Sonali Dev and Susan Kaye Quinn met in a most unusual place: Library Journal’s Top 10 E-Romance List for 2014. Sonali’s A Bollywood Affair and Susan’s Third Daughter both made the list with their Bollywood-themed romances – something that was so cool, it cried out to be celebrated!
A Bollywood Affair by Sonali Dev
The Third Daughter of the Queen wants to her birthday to arrive so she’ll be free to marry for love, but rumors of a new flying weapon may force her to accept a barbarian prince’s proposal for a peace-brokering marriage. Desperate to marry the charming courtesan she loves, Aniri agrees to the prince’s proposal as a subterfuge in order to spy on him, find the weapon, and hopefully avoid both war and an arranged marriage to a man she does not love.Third Daughter is the first book in the Dharian Affairs Trilogy (Third Daughter, Second Daughter, First Daughter). This steampunk-goes-to-Bollywood (Bollypunk!) romance takes place in an east-indian-flavored alternate world filled with skyships, saber duels, and lots of royal intrigue. And, of course, kissing.
I have read and loved all the books in this series. Aniri is a fantastic character, and her fearless devotion to her family and friends leads her on a journey that risks much and saves her world from war. Eventually… Click the titles for my reviews on THIRD DAUGHTER, SECOND DAUGHTER, and FIRST DAUGHTER.
This short Q&A with Sonali and Susan talks about marrying for love and writing romance!
***GIVEAWAY***
Click the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!
They Found Love OFF CAMPUS–A Review
Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for a contemporary new adult M/M romance from fellow Chicagoan, Amy Jo Cousins. OFF CAMPUS is an “Odd Couple” for the college set, with d-lish loving, redemption, prejudice and good ol’ fun.
About the book:
Everyone’s got secrets. Some are just harder to hide.
With his father’s ponzi scheme assets frozen, Tom Worthington believes finishing college is impossible unless he can pay his own way. After months sleeping in his car and gypsy-cabbing for cash, he’s ready to do just that.
But his new, older-student housing comes with an unapologetically gay roommate. Tom doesn’t ask why Reese Anders has been separated from the rest of the student population. He’s just happy to be sleeping in a bed.
Reese isn’t about to share his brutal story with his gruff new roommate. You’ve seen one homophobic jock, you’ve seen ’em all. He plans to drag every twink on campus into his bed until Tom moves out. But soon it becomes clear Tom isn’t budging.
Tom isn’t going to let some late-night sex noise scare him off, especially when it’s turning him on. But he doesn’t want any drama either. He’ll keep his hands, if not his eyes, to himself. Boundaries have a way of blurring when you start sharing truths, though. And if Tom and Reese cross too many lines, they may need to find out just how far they can bend…before they break.
Warning: This book contains cranky roommates who vacillate between lashing out and licking, some male/male voyeurism, emotional baggage that neither guy wants to unpack, and the definitive proof that sound carries in college housing.
My Review:
Tom Worthington is homeless. Destitute. A college junior who earns his tuition money as a cab driver in Boston. Life hasn’t always been this way, however. He was rich, once. The only son of a successful investment manager. Tom’s mother died when he was young, and his relationship with his dad was always more of a mentoring, rather than nurturing, one. Well, until his father was convicted of running a Ponzi scheme and Tom’s silver spoon was yanked straight from his mouth. It took Tom a year to save up enough money for his college term, and he’s not giving that up for anyone.
Reese Anders is sophomore who survived abuse last term. He was promised a single room, and is livid that a “brutish jock”, Tom, has been assigned to share with him. Reese is out, a bit of a “twink” and planning to make Tom’s life miserable–parading a line of sex partners and nude man posters into their room.
Problem is, Tom’s not so put off. Seems Tom is bisexual, and strangely attracted to the hands-off spitfire, Reese. Tom has had precious little contact with anyone for nearly 18-months, not since his dad was arrested, and later tried to commit suicide, so he’s basically on emotional sensory overload sharing living space with Reese.
Okay. There are lots of issues at play. Tom is too proud to admit he’s homeless. Reese assumes he has money, because many of their fellow students are pretty well off, and Tom does nothing to dismiss this notion. Tom works really hard, studying like crazy, knowing he must make the most of this time–he may not earn enough money to pay for next semester. Reese begins to confide in Tom why he’s so afraid of big guys, jocks, and Tom, in particular. It’s not as (completely) horrifying as I had anticipated, but violation is violation and I’m not going to downplay it. It, nonetheless, is a big part of Reese’s character, and an issue he and Tom must work through if they are to forge ahead with a relationship.
Of course, Tom doesn’t want to be a blip on the radar anywhere. He had troubles with tabloid articles in the past–some stories having been sold from “friends” when he actually broke down and confided in some of them–and is intensely private, now. So, being “out” with Reese is a Not Gonna Do It scenario. I was a bit dismayed by Tom’s rationalizations–as was Reese.
This story unfolds over the course of two semesters, and is completely told from Tom’s POV. Tom’s fear of scrutiny and Reese’s unwillingness to be silenced clash, a good bit. It was great to see Tom open up, be more of a real person than a shadow-student. He and Reese are unlikely partners, but they work. I appreciated Tom’s pain and embarrassment over his father’s criminal activity–and how determined he was to not take help that should go to “more deserving” kids. One’s whose parents weren’t thieves. His righteousness was admirable, in that regard. I wasn’t so taken with his reticence to accept his sexuality, but I think that goes along with the age. Tom’s 22, and Reese’s 20.
I got a real kick out of Tom’s buddy, Cash.
Tom ignored Cash’s staring back and forth between the two of them.
The struggle to wrap his brain around the sex thing was occupying most of Cash’s working brain cells.
“Just, why?” He needed to talk it out. Great. “Okay, cute dude, not my thing, but whatever floats your boat. And I guess it makes sense that a dude knows his way around a dick, so okay, I can see how that works. But your ass, man. Why you wanna go sticking something up there?”
“Does my sex life have to make sense to you? Because I am not having this conversation!” Tom’s words were muffled by the sweatshirt he dragged over his head, but he was pretty sure everyone on the hall heard that one.
The resolution is good. The story has real heart and some fun bits. It’s also very naughty, in parts, so….yay for me! Not for the kiddos, however.
Interested? You can find OFF CAMPUS on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Google Play, iBooks, and on the Samhain website. I got a review copy of this book from NetGalley.
About the Author:
You can find Amy Jo online on her website, Goodreads, Facebook and twitter.
Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends!
They Were Linked DANGEROUSLY FOREVER–Review and Giveaway
Hi all! Today I’m reviewing a sci-fi erotic romance newly released by best-selling author AM Griffin. DANGEROUSLY FOREVER is a whirlwind of human slavery, daring escapes and forever love–pretty much in that order.
About the Book:
Being kidnapped by a deadly—and dead sexy—brothel slave wasn’t exactly what Kiehle Xochis signed up for. His instructions had been simple: Watch over the human female until his brother and his mate arrived to rescue her. Instead, the slave has decided to liberate herself. She’s proving to be more than Kiehle can handle—and he kind of likes it.
Allysan Miller has gone through hell since being taken from Earth during an invasion. She’s finally found a way to escape the latest, and worst, of the brothels she’s been sold to. Now if Ally plays her cards right, she could gain both freedom and love…if she can learn to trust the dangerous male she’s chosen as her hostage.
Inside Scoop: Ally suffers her share of abuse at the hands of a brothel owner’s guards. But don’t worry. The feisty female warrior gives as good as she gets.
A Romantica® SciFi erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave
How about an excerpt!
Flustered at being mesmerized by him, yet again, she turned and focused her attention back on the post and practiced fighting combinations. Not giving in to the temptation to turn and watch him more.
From the corner of her eye, she saw him crouch low to stretch his thighs. The material of his pants stuck to every fine muscular line.
Even outlining his…
She gave her head a light shake. There’s no need to focus on that…that…monstrous thing.
She eyed the post and focused hard. Left, right, cross and duck. Left, right, cross and duck. As he finally walked over to her, she mentally repeated the words, trying to drown out the other voices in her head. The voices that whispered how delicious he looked…that begged her to let him crush her under his weight.
By the time he stood a foot away, the chant sounded more like, Left! Right! Cross! And duck! Left! Right! Cross! And duck!
He moved to her side and assumed a fighting stance, crouching low with his arms out, his smoldering lavender eyes trained on her. His face was framed by thick dark hair that hung a little past his shoulders. Good gracious, he was gorgeous.
She gave him a look of indifference. “We’re sparring?”
“Unless you think I might be too much for you to handle.”
He didn’t know what he was walking into. She’d spent the morning thinking of ways to knock him on his back—and not the way he was probably thinking of now.
She twisted her hair into a knot on the back of her head. He didn’t make a move to do anything with his. Hanging loose, it made him look primal…dangerous…sexy.
Shit.
She narrowed her gaze. He must think that every female around him should swoon like a schoolgirl. He really didn’t need to take off his shirt to advertise his perfect body and that stretching performance had been way over the top. Now his hair was blowing around his face as if he were some kind of alien Fabio.
She looked around. Where the hell is all this wind coming from? “Are you planning to tie back your hair?” she asked, trying her best to sound annoyed—not aroused.
“I had not planned to.” Smiling, he added, “Unless you find it too distracting.”
My Review:
Following Earth’s occupation, Ally becomes a human slave, separated from her dead husband and best friend Eva. She’s not very good at being a slave, however, and continues to get sold to increasingly brutal brothel owners because, well, she has a tendency to maim/kill clients or guards who mistreat her. At her sixth brothel she unwillingly befriends a young boy, Max, the personal pet of her owner. She’s already killed a few o his guards, but when Alharad notices her affinity for Max he’s finally got the right tool to bend Ally’s strong will: threatening Max.
Eva survived her purchase, and thrived. She’s married to the king of Drazlan and has been scouring the galaxy for Ally for years. When she finally finds her, Eva is on the verge of delivering a baby and cannot travel so she sends her brother-in-law, Kiehle, to secure Ally. Kiehle is a warrior, but he’s no match for the cunning of a momma bear. See, Alharad plans to put Max and his friend Yoshi to work as prostitutes, and Ally knows a prince has his own transport. She constructs a half-baked, but daring, plan to kidnap Kiehle and escape with her two child charges.
Best laid plans of desperate women aside, Kiehle is terrifyingly impressed by Ally’s ferocity and loyalty. He’s attracted to her warrior heart as much as to her physical attributes and allows her to “capture” him. There begins the chase scenes and the “Ally can’t trust nobody” interlude. There’s some steam and a whole lot of humor throughout. Ally is a kickass heroine who’s gonna save her kids, and herself, in that order. Kiehle is a great male lead–totally loving and sensitive, while also being huge and hot.
The reunion between Eva and Ally is tender and real. It’s such a romp of a book, with appropriately timed plot twists and great relationships–not just the romance, but also the friendships. Fun, sexy and funny–it’s a triple threat. Kinda like Ally.
Interested? You can find DANGEROUSLY FOREVER on Goodreads, Ellora’s Cave, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.
****GIVEAWAY****
Click the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win
an eBook of DANGEROUSLY MINE
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck and keep reading my friends!
About the Author:A. M. Griffin is a wife who rarely cooks, mother of three, dog owner (and sometimes dog owned), a daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She’s a hard worker whose two favorite outlets are reading and writing. She enjoys reading everything from mystery novels to historical romances and of course fantasy romance. She is a believer in the unbelievable, open to all possibilities from mermaids in our oceans and seas, angels in the skies and intelligent life forms in distant galaxies.
You can find Ms. Griffin on her website, Amazon, Goodreads, twitter and Facebook. Or sign up for her newsletter.
Just A Matter of WHEN–A Review
Hi there! Today I’m reviewing a newly released YA book that captivated me from the first page. Victoria Laurie’s WHEN centers on Maddie, an ordinary girl with an extraordinary gift–she can see the death dates of every person she meets.
About the Book:
Maddie Fynn is a shy high school junior, cursed with an eerie intuitive ability: she sees a series of unique digits hovering above the foreheads of each person she encounters. Her earliest memories are marked by these numbers, but it takes her father’s premature death for Maddie and her family to realize that these mysterious digits are actually death dates, and just like birthdays, everyone has one.
Forced by her alcoholic mother to use her ability to make extra money, Maddie identifies the quickly approaching death date of one client’s young son, but because her ability only allows her to see the when and not the how, she’s unable to offer any more insight. When the boy goes missing on that exact date, law enforcement turns to Maddie.
Soon, Maddie is entangled in a homicide investigation, and more young people disappear and are later found murdered. A suspect for the investigation, a target for the murderer, and attracting the attentions of a mysterious young admirer who may be connected to it all, Maddie’s whole existence is about to be turned upside down. Can she right things before it’s too late?
My Review:
Maddie has a had a traumatic life. Seeing the death dates of every person she meets, or on any close-up picture she sees, is personally horrifying, but she’s also forced to rely on this macabre talent in order to support herself and her alcoholic mother. She’s only 16 and didn’t realize the significance of those funny numbers on people’s foreheads until her father’s number was up. That was ten years ago and she and her mother are now limping along in a bedroom community about 90 minutes from Manhattan.
When she informs a client that her son will die in the coming week, the client freaks out. Maddie attempts to call a second time, urged by her best friend “Stubby” Shroeder, to impress the seriousness of the situation–and is rebuffed, with hostility. That is, until the young boy goes missing. Only, Maddie knows he’s not just missing–he’s dead. The Feds are in on the case, and Maddie finds herself at the center of their investigation. Her Uncle Donny, a slick lawyer, does his best to cast suspicion away, cautioning Maddie against doing any further readings–but she inadvertently sees a local girl with a looming death date–and Stubby insists they try to help.
Their interference only lands both of them in huge trouble, and the Feds are mounting a case file that could put both Maddie and Stubby in jail for a good long time. Meanwhile, Maddie fights the system, trying to prove that her “gift” is what gives her insight, as small as it is. She’s got the added trouble of bullying at school, and her mother going on increasingly more dangerous benders. I honestly got chills reading about Maddie peeling her mom off one floor, or another, and putting her back to bed safely–when her mom managed to make it home.
Maddie’s world has become an even more frightening place as strange trucks chase her down dark streets and yet another child is kidnapped. The FBI is, at first, hostile, but Maddie fights to win their support against Uncle Donny’s wishes–he’s sure they’re going to set her up. Proving her gift is legit is nearly as hard as proving the Tooth Fairy exists, however.
Still, Maddie never gives up trying to demonstrate her (and Stubby’s) innocence. Not when her mom takes a turn for the worst. Not when Stubby’s the lead suspect. And not when it seems the FBI wants to name her as an accomplice to a serial murderer. It’s a taut, emotional drama that moves with grace. Several suspects exist, all of whom are equally likely, keeping the reader guessing until the closing scenes.
The adults are very real people, not simple characterizations. Maddie’s mom is pathetic and sympathetic. Uncle Donny is a champ, and keeps the Feds from steamrolling two awesome kids. Stubby is the kind of best friend I would dream my kids find–selfless, kind and cheerful to a fault. Even the FBI agents who threaten Maddie at every turn aren’t as ruthless as they first seem. I expected the ending, but that’s like chocolate sprinkles on the thriller sundae. When, not if, WHEN is turned into a movie, I’m gonna get an extra large popcorn and enjoy it again.
Interested? You can find WHEN on Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes & Noble. And, no doubt, other vendors. Probably going to see this one everywhere. I received a review copy via NetGalley.
About the Author:
As a professional psychic, Victoria’s protagonists – psychic Abigail Cooper, and spiritual medium M. J. Holliday – tackle the tricky world of the paranormal while fighting bad guys and demons with plenty of plucky humor and determination. And using that keen understanding of the paranormal, Victoria also created the character of Maddie Fynn, a teenager with the unique intuitive ability to predict the exact date of someone’s death.
To showcase her writing range, Victoria has also penned a children’s epic adventure series, The Oracles of Delphi Keep. Victoria loves to connect with her fans, and you can find her on Goodreads, her website, twitter and Facebook.
CALL SIGN KARMA–She’s A Hero–Review and Giveaway
Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review of Jamie Rae’s CALL SIGN KARMA, a contemporary military romance. There’s a blog tour on, so don’t forget to enter below.
About the book:
Love in the no-fly zone…
Distraught over the loss of her brother in a fighter jet accident, Tinklee Pinkerton decides to follow in his footsteps and prove the tragedy wasn’t his fault. But when she’s chosen as the first woman to fly the Air Force’s F-35, her plan for a life that revolves around work is thrown off course by a handsome, mysterious stranger…
Thanks to Locke’s seductive British accent, sweet nature, and one too many beers, Tink is soon inspired to throw caution to the wind and herself into his arms. She thinks maybe love can heal after all—until she discovers Locke is her superior officer. Tink has no problem risking her life in the air, but with everything on the line, is she brave enough to risk her heart on the ground?
My Review:
Tinklee Pinkerton is a 22 y/o newly graduated Air Force pilot who is being trained on a new jet, the same jet her father has helped design/sell and also the same jet which crashed killing her older brother, Colin. Tink is sure there’s something wrong with the jet, and it malfunctioned–resulting in Colin’s death–and she’s determined to prove it. Of course, the night before she begins training she gets drunk, trying to drown her jitters and grief, and has a one nighter with a stranger…who turns out to be Capt. Locke of the Royal Air Force, and one of her instructors.
The sexual tension is high, though both Tink and Locke know they must stay away from each other, or risk their positions on the squadron. There is a lot of animosity, too, as Tink thinks Locke believes Colin died due to pilot error. And, there’s a love square with one pushy brunette (Kassie) and a Special Forces operative (Ash) who won’t accept “no” for an answer.
Tink successfully pilot’s her dad’s jet–many times, and still struggles to find the answers behind Colin’s crash. Being deployed doesn’t help–as Tink’s very unsettled. So much so she’s ready to pull the plug on flying altogether–until Locke goes down behind enemy lines.
What I liked about the story: Tink is a strong woman who is used to being harassed by the men in her field. She handles herself with grace, much of the time. She is also unduly stubborn and this causes her many, many problems. At times her obstinacy was irritating, and I wished she could have gotten an emotional grip a long time prior to getting in the cockpit. There seems to be a lot of procedural info about the Air Force, which brought authenticity to the story, but sometimes bogged the pace.
Locke was a decent guy, and so was Ash. Tink had a ton of great guys to lean on, and even the d-bags were there when she needed them. I think there were two issues that kept this from being a great read, for me. First, there was almost no heat. All the smexytimes were completely glossed over–barely happened. Second, I had a hard time believing that such an inexperienced pilot would be one of the trainees on such a new aircraft. Such a big emphasis of the book was placed on Tink’s newbie status and it just seemed irrational. I know the military has standards for pilots, and I’d have felt more connected if Tink had had a few years of piloting under her belt. Her young age didn’t add anything to this story, but confusion. Made me think the Air Force was pretty, um, dumb–putting a young, untested pilot in an untested plane–one which crashed recently killing her only sibling. I supposed it COULD have happened, but it made it harder for me to accept the story as a reader. It also interfered with my understanding of the story’s timeline, as well.
Interested? You can find CALL SIGN KARMA on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, and Kobo.
****GIVEAWAY****
Click on the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win a prize pack including:
a signed CALL SIGN KARMA bookmark, ‘No-fly zone’ bootie shorts, Sweetheart wings, and a $10 Amazon Gift Card.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck and keep reading my friends!
About the Author
JAMIE RAE is a New Adult and Young Adult author. She writes with one goal in mind–create stories with a positive message that will stay with the reader long after they’ve finished reading.
Jamie is an avid reader and loves discovering stories with a great hook, though she will not eat, sleep, or speak until she reaches the end. The Harry Potter years weren’t pretty!! Convinced that her Hogwarts letter was lost in the mail, she keeps a watchful eye for owls hoping her children will have better luck!
In her other life, Jamie Rae is an orthodontist, and literary agent. She keeps her heart overflowing with love as a mother of three and has perfected the art of nomadic living as a military spouse and Air Force veteran. Jamie has a passion for critters of all shapes and sizes and you can often find her sneaking them into her own home or volunteering for rescues.
Catch Jamie Rae on her website, Facebook Fan Page, Twitter and Goodreads.
They Breached The MOMENT OF IMPACT–Review and Giveaway
Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for first-time M/M author Karen Stivali. I just loved MOMENT OF IMPACT, and it’s a steamy read–for adults.
About the Book:
Outside Collin Fitzpatrick’s dorm room is a dangerous place. Beyond his door the students of his small, conservative college think he’s straight, as does his Catholic family who’d disown him if they learned the truth. Inside, he’s safe with his incredibly sexy roommate Tanner D’Amico. Their room makes a perfect place to hide away and fall in love.
The moment they cross the line from roommates to lovers, Collin becomes caught between their heavenly passionate encounters and the hellish reality that someone might find out and destroy everything. Tanner’s not used to being so confined, and wants to show the world how much he loves Collin. But Collin’s not sure he’s ready for the impact stepping outside will make.
MyReview:
Collin is a closeted gay man who has a secret crush on his roommate, Tanner. They are both juniors in college and have been friends for two years. Collin feels really awful about his sexual attraction, not only because he doesn’t believe Tanner would welcome his interest; Collin was raised by his uber-conservative, uber-Catholic mother to believe all sex (even self-love) was bad, unless it was sanctioned by marriage. And homosexual marriage does not qualify.
Tanner has a regular Monday night hook-up with a female friend, Wendy, and Collin usually pretends he’s asleep so he can hear Tanner have sex. One Monday night Tanner comes home alone and Collin watches him pleasure himself–with unexpected–but wonderful–results. Turns out Tanner is bisexual, and has a crush on Collin.
This confession opens a new, scary chapter in Collin’s life–one where he has all the best of love…which he must hide from everyone around him. Tanner isn’t out at school, but he’s open to the possibility. Colin knows what will happen if he comes out–his mother will disown him. As Collin and Tanner become closer, however, it becomes more and more difficult to keep their secret–and doing so may just cost Collin the man he truly loves.
This book is equal parts hot man lovin’ and delicious feels. The pace is brisk, and the sex is copious. And scorching. Collin is a complete novice, and enthralled by Tanner’s openness and experience. They are a good match for each other, and conscientious of each other. Their main conflict, remaining closeted, is a big hurdle which is well managed.
I truly enjoyed, and had my heart engaged from page one.
Interested? You can find MOMENT OF IMPACT on Goodreads, Dreamspinner Press, Barnes & Noble, Amazon US, Amazon UK, Amazon AU.
****GIVEAWAY****
Click the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win a $20 GC and one of two prize packs (US only on the prize packs).
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck and Keep reading my friends!
About the author:
Karen Stivali is a prolific writer, compulsive baker and chocoholic with a penchant for books, movies, and fictional British men. She’s also the multiple award-winning author of contemporary and erotic romances. Her lifelong fascination with people has led her to careers ranging from hand-drawn animator, to party planner, to marriage and family counselor, but writing has always been her passion. Karen enjoys nothing more than following her characters on their journey toward love. Whether the couples are m/f or m/m, it’s guaranteed that Karen’s novels are filled with food, friendship, love, and smoking hot sex–all the best things in life.
When Karen isn’t writing (and often when she is), she can be found on Twitter attempting witty banter and detailing the antics of her fruit-loving cat, BadKitteh. She loves to hear from readers (and other writers), so don’t hesitate to contact/follow/like her at twitter, Facebook, her website, Pinterest, and Goodreads. You can also email her here.
How He Became A PROPER LOVER–Review and Get Your Free Book
Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for a newer series I have gone crazy for: The Ganymede Quartet books by Darrah Glass. I reviewed the first book, A MOST PERSONAL PROPERTY, before and it’s a really interesting, fun, sexy read. A PROPER LOVER is the second in a series of alt history/historical books where slavery still exists in the year 1900, and wealthy people purchase same-sex slaves for their adolescent children, so-called “companion” slaves, to allow for disgorgement of sexual tension in a “healthy manner.” The protagonists are teen boys, but this is an ADULT book. There is boatloads of graphic gay sex, which doesn’t trouble me a whit. You are hereby warned.
About the book:
What does it mean to belong to someone?
Henry Blackwell is the happiest he’s ever been, and it’s all because of his companion slave Martin. Every experience, whether it be mundane or spectacular, is improved by having Martin at his side. The better Henry gets to know his slave, the deeper his feelings grow. Though the physical attraction between them is undeniable, Henry’s sure there’s more to their relationship than just sex. He can’t be certain, as it’s never happened before, but he believes he might be falling in love.
Henry’s friends are ready and willing to put their own slaves aside in favor of female companionship, and they’re beginning to wonder why Henry isn’t interested in girls. Henry only wants to be with Martin and doesn’t know how much longer he can use “late bloomer” as an excuse. The holiday season approaches, along with the promise of parties with friends and family. Henry doesn’t want to share Martin with his friends, but he doesn’t like being left out. Will he stand up for himself—and Martin—when it counts?
My Review:
Here’s what I love about these books: the love.
Henry Blackwell is the son, and heir, of the richest man in NYC in 1900. He also has an “unnatural” attraction to his companion slave, Martin. They engage in sex whenever and wherever possible. It’s socially acceptable for Henry to “use” Martin, but not to kiss him, or to ensure that Martin is satisfied. No, proper slave owners simply take their own pleasure and pay no heed to their slaves wishes, or comfort.
But, that isn’t Henry.
He adores Martin, and spoils him whenever possible. Part of Henry’s generosity comes from his own father’s egalitarian example: the Blackwell slaves are some of the most respected on account of their fair treatment. The rest? Henry craves affection. His mother and father are extremely distant parents. The only real love Henry has ever known has come from the slaves of the house and his Uncle Reggie, who moved to Italy nearly a decade ago. And Martin seems more than acceptably affectionate with Henry, too.
Though they have only had sexual relations for a few weeks Henry is sure he loves Martin. This he hides deep inside. It’s hard enough wondering if Martin could return his sentiment, but fearing a luke-warm reception to his fervor keeps Henry from revealing his true feelings–at least verbally. The boys spend a lot of time physically demonstrating their passion.
Before this time Martin believed Henry had no interest in him, and even cast some “slave magic” spells to attract Henry’s regard. Martin confides this to Henry, who endeavors to demonstrate that his love for Martin is not of the magical variety.
The book is so fun. I love the historical setting, and the deepening of the relationship between Henry and Martin. It is for Martin that Henry breaks through his shell, and endeavors to be a better student and brother.
All of Henry’s friends regularly share their slaves, trading them for sexual favors like one might hand off a piece of gum or a sweater to a pal. Henry abhors this idea, though he gets drawn in inadvertently, leaving open the question of fidelity for one’s slave.
I’m so glad it ended how it had! And, I look forward to book three most eagerly. I received an ARC of this book because I’m a super fangirl and begged the author.
Interested? You can find A PROPER LOVER on Goodreads, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.
You can test drive this series for free by reading A SUPERIOR SLAVE, the prequel to A MOST PERSONAL PROPERTY, available on Goodreads Barnes & Noble, and Amazon.
You can find Book 1, A MOST PERSONAL PROPERTY, on Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
And Book 2.5, A MASTER’S FIDELITY, is also free. And, I loved it. Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
About the Author:
Darrah Glass is a writer and generally inquisitive person who likes her fantasies to be as historically accurate as possible. She loves research, sex scenes, and researching sex scenes. She’s married and happily childless, does yoga, never cleans her house, likes shoes and toenail polish, and is vain about her hair. As far as her priorities are concerned, she’d rather write than do just about anything else, and she drives a 15-year-old car but carries really nice purses.
You can catch up with Darrah on Goodreads, her website and twitter.
Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends! 🙂
She Learned THERE WILL BE LIES–A Review
Hi there! Today I’m sharing newly-released THERE WILL BE LIES, a YA adventure from Nick Lake. I usually read YA romance, but this? This was different. Not romance. More adventure-meets-mysticism-meets-well…so many things I can’t quite fit it all without giving away giant sections of the plot. So….
About the book:
In four hours, Shelby Jane Cooper will be struck by a car.
Shortly after, she and her mother will leave the hospital and set out on a winding journey toward the Grand Canyon.
All Shelby knows is that they’re running from dangers only her mother understands. And the further they travel, the more Shelby questions everything about her past—and her current reality. Forced to take advantage of the kindness of unsuspecting travelers, Shelby grapples with what’s real, what isn’t, and who she can trust . . . if anybody.
My Review:
This is a book that will stay with me. Shelby lives a very sheltered life. She’s almost 18 and has never gone to school. She is homeschooled by her mother, Shaylene, and spends 6 of 7 days a week in their apartment in Scottsdale, AZ. Every Friday they leave the apartment together, so Shelby can hit balls at the local batting cage, then they have ice cream for dinner and Shelby goes to the library, unescorted, for a few hours while her mother works. This library time is the only time Shelby is ever left alone outside their apartment.
She has never has a friend, and has no siblings. Her father is dead, and he was horrible, or so she has been told. Then, one Friday, while waiting to get picked up outside the library, Shelby is struck by a car. In her pain she meets, well, a coyote, who advises her that she will learn two lies and one truth about her life.
For a moment I wondered if Shelby had hit the peyote, but she hadn’t. She did have a broken ankle, however, and in the aftermath of her care finds herself and her mother on the road. Escaping, her mother tells her, from her (dead) father. Because if he finds them, they’re as good as dead. Yep. Guess Shelby’s dad isn’t so dead after all.
Or, is he? How can Shelby trust her mom–as she watches her befriend unsuspecting men with the objective of stealing their vehicles. And, the coyote continues to return.
When Shelby sleeps she falls into the Dreaming, a place of myth and mystery where she is the Maiden and must rescue the crying Child from a malevolent force in order to restore the rain and keep the Dreaming alive. In this mythical place Shelby is aided by the trickster Coyote, as well as the stalwart Elk and strong Eagle. It is here she is told she has 8 days to save the Child or the Dreaming–and Shelby’s whole universe–will be destroyed.
This is a strongly metaphysical book, with real and mythical touch points. In her waking life, Shelby learns that there are very big portions of her life that are lies, and the truth that is revealed is just as devastating. There are car chases, and police actions and people who try to help but end up only causing more harm.
I adored the elements of First Nations mysticism and mythology that were interwoven. This book sang with cultural tenets, and a realistic depiction of a displaced teen. Shelby, herself, is at a major disadvantage as her own advocate–not because she is young (she’s almost an adult) but because people assume she is disabled. She has some difficulties, but that doesn’t diminish her capability. Throughout Shelby is self-possessed and as independent as she is ever allowed to be.
I am not ashamed to admit there were twists I didn’t see coming. I did, however, predict the bulk of the ending–as the foreshadowing was excellent. The ticking time bomb of Shelby’s world is a motivator, but she can’t often access the tools, or skills, she needs to complete her quest in the Dreaming, and must return to reality to marshal resources. In the end, the heartache that is Shelby’s life is greatly resolved, on her terms for a change. No more isolation. Actual friendships and autonomy, and a family she never expected.
Interested? You can find THERE WILL BE LIES on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other retail outlets, no doubt. I received an advanced review copy of this book via NetGalley.
About the Author: (In his words…)
My name is Nick and I write and edit books for young adults. My first YA novel IN DARKNESS, was published by Bloomsbury in 2012 and won the Michael L Printz Award for Excellence in YA Literature. I also wrote a book called HOSTAGE THREE about a girl kidnapped by Somali pirates.
THERE WILL BE LIES is about a girl who learns that everything she knows is a lie. To say it’s a book with a twist in the story would be a massive understatement. There is also a talking coyote in it.
I live with my wife, daughter and son in a 16th century house in England with almost 19th century amenities. Sometimes the heating even works.
I like: reading, art, music, food containing sugar, cities at night, the countryside in the daytime, vintage furniture, modern standards of heating (see above), traveling.
I dislike: being sick, failing, being underdressed in the cold, being overdressed in the heat, the unnecessary suffering of children, being punched in the face.
Catch up with Nick on his website, Goodreads, and twitter.
Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!
Lots and Lots of Manlove–BRIT BOYS: ON BOYS–A Review and Giveaway!
Hi there! Today I’m reviewing BRIT BOYS: ON BOYS, a collection of 8 M/M novellas written by 8 top British M/M authors. This anthology is currently priced $.99 through January, so you may want to scoop this one up right away if you like M/M at all.
About the book:
From east to west and north to south, these British boys are having a blast in and out of the bedroom with the men of their dreams. They’re topping and bottoming from London to Cardiff, living out fantasies in the wildest fells and hooking up while serving HRH Queen Elizabeth II.
With passion and lust the name of the game, nothing is off limits. Throw in honed muscles, high-strength testosterone and an accent to die for and there is nothing they can’t do and no one they can’t get in this world or another.
***This is an adult read for explicit depictions of sex***
My Review:
M/M Romance + Brit speak = SWOON! I’m a noted Anglophile and a huge fan of gay romance so putting both of these into a giant anthology is a dream-come-true, for me. This 8-novella compilation is mainly contemporary romance, but has a couple curve-balls, too.
All the books have sex on the page, and it is totally steamy. Below are some quick reviews of each story. Beware: There’s a whole lotta manlove going on, and I adored every word of it.
Contemporary Boy on Boy:
Bodywork by Ashe Barker puts Graham in the path of Alex, quite literally. A fender-bender links these two lonely men with each other in a way that transcends the accidental. Of course, secrets from the past creep in, but love wins out…eventually.
Breaking The Marine by MK Elliott is a military romance. Brandon enlists in the Marines to escape an empty life heading for prison. He meets a random stranger, Will, the night before boot camp, and their tryst is hot and quick–with no plan to re-engage. Unfortunately, Drill Instructor Will Stewart wasn’t prepared to have Brandon in his service. The tension is high, and the passion simmers as these two continue clandestine relations. Going Commando was never so hot.
Love on Location by Lucy Felthouse matches rising star Theo Samuels with a cast extra, Eddie. Problem? Theo is closeted, and he can’t imagine a relationship with the demands of his acting schedule. Eddie’s younger and not out, either. Plus, he’s essentially jobless and not sure of his career path. There’s a bit of kerfuffle regarding the state of attraction, but the end result is bliss.
Locked Out by Josephine Myles puts a timid kindergarten teacher in the role of aggressor. Martin spends his Valentine’s consoling his sister–after her dramatic break-up–at a posh hotel. Drunk and needing the facilities, he finds himself naked and locked out of his hotel room in the middle of the night. Rod greets Martin with humor, and interest. Martin, ashamed to have never even had a single one-nighter, employs his sister’s advice, finding that Rod is all too happy to have a dominant lover. The encounter stayed with Martin, even if he ducked away without a trace. Imagine his surprise finding Rod is new to their town, and eager to renew their…acquaintance.
Contemporary Boy On BOYS….
The Chase by Lily Harlem features a couple–Steve and Robert–who are only just reconciling, on the scavenger hunt for Carrick, an up-and-coming comedian who has expressed an interest in a menage meet-up. While Steve and Robert seek clues in the bitter cold, they reconnect. And the eventual tryst is wet and wild.
Dish of the Day by Clare London matches three best friends into a new menage romance. Richie’s worked his way from line cook to head chef. On the night of his first opening as a restauranteur everything goes amiss. Busted crockery, drunken sous chefs, thieving employees…Richie’s two steps from mental when his college mates, Craig and Ben arrive. Their confession–that the opening isn’t going off–is the last thing Richie wants to hear. Good thing they’re prepared to ease his mind, and body, in the most delicious way.
For those who love something different:
E2 by Sarah Masters is a sci-fi post-apocalytic romance featuring Dan and Archie. The Change has wrought devastation on London, a fate Archie escaped only by having called in sick to work the day the stones fell from the sky. Still, he’s lonely and all his family was killed in the destruction, or so he thinks. A chance encounter with Dan, a refugee from The Other Side, leaves Archie with more questions than answers, and the knowledge of a governmental plot to determine the root of homosexuality.
Landscapes by KD Grace is a paranormal romance that features an interesting triad–between Alonzo, Reese and Talia. I really enjoyed the interplay between the dream-state and the reality. And, though Reese had every reason to be angry with Alonzo’s machinations, I was glad they resolved their quarrel.
Interested? You can find BRIT BOYS: ON BOYS on Goodreads, Amazon US, Amazon UK, Amazon AU, Amazon CA, All Romance eBooks, Barnes & Noble, iBooks, and Kobo. This smokin’ hot box set is initially available at the bargain price of 99c/99p, that’s a steal for 147,000 words/440 pages of unforgettable M/M erotic romance that will leave your eReader, and you, burning up. Be sure and grab your copy fast, as the price will be increasing at the end of January!
Some cool words from these awesome British M/M authors
Where are you from in the UK and does this influence your writing?
M.K. Elliott
I’m from Devon, but I’m not sure if this influences my writing or not. I guess in the case of ‘Breaking the Marine’ where I am from was quite useful as the Marine Commando School is just down the road and I’ve driven past it numerous times. But I’ve lived in several other countries and places in the UK, plus I’m married to a Kiwi, so I like to think I’m fairly multicultural.
Lucy Felthouse
I’m from south Derbyshire, in England. Pretty much right in the middle of the country. In fact I’m just a few miles from the village which is officially the furthest from the sea in England. It doesn’t consciously influence my writing, I don’t think, because I write stories set all over the UK, depending on my inspiration. Some of my much shorter works could, in theory, be set anywhere. But I guess, because I don’t spend much time by the sea, that more of my stories are set inland. I have a particular fondness for stately homes and the British countryside, which I think is clear in my work, especially my novella in this collection!
Clare London
I was born by the seaside at Brighton, but have lived most of my life in London. It’s a busier, more cosmopolitan area than other parts of Britain, so I hope to reflect that in my characters.
KD Grace
I live in Surrey not far from London in what is known as ‘the Soft South,’ and while some of my stories are set in and around London, a lot of them are set in the Lake District because if there’s a place in the UK where my heart is, it’s there.
Ashe Barker
I grew up in Yorkshire, and still live there although I travel a lot. I think it does influence my writing as I often draw on Yorkshire characters and places for inspiration. I feel a sort of responsibility too, to present the place I love in a good light. I want readers to like it too.
Sarah Masters
I’ve recently moved “oop north” from the south, but most of my life I’ve lived in Oxfordshire. I can’t imagine writing a Northern tale, so yes, my southern upbringing influences my writing.
Lily Harlem
I lived in London for a long time, working as a nurse in a busy trauma unit. I now live in the countryside, in Wales. I love it here, it’s very peaceful which makes it perfect for writing. I’m lucky in that I have lots of memories and characters to draw on from a time when my life was crazy busy. The space and the open fields and of course the coast give my imagination time and space to run wild. I do most of my plotting when walking on the beach with my dogs.
Josephine Myles
I’m originally from Buckinghamshire, one of the “Home Counties” making up the London commuter belt. However, I’ve spent all of my adult life in my adopted home of Somerset, and I set most of my stories out here in the West. People in the West Country seem to be more down to earth than Londoners, and there’s an interesting mix of hippies, artisans and now media types who’ve moved down here and regenerated some of the run-down towns. All of this makes for an interesting backdrop to a story, and I often write about creative characters who’ve come west for a better life.
Go on and check out these fab writers! Ashe Barker, K. Elliott, Lucy Felthouse, K D Grace, Lily Harlem, Clare London, Sarah Masters, Josephine Myles
Need more Brit Boys? Hang out with the authors on Facebook by joining the dedicated Brit Boys: On Boys group and pin with the authors on Pinterest. If you enjoy Brit Boys: On Boys then please leave a review and tell all your friends. Happy reading.
****GIVEAWAY****
Click the Rafflecopter link for your chance to win
A and of a DOZEN prizes including books and gift cards!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends!
There Was Love AFTER US–Review and Giveaway
Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review for AFTER US, a gritty YA romance newly-released by Amber Hart. I really enjoyed this one.
About the book:
“Beautiful, lyrical writing and a dangerously suspenseful plot. . .an unforgettable novel that readers will love.” –Lucy Connors, author of The Lonesome Young
Sometimes secrets kill. Maybe slowly, maybe painfully. Maybe all at once.
Melissa smiles. She flirts. She jokes. But she never shows her scars. Eight months after tragedy ripped her from her closest friend, Melissa is broken. Inside her grows a tumor, fed by grief, rage, and the painful memory of a single forbidden kiss.
Javier has scars of his own: a bullet wound, and the memory of a cousin shot in the heart. Life in the States was supposed to be a new beginning, but a boy obsessed by vengeance has no time for the American dream. To honor his familia, Javier joins the gang who set up his cousin’s murder. The entrance price is blood. Death is the only escape.
These two broken souls could make each other whole again–or be shattered forever.
Our time will come. And we’ll be ready.
My Review:
This review contains SOME mild spoilers. This is the second book in a series, and I have not read the first. I was never at a loss in this story, however. And it’s a read I truly enjoyed.
Melissa is eighteen and a waitress at a beach resort in Florida. She wants to go to college, but her dream is on hold because Melissa’s life is essentially on hold. Five months ago she was diagnosed with cancer and though she has recovered from the surgery physically, the emotional scars remain. Four weeks remain before Melissa will have her post-op tests to determine if she needs chemotherapy. Melissa is adrift, and unable to discuss her fears with her close-knit family consisting of her mother and three older sisters. Melissa’s father abandoned their family when she was ten, and she knows she’s better off without his abuse, but she still feels slighted, rejected, even.
Life is funny like that. Life gives you things you never asked for and takes away things you’ve always dreamed of. I wonder where life gets the nerve.
These are feelings she’d discuss with her BFF Faith, but Faith had a mental breakdown after her boyfriend, Diego, was murdered by gangs and she has moved to Venezuela to build schools in rural villages. Despite many calls and messages, Faith rarely calls back. And, when she does, Melissa is too trapped in grief, anger and guilt she can’t confide.
One person to whom Melissa begins to open up is Javier. Javier is a Cuban-American from a family of refugees. He met Melissa through his cousin, Diego, and seeing her on the beach ignites his revenge. If she can get him in touch with Faith, then maybe he can find out more about the gang members who killed Diego.
I think about how he fits perfectly with me. How we’re made from this mold that’s so different but that we both, shapes of our own, fit into this space rightly.
Javier is attracted to Melissa, as well, and makes both desires clear when they find some privacy. One thing he neglects to reveal: his mama is highly against any of her children dating/marrying white people. Her prejudice is a palpable force in Javier’s large family, and Javier has witness his mother putting his elder brothers’ white girlfriends out of their home.
Love, I think is love to blame.
And I understand, for the first time, that life does offer more than violence and hunger and trying to survive. Sometimes, if you want it bad enough, life will even give you a chance to become something better.
While Javier is dealing with the impossible position of falling for a gringa (white girl) he is also getting “jumped in” to the gang that orchestrated Diego’s murder. It’s a delicate balance and he fails at avoiding discovery. Melissa had just begun to trust him, but she won’t be with a gangbanger. If nothing else, having cancer has taught her that life is exquisitely valuable, and shouldn’t be wasted in violence or revenge.
Her growing affection is shattered, and he has a lot of hard work to regain her trust. Their clashes over this lead Melissa to seek out Faith, and find the truth behind Javier’s pointless quest.
At first, I was unhappy with Javier and the whole bad-boy theme that seemed to permeate the book. Melissa has a lot on her plate, and even more to live for. I didn’t want her to get caught up with a gangbanging avenger, but (like Melissa), eventually, I could see Javier’s quest was more than idleness. Diego and he were raised together and close as brothers. Javier’s grief was extreme. In the end, when presented with the opportunity for the ultimate revenge, Javier’s actions were surprisingly tempered. I like to think he made the decisions he did because he had a new respect for life due to finding love with Melissa.
I mean, if a young man is going to stand up for his girlfriend against his mother’s most strenuous objections, then he can surely withstand the bloodlust for a guilty man’s life. Perhaps.
The end is quite good, right amount of twists, not too much on the sap. I was immediately in mind of Simone Elkeles’ PERFECT CHEMISTRY series while reading this book. It’s a good blend of growing affection, well-timed plot twists and honesty. The characters are solid, serious people facing real-life issues of life and death. While there is a clear romance, the language and activities are age-appropriate for teen readers, with no explicit sexual content.
I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley.
Interested? You can find AFTER US on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, iTunes, and Kobo.
****GIVEAWAY****
Click the Rafflecopter link below for you chance to win
one of three prize packs, including a Coach purse!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Best of luck and keep reading my friends!
About the Author:
Amber Hart grew up in Orlando, Florida and Atlanta, Georgia. She now resides on the Florida coastline with family. When unable to find a book, she can be found writing, daydreaming, or with her toes in the sand. She’s the author of BEFORE YOU, AFTER US, UNTIL YOU FIND ME, and sequel to UNTIL YOU FIND ME (untitled as of yet). Represented by Beth Miller of Writers House.
You can reach out to Amber online on her website, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
V's Reads... 