“Walking on Broken Paths” by Amy Aislin details the complicated relationship between best friends whose relationship was sundered by grief an4.5 stars
“Walking on Broken Paths” by Amy Aislin details the complicated relationship between best friends whose relationship was sundered by grief and distance. Jesse returns to Prince Edward Island where he must face his demons, and Parker, the guy he left behind when he fled the tragedy that imploded his life. Neither of them is the same lighthearted person they once were, but perhaps their shared history will lead them on a path of healing.
This adult contemporary gay romance grabs the reader by the emotions and takes one on a multi-tissue journey. I tend to prefer lighter-hearted stories, but I was captured immediately and invested in these two guys who are dealing with heavy burdens that somehow they must find a way to cope with.
The somewhat mystical element only enhanced the story, and gave me a sense of reassurance, even as I kept willing Jesse to comprehend the message he was receiving. I love that his parents accepted his emotional journey as his own even as they strove to be supportive, and I enjoyed watching these two guys work their way through their challenges.
Not content with the catharsis I received from reading this beautiful story, I immediately looked for other works by this author and started one of her hockey series. Who needs sleep? And I think the title is just perfect, even if it may be a mondegreen.
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“The Witch Roads” by Kate Elliott is the first book in a duology that describes a harsh world that is hemmed in by an inimical force known as4.5 stars
“The Witch Roads” by Kate Elliott is the first book in a duology that describes a harsh world that is hemmed in by an inimical force known as the Pall, which exerts its effects through Spores, which transmit the evil just as the name indicates. Elen, an established Deputy Courier, gets dragged unwillingly into court intrigues when she is conscripted to guide one of the highest princes to an unexpected destination. Unfortunately, Elen has secrets of her own, and it will remain to be seen whether they will be an asset or lead to her downfall.
This intricate fantasy features a vividly written world that is both intimidating and mesmerizing. The combination of mystery and fantastical elements draw one in immediately, and the gradual unveiling of the complicated hierarchy keeps one invested in the story. Those with triggers should be advised that this is a VERY harsh world, with attendant abuse and mistreatment, but mostly as past occurrences. There are many dangling threads to keep one invested in looking out for the sequel, and a myriad of fascinating details that are just mentioned in passing (such as the animals used as transportation facilities for the nobility) that I would love to have more information about. This is one of those books that keeps you enthralled, with plenty of twists and turns, but makes impatient people like me anxious to read the next one immediately! I look forward to seeing how some of the conundrums work out and hope that certain folks get their justly deserved comeuppances.
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“The Lost Art of Finding Where You Belong” by Ellie Ash is the second book in the ‘Lost Arts’ series and continues the saga started in “The Lost Art o“The Lost Art of Finding Where You Belong” by Ellie Ash is the second book in the ‘Lost Arts’ series and continues the saga started in “The Lost Art of Seducing a Mage Warrior” as Perian tries to figure out his ongoing role in Mage Warrior Brannan’s life, with a little help from friends, and an enemy or two.
This adult gay fantasy romance is more introspective than the first book in the series. Unfortunately, for me, it seemed like a series of sex scenes, with a lot of voyeurism, and not much adventure. Perian does start to make his own connections without being constantly in Brannal’s shadow, and I am happy to see that they continue to work on their relationship. There are a couple of unexplained conflicts that may be resolved in subsequent stories, and I enjoyed being introduced to new secondary characters that will hopefully get their own time in the spotlight. I look forward to seeing Perian continue to grow, and reading about more entertaining adventures in this world.
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“Treasure and Tarot” by Minerva Howe is the first book in the ‘Echoes of Secret Springs’ series but connects to other stories by this author. Single f“Treasure and Tarot” by Minerva Howe is the first book in the ‘Echoes of Secret Springs’ series but connects to other stories by this author. Single father Sebastian has been content to raise his child in the familial haunted house, but suddenly the spirits have become more active and possibly a bit dangerous. A film crew coming to study the paranormal activity brings even more unwelcome complications, and Sebastian will have to decide if he’s going to have to leave his home forever.
This adult gay paranormal mpreg romance mixes fantasy and realism in a great combination, and features fun, although eerie, contributions from the ghosts that Sebastian is used to providing background in his daily life. I was immediately captivated by the characters, and even though I haven’t read the books that connect to this one, I had no problem becoming immersed in the action. I think this is a great introduction to the series, and I can’t wait to see what additional adventures are set in this unique town.
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“Nine-Tenths” by J.M. Frey features Colin, a barista, who hasn’t quite decided what he wants to do with his degree in environmental and sustainable to“Nine-Tenths” by J.M. Frey features Colin, a barista, who hasn’t quite decided what he wants to do with his degree in environmental and sustainable tourism, and the mysterious, well-dressed dragon who comes in for a special cup of coffee every day. As they each learn more about each other, they discover that their growing relationship may impact far more beings than they ever imagined.
This adult gay paranormal romance provides an intriguing twist on history and explores multiple concepts of coexistence and political maneuvering even as it chronicles an unusual and complicated love affair. I love Colin’s approach to life and cheeky attitude and his dragon’s self-effacing courtship. There are multiple poignant aspects, as each of the main characters has experienced life-changing loss, yet these are leavened by the unexpected lighthearted episodes that can be wacky. Great eye-opener about alternative historical facts. The omniscient comments about where we were in the story were a bit jarring and seemed unnecessary, but thankfully were relatively few. Fun story. I hope to see more about secondary characters in the future.
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“Doing Life” is Book 2 in the ‘Rocking W’ series by BA Tortuga and features wounded warriors Lance and Sloan as they find a way to navigate 4.25 stars
“Doing Life” is Book 2 in the ‘Rocking W’ series by BA Tortuga and features wounded warriors Lance and Sloan as they find a way to navigate life and resolve whether they have a future together.
This contemporary gay military and western romance is a wonderful addition to a poignant series. I love this author’s ability to create such vivid characters who have to find a way to overcome significant injuries that have devastated their lives. Lance is slowly learning to cope with his blindness, with the help of his wonderful guide dog, but must decide whether he will accept his former lover back into his life. This thought-provoking and romantic story depicts some of the many struggles our injured warriors face as they try to integrate back into civilian life and adjust to the high price many have paid for their service. There are beautiful heartfelt scenes along with a few hair-raising adventures that keep one invested in the story. As always, I had lovely warm fuzzy feelings by the end of this tale, and I hope that some of the secondary characters also get their time in the spotlight.
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“Kael” is the second book in the ‘Monsters and Mates’ series by Becca Seymour. It centers around Sonny, a sassy Aussie who is forced into cl3.75 stars
“Kael” is the second book in the ‘Monsters and Mates’ series by Becca Seymour. It centers around Sonny, a sassy Aussie who is forced into close proximity to stoic Glowranth bodyguard to the prince, Kael. During a desperate race to save a fellow Aussie, Sonny and Kael must learn to work together and find a way to deal with the surprising connection they are forming…if they live through their quest.
This adult gay paranormal romance continues to explore the bonds that form between humans and the remarkable beings who populate an alternate world that is somehow drawing males from a particular area of Earth. The author is adept at exploring the importance of perception and its effects on the connections that are formed. I had trouble connecting to this particular pair but was still intrigued by all of the cantankerous beings that inhabit this world. There are plenty of dangling strings that connect these stories, and one can’t help but be entertained by sassy Sonny and to feel for the conflict that Kael has to overcome. This is an imaginative story set in a harsh world, and I am sure there will be additional adventures that involve even more Aussies.
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Wonderful collection of material, including poetry. There are so many lovely stories, representing all walks of life and truly reflecting the eclecticWonderful collection of material, including poetry. There are so many lovely stories, representing all walks of life and truly reflecting the eclectic nature of Los Angeles itself. A fantastic and generous collection to benefit one of our greatest resources--our libraries. Kudos and thanks to all who contributed and to everyone who purchases a copy....more
“The Wounded Warrior” by BA Tortuga is the first book in the ‘Rocking W’ series and introduces Luke, a severely injured SEAL who is struggli4.25 stars
“The Wounded Warrior” by BA Tortuga is the first book in the ‘Rocking W’ series and introduces Luke, a severely injured SEAL who is struggling to find meaning to his life even as he tries to help his twin brother until he runs into the human tornado known as Rory, whose acrimonious relationship with Luke’s brother somehow doesn’t impede the growing attraction that forms. The question is whether their relationship will survive all of the challenges that are thrown at it, some of which may prove to be fatal.
This adult contemporary gay romance is being re-released as the first book in a lovely series. Ironically, I had just savored it a week ago and was delighted to see that there is a sequel available, although I evidently will still have to wait for the twin’s romance. I adore the guys’ mom, and there is a scene that just tickled me as she demonstrates where her boys got their grit from. This author has a gift for creating charismatic characters honed in the harshest of crucibles as well as those who are unapologetically themselves, and I continue to enjoy the interactions and the beautiful romances that arise. I look forward to many more enthralling stories, especially the next in this series, “Doing Life.”
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“Duty and Desire” by KC Wells centers around Gio, who’s struggling with writer’s block and takes advantage of a friend’s offer to relocate to3.5 stars
“Duty and Desire” by KC Wells centers around Gio, who’s struggling with writer’s block and takes advantage of a friend’s offer to relocate to an island paradise. A growing attachment to a hardworking man named Nick leads him to a foreign land and facing decisions he never dreamed of, despite his vivid imagination.
This adult contemporary gay romance with low angst has a somewhat predictable sequence of events. Although I normally enjoy this author’s stories, I had trouble becoming immersed in the story and connecting with these characters. As always, there is vivid imagery and the story is easy to read, and is a perfect beach story.
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“Rival for Rent” by Spencer Spears is the first book in the ‘Heartbreakers Anonymous’ series and centers around ex-military man Mason, who is3.5 stars
“Rival for Rent” by Spencer Spears is the first book in the ‘Heartbreakers Anonymous’ series and centers around ex-military man Mason, who is trying to cope with civilian life and as a favor to his sister reluctantly acts as a bodyguard to Kai, who isn’t convinced that he is actually in danger. The contentious history the two guys share doesn’t help any, but escalating threats force them into close proximity and a better understanding of their complicated relationship.
This adult gay contemporary romance introduces a series with an interesting premise and has a nice element of suspense, but I had trouble connecting to the characters. For me, it was a bit strange that Mason had blocked out so much of their shared history, not to mention Kai’s refusal to take the threats as serious as he should have, plus a few other inconsistencies. Despite this, the story was easy to read and had a sweet doggie character who I enjoyed.
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“A Touch of Maple” by Amy Aislin is part of the multi-author ‘Love in Maplewood’ series set in Maplewood, Vermont. This particular story centers aroun“A Touch of Maple” by Amy Aislin is part of the multi-author ‘Love in Maplewood’ series set in Maplewood, Vermont. This particular story centers around a hockey player, Bellamy, who just wants the security of being appreciated for his talents and not traded any longer. Unfortunately, his biggest rival’s brother, Jason, isn’t ready to roll out the welcome mat. Jason has his own challenges, and that doesn’t include burying the hatchet and welcoming Bellamy…or does it?
This adult contemporary gay romance features a delightful combination of hockey and beautiful New England scenery, with fascinating information about syrup production as a bonus. Who knew other trees could be used to make syrup? I love the glimpses of small-town rivalries such as the importance of choosing the “right” diner to eat at, and the workarounds to overcome such obstacles, lol. This was my introduction to a fun series, and I definitely want to read more stories set in this idyllic location, plus I enjoyed this author’s style so much I am going to be looking for other works.
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“Cullen” by Minerva Howe is the second book in the ‘Dragon Guardian’ series, and introduces Orion, a unicorn shifter, who is the fated mate 3.75 stars
“Cullen” by Minerva Howe is the second book in the ‘Dragon Guardian’ series, and introduces Orion, a unicorn shifter, who is the fated mate of Cullen, one of the dragon shifter brothers who is a guardian in the house that has exits into several different worlds. The two of them enjoy finding out what they have in common and how their powers can complement each other, even as they struggle to keep all they hold dear safe in the increasingly perilous world they are living in.
This adult paranormal gay romance is part of the spin-off series that centers around dragons and their mates that are occupying a very special house. Although I still have a bit of a hiccup with the mpreg aspect, and I was sometimes disconcerted by the erratic passage of time in the story, I enjoyed the variety of shifters, including a beaver named Yarrow, and the hybrids that are introduced in each story. The combination of adorable and precocious kids—some with wings, some with hooves, many with sharp teeth—and the grumpy and expectant dads, plus the hint of danger due to the voracious vampire threat make this a fun and quick read. There are a few dangling threads that make me anxious to see what happens next in this world, and there are wonderful glimpses of the other worlds the dragons and unicorn are connected to. I look forward to seeing what happens with the next dragon brother and his mate, not to mention the chaos that will ensue as some of the little ones mature.
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“Zeke and Wesley” by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga is the first book in ‘The Barn’ series and centers around Dominant Wesley, who REALLY hates flying but “Zeke and Wesley” by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga is the first book in ‘The Barn’ series and centers around Dominant Wesley, who REALLY hates flying but has traveled across the country to try out a remote BDSM site, and submissive and reclusive Zeke, who hasn’t set foot off the property for 1000 days. The two men have very different lifestyles and approaches to life, yet somehow they form a tenuous connection, but it may not be able to survive the challenges that threaten to destroy everything they’re building.
This adult gay contemporary BDSM romance introduces a fascinating (and chilly!) location known as The Barn, where those in the lifestyle can explore their desires. I was drawn to Zeke, who has settled into a rut that allows him to function yet feel secure. It took me a bit of time to warm up to Wesley since he is pretty incapacitated at first, but it makes what he’s willing to do to keep Zeke in his life even more impressive. Although this is a happy-for-now story, it was compelling and entertaining, and I look forward to learning about more couples and I am sure I will enjoy seeing how Zeke’s challenges are resolved.
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“The Lost Art of Seducing a Mage Warrior” by Ellie Ash centers around Perian, who is rescued by Brannal, who is the head of the Mage Warrior4.25 stars
“The Lost Art of Seducing a Mage Warrior” by Ellie Ash centers around Perian, who is rescued by Brannal, who is the head of the Mage Warriors. Despite their significant differences in attitudes, vocations, and physiques, the two form an unexpected connection. Unfortunately, not everyone is supportive of their relationship, and given Perian’s propensity for getting into complicated situations, their future is definitely not guaranteed.
This adult gay fantasy romance is so much fun. I was drawn in immediately, enjoyed the world-building, and was pleasantly surprised that the story flowed so well even though this is the first book in the series—which can sometimes be an overwhelming mass of details. It has a happy for now ending and there are plenty of dangling strings to keep one invested in these folks, and, even better, there’s a freebie prequel available that centers around a couple of the characters in this story. I am impressed that this is a debut story and will definitely be on the watch for additional stories by this talented author.
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“Outfoxed” by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga is part of the ‘On the Ranch’ series and features Trent James, who is recuperating from significant 4.25 stars
“Outfoxed” by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga is part of the ‘On the Ranch’ series and features Trent James, who is recuperating from significant injuries while trying to juggle all of his responsibilities. Fox and his daughter are recovering from their own losses and their visit means they have to adjust to an entirely new way of life, complete with fascinating animals. Now to find out whether this is going to be just a temporary interlude or a permanent arrangement.
This adult gay cowboy romance story features memorable characters, charismatic kids, intriguing animals, and a slow-building heartwarming romance. I was immediately drawn into the story and sympathized with both of the main characters for the trauma (both physical and emotional) that they’ve gone through. Of course, the kids steal the show, and the joy they share with everyone keeps things from becoming too weighty. I love the variety of animals integrated into the ranch life, even though some things move a bit smoother than I would think would happen! This is a lovely inspirational story that reminds us to pick up and carry on (with a little help from our friends) when life knocks us down, and the cameos by characters from another book was a nice addition. Although this is part of a series, there is no problem reading it as a stand-alone story.
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“Courting the Dragon Prince” by Gigi Rivers is part of the ‘A Royal Arrangement’ series. This story explores the arranged marriage between O3.75 stars
“Courting the Dragon Prince” by Gigi Rivers is part of the ‘A Royal Arrangement’ series. This story explores the arranged marriage between Onyx, the earth elemental mage, and his hated enemy, the hedonistic Prince Luther. Each man tries to put aside their antagonism, but the trauma in their respective pasts may end any rapport before it is established.
This adult gay fantasy romance continues in the world established in “Courting the Dragon Lord” and gives a deeper insight into the horrors of the conflict that prompted the treaty being established via the arranged marriages. I had trouble connecting to these characters and was frustrated by their constant communication issues even though I could understand how many obstacles they had to overcome, given their respective horrific experiences. I love dragons, and I appreciate this author’s version of them, and there are definitely dangling threads that I look forward to having explored in additional books.
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“The Bargain” by Jocelynn Drake is the first book in the ‘Executive Suites’ series and features CEO Sebastian and his oh-so-efficient assist4.25 stars
“The Bargain” by Jocelynn Drake is the first book in the ‘Executive Suites’ series and features CEO Sebastian and his oh-so-efficient assistant Byron, whose excellent working relationship is threatened when their personal connection deepens.
This adult contemporary gay romance is a lovely introduction to the series and features likeable characters who back themselves into an untenable situation. I connected to these two immediately and loved their repartee, and even though this is a familiar trope of forbidden workplace romance, I still felt for their highs and lows. I really liked that Bryon’s strength was emphasized as he gracefully deals with the tragedies and challenges life has thrown at him. The story was very believable, and I was uplifted by the magic woven by this talented author. I definitely needed a feel-good story, and this was perfect to provide me with warm fuzzies.
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“Courting the Dragon Lord” by Gigi Rivers provides the introduction to the ‘Royal Arrangement’ series that features dragons and mages who ar3.75 stars
“Courting the Dragon Lord” by Gigi Rivers provides the introduction to the ‘Royal Arrangement’ series that features dragons and mages who are trying to move beyond their previous adversarial relations. Lord Barrett Morton competes to win the hand of the royal prince, Ash, but a misunderstanding may ruin the accord, and the relationship, before either can get started.
This adult gay fantasy story introduces a world where former enemies are warily seeking to become allies. Neither of the main characters is appreciated by his respective family, and both are a bit insecure. I love stories that emphasize how each becomes the other’s champion and makes them better, and it was heartwarming to see how both of them blossom. This is a quick introduction to the world that Ash and Barrett live in, so there are a lot of dangling threads, but I look forward to learning more about this society and especially the powers that the dragons and mages have.
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“Rebel Hearts: The Complete Series” by Spencer Spears consists of “My First Time Fling”, “My Straight Husband”, and “My Irresistible Enemy”.3.75 stars
“Rebel Hearts: The Complete Series” by Spencer Spears consists of “My First Time Fling”, “My Straight Husband”, and “My Irresistible Enemy”. All three stories focus on unexpected pairings that start out as fake but have the possibility to develop into something real.
This trio of adult gay romance stories have characters that connect them even as the main characters find a way to overcome various significant obstacles and to progress from faking a relationship to actually having one. The heat is high in all three stories but one should be warned that the third story gets pretty graphic and a bit uncomfortable, at least for me, so those with triggers about sexual harassment should use caution. I enjoyed the theme of a fake relationship that becomes real and it was fun that all three were set in the same location in Georgia. I had a bit of trouble connecting with the main characters for the second and third books, but it was nice to get glimpses of the pairs from each previous story, and there are lovely happy endings.
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