as he found the courage to go after what he wants. A sweet uplifting quick read.
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“Partnership” by E.J. Russell is the first novella in the ‘Sun, Moon, and Stars’ series that features Zal, a one-eyed sun mage and Torian, who has tak“Partnership” by E.J. Russell is the first novella in the ‘Sun, Moon, and Stars’ series that features Zal, a one-eyed sun mage and Torian, who has taken the chance to escape their captivity but is completely naïve about the world they have fled to. The pair could not be more unalike, but somehow they form a connection that may provide the key to preventing the destruction of the world that may be headed for a massive change no matter what anyone does.
This inventive gay science fiction/fantasy romance story explores the connection between a non-binary being who has functioned as a sexual surrogate and been confined to a laboratory for most of their life and a celibate sun mage whose life has been diametrically opposite. Each discovers that they have a depth of knowledge that the other person lacks, but their connection and purpose in life grows stronger with each passing day. I was intrigued by the world-building and uniqueness of these characters and immediately drawn into their struggles. The story ends a bit abruptly, and I was only mollified by the idea that the sequel was immediately available because I really wanted to know what happens next.
“Making it Hard” by Tanith Davenport is part of the ‘Rock My World’ series and centers around Angel, a successful vlogger, who makes an unex3.75 stars
“Making it Hard” by Tanith Davenport is part of the ‘Rock My World’ series and centers around Angel, a successful vlogger, who makes an unexpected connection with lead guitarist Judah just as he’s ready for a major change in his life. When the lines between their personal and professional lives blur, they have to decide if they want the same things out of life.
This adult contemporary romance novella is an entertaining quick read, perfect for enjoying by the pool with an icy drink to counter the sizzling heat outside and on the pages. I admit to being startled that Angel is successful enough to have a receptionist, lol, but I enjoyed the glimpses of classic cars and the interactions between the main characters. I thought it was a little disingenuous for her to be surprised at the publicity she generated, since that was her goal, but it was still fun to witness the rapid evolution of the relationship. An entertaining story for a quick break.
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Each of these stories is set at the picturesque Caynham Castle and its environs, and features a different aspect of the location around Valen
4.5 stars
Each of these stories is set at the picturesque Caynham Castle and its environs, and features a different aspect of the location around Valentine’s Day, with its attendant celebration Valentine Dance.
“Fae-ted Mates” by Morgan Brice follows honeymooning Grady and Dawson King, whose delightful vacation is temporarily interrupted by Dawson’s commitment to reaffirm his family’s accords with the fae…who aren’t all so sanguine about the arrangement.
This adult gay paranormal romance novella artfully combines romance, danger, and fantastical creatures in an exciting tale. The devotion between the main characters, the glimpse of fae politics and machinations, and the practical importance of maintaining both major and minor agreements is underscored. I love the alluring glimpses of Caynham Castle and its inhabitants (both visible and invisible), and I was caught up in the struggle the pair inadvertently became victims of. I learned about a new creature and a different way of affirming their connection, and both snickered at the reminder that one should heed the advice of those who come before us and sighed at the romance inherent in the story. Another great addition to a lovely collection of stories.
Each of these stories celebrates romance, and they all were entertaining, with vivid characters and descriptions, and I’ll be looking for other titles by the authors who were new to me.
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“Light My Way Home” by Morgan Brice is a novella in the ‘Treasure Trail’ series and features Monty, a lighthouse keeper who has the ability 4.25 stars
“Light My Way Home” by Morgan Brice is a novella in the ‘Treasure Trail’ series and features Monty, a lighthouse keeper who has the ability to see ghosts. This is an unexpected benefit for Jon Richards, a ghost who is shocked that someone can actually communicate with him. The connection between the men deepens, and Monty becomes invested in finding justice for Jon, and searches for a way for them to be together.
This adult gay paranormal romance story is engaging and fun to read, even if you’re new to the series. Even though this is a fairly short tale, each man became distinct in my mind, and I was anxious to see how they could find a way to be together. I was impressed by the excitement generated by Jon’s selfless actions, and loved the twists and turns of the story. I enjoy this author’s interconnected series, and I am always delighted to find out there’s a new story to savor, and this one whetted my appetite for even more adventures.
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“Fall of the Pathfinder” by L.C. Lowe is an intriguing and complex science fiction story that features Julian Sastre , a young miner who is 4.25 stars
“Fall of the Pathfinder” by L.C. Lowe is an intriguing and complex science fiction story that features Julian Sastre , a young miner who is struggling to overcome the stigma of his name, dig out from crushing debt, and give his mother a decent life. Being punished and ostracized yet again for something beyond his control results in him taking a path he never would have considered before and exposes him to truths that make him doubt everything and everyone he’s ever known.
This is ostensibly a gay science fiction story, but there is no overt relationship in this first book of the ‘Kessler Effect’ series. The world-building is complex and intriguing, and the gradual revelations and twists keep one invested in the story, even though some of the events are harsh and shocking. As the warnings indicate, there is only a partial resolution at the end, so one definitely wants the sequel, to learn what is actually the truth and to follow these characters on their adventures. I definitely want to find out what happens next and will be on the lookout for the second book in the series.
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“Melting the Ice Witch” by Mell Eight is Book Four in the ‘Dragon Hoard’ series, and centers around the adventures of Kam as he assimilates 4.25 stars
“Melting the Ice Witch” by Mell Eight is Book Four in the ‘Dragon Hoard’ series, and centers around the adventures of Kam as he assimilates into the harsh society of those who live in the frozen wastes. His ability to discern what the animals around him feel makes the kidnapped man able to make a contribution to the Tribe, and encourages Lor, the leader, to value him and see him in a new light.
The fantasy gay romance stories in this series continue to delight and entertain. I love the way history has unfolded over the arc of these tales, and I’m always delighted when characters from previous stories pop up in the current one. The unusual dragon youth, Tori practically steals the show, with his charming combination of naivete, curiosity, and determination, and the vivid descriptions of the dangers of life in such a cold climate added to the tension and allure of the story.
Although it is possible to read this story as a stand-alone tale, it will be much better appreciated if the other stories in the series are read first, to get an introduction to various characters and societies. The world-building is fun and fascinating, and enhances the tales.
I look forward to each of these stories because they are refreshingly different takes on dragons, witches, and werewolves, and this one did a great job of weaving together many of the elements that were introduced in previous episodes. I can’t wait to find out what new adventures await.
I'm still in my "bah, humbug" mode, even as I'm gathering things for the holiday season, but this cute, sweet story did a great job of nudging me towaI'm still in my "bah, humbug" mode, even as I'm gathering things for the holiday season, but this cute, sweet story did a great job of nudging me toward the cheerful part of the spectrum. Of course, now I'm going to be humming the song even though I am NOT ready to sing Christmas carols, lol. I love the positive message and the encouragement to follow one's dream, not to mention the great ideas for repurposing other people's discards. This was necessarily a condensed start of a beautiful relationship, but hopefully there will be more details about this cute couple at some point in the future. This was an enjoyable quick read that celebrates both the holiday season and the joy of creativity.
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"Trash and Treasure" by Morgan Brice is set in the 'Fox Hollow' universe and features two men who bond over donuts in the very early hours. 3.75 stars
"Trash and Treasure" by Morgan Brice is set in the 'Fox Hollow' universe and features two men who bond over donuts in the very early hours. Although neither of them thinks the other will appreciate his shifter form, they can't help exploring their mutual attraction. But danger threatens to destroy their relationship before it can even begin.
This gay paranormal romance novella provides a twist on the concept of shifters, since it focuses on a couple of non-predatory shifters. I love that not only do they have blue-collar jobs, but their modest and unassuming personalities complement each other perfectly. I enjoyed learning more about their animal natures as well as the sweet romance that develops, and I look forward to meeting more inhabitants of Fox Hollow.
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“Breaking the Shackles” by Mell Eight centers around Laine, who has been rescued from his horrific captivity and brought to the hom3.75 out of 5 stars
“Breaking the Shackles” by Mell Eight centers around Laine, who has been rescued from his horrific captivity and brought to the home of the wolf alpha, Reese, but isn’t sure what his life is going to be like, because he fears he’s exchanged one captor for another. His twin, Baine, comes to rescue him, but soon learns there is a complex relationship between the werewolves, the dragons, and humans. Where will the twin maji fit in, and will they only have a brief time to enjoy their long-awaited reunion?
This gay paranormal romance novella is the second book in ‘The Dragon’s Hoard’ series, and picks up where “Finding the Wolf” left off. I love the way this author creates intriguing characters who are able to find love despite all of the trauma and terrible experiences they have had.
The novelty of expanding the concept of dragon hoards to living beings and applying that to werewolf society as well made this a fascinating story, although those who dislike “insta-love” may be disturbed by the connections that form quickly between various individuals. Although this can be read as a stand-alone story, it would be better appreciated if the first novella in the series is read first. Laine is a sweetheart, and his feisty twin makes a great foil for him, and it’s fun to watch the sparks and snark fly. There are lovely moments of levity (e.g. the “illness” displayed by the dragon Ana’Gail) and touching interludes warm one’s heart.
As always, I enjoy the way I’m immediately drawn into the story even as I wish for deeper glimpses of the various characters and their respective societies. Hopefully there will be more adventures set in this universe, and we will learn even more about all of these unique individuals.
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“The Adversary” by Thea Harrison is the second book in ‘Chronicles of Rhyacia’ series that features the Other land that Dragos and Pia and t4.25 stars
“The Adversary” by Thea Harrison is the second book in ‘Chronicles of Rhyacia’ series that features the Other land that Dragos and Pia and their associates are colonizing. The story begins immediately after the events in “The Unseen” as the desperate struggle to evict the being that has taken over Dragos’s body continues.
This story underscores the ruthlessness of the Wyr, and the cunning and intelligence that accompanies their athleticism and arcane powers. The heartbreaking elements shake their world to its foundation, and I suspect the repercussions will be ongoing, despite the temporary bandage that’s been applied.
Great cameos by multiple beings who have populated the various series in this universe. Not only did this story prompt me to go back and reread the prequel, “The Unseen,” but I am tempted to renew my acquaintance with many of the other stories set in this well-built universe. As always, the characters are both charismatic and memorable, and have unexpected depths and facets that continue to intrigue. I definitely hope that there are still many stories to come featuring some of my favorite characters of all time.
“Finding the Wolf” by Mell Eight centers around the dragon Nyle (An’nanyle) whose quest to locate Leon, the youngest son of the human king, 3.75 stars
“Finding the Wolf” by Mell Eight centers around the dragon Nyle (An’nanyle) whose quest to locate Leon, the youngest son of the human king, results in far more than he could ever dream of. Leon, having escaped one kind of captivity, may have to decide if he can cope with an arrangement that will take away his freedom for good.
This gay paranormal tale is the first book in the ‘Dragon’s Hoard’ series and introduces an intriguing world that contains dragons, werewolves, humans, and other beings. I love seeing the contrast between the relative youngster, Nyle, and his older fellow dragons; and the idea of considering a being to be a “pretty” and part of a hoard is a delightfully novel concept to me. The dragons’ names used an imaginative system and I was entertained by analyzing the shortened versions.
Those who are bothered by “insta-love” tales will not appreciate this story, but I liked the bond that formed quickly between the two main characters and it was fun to see them interact in all of their aspects. There are multiple reminders that perception is in the eye of the beholder, and although many of the horrific aspects of negative actions are quickly glossed over, one can’t deny that the dragons can act pretty quickly when they set their minds to it!
As is usual for this author, just enough of this novel world was shared to pique one’s interest, and there are multiple dangling threads in this quick read, but I’m reassured by the knowledge that this is the first novel in the series, so I expect there to be more revelations in subsequent stories and I look forward to reading them.
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“Purgatory Playhouse” by E.J. Russell follows the adventures of theater technician TD Baylor, who is dealing with a perfect storm of problems4.5 stars
“Purgatory Playhouse” by E.J. Russell follows the adventures of theater technician TD Baylor, who is dealing with a perfect storm of problems. When he stumbles into Marden’s Magic Emporium, a fortuitous ad seems like the answer to his prayers…even though it’s wrapped around three giant dog biscuits that he doesn’t really have a use for…or does he? Thus begins an adventure that leads him to meet his idol, Alonzo Coleridge, but that’s impossible, just as impossible as their mutual attraction that can only last until the production goes on, right? Anything can happen when the Greek pantheon is involved, and they’re definitely involved!
This fantasy gay romance takes one on a wonderful and wacky adventure that features a very special theater production. The gradual revelation of the various characters that figure prominently in popular Greek myths and the restitutions or revelations that change the direction of their “lives” are very creative. The story is a wonderful twist on the idea of Purgatory, and a very fun look at the Greek gods and their foibles, plus a sweet romance.
I’m always delighted to see a new story by this author, because there’s always a novel perspective on traditional tropes and myths. I adore the creativity that is mixed with realistic facts, and this visit to the Theater of the Darned grabbed my attention and provided humor and entertainment throughout the entire story. Those who need a refresher (or an introduction) to the myths alluded to, or details about theater production, or the characters in the production itself…can just take a peek at the very end. I was sad when the story ended, and I hope to see these guys again, but I confess that I’m a big fan of whatever this author writes and will enthusiastically join in on whatever adventure she tackles next!
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“King’s Ex” by E.J. Russell is the first book in the ‘Royal Powers II’ series, and it centers around King Bastien, who is caught up in the a4.25 stars
“King’s Ex” by E.J. Russell is the first book in the ‘Royal Powers II’ series, and it centers around King Bastien, who is caught up in the annual celebration of Bonfire Fortnight and nearing a dreaded deadline that will result in him marrying the woman his father chose for him so many years ago. Nico, the efficient Royal Vineyards manager, discovers a loophole that will save Bastien, but who will save Nico, who has closely guarded secrets of his own that may prove deadly?
This gay fantasy romance novella is part of a multi-author series and is the direct sequel to “Duking It Out” and “Duke the Hall”. Bastien’s perfect storm is nearing, and his desperation causes him to jump at the alternative Nico presents, but their respective secrets make this an interesting study of the superhero powers that are part of this universe.
I’d love to have Bastien’s superpowers with regards to my clothing, lol, and it was fascinating to see the synergy that he has with Nico. There are delightful cameos by several characters from the previous stories in this author’s universe, and the fun repartee between several of the characters add to the feeling of comfort and familiarity that makes these stories so compelling. The dark twist that is resolved is a great addition, as is little Polita, and I hope there are more tales to come that exemplify even more of the powers available to the folks in this world. I’m always happy when I see a new story by this author and I anxiously await even more tales from that fertile and innovative imagination!
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