Month: December 2017

End of the Road? NEW HAND Review and Giveaway!

Hi there! Today I’m sharing another SMOKING HOT review for a newly-published M/M romance from L.A. Witt. NEW HAND is part of the Bluewater Bay series, but totally enjoyable as a standalone. This book–which may be the last in the series–is a romance between a shell-shocked widower and a young HIV-positive man. I really enjoyed GET A GRIP and recommend RAIN SHADOW and OUTSIDE THE LINES, as several characters from those stories recur in this one.

About the book:
Months after his husband’s death, Garrett Blaine desperately needs a fresh start. He sells his house in Seattle, leaves his accounting job, and starts bartending in Bluewater Bay. There he meets a man who wakes up his nearly forgotten libido.

Jesse Connelly’s newest friend with benefits bolted after Jesse disclosed his HIV status. Stood up and stinging, Jesse tries to drown his sorrows . . . and finds an unexpected connection with a lonely bartender.

Jesse and Garrett quickly bond over a shared love of comics and card games, and they can’t get enough of each other between the sheets. Not even a bumpy start and a fifteen-year age gap can derail them as they go from strangers to lovers, then friends, then much more.

But as Garrett’s feelings for Jesse deepen, so does his grief for the man he lost—especially as he sees hints of his late husband in his new boyfriend. Now Garrett has to figure out if Jesse is his second chance at true love, or if Jesse’s just filling in for the man he’s never fully grieved. And he needs to figure it out soon, because Jesse’s starting to wonder the same thing.

My Review:
Jesse Connelly is a twenty-seven year old flamboyant gay man who manages End o’Earth Comics. He was infected with HIV by his first sexual partner back in high school and has been managing the disease for the past decade. He’s always upfront with his status with new partners, but his most recent love interest was a friend, first, and just when they started getting physical Jesse confided his (undetectable) status. And that dude has just stood Jesse up at the local alehouse. Feeling down, Jesse is charmed by the sexy silver fox bartender who’s new to the area.

Garrett’s younger husband died of cancer eight months ago. Though he’d been counseled not to make big changes for the first year of grief, Garrett sold his home, quit his job and moved form Seattle to Bluewater Bay to be near his good friend, Scott, a marriage and grief counselor. They each had lost partners young, and Garrett’s encouraged that Scott has now found love again. Garrett’s not looking for love, but he wants to know that he won’t always be so overwhelmed with grief that he’ll spend the rest of his life alone. Then, he meets Jesse.

The attraction is unexpected, and immediate. Garrett’s been celibate since before his husband died, but they both agreed he should find a new love. Jesse feels horrible and unattractive because of his status, but Garrett’s interest is a big ego boost. They have some issues regarding Jesse’s health, but it’s not because of HIV; Garrett has PTSD from caring for, and losing, his husband. Once they get past the misunderstanding, it’s hot times in Bluewater Bay for these two. Scott counsels Garrett to enjoy the comfort Jesse offers, and Jesse’s ever-mindful about Garrestt’s loss. In fact, he’s a great confidante, willing to listen to Garrett’s memories of his husband. They enjoy each other physically, but also emotionally and on a friendship-level, too. It’s cathartic and tender, and their bond seems unshakable, until Garrett’s in-laws find out about Jesse. And, their unsolicited disapproval provides a hiccup that makes them both pause and reassess. Is Garrett using Jesse as a replacement? Or, are these feelings both Jesse and Garrett are experiencing the beginning of a new life together.

This is a hurt-comfort story that has many facets. Garrett and Scott do a lot of soul-searching about guilt and loss. Jesse pushes all sorts of buttons for Garrett, but they aren’t all in common with those of his late husband. They share different and fun interests, including gaming and comics. Garrett sees Jesse as his own man, one Garrett feels honored to spend times with, but his friends and family are worried he’s moving on “too soon” which brings conflict and guilt. It’s natural that Jesse would wonder if he’s being set up for huge disappointment. If he’s just a rebound fling, well, it’s going to crush him, now that he’s gone and fallen for Garrett. I loved how Garrett and Jesse examined their relationship, and accepted good advice from friends. It’s not easy to admit one is wrong, and they both had their share of apologies to make at different points. They have a fantastic physical connection, and they are able to reassure each other that their feelings for each other is genuine in the end.

This book may mark the end of the Bluewater Bay series, and I’ve enjoyed so many of the stories. I think I’ve read 21 of the 23 books and probably rated most of the 4 stars or higher. It was great to see the wrap up of some of the previous couples, including Scott and Jeremy from RAIN SHADOW get married. I chuckled to see the age-gap couples (Levi and Carter, and Hunter and Kevin) pal around with Jesse and Garrett. I loved how the young whippersnappers ganged up on their mature partners, but relished their experience and patient loving. O.O A sweet and tender story.

Interested? You can find NEW HAND on Goodreads, Riptide Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iBooks and Kobo. I received a review copy via NetGalley.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this link to comment on the giveaway post for my pals over at Joyfully Jay. One commenter on the tour will win a $10 GC from Riptide Publishing and two of Ms. Witt’s backlist books (not NEW HAND).
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the Author:
Lauren Gallagher is an abnormal romance writer who has recently been exiled from the glittering utopia of Omaha, Nebraska, to an undisclosed location in South America. Along with her husband, a harem of concubines, and a phosphorescent porcupine, she remains, as always, in hiding from the Polynesian Mafia. For the moment, she seems to have eluded her nemesis, M/M romance author L.A. Witt, but figures L.A. will eventually become bored with the wilds of Spain and come looking for her. And when that time comes, Lauren will be ready. Assuming L.A. doesn’t have her hands full keeping track of Lori A. Witt and Ann Gallagher, which she probably will.

Visit her website, Facebook, and twitter.

Sibling Rivalry? COVET-A Review

Hi there! Today I’m continuing the SMOKING HOT book reviews with a M/M/M menage from Yolande Kleinn. COVET is a bit of a forbidden romance in that it features a love triangle that includes identical twins. O.O

About the book:
Jack Mason—graphic designer and unrepentant player—has never been interested in monogamy. He certainly isn’t looking for romance when he meets Professor Colin Sloan.

Newly single and not looking for anything serious, Colin is intrigued by Jack’s offer of a physical affair with no strings attached. Becoming friends wasn’t part of the plan, but as accidents go, this one’s pretty great.

Peter Mason is Jack’s identical twin. In a long-term relationship himself, Peter tells no one that he’s falling for his brother’s newest favorite, even as the secret creates tension with his girlfriend.

When Peter’s relationship falls apart, he seduces Colin, fully expecting Jack to forgive his transgression. But Jack is keeping secrets too—he hasn’t told even Colin that he’s fallen in love. Suddenly the twins are feuding, and Colin is caught in the middle, blindsided by the revelation that he doesn’t want to choose between them.

Now all three must find a way to share, or they’ll tear each other apart.

My Review:
Jack and Peter Mason are identical twins that share all their secrets…most of the time. Jack is unabashedly out and gay, always looking for his next trick. Peter’s bisexual and engaged to Maureen, his bestie from college. They are both lawyers and work insane hours. Jack develops an interest in the newly-single Colin Sloan, a young professor at the university where they both work, and Peter counsels Jack not to make him a one-and-done…perhaps. Thing is, Colin’s not up for an involved relationship, not after five years with Kyle weer suddenly water under a bridge someplace. Jack’s offer of no-strings open sexytimes, well, it sounded refreshing. And satisfying.

As Jack and Colin continue, however, it becomes clear to Jack that–despite his usual intentions–he’s no longer seeking out other bedmates. And well, he really likes Colin. Jack keeps his feelings secret from Colin, and Jack. Also, now that he’s made it clear there are no strings it’s hard to tie Colin down. Not that Colin’s on the hunt, but, well, it’s a funny thing that he and Peter become good friends. And, it’s a disturbing thing that Peter’s beginning to have sex dreams that star…Colin. These dreams become problematic, when it disturbs Peter’s relationship with Maureen. He feels guilty for having these desires for his brother’s hook-up pal, and can’t confess it to her. Peter’s shame causes him to not speak to Jack, either, and he doesn’t know just how serious Jack has become over Colin. Meantime, Peter’s making more efforts to build his friendship with Colin, and this fuels his lust-filled dreams and fantasies. H

As the months pass, Maureen’s dejected this leads to a reckoning that upsets Peter completely. It’s the catalyst that causes Peter to reach out for Colin, and not in a friendly way. The sexytimes are…brutal, and cathartic. The ripple effect is catastrophic. Jack won’t have any part of Peter poaching his man, no matter how apologetic Peter is. THis detente leaves Colin’s caught in the middle of their cold war, and that makes him recognize, well, that he’s not opposed to being in the middle between these sexy twins if they’re feeling amorous.

The book is H.O.T. with sexytimes that go on. And on. I enjoyed the interplay between Jack and Peter, and how Colin wound both of them around his fingers without even trying. Colin’s has some deep trauma with Kyle walking away–and he loves feeling desired. It’s nearly an addiction for him. That Jack and Peter both want him? It fills that self-esteem void he’s living through. As far as the romance, this one doesn’t follow the formula. There’s so many secrets, and heartbreak, but they seem to work it out. Colin loves to be shared, and jack and Peter’s mix of tender and touch loving seem to fit all of them in a “just right” way. Once the boundaries are secured, they each make the steps that bring all of them closer. The end is a satisfying connection that allow Peter and Jack to have their man, and maintain their brotherly relationship. No taboo parts, and no twincest. Just a bit of Colin being shared and enjoying the heck out of it.

Interested? You can find COVET on Goodreads, Riptide Books, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo. I read a review copy provided by NetGalley.

About the Author:
Yolande Kleinn is a shameless dreamer, a stubborn optimist, and a purveyor of erotic romance. Excitable, fastidious and just a little eclectic, she spends every spare moment writing the stories she wants to read. If she can drag other people into the pool along with her, then so much the better.

Catch Yolande on her website, Facebook and twitter.

Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends!

Art and Love OUTSIDE THE LINES–Review and Giveaway

Hi there! I’m sharing another SMOKING HOT December review with a M/M+F romance from Anna Zabo. OUTSIDE THE LINES is one of the latest books in the Bluewater Bay series. It’s actually book 20, but totally enjoyable on it’s own. I’ve not read anything from Anna Zabo before, but I’ll be on the lookout for more. This story features a gay man who falls for the husband in a open, poly couple, and isn’t sure if he’s prepared for more.

Scroll down for my review and to catch the $25 GC giveaway link!
About the book:
Miniature artist Ian Meyers has one week to rebuild his damaged set. Needing help, he goes to End o’ Earth, the local comic and gaming shop. Owner Simon Derry pushes all of Ian’s buttons, and he also has steady hands and the skills Ian needs.

Before they can even grab a beer, Ian meets Lydia Derry, Simon’s wife. If Ian had any interest in women, he’d suggest a threesome, but then Simon explains that he and Lydia are polyamorous, and if Ian wants Simon, neither of them will complain. If anything, Lydia encourages the relationship.

Ian’s all in, and it’s fantastic working with Simon to piece together his set and then take each other apart at night. His friendship with Lydia grows too. The only problem is, the more time he spends with Simon, the more he wants everything Simon already has with Lydia: A house. A cat. A commitment. So Ian runs, and shatters the trust he has with them both—right when they need him the most. Piecing their relationships back together might prove harder than a smashed set.

My Review:
Ian Meyers builds sets, props and miniatures for Wolf’s Landing, and one of the key pieces–a model-miniature Sacred Grove was ready for the pyrotechnics…until a clumsy stuntman crashed into it. Now, Ian has a week to rebuild the model, and he’s low on supplies. So, he (reluctantly) heads into Bluewater Bay and End o’ Earth comics, which holds models and supplies for gamers in stock. Ian has kept a wide berth from the comics shop because it’s hard to keep his distance from townies and tourists, and there’s been some issues in the past. Also, the local Wolf’s Landing licensed shop Howling Moon is right next door, and that’s a place all the cast and crew avoids.

That said, he’s desperate, and once he steps foot inside End o’Earth Ian’s desperation takes a more personal turn. He’s deeply attracted to the owner and model painter, Simon Derry. Ian charms Simon, who’s willing to provide the space and supplies Ian needs, but they both feel the heat building between them. And, it’s a stunning disaster when Ian meets Simon’s beautiful and talented wife, Lydia. He’s frustrated that Simon was flirting with him, and thinking they both were on the same page, but Ian’s charmed by Lydia, and guilty that he wishes Simon was single. Simon’s a sweet man, and loves Lydia with his whole heart, but…they’re poly, and he’s always missed having a man pleasure him. They’ve been together ten years, and Lydia knows this is an issue. She encourages Ian to share her husband, and Ian doesn’t need a second invitation.

Ian and Simon work together on rebuilding the set, and they spend nights together burning up the sheets. Lydia’s happy to be a bystander who watches their love grow, but Ian’s sure he’s just a side piece…a fling for this swinging couple. Meantime, Simon’s fallen hard, and wants to bring Ian into their relationship permanently. Lack of communication causes some problems, and they have to be fully honest in order to keep their fledgling love growing. There’s lots of cameos from the cast and crew of the show, and I liked how they brought everyone into this book. Simon and Lydia are starry-eyed, seeing the actors and all, and Ian’s reminded about how he was so affected on his first meetings. I liked all the sweet and tender moments.

For people who like menage, this doesn’t really feel like that, because Ian and Lydia aren’t sexually intimate, but they do develop an emotional connection. This is reinforced when Lydia has a professional crisis and needs a solid shoulder to cry on. Ian has the connections to make it right, but he follows Lydia’s advice to not rock the boat. Simon’s not so docile about it, however, and it leads to deeper connections for all of them, both personally and professionally. For Simon and Ian expect hawt sexytimes that include some light elements of bondage, dominance and submission. The resolution is totally sweet and yummy.

Interested? You can find OUTSIDE THE LINES on Goodreads, Riptide Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo. I read a review copy provided by NetGalley.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this link to comment on the giveaway tour over at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words for a chance to win a $25 Riptide GC.
Good luck, and keep reading my friends.

About the Author:
Anna Zabo writes contemporary and paranormal romance for all colors of the rainbow. They live and work in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which isn’t nearly as boring as most people think.

Anna grew up in the wilds of suburban Philadelphia before returning to their ancestral homelands in Western Pennsylvania. As a child they were heartily disappointed to discover that they couldn’t grow up to be what they wanted (a boy, a cat, a dragon), so they settled on being themself whenever possible, which may be a combination of a boy, a cat, and a dragon. Or perhaps a girl, a knight, and a writer. Depends on whom you ask. They do have a penchant for colorful ties and may be hording a small collection of cufflinks.They can be easily plied with coffee.

Anna has an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University, where they fell in with a roving band of romance writers and never looked back. They also have a BA in Creative Writing from Carnegie Mellon University.

Catch up with Ann on twitter.

New Life and INTERTWINED HEARTS–A Review

Hi there! Continuing on my SMOKING HOT reads, I’m sharing a review for a recently released menage M/M/F romance from Christi Snow. INTERTWINED HEARTS is the third title in her Snowcroft Men series and features three lost souls finding their way together. I read and enjoyed SNOWCROFT SAFEHOUSE, the second book in the series, which introduced us to some of the characters featured here. It’s a love story from beginning to end, when a traumatized gay man falls for the new poly sheriff and they both swoon for a local gal who’s about to have her brother’s baby… (Ha! She tells that joke in the book.) I also liked FOUND AT THE LIBRARY, and I’m looking forward to more books by this author.

About the book:
Three people who’ve given up on love…

After a brutal, late-night attack in his restaurant left Chef Hudson Richmond too traumatized to even enter his restaurant again, he escaped to Snowcroft. Now he’s trying to find a new normal when the reality of his world is a man’s touch makes him sick and his dream has become his nightmare.

Leigh Vaughn lives in a man’s world running Vaughn Construction with her brother, Jamie. She’s tried to be feminine and failed over and over again. Growing up with only her brother, father, and construction crews to guide her, Leigh has no idea what a feminine wile is, much less how to deploy them. But when Jamie and Trevor begin to research finding a surrogate to carry their baby, she knows this is something she can do. Hell, it’s not like those parts are getting used for anything else.

When this small town came looking for a new police chief, David Warner jumped at the chance. After a traumatic betrayal by his partner on the police force, he’s burnt out and jaded. And his love life has been even more depressing than his work life. He’s made one true connection in the last five years, but she disappeared without a trace the next morning.

Three people who have given up on love, may just find a new beginning where they least expect it…in Snowcroft. But love is only supposed to happen in twos. How can they make it work with three intertwined hearts?

Trigger warning: This book features story-lines that involve past assaults and betrayals, but has a guaranteed HEA for three people who couldn’t deserve it more.

My Review:
Leigh Vaughn is a thirty-something woman acting as a surrogate for her brother Jamie and his husband, Trevor. It’s the most she can do to help them build a family, and it’s not like she’s got any romantic prospects. Her last tryst was an anonymous hook up six month ago. And, it’s not like her new roommate, Hudson Richmond, is going to put the moves on her. He’s a gay man who’d been her brother’s on/off hook up pal. They still keep in touch, though Jamie’s now happily married. And, when Hudson needs a helping hand, well, Jamie’s a man with a plan. Leigh is hopeless in the kitchen, and Hudson is a renown chef who needs time until he’s able to work professionally again; they can help each other.

Hudson suffers from crippling anxiety and depression in the wake of surviving an attack and gang rape in his Austin restaurant. He never wants to touch, or be touched by, another man again. Staying in Leigh’s home in Snowcroft, New Mexico, is a time of healing, and a time to get his emotions in check. She needs someone to prepare her meals–because she’s hopeless in the kitchen–and Jamie’s hopeful they will provide the company each other needs. And, it works. Hudson’s night terrors keep them both awake, until Leigh crawls into bed with him one night to comfort him and they sleep peacefully together. Her quiet and calming presence helps to halt his anxiety attacks, too.

Hudson owns property in Snowcroft, but it’s been rented to the new sheriff, David Warner, for an extended period. At least, David should be staying in the cabin, but the heat’s out until the spring thaw, and with the tourists booking up all the rooms in town, David’s lucky to land Leigh’s empty guest room. And, as a confirmed bisexual, he’s luckier to recognize that he’s attracted to both Hudson and Leigh. The time they spend together only confirms to David that these are the people he’s meant to spend his life with. Not that they expect to fall for one another. Hudson’s particularly hard to convince, but David lays the foundation for the plan within weeks of meeting them. And, as Hudson’s therapy help him to manage his anxiety, he recognizes that watching Leigh blossom in motherhood is surely more sexy than he’d ever imagined. His deep feelings for her warm into attraction, and David’s patient and flexible attitude help Hudson find his way back to physical intimacy, with both Leigh and David.

This was a love built on hurt-comfort. David couldn’t find lovers who satisfied him, mainly because he needed a poly relationship. Leigh is uncomfortable in her femininity, thanks to her hypercritical mother, but David and Hudson’s admiration is too much to cast aside as fleeting. Hudson’s growing affection for two people who continue to care for him, despite his struggles, is unexpected but deeply enjoyed. Just when it deems like they’ve jumped all the hurdles and should be coasting into the finish line, well, life gets in the way. Leigh’s medical difficulties aren’t easy to overcome, but this triad is stronger than they expected, and an extended happy ending gives the reader solid assurance that Leigh, Hudson and David will have a happy life together.

I really liked the slow development of all the relationships here. There were many obstacles to overcome, and it took time, effort and patience on the part of the characters to find peace and happiness. They have real-world problems, and fears, including the worry about scandalizing their small town. Plus, there are family matters to consider, at least for Leigh. David’s parents, who live in a commune, are ecstatic that he’s found treasured lovers, while Jamie and Leigh’s mother are, well, uh. It’s awkward. And that’s to be expected. There are some deep issues the characters need to work through–both on their own, and together. The way it unfolds was good, but I wanted to get to the HEA faster. And, they seemed to fall into one problem after another. It made fore more drama than I was ready to handle, and I got impatient. That said, the grief and loss, and strength and love that were present really resonated. I’m looking forward to the next book, though, which will likely bring back at least two characters from this book, and SNOWCROFT SAFEHOUSE.

Interested? You can find INTERTWINED HEARTS on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo.

Christi SnowAbout Author Christi Snow: in her own words…
As an avid reader my entire life, I’ve always dreamed of writing books that brought to others the kind of joy I feel when I read. But…I never did anything about it besides jot down a few ideas and sparse scenes.

When I turned 41, I decided it was time to go after my dream and started writing. Within four months, I’d written over 150,000 words and haven’t stopped since. I’ve found my passion by writing about sexy, alpha heroes and smart, tough heroines falling in love and finding their passion. I’m truly living the dream and loving every minute of it.

My tagline is…

Passion and adventure on the road to Happily Ever After. I have to admit, I am loving this adventure!

You can find Christi on line on her website, Goodreads and twitter.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

Bringing the Heat–CITYWIDE A Review

Hi there! This week I’m going to feature some SMOKING HOT books mostly featuring menage stories…because I live outside Chicago and I like some heat (and sexy distractions!) in my holidays.  Today I’m sharing a review for a recently released novella collection from Santino Hassell. CITYWIDE is a new book in the Five Boroughs series and features a bunch of folks from Ray’s Queens squad finding love…and super hot sex. There’s a little bit for everyone, including M/M/M, F/F and M/F lovin’. I’ve loved Hassell’s contemporary romances, SUNSET PARK, FIRST AND FIRST, INTERBOROUGH, and CONCOURSE, so I couldn’t wait to jump into this new book.

About the book:
A record-breaking heatwave engulfs the Five Boroughs, and emotions run as hot as the temperatures.

In Rerouted, Chris Mendez is trying to live a drama-free life. That doesn’t include another threesome with Jace and Aiden Fairbairn. But then a citywide blackout leaves them trapped together, and Chris is forced to re-examine everything he thought he knew about relationships and his own heart.

In Gridlocked, former Marine Tonya Maldonado is keeping real estate heiress Meredith Stone on permanent ignore. Mere isn’t Tonya’s type. Not even close. Who cares if she kisses like a dream and has the filthiest mouth this side of the East River? But then a security detail at a summer party ends with her saving Mere’s life and discovering they have more chemistry than she’d ever imagined.

In Derailed, Stephanie Quinones escapes the heat and her complicated love life by going on a company retreat. Trouble is, it’s a couples’ retreat, and she lied about having a boyfriend. Unfortunately, the only person willing to play pretend is her on-again/off-again fling, Angel León. They’re currently “off again,” but after a week in the woods, Stephanie realizes she wouldn’t mind them being permanently on.

My Review:
The stories link many of the single, and not-so-single, characters that have appeared in several of the previous books. CITYWIDE opens with a citywide heatwave that’s causing periodic black outs across the five boroughs of New York City. This is particularly troublesome because the servers for QFindr, a LGBTQ dating app created in FIRST AND FIRST, don’t like being without power or AC for long periods of time. Chris Mendez, is one of Ray Rodrigues’ Queens crew–and he’s had a lot of contact with the sexy QFindr folks, because their crews mingle through Ray. He recruited them to be models for QFindr’s launch, and they all went on a queer-friendly mixer cruise. Through this connection, and Caleb, Ray’s boyfriend’s ex, calls Chris to help with tech support during the heatwave–the company’s tech officer is on vacation.

Chris is not excited about turning up. He’s been avoiding Caleb’s business partner and half-brother, Aiden, and his husband Jace, for a couple of months now. Because Chris’s really attracted to them. And they want him to be a third in their sexytimes. And he wants that super bad, but he’s not down for an open relationship. He’d be their third in a hot second (and even hotter third!) but he’s not willing to share them outside of their triad. And, they’ve been poly for…ever. Trapped in the QFindr offices during a city-wide blackout that lasts three days. Three hot and sweaty, mainly naked, and hawt days. Also, Chris comes to terms t=with his self-esteem issues, and Aiden and Jace consider his needs seriously. They also uncover some big dirt that leads to the firing of an employee who looks for retribution in Gridlocked. Expect heart-to-heart-to-hearts and some seriously filthy frolicking. These guys fill each others’ holes…metaphorically and physically. Happy endings abound.

In the GRIDLOCKED Tonya Maldonado, another pal of Ray’s, reconnects with Meredith, Caleb’s sister. They’d had some fun times before, but Tonya’s not down with being some sort of conquest and that’s how she felt after their tryst. Not that they don’t have mad chemistry. Meredith is a rich heiress, and Tonya’s working as private security now that she’s out of the Marines. While at an event, Tonya helps Mere escape some homophobic stalkers. Tonya keeps her safe, and that prompts Mere’s estranged father to step in with an offer Tonya really doesn’t want to refuse. Mere’s livid that she’d even consider it, though. I’ll be honest, I’ve long loved Hassell’s M/M interludes, but wow! He blew my mind with these F/F scenes. O.O I loved how tough Tonya is, and how she stands her ground. She knows she’s got a great opportunity, but she’s also sympathetic to Mere’s domestic issues. Tonya’s a professional, and she pulls comrades along with her. There’s happiness to spare in this one, and I liked seeing Mere, Caleb and Aiden’s father become more human than his previous introductions.

In DERAILED, the final two members of Ray’s squad, Angel and Steph, acknowledge a deep connection to each other. Steph is pansexual, and though Angel is totally gone for her, he’s not really down for an open relationship. Steph has worked as a paralegal for a law firm for a good while, and wants a raise, but can’t seem to get one, despite her hard work and evident qualifications. She thinks this may be because she’s not settled with a partner, and maybe because she’s female. To keep people out of her business she “invents” a fiance, Angel, her long-time friend and on-and-off sexual partner. Angel, well, he’s interested in playing that game, because it’ll put him and Steph together for a whole weekend on a staff retreat, and won’t a change of scenery be nice? Maybe Steph will see how good they could be together, and want to make it permanent. All their pals are in committed relationships, and Angel wants one so bad he’s stepping outside of his comfort zone for Steph.

It actually works pretty nicely, for a while. That said, it’s not all smoking hot sex. Okay, besides the sex there’s some barbecue, and some Angel being a fab partner, and some Steph standing up for herself and being plain about her needs as a professional and a woman. And some realization that Angel’s been the love of her life for more than a decade. Having grown up with bad parents and unfair responsibilities, it’s tough for Steph to recalibrate her personal goals, but loving Angel isn’t difficult, and she’s finally willing to take the chance. Expect really hot nights and love under the stars.

Having read all six books in this series, I can tell you right now, I’d read six more. Matter of fact, Steph’s brother’s looking a little lonely… Write more, Mr. Hassell. I’ll be waiting.

Interested? You can find CITYWIDE on Goodreads, Riptide Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo. I received a review copy via NetGalley.

About the Author:
Santino Hassell was raised by a conservative family, but he was anything but traditional. He grew up to be a smart-mouthed, school cutting grunge kid, then a transient twenty-something, and eventually transformed into an unlikely romance author.

Santino writes queer romance that is heavily influenced by the gritty, urban landscape of New York City, his belief that human relationships are complex and flawed, and his own life experiences.

You can find Santino online on his website, Facebook, and twitter.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

Making It Real: NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS–Review and Giveaway!

Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for a new M/M contemporary Christmas romance from Annabelle Jacobs. NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS is a sweet romance for a young man who finally convinces his childhood crush that he’s all grown up…. I’ve loved other romances from this author, like A CASUAL THING, A CHRISTMAS KISS, MAYBE THIS TIME, and BITTEN BY DESIGN, so I thought I’d check it out.

Scroll down to catch an excerpt and enter the $10 GC or book giveaway below!
About the book:
Ben has Christmas, cats, and mistletoe on his side…. Jason doesn’t stand a chance
For Ben Slater, moving back to Bristol means being closer to his family, living with his best mate, and volunteering at the local animal shelter. But there’s also Jason, his best mate’s eldest brother. Ben’s had a crush on Jason for as long as he can remember, but the eleven-year age gap has always seemed insurmountable.

Jason Armitage works as a vet at his uncle’s practice. He owns a cute cottage on the outskirts of the city, and a loving dog. The one thing missing is someone to share it all with. His brother’s best friend seems a bad choice, but Jason can’t help taking a second look. Ben’s changed a lot since Jason last saw him; both in appearance and attitude. Gone is the shy young boy, replaced with a confident, twenty-four-year-old man.

In the run up to Christmas, the festive period gives Ben the ideal opportunity to show Jason what he has to offer. But concerns for his brother’s feelings hold Jason back. If they have any chance of making this work, Ben must convince Jason that he’s old enough to know what he wants, and Jason needs to believe that a relationship with his brother’s best friend won’t ruin their friendship.

How about a little taste?

Ben tried not to look, but inevitably his gaze was drawn to Jason still sat on the sofa. He stood as Pete stepped back, and Ben got a proper look at him. Ben wasn’t the only one who’d changed a little over the past couple of years. The last time he’d seen Jason, his hair had been short, like an army cut, and he’d had a beard. He’d looked hot then, but now…. Ben had to forcibly shut his mouth so he didn’t gape.

Jason’s thick dark hair, still shaved at the sides, was now a good couple of inches longer on top. And he was clean shaven. Ben kind of missed the beard, but without it Jason looked much younger, and his strong jawline was a thing of beauty. He looked thinner, too. Ben frowned because Jason ate like a horse and had always been bulkier than his brothers. That thought somehow made its way out of Ben’s mouth.

“Have you lost weight?”

Jason laughed softly, one hand immediately going to his stomach. He patted his belly and sighed. “God don’t you start. Mum’s already been on at me about not eating properly.” He pulled Ben in for a quick hug. “It’s good to see you, even if you do put the rest of us to shame.”

Oh God, that voice. As smooth and deep as Ben remembered.

My Review:
Ben Slater has just moved back to Bristol for a new job. He’s sharing a two-bedroom flat with his best mate, Liam, and wondering if Liam’s eldest brother, Jason, will finally see hm for the grown man he now is. Jason is about 12 years older, in his middle thirties, while Ben is just 24. Not that Ben cares about the age difference; he’s made no secret about his attraction to Jason for the past decade, or so. And, now that Jason is single, well…Ben can’t squash his hopes.

Jason really isn’t prepared to see Ben as a grown, and very attractive, man. He’s been wallowing since his long-term relationship ended, putting all his available hours into his veterinary practice, and doesn’t feel that taking up with Ben would be a good idea; young gay men need to sow their oats, right? Jason’s ready for the settled life, and can’t imagine being with Ben is a good idea.

Ben has to work things out with his move, but the more time he spends with Liam and his family, the more he realizes this is where he wants to be, forever. If only he could convince Jason that he’s a serious guy. Some well-placed mistletoe and an injured kitten draw the two men close, but Liam throws a “spanner” (wrench, y’all) in the works. Ben’s afraid to have gotten a taste of Jason that might only last through the Christmas season. I liked how this developed, with Ben and Jason finding their way, and letting go of their expectations (Jason especially!). They fit together nicely, and their fears that a relationship will upset their close-knit families is proved unfounded. THere’s some yummy steamy bits, and lots and sweet animal moments, too. I loved the way bringing Ben in to his life allowed Jason to recapture the spirit of the season, and reconnect with his family, too. It’s a winner!

Interested? You can find NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS on Goodreads and Amazon (US and UK).

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win a $10 Amazon GC or a backlist book from Ms. Jacobs.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the Author:
Annabelle Jacobs lives in the South West of England with three rowdy children, and two cats. An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They’re usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.

Catch up with Annabelle online on her website, Facebook, twitter or email at ajacobsfiction (at) gmail (dot) com.
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Mission Possible: OPERATION GREEN CARD-Review and Giveaway!

Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review for a new contemporary M/M romance from GB Gordon. OPERATION GREEN CARD is a new book in the Bluewater Bay universe–which is loosely connected to the other books in the series (including WHEN TO HOLD THEM also by this author) but fully enjoyable as a standalone. I’ve loved other GB Gordon books, SANTUARIO and THE OTHER SIDE OF WINTER, so I was excited to read this one!

Check out my review below and head out to a pal’s blog to enter the $10 GC giveaway!
About the book:
Arkady Izmaylov is a family man. He’s also gay. In Russia. His sister Natalya has been telling him to get out for years, but it’s only after an attack in the street that he finally concedes and says yes to her desperate plan of him marrying a stranger for a green card.

Jason Cooley was taught from birth that he’s no good to anyone. Then the military taught him he was good enough to save other lives, but that purpose got amputated along with his leg. He’s now working security at Wolf’s Landing and sending monthly checks to his ex for their daughter’s education. When Natalya asks him to marry her brother, Jason knows right away he’ll do it more for the mission than the money she’s offering. But when he actually meets Arkady, his mission turns complicated.

Jason quickly discovers he’s not as straight as he thought. He’s also the man of Arkady’s dreams. Arkady must convince Jason that he’s worth loving, and that Arkady won’t disappear from his life like everyone else. Because Arkady has always wanted a family of his own, and he’s not letting go of this one.

My Review:
Jason Cooley is a war veteran and amputee. He lost his lower leg and foot in his last rescue mission as an Army Ranger. It crushed the fledgling sense of purpose he’d gained from joining the armed services, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, father and late mother–who was killed in action when Jason was two. His father had little to do with him from then on, and he was raised in the love-bereft home of his mother’s parents, who treated him as a burden. He joined up straight out of high school, and now works as a security guard on the set of Wolf’s Landing, a long-running TV show filmed in his home town of Bluewater Bay. He still lives in that childhood home, though his grandparents are gone, and it’s cramped and run-down. Jason has a five year old daughter, Lily, conceived literally on the eve of his deployment, with his high school bestie, but they were never truly romantically linked. She’s married and her hard-working husband has formally adopted Lily. Jason sends whatever money he can to support Lily, but he’s not really involved in her life; he’s sure that’s for the best. Only, even after working double shifts, and hardly spending any money on himself, Jason still can’t afford the gifted school Lily’s being recommended for enrollment.

Arkady is living on borrowed time. The situation in Russia is grave, with men accused of homosexuality being literally disappeared to prison or shallow graves. No matter how circumspect he is about his sexuality, he’s a target. He’s been attacked before, and saw his best friend murdered years ago for their “crime”. His sister, Natalya, has been trying to get him a job in security–or whatever–at Wolf’s Landing, but the work visa is not coming. Hearing that Jason needs money, Natalya proposes a solution that could benefit her beloved brother: green card marriage.

The idea seems preposterous on its face, but the more Jason ruminates, the more he envisions this scheme as a new mission in his life. He can pay for Lily’s school, and save Arkady from a death sentence. It appeals to his latent hero complex, and it’s not as if he’s never shared intimacy with a man; it was a down-low practice on some of his deployments. When he says he’s down, Arkady makes plans for a “trip” to visit Natalya. His whole family knows this is code for his defection. Arkady had thought he would never have a loving relationship or family, but coming to the States ignites these desires. He finds Jason incredibly attractive, and that feeling, well, it’s mutual. Jason is stunned at Arkady’s masculine beauty and his growing desire for his “roomie” is confusing. They have a real role to play in convincing all their witnesses that they are having a whirlwind romance, but neither of them expected to get so caught up in it themselves.

Jason’s frustrated that Arkady might not even care about him beyond getting his paperwork managed, and Arkady’s heart is so open to Jason that whenever he perceives Jason pulling back, it hurts, and hurts bad. They do find a way to become intimate, and again, the reality is far brighter than the fantasy—but it crashes and burns when they adhere to the idea that this is a temporary situation, to simply get Arkady’s permanent residency card. For both men, this relationship has become important, and breaking up is unthinkable, so they guard themselves against further vulnerability, until they can’t bear it any longer and the honesty bursts forth.

I loved the tenderness and commitment each man showed for each other’s well-being. It was so fun to watch this marriage of convenience to grow into a passionate romance. Arkady’s joy over building a real family, with Lily and her parents, is immeasurable. The HEA is fantastic! And yummy sexytimes as Jason and Arkady learn to share themselves more and more. Expect a wedding that’s somewhat bittersweet, and a love that is built to last.

Interested? You can find OPERATION GREEN CARD on Goodreads, Riptide Books, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Kobo. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

****GIVEAWAY****

Go Over to my pals at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words to leave a comment and be entered to win a $10 Riptide book credit!
Good luck and thanks for popping in!

About the Author:
G.B. Gordon worked as a packer, landscaper, waiter, and coach before going back to school to major in linguistics and, at 35, switch to less backbreaking monetary pursuits like translating, editing, and writing. Having lived in various parts of the world, Gordon is now happily ensconced in suburban Ontario with the best of all husbands.

You can reach GB online here: website, Goodreads, Twitter and Facebook.

Finding New Life: AHAVA IS LOVE–Review and Giveaway

Hi there! Or, perhaps I should say: Shalom! and wish all my readers a Happy Hanukkah. As I’ve mentioned before, I have a bi-faith family. With in-laws who are Jews, and having Christian upbringing myself, I have enjoyed learning about Judaism and sharing my faith, too! I’m a sucker for a fab Hanukkah story, and I’m sharing a review and giveaway for a sweet contemporary M/M romance from new-to-me author Avery Duran. AHAVA IS LOVE took me to the Holy Land and made me wish to walk those paths.

Drop down to catch my review and enter to win a $20 GC in the giveaway!
About the book:
Brooklyn Realtor Josh Perlman desperately wants to settle down. Unfortunately he can’t find a man who wants the same. Tired of disastrous dates, he travels to explore his heritage.

Yaron is an Israeli security guard and medic charged with looking after Josh and his pilgrimage group. For Yaron, the need to protect has become more a duty than an honor since he lost his long-term boyfriend to a terrorist attack—a loss that continues to haunt him.

As they embark on their journey through the Holy Land, it’s hard to deny the attraction that sparks between Josh and Yaron. Yet with America calling Josh home, and Israel, and the death of his lover holding Yaron prisoner, it seems only a miracle can keep them together.

But Israel is an ancient land, one that has seen miracles before. Surrounded by structures that have been destroyed and rebuilt time after time, Josh and Yaron might just learn that their futures can be found in the wisdom of the past.
World of Love: Stories of romance that span every corner of the globe.

My Review:
Josh is done with men. He’s been dumped for the last time, and absolutely won’t fall for another alpha male wanting his brand of youthful-looking arm candy. To change his outlook on life he accepts a one-time opportunity to be a tour guide on a pilgrimage through Israel for college students. The trip spans Hanukkah, and bodes to be a rebirth of Josh’s commitment to himself to find what he needs within.

On the tour, Josh is paired up with Yaron, a big, strapping guard, who also works as a medic. Yaron is attractive, and attracted, but he doesn’t want any strings…he lost the love of his life several years ago to a suicide bomber and won’t risk his heart again. Not that Josh is looking for strings. Or a man. He’s done with them, after all. At least, until he works out his inner tangles. That said, the attraction is keen, and the nights are sweltering. Josh isn’t really a one-nighter type of guy, but he and Yaron have many nights in their future…and man are they steamy. Once Yaron gets over his guilt at finding Josh attractive and engaging enough for more than a brief tryst.

This book is a sweet story, with hurt-comfort in store for both Josh and Yaron. They know their time is limited, but their minds can’t stop their hearts from falling. I loved the cultural references, and how Josh’s trip is in many ways defined by the food he devours. Typical American!! The touchstones of the trip are interesting, and reach beyond typical Judaica, which makes the story very approachable. I liked how the college students really gained a lot of personal insight that helped them grow, as did Josh. He’s been a doormat for a lot of people, but he learned his worth on this adventure. There isn’t a sweet happy ending for Josh at the end of his trip, but he and Yaron have built a stronger connection than even he realized, and their story is still beginning. Expect a happy ending for this new couple, and some steamy bits and pieces as Josh and Yaron make all the motions toward building a new life together.

Interested? You can find AHAVA IS LOVE on Goodreads, Dreamspinner Press, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win a $20 Amazon GC.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the Author:
Parent Association President by day, Romance Author by night, Avery Duran (www.averyduran.com) enjoys the best of all worlds. She’s a minivan-driving, cupcake-baking, soccer mom, who works outside the home while raising three rambunctious boys. Easily distracted by shiny things, Avery found making up stories in her head was an effective way to fool people into thinking she was paying attention. Eventually, she decided to write down one of those stories, and her alter-ego was born.

A native New Yorker, she often incorporates her favorite city into what she writes. During the day, while driving, watching endless YouTube videos, or animated shows with her offspring, she plots her stories. At night, when her husband and children go to sleep, Avery sits in a quiet house and puts those words on paper. She loves spending her downtime creating a world filled with people loving and laughing their way to happily-ever-after.

Catch up with Avery on Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, and BookBub or sign-up for her newsletter.

Out Today! THE ONE NIGHT STAND–A Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for a new contemporary romance out today from the writing team of Elizabeth Hayley. THE ONE NIGHT STAND features an ex-MLB star keeping his new life secret and the journalist who falls for him…even as it complicates her job.

About the book:
Gabriel Torres thought his life after Major League Baseball would be simple and quiet, or at least quieter. However, as he takes over running the exclusive Players Club, he finds himself continually embroiled in scandal and drama. Surely nothing, and no one could make his life any crazier…Right?

Rachel Adler is a blast from Gabe’s past who crashed back into his life with the finesse of a freight train. But she’s a welcome distraction. At least for a night.

Rachel has been working hard to become one of the top sports journalists in the country. She doesn’t have time for a long-term romance or irresistibly charming baseball players. A one-night-stand with the man who she knew would hit it out of the park was all she wanted.

But when she gets a tip that Gabe could have ties to one of the biggest sports stories in history, a story that could make her career, Rachel decides that maybe she has a little time for the sexy baseball player after all. As she gets in deeper with both her story and Gabe, Rachel begins to question who she is, what she wants, and what exactly she’s willing to sacrifice for her career.

Will the potential grand-slam romance be stopped short or will Rachel and Gabe be able to go the distance?

Check out this excerpt for Chapter 1!

Rachel hustled through the newsroom, her brown hair bouncing against her shoulders as her mind whirled with all of the different things her boss Rick Hartnett may want to talk to her about. None of them were good.

She’d been a reporter with All Access Sports Magazine practically since she’d graduated college, but as she let her eyes roam around the room, she noticed the thrill wasn’t as strong as it used to be. It wasn’t that she didn’t like her job or had much of a desire to move on to a different publication. Moreso it was that she felt stagnant. Every day there was a reminder that she hadn’t reached the kind of success she’d hoped she would have after nearly a decade in the industry.

Reaching the door of Rick’s office, she gave it a few raps. “You wanted to see me?” she asked after he looked up from his computer.

“Yeah,” he replied, gesturing to the chair on the other side of his desk. Though All Access Sports was on the twenty-second floor of a building that was less than twenty years old, their space was anything but sleek. Stacks of old newspapers and magazines littered Rick’s floor, and Rachel had to step around them to make it to the chair.

Rachel took a seat without closing the door, since Rick always preferred it stay open. She and Rick engaged in some sort of odd staring contest before he finally picked up the next edition of their print magazine and dropped it on the desk in front of her.

“You want to tell me why you don’t have an article in there?”

No, actually she didn’t want to tell him. “I didn’t have anything solid to contribute.”

Rick steepled his hands and let his chin rest atop them. “Hmm. That’s interesting. Because when I looked into our budget analytics for last month, I see that you flew across the goddamn country to chase a story. But,” Rick slapped a finger onto the magazine, “I don’t see a story.”

“The lead didn’t pan out.”

“I didn’t even approve that trip. How’d you get the go ahead?”

Rachel shrugged in an overly casual way that was an attempt to pretend she wasn’t about to get reamed out by her boss. And what was worse, she deserved it. “You weren’t here when the story came up so I asked Cal.”

“You asked Cal, a junior editor with no actual authority to make this decision?”

“Accounting thinks he has authority.” It was not the brightest thing Rachel could have said in that moment, but it was at the very least true.

“But you know he doesn’t. What was the story anyway? At our last pitch meeting you said you were going to do a piece on the inflation of prices at ballparks. Pretty sure you didn’t need to go to California for that.”

Rachel looked down and studied her nails. She really needed to get a manicure. Her nail beds looked disastrous. “I heard some grumblings about the club so I thought I’d check it out.”

“Jesus Christ. Not this again.”

Rachel let her hands drop into her lap. “Yes, this again. You know this is an ongoing investigation for me. If I can figure out the truth behind the rumors, it would make my whole career.”

Sighing, Rick crossed his arms on his desk. “How long have you been looking into this club?”

“I’m not exactly sure,” she hedged.

“Too long is the answer. You gotta drop this thing, Rach. If there was any truth to it, you’d have found out by now.”

“Not necessarily. It’s extremely exclusive. Only the best of the best get asked to join, so obviously they’re going to be tight-lipped about it. I just have to find the right angle.”

“Rachel.”

“And I’ve found enough details to support its existence. I just don’t have anything solid enough to base a story on.”

“Rachel.”

“But it’s only a matter of time. The source in San Diego didn’t pan out, but something else will. I just need to keep my ear to the ground.”

“Rachel!” Rick yelled.

Taking a deep breath, she focused on him, even though she knew she wasn’t going to like what he had to say.

“It’s time to give it up. You’re out there chasing a unicorn when there are more pressing things we need you to cover.”

“It’s not a unicorn. It’s a Triple Crown winner.”

“A hypothetical Triple Crown winner. That’s not good enough to waste resources.”

“I’ve spent years on this story. I can’t–”

“You’ve spent years on it and have absolutely nothing to show for it. I’m sorry, but you need to drop it. We can’t allocate any more resources toward it.”

“I’ll work it on my own time.”

“We consider your time our resource. We pay you for it. We need your head to be in the game.”

“You can’t forbid me from working on something when I have nothing else going on.”

“No. But I can fire you if you don’t start providing usable material on a regular basis.”

Rachel’s eyes shot to his, hers widening in surprise. He’d never threatened to fire her before. Nothing even close.

Under her scrutiny, Rick’s face softened. “Look, I’m not trying to scare you. But I do have to be honest. I can’t have a reporter going rogue whenever she feels like it. We’re a team here, and you used to be one of our most integral players. But it’s like you’ve put yourself on the disabled list and refuse to do any more than take a few practice swings.”

“That was…a really involved metaphor.”

Rick rolled his eyes, but some of the good-natured vibes they normally had between them returned, which encouraged Rachel to be completely honest.

“This story is going to be epic, Rick. And it may not happen this month, or this year, but it’s going to happen. And I’ll be damned if it happens for someone else after I’ve spent so many years on it. I refuse to lose out because I was forced to give up.”

“Listen. If something comes over the wire that even so much as hints at the club, you’ll be the first one to know. But as far as using All Access time and resources to investigate it…those days are over. When you’re here, you’re to work the assignments we give you. And for Christ’s sake, next time you use company money to travel somewhere, you’d better go through the proper channels. I don’t give a shit if you’re riding a subway to Brooklyn. You clear it with me first.”

Figuring this was the closest to a compromise as she was going to get, Rachel nodded. “Got it.”

“Good. Now get out of here and pack.”

Rachel startled. “Pack? I thought you’d just finished grounding me for the foreseeable future.”

“Stop being a smartass or I won’t send you anywhere.”

Rachel stood and smoothed out her black slacks. “Where am I going?”

Rick reached across his desk to retrieve the magazine. “The Super Bowl.”

My Review:
This is the third book in a series, but fully enjoyable on its own.

Gabriel Torres met Rachel Adler nearly a decade ago, when they were both in college. She was a writer for the school paper and he was a rising star on the baseball team. Fast forward…Gabe has just retired from the big leagues and Rachel writes for an all-access sports journal. She’s spent years tracking leads on an elusive players-only club that might be the biggest story of her career, and is always on the lookout for the hard dirt. On assignment to cover the Super Bowl, Rachel reconnects with Gabe, and his desire for her is intoxicating, just like it was in college.

Gabe had a mini-crush on Rachel back in the day–she’s the one girl who consistently turned him down. And, seeing her now as a gown woman only intensifies his desire. They have a heated night, and Gabe wants more, but he lives in Philly and she’s in NYC. It doesn’t seem like a big distance, especially as he has so much free time, but he spends a lot of it managing The Player’s Club, a super-secret club for current and former professional athletes to simply chill and not be thronged by hordes of fans. Gabe’s actually excited to learn that Rachel has been sent to Philly to do some work for whatever paper she writes for. He’s never asked directly about that…and Rachel hasn’t volunteered. Because, well, it might be that Gabe is one of the club members, and she doesn’t want to tip him off to her investigation…

Okay, so you can see where this is going, right? It was an interesting take on the investigative reporter trope, and I liked it. One thing troubled me, however. The secrecy about the club seemed a mite unwarranted. I mean, it’s really just a private bar. I thought maybe it was some sort of kink club, or something embarrassing, but that didn’t seem to be the case. For me, that was a little deflating, because I struggled to relate to Gabe’s insistence on secrecy. I get that the club had been a secret for decades, and he was the new manager in charge of it, but it seemed kinda false, as a situation. That said, Rachel and Gabe understood the gravity of their interests andhow it would affect their budding relationship if Rachel spilled the beans. In fact, the closer Rachel comes to learning Gabe’s secrets, the more she wants to turn back time. On account of building something precious with Gabe. There are moments of heat, and moments of laughter, especially with Gabe pretending to be into a whole bunch of community service projects–which he wasn’t–in order to impress Rachel, and build a new persona for her to write about.

The ending is a sweet reconciliation and brings several of the couples in this series back in to celebrate. If you’re a fan of the series, I think you’ll be very satisfied.

Interested? You can find THE ONE NIGHT STAND on Goodreads Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo.

About the Authors:
Elizabeth Hayley is actually “Elizabeth” and “Hayley,” two friends who love reading romance novels to obsessive levels. This mutual love prompted them to put their English degrees to good use by penning their own. The product is Pieces of Perfect, their debut novel. They learned a ton about one another through the process, like how they clearly share a brain and have a persistent need to text each other constantly (much to their husbands’ chagrin).

They live with their husbands and kids in a suburb of Philadelphia. Thankfully, their children are still too young to read.

Elizabeth Hayley’s writing motto is best captured by the words of Patrick Dennis: “I always start with a clean piece of paper and a dirty mind.”

Catch up with them on their website, Goodreads, Facebook and twitter.

Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends!

Instigating a TORRID LITTLE AFFAIR–A Release Week Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for a new contemporary romance from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kendall Ryan. TORRID LITTLE AFFAIR is the third book in her Forbidden Desires series, but able to be enjoyed as a standalone. I really enjoyed THE BED MATE, so I was excited to pick up this new office romance!

About the book:
The best way to get over someone is to get under someone else. And I have the perfect candidate all picked out.

My new assistant is tempting beyond belief with her curvy body and take-no-shit attitude. All those luscious curves, and a juicy ass I’m already in love with. God, the things that I would do to that ass…

But it’s the haunted look in her eyes that speaks to me. Like she’s taken just as much shit in her past as I have—maybe more. We both deserve a little fun.

Love can’t fix everything. Mind-blowing sex and a few killer orgasms, on the other hand?

I have a feeling those might do the trick.

My Review:
Brothers Quinn, Gavin and Cooper Kinsley own an escort agency, Forbidden Desires, in Boston. Semi-spoiler that Gavin and Cooper fell for the same woman in a previous title, but Cooper’s licking his wounds at the beginning of this book, because that love didn’t pan out. And, he desperately wants love. Growing up, their single mother had to resort to lots of unsavory activity to keep the lights on and three growing boys fed–which is why none of them think running a high-end escort agency is an issue. Still, Cooper has had a desire to be the love of a woman’s life, and take good care of her for some time now.

He’s called back from his self-imposed sabbatical to find a beautiful new assistant, Corinne in his office. He thinks she’s a “get back in the swing of things” sexy set-up, and he makes a very inappropriate introduction… Corinne is stunned, and bursts into tears. And that’s when Cooper falls hard. He was attracted on sight; Corinne is a lush, petite woman. But his protective hackles are now raised and he wants more than a quick tumble. Not that Corinne’s ready for anything of the sort…

Corinne isn’t ready for another man in her life. She’s still responsible for her dearest childhood friend–Aaron–who’s in a wheelchair and needs daily medical attention. The medical benefits she’s getting from Forbidden Desires are too good to pass up, and soon she realizes that Cooper’s more personal offer: to he her strings-free sexytimes assistant, is also too good to resist. That said, Corinne has not had good experiences in the sexy department. Growing up through the foster care system, Corinne suffered physical abuse and molestation, and it’s left her scarred. Cooper’s patient and attentive, and the more time they spend the more each of them find they want strings! It’s complicated by Corinne’s attachment to Aaron. But, it’s not insurmountable. And, if there’s one thing that Cooper is good at, it’s getting on top of…things.

Expect lots of sexytimes that are yummy, but they aren’t all happy endings. Corinne’s struggles to be at peace with herself and her arousal are difficult to overcome, and her big secret about Aaron is nearly a deal-breaker. Good thing Gavin and Quinn won’t let Cooper give up on the best relationship he’s ever had. And, Corinne’s confidante Mauve makes sure that Cooper knows how best to care for both Corinne and Aaron. It ends with a very happy ending, and a teaser for the next book in the series that will feature Quinn getting his girl.

Interested? You can find TORRID LITTLE AFFAIR on Goodreads and Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, and Kobo.

About the Author:
A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 1.5 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. She’s a traditionally published author with Simon & Schuster and Harper Collins UK, as well as an independently published author. Since she first began self-publishing in 2012, she’s appeared at #1 on Barnes & Noble and iBooks charts around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine.

Visit Kendall on her website, Facebook, twitter, for the latest book news, and fun extras.