“Baker” by V.L. Locey is the first book in the ‘Bastian Brothers’ series, and features Studebaker (Baker) Bastian, who is forced into contac3.75 stars
“Baker” by V.L. Locey is the first book in the ‘Bastian Brothers’ series, and features Studebaker (Baker) Bastian, who is forced into contact with his half-brothers after the death of their philandering father. The challenge to maintain a struggling ranch is complicated by the terms of their father’s will, not to mention his attraction to Hanley, a wandering wildlife photographer. Life has already honed Baker into a determined but lonely man, but these new obstacles may force him to reevaluate who and he needs in his life in order to do more than just survive.
This adult contemporary western gay romance establishes a new series and introduces four intriguing half-brothers in a dysfunctional family. I had trouble warming up to them at first, and I felt the beginning of the story was a bit stilted, but there are definitely fascinating elements and allusions to dark secrets that drew me into the story. I adore the acceptance of Bella , who is unashamed to be who he is, and shake my head at Grandma and her shenanigans in the early morning. I really enjoy this author’s other stories, but I’m not quite as mesmerized with this series yet. I still look forward to finding out more about the other brothers and the men who will capture their hearts.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“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.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“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.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“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.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...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.”
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“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.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“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.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“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.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Hats to Boots” by B.A. Tortuga is part of the ‘BA’s Cozy Cowboys’ series, and features Trey, who’s almost at the end of his rope between ca4.25 stars
“Hats to Boots” by B.A. Tortuga is part of the ‘BA’s Cozy Cowboys’ series, and features Trey, who’s almost at the end of his rope between caring for two orphan children, dealing with his own medical issues, and trying to ensure the ranch is taken care of. When his ex, West, applies to be the new ranch foreman, Trey isn’t sure he has room in his heart to risk renewing the relationship. It’s up to West to prove he’s learned from his past mistakes.
This adult gay western romance is a lovely addition to the series. What I like most about this author’s stories is the way I’m drawn in immediately to care for the main characters. Trey is facing so many challenges at once, and I really sympathized with his feelings of being overwhelmed, as I’ve been dealing with that myself lately. The kids’ loss and their coping mechanisms are deftly portrayed, and I loved seeing how the men gave them space yet provided all the support they needed. Adding to the heart-wrenching aspects of the story is the progression of Trey’s condition, and the unwavering support that West is willing to provide. This is a touching and uplifting tale, and I look forward to more wonderful additions to this series.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Fool Me Twice” by J.L. Merrow is part of the ‘Glastonbury Tales’ series, and centers around Zig, who has returned to the small town of Glas3.75 stars
“Fool Me Twice” by J.L. Merrow is part of the ‘Glastonbury Tales’ series, and centers around Zig, who has returned to the small town of Glastonbury and reconnected with his ex, Si, despite having ended things badly in the past. Si is reluctant to risk his heart again, and Zig is still burdened by his past, so there are still plenty of obstacles to overcome.
This contemporary gay romance is set in the picturesque small town of Glastonbury, and there are intriguing glimpses of surrounding landmarks, some a bit more risqué than others. I enjoy redemption stories, and it was nice to get a short glimpse of the characters from the previous story in the series (“Face Blind”), but somehow I didn’t form as much of a connection with this pair. I am curious about some of the secondary characters, especially Kai, so I hope there will be more stories in the series. I suspect that this can be read as a stand-alone without any problem, but I still recommend reading the enjoyable first book in the series.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Winter Under the Covers” by Elle Waters is book 3 in the ‘Rosedale Seasons’ series and centers around Connor, a veterinarian who has returned to his “Winter Under the Covers” by Elle Waters is book 3 in the ‘Rosedale Seasons’ series and centers around Connor, a veterinarian who has returned to his small hometown, both to help out his injured mother and to attend his sister’s wedding, and Shay, the florist next door who is providing the flowers for the wedding. Their connection is complicated by the fact that Connor hasn’t come back to stay, nor is he out of the closet.
This gentle adult gay romance does a great job of depicting the complications of meeting familial expectations and the challenges of being true to oneself. I made a connection to these two guys instantly, and I enjoyed watching them get to know each other and decide how important they are to one another. I always have a soft spot for stories with veterinarians, and I loved reading about his patients, and the number of “awww” moments in the story made me want to read the other stories in the series. Hopefully this couple will have cameos in the future because I’d like to see how they’re doing in the future.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Face Blind” by J.L. Merrow is the first book in the ‘Glastonbury Tales’ series and follows Corrin, who has moved to Glastonbury to get away 4.25 stars
“Face Blind” by J.L. Merrow is the first book in the ‘Glastonbury Tales’ series and follows Corrin, who has moved to Glastonbury to get away from the well-meaning people in his life who make it hard for him to accept the tragic results of his car accident, and Adam, who has returned home but has plenty of emotional burdens he is working through. Unfortunately, the fragile connection they feel for each other may not be able to withstand the burden of guilt each is carrying.
This adult gay romance story is both fascinating and sad. There is an interesting blend of the eerie and pragmatic, given the question of whether ghosts really do exist and the challenge of figuring out if someone is familiar when one is unable to recognize anyone. I was drawn to the story because I suffer from a very mild form of this condition, and I definitely sympathized with Corrin’s challenges. Guilt figures prominently in each of the main characters’ lives, and witnessing their journey of trust kept me anxiously turning the pages. One of the things I like the most about romances is that happy feeling I get when the characters find a way to be each other’s safe space, and this book definitely achieved that. I look forward to reading the next book in the series, which fortunately is available now.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Thunder Road” by Morgan Brice is part of the ‘Badlands’ series and features homicide detective Vic D’Amato and his husband, Simon, who are just back “Thunder Road” by Morgan Brice is part of the ‘Badlands’ series and features homicide detective Vic D’Amato and his husband, Simon, who are just back from their honeymoon, and immediately become embroiled in a case that requires Simon’s special abilities.
This adult gay paranormal romance continues the adventure of a charismatic couple who have definitely learned to let their respective abilities complement each other. I always enjoy cameos by other folks from the various series that this author writes, and I applaud Simon’s willingness to consult with others to keep from being in over his head. I love lighthouses and was intrigued by the concept of them acting as foci for a paranormal protection system even as I questioned how the effects of automation could be compensated for in terms of guardians. This author deftly blends fact and fiction, and this was another entertaining quick read in a fascinating series.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Covering the Cowboy” by BA Tortuga is the third book in the ‘Cowboy Wanted’ series and centers around Kyler Hale, single dad to spitfire Pai4.5 stars
“Covering the Cowboy” by BA Tortuga is the third book in the ‘Cowboy Wanted’ series and centers around Kyler Hale, single dad to spitfire Paige, and author Austin Williams, single dad to Dallas, and their adventures together.
This adult contemporary gay romance is such a lovely depiction of the bonds between fathers and their children even as it explores a burgeoning relationship between two very different single dads. I ladored these kids and their respective fathers who are determined to make life easy for their kids. There are such great vivid scenes, especially as Paige takes up for the underdog Dallas and they form their tight friendship. There are so many “awww” moments that one almost gets distracted from the heat that builds between the men, but that relationship is also deftly portrayed. This is one of those stories I’ll read again and again, just to savor the cute scenes and to appreciate the initial awkwardness between the hunky novice cover model and the author who uses him as inspiration.
This is a feel-good story that reminds me of why I enjoy this author’s writing so much, and it made me curious about the other books in the series, so I was delighted to discover that the first one is on sale. I look forward to reading about more of these yummy cowboys.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Kestrel & Kee (Paranormal Investigators): The Siren of Lake Killikee by V.L. Locey follows Archimedes Kee, whose tutoring sessions lead to 4.25 stars
“Kestrel & Kee (Paranormal Investigators): The Siren of Lake Killikee by V.L. Locey follows Archimedes Kee, whose tutoring sessions lead to an unexpected result. No, not the interruption of the regular ghostly book club meetings, but a budding relationship with popular football star Phil Kestrel (Kes). Unfortunately, there are several elements that may keep them from becoming closer, including an inimical force that may be responsible for several missing males.
This new-adult gay paranormal romance is such a fun story and has wonderful twists and turns. I love that the athlete is pursuing the nerd, and although he has to learn to accept some pretty remarkable events, he perseveres and helps reconcile Kee to his worth and value. The blend of cultures and abilities leads to entertaining adventures, and these guys are just so cute together that I was captivated by the story. I hope there are many more tales featuring this great couple.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Their Nine-Month Surprise” by Laurel Greer features Marisol Cardenas, who moves to Sutter Creek to welcome her baby to the world and hopefully involv“Their Nine-Month Surprise” by Laurel Greer features Marisol Cardenas, who moves to Sutter Creek to welcome her baby to the world and hopefully involve Lachlan Reid in his child’s life. Now they have to come to an agreement on how to form their new family.
Although this contemporary romance is part of the ‘Sutter Creek’ series, there is no problem reading it as a stand-alone story. I was immediately captivated by Marisol’s determination to involve Lachlan in their baby’s life even as I ached at his conflict and dismay at the unexpected news that evokes his own painful past. I love that these two were prepared to step up and do whatever was best, no matter how difficult. It is great to see Caleb healing from his own wounds and in his element, and I always enjoy when characters from other books in the series have cameos in later tales.
I think this is the best book in the series thus far, and I was happy to feel a connection with these main characters. This was an inspirational and heartwarming story and I was delighted to have something to elevate my spirits during the challenging times we’re living in currently.
A copy was provided for review
Merged review:
“Their Nine-Month Surprise” by Laurel Greer features Marisol Cardenas, who moves to Sutter Creek to welcome her baby to the world and hopefully involve Lachlan Reid in his child’s life. Now they have to come to an agreement on how to form their new family.
Although this contemporary romance is part of the ‘Sutter Creek’ series, there is no problem reading it as a stand-alone story. I was immediately captivated by Marisol’s determination to involve Lachlan in their baby’s life even as I ached at his conflict and dismay at the unexpected news that evokes his own painful past. I love that these two were prepared to step up and do whatever was best, no matter how difficult. It is great to see Caleb healing from his own wounds and in his element, and I always enjoy when characters from other books in the series have cameos in later tales.
I think this is the best book in the series thus far, and I was happy to feel a connection with these main characters. This was an inspirational and heartwarming story and I was delighted to have something to elevate my spirits during the challenging times we’re living in currently.
What a fun story. It starts with a bang, enmeshes you in the quirky heroine's life, adds a mystery, and keeps you turning the page. The Brand family iWhat a fun story. It starts with a bang, enmeshes you in the quirky heroine's life, adds a mystery, and keeps you turning the page. The Brand family is entertaining and charismatic, and the connection they all have with each other is heartwarming. Some of the suspense is a little forced for me, and the hero is a little too befuddled and bemused at times, but this is still an enjoyable and uplifting story. Great start to the series, and I look forward to reading about more of these family members. ...more
“Ghostridden” by EJ Russell is a fun gay paranormal story that has a delightful mixture of genres that grabbed me from the first line and kep4.5 stars
“Ghostridden” by EJ Russell is a fun gay paranormal story that has a delightful mixture of genres that grabbed me from the first line and kept me anxiously turning the pages. I love the way things slowly escalate from an unforeseen windfall to uncanny occurrences to a murder mystery, all within a small-town framework. There are plenty of fascinating characters, including those with an obsession to contact ghosts, which makes it all the more amusing that both Maz and his cat are the only ones who can see and interact with a ghost.
This is the beginning of a series, so there are a few dangling threads, and I am anxiously awaiting sequels to help resolve some of the overall arcs as well as introduce additional quirky characters. After all, there can’t help but be more fun times in a town called Ghost, inhabited by ghosts, that welcomed a ghostwriter who may just provide services to help a ghost write a book.
A copy of this title was provided for review...more
“Once an Alpha” by Kaje Harper centers on David, and Alpha who has left his pack after a terrible personal tragedy but is accompanied by his faithful “Once an Alpha” by Kaje Harper centers on David, and Alpha who has left his pack after a terrible personal tragedy but is accompanied by his faithful Second, Rob. As the two men try to work out how their lives and relationship will settle out without their pack, they become embroiled with several lone wolves who need an alpha’s mediation, which complicates everything, especially their future.
This adult gay paranormal romance is set in the same world as the delicious ‘Hidden Wolves’ series, and reminds me of why I enjoy this author’s works so much. The artful combination of creating vivid characters and realistic locations always draw me in immediately. I enjoyed getting to know the various wolf shifters in this small town even as I sympathized with the reason for David having to leave his original pack and marveled at Rob’s tenacity and loyalty. I don’t quite have the same intense connection that I formed with Aaron and his pack, but I am definitely curious about the characters introduced in this story, especially the enigmatic and mysterious Julian, so I hope there will be more stories at some point.
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more
“Silver Buckle Linings” by B.A. Tortuga is part of the ‘BA’s Cozy Cowboys’ series and features nurse Ben Collier who has to deal with his beloved new “Silver Buckle Linings” by B.A. Tortuga is part of the ‘BA’s Cozy Cowboys’ series and features nurse Ben Collier who has to deal with his beloved new baby boy plus a mysterious and attractive stranger who he rescues from a thundersnow storm. It turns out the newcomer has an ulterior motive that isn’t revealed until Ben starts to fall for him, but their nascent relationship may not survive the revelations that start coming fast and furious.
This delicious adult contemporary gay romance centers around family. I love that these two men bond over a child that one already loves unconditionally and the other loves sight unseen. There is some family drama in the background and a weird stalking issue, but the primary focus is on the baby, family (both blood related and not), and animals…so many fun animals. This is a heartwarming read with a few mysteries that are left unsolved but a nice twist on some tropes. I hope to see some of these characters in future stories and I intend to look for other books in this series since I’m definitely in the mood for more “awwww” moments!
A copy of this title was provided for review ...more