Gay romance

The Quest: STRENGTH IN NUMBERS–Review and Giveaway!

BannerTemplate(7)Hi there! I’m so excited to share a review for a thrilling contemporary M/M romantic suspense novel recently released by Brad Vance. STRENGTH IN NUMBERS is the sequel to WOULD I LIE TO YOU, and you all know how much I liked Jesse and Marc. Two brilliant computer programmers who want to take down the high and mighty billionaire conservative puppetmasters? Yes, sir I would like another!

Be sure to check out my review and get in on the giveaway, too!

StrengthCoverAbout the book:
They’re back! In their first adventure, Marc Julian, software billionaire, and Jesse Winchester, hacker extraordinaire, survived the evil plans of the Krom Brothers and Jesse’s first lover, Chip. But Jesse has old debts to pay to Russian gangster Leonid Ivanov. Now Leonid is calling in those debts, demanding that Jesse find a great treasure for him, and a new game is set in motion…

The mysterious “Satoshi,” creator of the cybercurrency Bitcoin, has been hiding $400 million worth of the currency for years. But now, he has chosen to start a quest for the keys to the Hoard, and he who controls the keys controls the fortune. And this will be a quest that will test the strength, the will, and the character of those who pursue it.

But Marc and Jesse aren’t the only ones on the hunt, as old enemies resurface to try and beat them to the treasure… And even if they reach it first, they must ask themselves – do they really want to give a Russian gangster $400 million to pursue his deadly enterprises? And what would be the consequences if they don’t?

The pursuit will take them through the museums of Tokyo, the streets of Buenos Aires, and the coast of Mexico, in a desperate and dangerous race to keep the fortune in digital gold from the hands of all their enemies…

How about a little taste?

Marc smiled as he made clinking sounds in the galley of his private jet. He already had the black slacks on, so it was the work of a moment to take off his polo shirt and slip into the white epauletted button-down short-sleeve shirt of a steward. The wings were already attached to the lapels, and he’d even had a name tag made.

“Here you go, sir,” he said as he handed Jesse his drink on a tray. Jesse was already involved in something on his phone, and he absentmindedly reached for it.

Then he paused, sensing that something had changed. He looked up to see Marc dressed as an airline steward, his eyes dancing with heat.

Marc didn’t smile as he said, “Is there anything else I can get you, sir?”

Jesse swallowed. “Maybe a warm blanket.”

Marc took the drink from his hand. He pressed a button on the side of Jesse’s chair.

“The seat fully reclines into a bed, sir. Let me make you comfortable.”

As the seat back flattened and the base lifted Jesse’s feet up, Marc pushed another button, and the chair’s arms lowered out of the way, which gave him room to straddle Jesse’s hips.

He put his hands on Jesse’s chest, and Jesse reached up to finger his collar. “How did you earn those wings, steward?”

Marc idly stroked Jesse’s hand where it lingered on the wings. “Oh, those, sir? For achieving membership in the Mile High Club. Are you a member?” Marc began to grind his ass against Jesse’s crotch, feeling the transformation below his slacks.

“You know, I am not. I’ve never been invited to join.”

Marc leaned in to whisper in his ear. “Let me be the first to welcome you, then.

My Review:
This is the second book in a series, and should be read in order.

Marc and Jesse are back in action, together, on the trail of a half-billion in Bitcoin. I am NOT a tech-heavy person. I have little interest in the intrigues of hackers etc, but I really enjoyed this National Treasure-type escapade. Bitcoin is a digital currency that was invented and invested by “Satoshi” whomever that may be. Thing is, Satoshi’s Bitcoin is anonymous but fully traceable. It’s also a criminal’s paradise as it’s unregulated and can pay for any good or service from vendors who will accept the digital transfer into their digital wallets. It’s an ACTUAL thing IRL, for folks to Google, should they like to. In the book Satoshi maintains a cache of Bitcoin that amounts to a street-value of a half billion dollars. It’s destined to end up in the wrong hands unless Marc and Jesse can intercept it.

Problem is, Jesse’s honor-bound to retrieve this treasure for a criminal mastermind, Leonid, who assisted him to gain his “early release” three years in on a 35 year sentence. Leonid has recently orchestrated his own release, and he is calling in his marker on Jesse to get him the Bitcoin so he can pay his way back to Russia. Problem is, two bad dudes from the previous book, Chip and Walt, are also on the trail to Satoshi’s Hoard.

So, there’s a bit of Japanese-inspired cryptography filled with haiku clues and Matrix-style leads. Jetting all over the world, Marc and Jesse uncover the clues in this tech-heavy scavenger hunt. Also, to my great delight, we get to see Jesse and Marc enjoying the passionate side of their partnership. We do have some extended flashback chapters that bring Marc’s youthful foray into cryptography and his darker side. That was unexpected, and showed Marc’s Avenging Angel mentality in Kodachrome. Expect to be surprised, and to have a bit of sorrow for Marc’s loss of a good friend, and a kid who was boxed in to a bad experience.

I was honestly getting riled by Chip and Walt’s ability to pretty much turn up whenever there was a clue to be decoded, and then the end happened, and I was really so satisfied! Justice was served cold, and I wasn’t even a little sad. I’m a little confused regarding Jesse’s status. He had been a fugitive to the US government (aka Snowden) but then he is able to travel at will and not get captured. I think it’s because he keeps turning in bigger fishes than himself, but I’m just a little fuzzy on it all.

As for Leonid and the Bitcoin, it’s unclear what happens to Leonid, but the Bitcoin is destined to make a difference in a scheme masterminded by Marc and sure to bring wrath upon himself and Jesse. This story ends with an HEA and the promise for further mayhem. To which I say: sign me up. I like these guys and their kinky games and bright minds.

Interested? You can find STRENGTH IN NUMBERS on Goodreads and Amazon.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win a paperback copy of WOULD I LIE TO YOU by Brad Vance.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the author:
Brad Vance writes gay romance, erotica and paranormal stories and novels, including the breakout hits “A Little Too Broken” and “Given the Circumstances.”

Keep up with Brad on his blog, Goodreads, Facebook, Google+ and twitter.

pride

Happy Book Birthday to WHEN ADAM FELL–Book Blast & Giveaway!

BannerTemplate(13)Hi there! Wishing a happiest of book birthdays to a brand new contemporary M/M romance from Pat Henshaw. WHEN ADAM FELL is a reconnection romance from Ms. Henshaw’s Foothills Pride series. As you know I liked BEHR FACTS, so I’m eager to read this one.

Catch the excerpt below and be sure to enter to win one of THREE $10 Starbucks gift cards.

WhenAdamFellFSAbout the book:
When his lover Jason’s drug addiction spiraled out of control, TV celebrity chef and cookbook author Adam de Leon walked away from him. Adam also abandoned his renowned restaurant in San Francisco to start a small bistro in the Sierra Foothills.

Five years later Adam is battling the conservative leaders of Stone Acres, California, to open a new restaurant in historic Old Town when Jason turns up on his doorstep—a recovered Jason, now going by the name David and claiming he’s overcome his addictions. What’s more, he begs Adam to take him back and says he’s ready for their happily ever after.

Adam has enough on his plate with problems plaguing the opening of his restaurant. And now he’s having a hard time deciding which to follow—his head or his heart.

How about a little taste?

I watched Jason rise from the stoop.

He looked good. His golden hair sparkled in the day’s first light. A happy smile tinged with nervousness spread across his lips. He was wearing a silver-gray Bogner jacket, some sort of expensive pants, and sturdy boots. Hanging from his shirt collar, his sunglasses looked like those high-priced titanium ones. All in all, the guy standing in front of me could easily have fit into the young, hip app crowd now flooding the valley. Too much money and no idea where to spend it. He looked like a guy who’d eat at the Bistro and then fucking strut up to me after dinner, put a wad of Franklins in my pocket, and whisper, “Quit this job and come cook for me.”

Nothing tempted me, especially not the hundred-dollar bills I’d thought were Monopoly money the first time I’d seen them. Nothing had moved me like this, seeing Jason rise straight up in front of me like a fucking miracle.

Standing there in my scuffed clogs, beat-up jeans, and ratty Stanford Cardinal T-shirt, I felt underdressed for this particular dream. Shouldn’t I at least be wearing my chef’s regalia, toque and all? Shouldn’t I have a Henckel in one hand and a Wüsthof in the other? Or maybe clutching a shield made of my cooking classics, which I’d written with an angry, tormented mind but a clear eye to royalties?

“Cat got your tongue?” the vision asked.

“Fucking A, man. Is it really you, Jason?”

“Sorta. Who else would come knocking at your door looking like me?” He flung his arms out like he wanted me to hug him or some shit.

I backed away and kept my hands to myself, though my dick perked up immediately. Did Jason have a twin or a younger brother, somebody who resembled him? I didn’t think so. All I’d thought for five years was nobody—and I mean nobody—could ever have come back from where my Jason had buried himself. At least I never thought so.

There’ve been moments in my life when I was sure I was losing my mind. When I knew whatever tenuous grasp on reality I thought I had was really smoke up my ass. This moment smacked of those. As the legendary John Fogerty sang and the great Yogi Berra is supposed to have said, it was like déjà vu all over again. Only not.

“What the hell are you doing here?” I asked. Suspicion tasted bitter on my tongue.

Slowly his arms came down, and he gave me a pained but understanding look.

“Yeah, well, it was too much to hope we’d just kiss and make up.” His husky croak had once made me roll over and do anything he asked, but not now. “Can I come in? It’s a little chilly out here.”

I wasn’t cold, but then I’m tall and stout, a real cliché chef image. Fuck, I guess somebody’s got to be the cliché, right? It’s how clichés are born.

I shrugged at his question, swiped at the sweat rolling from my forehead, and moved aside. “Kitchen’s downstairs.” I gestured to the steps.

He walked past me, letting his hand trail over my groin. Once I would have nearly come at the gesture. Now I ignored my dick because my mind was numb and had been for years. He might think he could reawaken my love and lust, but I was pretty fucking sure that ship had sailed and gotten lost at sea.

Interested? You can find WHEN ADAM FELL on Goodreads, Dreamspinner Press, Amazon (US and UK), Barnes & Noble, AllRomance and Kobo.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win one of THREE $10 Starbucks gift cards.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the Author:
Pat Henshaw, author of the Foothills Pride Stories, was born and raised in Nebraska where she promptly left the cold and snow after college, living at various times in Texas, Colorado, Northern Virginia, and Northern California. Pat enjoys travel, having visited Mexico, Canada, Europe, Nicaragua, Thailand, and Egypt, and Europe, including a cruise down the Danube.

Now retired, Pat has spent her life surrounded by words: Teaching English composition at the junior college level; writing book reviews for newspapers, magazines, and websites; helping students find information as a librarian; and promoting PBS television programs.

Her triumphs are raising two incredible daughters who daily amaze her with their power and compassion. Fortunately, her incredibly supportive husband keeps her grounded in reality when she threatens to drift away while writing fiction.

Catch Pat on her website, Facebook, Amazon, twitter, and check out the Foothills Pride website for more deets on the series.

pride

Fear, Friendship and Love: THE ART OF HERO WORSHIP-Review & Giveaway

Hero-BannerTemplate Hi there! Today I’m so excited to share my review for THE ART OF HERO WORSHIP a contemporary M/M romance from Mia Kerick. This is the first New Adult novel I’ve read from Ms. Kerick and I was definitely pleased.

Catch my review and get in on the $25 Amazon GC giveaway below.

TAOHW Front Cover-1About the book:
Trembling on the floor, pressed beneath a row of seats in a dark theater, college freshman Jason Tripp listens to the terrifying sound of gunshots, as an unknown shooter moves methodically through the theater, randomly murdering men, women, and children attending a student performance of Hamlet. Junior Liam Norcross drapes his massive body on top of Jason, sheltering the younger man from the deathly hail of bullets, risking his life willingly, and maybe even eagerly.

As a result of the shared horror, an extraordinary bond forms between the two young men, which causes discomfort for family and friends, as well as for Jason and Liam, themselves. And added to the challenge of two previously “straight” men falling into a same-sex love, are the complications that arise from the abundance of secrets Liam holds with regard to a past family tragedy. The fledgling passion between the men seems bound to fade away into the darkness from which it emerged.

Jason, however, is inexplicably called to rescue his hero in return, by delving into Liam’s shady past and uncovering the mystery that compels the older man to act as the college town’s selfless savior.

The Art of Hero Worship takes the reader on a voyage from the dark and chilling chaos that accompanies a mass shooting to the thrill of an unexpected and sensual romance.

How about a little taste?

Pop-pop-pop….

No, I’m not even remotely safe. But thankfully I play dead far better than my dog did when I taught him that trick at the age of seven.

The shots are earsplitting and getting louder because the shooter’s heading our way. I’m so fucking scared I’m trembling violently, but I promised the guy lying on top of me that I’d stay still. I concentrate on taking short shallow breaths, one after another, in my effort to stop trembling. To stay frozen—like I’ve been since I pulled Ginny to the floor and promptly let go of her hand so I could curl up into a tight fetal ball.

Somebody near me sits up, scrambles to his knees, and impulsively crawls toward the far aisle.

Pop-pop-pop…

“Bang, bang… you’re dead.” The voice comes from directly above me; it’s blank and monotone and controlled. The weird snicker that follows is chilling. I want nothing more than to throw the big guy off my back and run like hell toward the double doors, but I just keep on going with the short breaths and stay as still as I’ve ever been in my life. Even in my terrified state, I know that the guy on top of me is totally exposed and I can’t move because I’ll cheat him out of his life, for sure. Which is so not cool when he’s trying to save mine.

I smell blood. Never noticed the smell of blood before. It reminds me of Grandma’s penny collection… if it got spilled onto the sticky floor of the theater. The scent of old copper is everywhere… like wet pennies strewn all around me on the floor.

Pop-pop-pop…

Shooter’s right above us now. Don’t move… don’t move… don’t move….

“Dear God, help us!” This request seems to catch the shooter’s attention and he turns around and steps away from us. I curse myself for feeling as relieved, and maybe even glad, as I do.

Pop-pop-pop….

We wait and it seems like forever. We wait as voices beg and plead and pray and he shuts them up with bullets. We wait as the sound of shots moves to the front left near the exit, where I figure he’s shooting at anyone who tries to get out through the double doors.

And then, for a second, it’s quiet.

“Now….” The big guy’s voice is whispering but it seems to blast into my left ear. “We have to make our move now.” Before I agree, the heaviness of his body lifts and I feel cold and exposed. “This is our chance to get outta here….”

His hand is attached to the back of my wrist, clutching me so hard that I know I’ll have fingerprint bruises for a week… if I live so long.

My Review:
College freshman Jase and his bestie/newly ex-girlfriend Ginny are at a Hamlet play when a shooter opens fire on the audience. Ginny is killed instantly and Jase is immobile with fear, sure that the shooter will get him soon. Then, a burly fellow student not only covers him with his body, he pulls Jase to safety. Liam, his rescuer, is a junior, and knew the shooter through mutual classes. As the boys flee the scene, they hope that he danger is behind them.

Not so much. While the police attempt to ascertain if Liam and Jase were involved in the shooting, they keep these two sequestered–for their own protection. Jase is terrified by flashbacks and cannot rest, cannot stop reliving his fear, and his failure to help Ginny. Liam is a patient and stalwart companion. Neither Liam nor Jase have ever had experiences with men before, but their shared horror and shock meld them in ways they had never predicted. The comfort that Liam provides Jase is only temporary, however.

Jase leaves school before the end of term, without even saying goodbye to Liam. He’s haunted by visions of the shooter, and sinks into deep depression, having PTSD-like panic attacks in his stifling home with his “s”mother. Then, Liam calls. Invites him for a weekend escape, and Jase feels compelled to go. This man saved him, twice, actually. And in those shared nights they find a new normal within their closeness. It’s exactly the break Jase needs to get him to start over–but he’s now freaked out about his feelings for Liam. Both men profess they aren’t gay, have never had attraction or interest for men before–but they are certainly into pleasing each other.

For Liam, it’s about protecting Jase, giving him attention, and receiving love and admiration in return. For Jase, he craves the strength, security and devotion he experiences from Liam. Each of these men needs to come to terms with their past–Jase suffers for months from the aftermath of the shootings. Liam’s damage extends farther, deep into his dysfunctional childhood and a tragedy that forever scarred his family. Together, they are strong and loving, but can Jase bear it if Liam continues to strive and save everyone?

I really enjoyed the deep probing that Jase does into his psyche in this one. The story is told from his POV and he’s understandably wrecked in the head after enduring so much tragedy. He can’t cope, but being near strong and sturdy Liam helps him to survive the crushing guilt. That Liam’s been dealing with his own survivor’s guilt for the better part of a decade makes him a compassionate partner, but he’s also suffering a hero complex, and it makes him more reckless than Jase can endure.

I’ve read some accounts of shooting survivors, and the physical and psychological aftermath is frightening. I felt that same guilt/fear/haunted/PTSD experience in this book, in a way that was completely accessible. Jase is continually assessing whether he and Liam are together because of their shared pain, and he decides that’s likely true, but not a problem. His worship, and later love, of Liam is strong enough to bind them into the future. There’s a bit of sexytimes, but that’s never the focus. Instead it’s the closeness, the protectiveness, the ownership, if you will, that’s developing between Jase and Liam which makes this a passionate book.

Interested? You can find THE ART OF HERO WORSHIP on Goodreads, Amazon, Smashwords, Gumroad Books, and AllRomance.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the Author:
Mia Kerick is the mother of four exceptional children—all named after saints—and five nonpedigreed cats—all named after the next best thing to saints, Boston Red Sox players. Her husband of twenty-two years has been told by many that he has the patience of Job, but don’t ask Mia about that, as it is a sensitive subject.

Mia focuses her stories on the emotional growth of troubled young people and their relationships, and she believes that physical intimacy has a place in a love story, but not until it is firmly established as a love story. As a teen, Mia filled spiral-bound notebooks with romantic tales of tortured heroes (most of whom happened to strongly resemble lead vocalists of 1980s big-hair bands) and stuffed them under her mattress for safekeeping. She is thankful to Dreamspinner Press, Harmony Ink Press, and CreateSpace for providing her with alternate places to stash her stories.

Mia is a social liberal and cheers for each and every victory made in the name of human rights, especially marital equality. Her only major regret: never having taken typing or computer class in school, destining her to a life consumed with two-fingered pecking and constant prayer to the Gods of Technology.

Where to find Mia online: Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

pride

Rebuilding UNTIL SEPTEMBER–A Review

Hi there! I’m really excited to share a review for this contemporary M/M romance from Chris Scully. First, UNTIL SEPTEMBER is an enemies-to-lovers romance, which I found very intriguing. But MORE IMPORTANTLY, this book has some excellent diversity with characters who are First Nations Cree growing up in a racially-charged area, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. I felt it was a brave choice that gave voice to a culture through the character’s eyes.

Until SeptemberAbout the book:

As a teenager, Archie Noblesse clawed his way out of the poverty, heartache, and abuse of the reservation and left his family behind. Desperate to shake the shadow of his past, he reinvents himself as Archer Noble, an outspoken blogger and controversial author who lives only for himself. But when his beloved sister dies, Archer is saddled with guardianship of his niece and nephew.

Elementary school teacher Ryan Eriksson is devastated when his best friend Marguerite is killed, leaving her two young children orphaned. Helping Archer with his new responsibilities eases his grief, but when Archer offers him custody of the children, Ryan’s left with an impossible choice: get the family he’s always wanted, or respect Margie’s wishes and convince Archer to give parenting—and his heritage—a chance.

To buy time, Ryan promises to stay for the summer, hoping that Archer will change his mind and fall for the kids. But Archer’s reluctant, and the growing attraction between him and Ryan complicates matters. Legal decisions must be made, and soon, before Ryan returns to school. But with hearts involved, more than just the children’s future is on the line.

My Review:

I want to state right up front, that I applaud the author for being sensitive to First Nations culture and writing a Cree MC who has survived the racism and disadvantage of Native life in a real and approachable manner.

Archer Noble (once Archie Noblesse) survived life as the eldest child of a drug-addicted Cree prostitute, and that included several years of sexual abuse from an uncle. He battled his way out, scraping money through theft and turning tricks until he could get legitimate employment and put his younger half-sister through college. Marguerite married and had two children before her husband died of cancer, and when the book opens Archer–now a vocal opponent against the heteronormatism of homosexuals–writes and speaks out against the need/right for same-sex parenting. His official stance is that love doesn’t exist, that gay folk shouldn’t bother with monogamy, settling down, or raising kids. They ought to enjoy their lives hedonistically with out the shackles of society, like marriage, weighing them down.

And then…the phone rings and he learns that Marguerite is dead, and he’s the guardian of his nephew and niece-Dillon and Emma-two kids he’s barely met. Marguerite also named her good friend, Ryan, as a stand-by guardian. When Archer arrives at Marguerite’s he’s overwhelmed and eager to pass the kids to Ryan, even if Ryan is just 25 y/o and gayer than gay. A total twink, and not the kind of gay man Archer either fancies or respects. Ryan is the “picket fence” guy that wants a solid stable partnership, and kids, and everything Archer detests. So, why not give him Margie’s kids?

Ryan won’t accept that, however. He knew Marguerite had a plan putting Archie in charge, and he’s determined not to let Archie run off without a second glance. Ryan takes a hard-line stance, saying that he won’t accept guardianship–even as it breaks his heart–but he will stay with Archer and the kids through the summer while school’s out. During that time, Archer’s supposed to be getting all the legalities in place to assume full guardianship.

Archer’s not a nice guy. He’s a cynical and jaded man who has scraped and scraped and learned to game the system wherever possible in order to survive. He’s not proud of himself, and he’s ashamed of his Cree heritage, which forever marked him as lesser in Manitoba where he grew up. He has no illusions of the past, and is sure his mother died alone, one of the many anonymous Native homicides that went unsolved at the time. Over their summer together, seeing Ryan’s compassion, and Dillon and Emma’s reaction to Ryan, is a watershed experience for Archer. He has no doubt that Ryan–a clearly gay man–is a fabulous parent. And, that he could never live up to Ryan’s example.

Still, there’s a romance building. Archer’s rather adept at the Grindr. And he’s got few scruples regarding hook-ups. He knew, as a Native, that addiction was one issue he’d face. As he didn’t want to die young–like all his family–he chooses sex as his outlet for all frustration, rage or disappointment. Ryan puts his foot down regarding “guests” in the house. Ryan is attracted to Archer physically, and he’s growing to love the man who is learning to raise Dillon and Emma, even if he doesn’t like Archer’s political activist viewpoints. He suspects he’s not Archer’s type but all the close quarters makes for tight connections. And Archer’s narrow-minded view of caregiving and who should provide it is blown wide open. He observes Ryan, the patient, self-sacrificing man who’s getting over his dream to marry his college sweetheart cheer on Dillon and Emma. Ryan’s clearly still nursing a broken heart over the man who used him for a doormat, and Archer’s shamed for having contemplated doing the same.

This is a slow burn, though Archer is definitely, and inexplicably, attracted to Ryan. He’s drawn to his kindness and selflessness–and grateful that Dillon and Emma have someone so wonderful helping them through their grief. Through the days and weeks Archer becomes more comfortable in his role as guardian, and he’s got some very tough choices to make regarding his career and his parenting. Ryan’s summer comes to an end, and while he’d love to stay with Archer and Dillon and Emma, he realizes that he deserves more of a relationship than “the manny” role he assumed at Marguerite’s death. It’s a bittersweet moment, but it’s not the end. Both Ryan and Archer have to make some compromises to their life plans, now. And those compromises work. The book is an HEA, but I will warn readers it’s very low steam. Also, expect some unintentional cockblocking by grieving kids who need drinks in the night.

I loved the tenderness. I loved the ethnicity and inclusion. I loved the enemies to lovers premise that I felt was really well-written and balanced. I liked the progressive growth of the dynamic between Ryan and Archer. Ryan is a gem, and Archer was a fool to let him walk away–but not nearly as big a fool as Ryan’s ex, who let him get away twice.  I wished for more steam, and some sexytimes that happened on the page, not just the “aborted” trysts. That said, this is a tender family drama with a stellar interracial romance.

Interested? You can find UNTIL SEPTEMBER on Goodreads, Riptide Books, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and AllRomance.  I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

About the Author:

CHRIS SCULLY lives in Toronto, Canada. She grew up spinning romantic stories in her head and always dreamed of one day being a writer even though life had other plans. Her characters have accompanied her through career turns as a librarian and an IT professional, until finally, to escape the tedium of a corporate day job, she took a chance and began putting her daydreams down on paper.

Tired of the same old boy-meets-girl stories, she found a home in M/M romance and strives to give her characters the happy endings they deserve. She divides her time between a mundane 9-5 cubicle job and a much more interesting fantasy life. When she’s not working or writing (which isn’t often these days) she loves puttering in the garden and traveling. She is an avid reader and tries to bring pieces of other genres and styles to her stories. While her head is crammed full of all the things she’d like to try writing, her focus is always on the characters first. She describes her characters as authentic, ordinary people—the kind of guy you might meet on the street, or the one who might be your best friend.

Although keeping up with social media is still a struggle given her schedule, she does love to hear from readers. You can find Chris on her website and Facebook.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

Austen in LOVE ON THE JERSEY SHORE–A Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for a contemporary M/M romance that threw me for an Austen-spin. Richard Natale’s LOVE ON THE JERSEY SHORE had a rough start for me, until I determined the truth: it’s Pride and Prejudice in disguise!

Love on the Jersey ShoreAbout the book:

Sexual chemistry and the search for real love can be a combustible mixture.

When the hunky young Anthony Ragucci falls for his dream man, a handsome attorney named Hunter Reese, his happily ever after fantasies are threatened by the meddling of the dashing and haughty Robert Burke. His loyal cousin Frank quickly rushes to Anthony’s defense, only to find his efforts hampered by a growing attraction to the inscrutable Robert.

Ultimately, the two cousins discover that Love on the Jersey Shore is a sink or swim proposition. Watch out for the undertow!

My Review:

This book, for me, was a slow starter, and I struggled for the first third… Long declarative passages, long exposition, oddly phrased, so much back story–I felt I was being TOLD a story, which I detest, but then…THEN!…I caught the groove. And the whole thing, the writing, the story, turned me onto my head…because THIS is a modern retelling of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE!!! Only the Bennett sisters are gay Italian dudes from the Jersey shore!!! OMG! So, the third person limited POV, mostly centering on Elizabeth–I mean FRANK!–that didn’t work at first became delightful in this new light. The second I caught on I WAS HOOKED. GIDDY! Could not wait for Darcy, I mean ROBERT, to unwind this quiet love affair.

Here’s the low down: Frank and Anthony are cousins raised together. Anthony’s mom died when he was young and his dad was a long-haul trucker, so he pretty much moved into Frank’s bedroom. They are as close as two brothers could be, and they grow up in decent blue collar fashion. They both experiment with girls…a lot, but there’s something missing there. They find that missing piece in male companionship—are they bi? Are they gay? They mostly decide they are gay, and come out in their early twenties. As adults they are successful self-made businessmen with respectable careers in landscape design and home building/remodeling. While Anthony is looking for a life partner, Frank is reserved and not likely to won over by any suitor.

Anthony wants a partner and a family. He’s affable and handsome and catches on with Hunter, a wealthy young Manhattan attorney who’s equally smitten. It’s barely been a few months and they are talking marriage, and then Darcy, I MEAN Robert!, Hunter’s closest friend and fellow attorney steps in. Suddenly Hunter’s working a lot more and the fantastic ball–I MEAN Christmas party–Hunter and Anthony had planned to throw is cancelled. Elizabeth, er FRANK, is distraught at the turn in Anthony’s romantic fortunes… and tries to console his cousin-brother the best he…

Lookit, I could draw all the comparisons to Jane Austin’s classic and destroy the fantastic surprises built within, but I’m not gonna. Suffice it to say: there’s a lot of P&P going on here. It thrilled me to see this story re-worked in a way that was true to the essence of the original and completely unique. I think the ONLY thing I didn’t love was the lack of lovin’. I wanted to see all the *wink wink* happy endings.

That said, there’s no ending like a happy ending and we get a twofer in this one. Anthony and Hunter and Frank and Robert. Or was it Jane and Bingley and Elizabeth and Darcy… Oh crap. I MEAN. Shoot. Good stuff! I was thrilled by the novelty and charmed by the plot. Eventually.

Interested? You can find LOVE ON THE JERSEY SHORE on Goodreads, Bold Strokes Books, Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

About the Author:

Richard Natale is a reporter and editor who has written for such publications as the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, the Village Voice and Variety. He wrote and directed a gay-themed feature film romance Green Plaid Shirt, which was the closing night film at the Palm Springs Film Festival and played at 20 festivals around the world. It is currently a best-selling DVD and streaming title for Wolfe Video.

He won the National Playwright’s Competition for the comedy Shuffle off This Mortal Buffalo, which was produced in Los Angeles and Kansas City. Several of his short stories have appeared in the literary magazine Wilde Oats and have been published by Torquere Press and thewritedeal.org.

Richard can be contacted at via email and on Facebook and twitter.

Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends!

Book Blast and Giveaway: DRAGON DREAMS AND FAIRY WINGS!

BannerTemplate(12)Hi there! I’m sharing an excerpt and giveaway for a new M/M erotic fantasy romance from Bailey Bradford.  I heard “dragon shifters” and “fairies” and was totally hooked. DRAGON DREAMS AND FAIRY WINGS is now live in pre-release, and will be available everywhere next week.

Check out the great excerpt and get in on the book giveaway.

DDFW - 400x600About the book:
What happens when a fairy loses his wings–and his memory?
Griff was born a Love fairy, but he never quite fit in. He didn’t want to be part of a harem, at least…he didn’t think he wanted that. What with his wings gone and his memory damaged, he can’t be certain of what he felt in the past. All he does know is, he wants his wings back. Without them, he’s grounded.

Blaze is a dragon shifter who tends to stick his foot in his mouth…and some other parts in other places…when he really shouldn’t. His brother is the king, and his sister-in-law Bonny is scary. Blaze’s last screw-up got him grounded, unable to shift into his dragon form. His punishment seems harsh to him, but there’s no escaping it.

Then the Love fairies come to the castle to work on forming an alliance. Blaze has about had it with guarding the horny beings, and he’s disappointed that they don’t stay small and cute. He almost commits a major faux-pas when he swats at something buzzing him, and it turns out to be a fairy on a dragonfly.

And from that snarky meeting, something wonderful, and dangerous, will come.

How about a little taste?

Blaze was disappointed as all Hades. The fairies weren’t little all the time. They were tiny when they came in, but quickly morphed to regular sized beings, if not taller than most of the dragons when the dragons were in the two-legged form.

And holy dragon balls, Blaze did not know why anyone would want a harem! Okay, well, there was the sex, and lots of it, probably, but so far there’d been more bickering and outright fighting than anything sexy! He’d had to break up six altercations, and the fairies had only been in their accommodations for an hour!

This was going to be a long, suck-ass assignment.

The fairies sure were beautiful, though. Granted, he hadn’t seen each and every one of them. He’d seen the king, and some of the harem members. Every one of them was gorgeous, delicate-featured, lithe, and limber—that last one might not be true, but he was going to go with it, because… hot! Bendy fairies… Blaze adjusted his cock before it could pop up and embarrass him. He wondered if maybe, because they were Love fairies, they had special powers of attraction and such. He’d been fighting down boners ever since he’d been brought out to meet the Love fairy king, Artaxis.

Not that Artaxis even gave him a cursory glimpse. Blaze didn’t blame him. Artaxis was beautiful, like all the fairies Blaze had seen so far, and Blaze was… Well, there was nothing delicate about a dragon’s features, that was for sure. And lithe might apply to some of the other dragons in differing warrens, but not in any Blaze knew of.

With Blaze’s shocking orange hair and bronze skin… and freckles, another thing that was a burden to bear. How many times when he’d been a child had he been teased about having shit splatters on his face? Was it any wonder at all that he hated his human form? At least his scales made the freckles unnoticeable for the most part when he was a dragon. And Blaze was forever scarred from being told his freckles were caused by watching other creatures using the dragon dumping grounds. That was also the cause for styes in the eyes, according to old dragons’ tales.

Blaze had never in his life had a sty, and he’d maybe, sorta accidentally, seen an orc once in the dumping grounds. If anything was going to give someone a sty, that should have done it.

Blaze smacked himself on the forehead. Why did his mind spin around to such stupid thoughts?

Well, it’d curbed his arousal. He hoped the fairies weren’t going to hang around long. He didn’t need the struggle with his dick, and he sure didn’t need the blow to his ego—so far, none of the fairies had acknowledged him or even looked at him unless he was breaking up a fight involving them. Even then, he didn’t think he registered as more than a big, lumbering weirdo.

He watched a dozen fairies walk toward the baths. They were so pale and pretty, and that long hair was amazing. Then he realized something wonderful. They were naked!

It was wonderful because there were so many gorgeous naked fairies. Yet it was horrible, too, because he was never going to have blood anywhere else but in his cock again unless he got some sort of control over his libido. When the fairies’ hair swung just right, he saw glimpses of nicely rounded buttocks.

Blaze groaned and closed his eyes. He couldn’t look. He’d end up taking his shaft out right there and jacking himself to completion, and he didn’t have to think about it to know that wouldn’t go over well with Fyre or Bonny.

He had to leave the hall next to the harem rooms, where he’d been standing, waiting for the next fight to break out. Blaze couldn’t wait for more naked fairies to come out. He’d lose it and yeah, end up being grounded for a century.

It was easy to slip away, outside, into the heat of the sunlight. Blaze bit his lip until it hurt bad enough to kill his arousal. He was really going to have to get it together—if he could just figure out what it was.

A strange sound reached his ears. It was a fluttering, buzzing sound. He turned his head and frowned when he saw a gold-gilded dragonfly buzzing toward the entrance of the secondary palace where the fairies were staying.

Contrary to popular belief, dragons didn’t look at dragonflies as cute little relatives. They looked at them as bugs.

Blaze raised a hand to swat it away when it was within reach.

 This book sounds like an absolute hoot!

Interested? You can find DRAGON DREAMS AND FAIRY WINGS on Goodreads. Pick it up RIGHT NOW on Rainbow Ninja Press or PayHip, or preorder on Amazon Smashwords or AllRomance for release 2/25.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win an e-copy of DRAGON DREAMS AND FAIRY WINGS.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the author:

These things always give me fits. Basically, I am an author of erotic romance. Besides being an author, I am a mother, a grandmother, a wife, and a combination of many other things that make my life joyous day in and day out. Unless someone swipes my coffee. Then it gets pretty ugly quickly.

Catch up with Bailey online on her blog, Facebook, Goodreads, and twitter.

pride

Broken Love REFIRED–Review & Giveaway!

refired-BannerTemplateHi there! Today I’m excited to share a realistic M/M reconnection romance from BA Tortuga. REFIRED is the story of two men separated by alcoholism: one who struggles with it, and the other who fears it’s disastrous influence. They are otherwise a great match, if one can forgive and forget…

Check out my review below and be sure to enter to win TWO ebooks from Ms. Tortuga.

RefiredFSAbout the book:

When Kris Cerny walks back into Two Spirits, the art gallery he owns with Josh McPhee, all he wants is a clean break. Austin’s booming real estate market means the building he bought years ago is worth a fortune, and with the sale, he and Josh can finally go their separate ways. They won’t be reconciling, right? Josh may be sober now, but an addict is always going to be an addict, and Kris can’t take that chance again.

Josh isn’t willing to sell. Not yet. He’s discovered a new artist in Santa Fe he knows will put Two Spirits in the black, and if he can just make a success of the gallery, maybe he can earn Kris’s respect, if not recapture his love. He needs Kris to give him time for one more buying trip, one more gallery show. Josh wants nothing more than a final chance to make things right. Kris agrees to let Josh have this last ditch effort on one condition– he wants to go along for the ride. On the way Josh hopes they’ll find the next big thing in the art world as well as peace, forgiveness, and a love he thought was lost forever.

 How about a little taste!

Josh sat there in the office that had been his for seven years, two months, and three days, looking at the cowboy who he’d thought, once upon a time, was going to be his one and only, feeling a little like he was drunk.

He rolled the five-year-sober token between his fingers, letting it settle him. Not drunk. Not even a bit.

“What? What did you say to me?” He left off the you sorry son of a bitch part.

“We got a buyer for the gallery.” Kris stared at him, calm as could be, one hip settled on the edge of his desk.

“The gallery isn’t for sale.” He owned half, dammit. Still.

Kris nodded easily. “Frankly they just want the building. Quite an offer. I don’t see how we can pass it up.”

“The gallery isn’t for sale.” He was fairly sure the words were succinct enough for Mr. Business.

“The neighborhood has changed, Josh. It’s not a boho, arty area anymore. It’s all high-priced condos and tapas bars.” Kris’s expression softened just slightly. “I think it’s time to let it go.”

This wasn’t about the gallery. This was about them. Him and Kris.

“No.”

“Josh, please at least look at the offer.” Kris stood, straightening his fancy cattleman’s. God, he looked like a stuffed suit. Kris looked better in beat-up Wranglers.

“I’m not interested.” Josh felt like sitting down and pounding the floor with his fist. This wasn’t right. None of it. He knew he was a fuckup. Had been a fuckup. But he was working his shit out.

The gallery was back to breaking even, if not making a profit. Josh thought he deserved a chance to get some good new artists in for a show.

“Then are you going to buy me out?” Kris asked.

Fuck. Kris knew he couldn’t do that. The business finances were an open book. Josh wasn’t even taking a salary for another three years to pay back Kris’s initial investment.

“I don’t have to. We’re equal partners. All I have to do is say no.”

Kris frowned, dark brows drawing together over his bright green eyes. “Dammit, Josh, how long are you going to pretend this is going to work?”

He touched the coin again. Five years. Five years sober. Five years proving he could be trusted. Five years and it wasn’t enough.

“This gallery is my life.” Simple as that. He had no friends anymore, no one. He came to work and went to meetings. He hadn’t gone out to dinner with Kris since…. Christ. Christmas? Maybe? Had they even done Christmas?

“Then what do you want me to do? The building is really the only asset.”

“I’m going on a buying trip. Santa Fe area. Why are we even talking about this?” Why are you even here? Go find another project.

Kris was, like, the king of finance now or something. He had investments all over, could probably walk away from the gallery without even taking a money hit.

“Buying? With what? Your good looks?”

 My Review:

Josh and Kris had a strong love back in college. They were in each other’s pockets, deep. But their partying ways caught up to them. Josh gave up art, drinking his days away–whenever they didn’t have a showing at the gallery, Two Spirits, Kris had purchased for Josh to run. Kris has a bad history with alcoholism and it took a nearly tragic incident to realize: 1. that Josh had a serious problem 2. that Josh’s drinking was a serious problem for him.

When Josh couldn’t get clean, Kris cut ties.

Nearly seven years later Kris has come back to Two Spirits, to Josh with an offer. The building Kris owns, the gallery Josh has managed faithfully, soberly–for the past five years–has an offer for purchase. Josh wants to keep the place, Kris does not, but gives Josh 30 days to bring one more art show to the space, one that will raise it’s sagging reputation.

As Josh prepares to set out on the hunt for an artist he’s heard tales about, Kris decides to go along. Their chemistry is off the charts, and Josh’s in a whirlwind. Does Kris want him back? This has been his fervent hope all throughout recovery. All throughout his sobriety. Josh sees Kris’ willingness to sell Two Spirits as the end of their relationship, and Kris does, too. He wants a clean break from the man who had been his heart and world so many years ago. Plus, he knows that if he sells the property he can give Josh enough money to start over again.

While out to meet the artist, Cypress, near Santa Fe, Kris and Josh rekindle their romance. It’s wondrous and heady. Josh struggles, calling his sponsor back in Austin daily to keep himself grounded. He has never told Kris about his years in AA, and Kris is constantly waiting for Josh to screw up, take a drink. When Kris thinks this happens, their idyll is over.

This is  a bittersweet read. Two men who clearly love each other, and yet cannot stay connected. Kris has never confided his deepest secrets regarding his mother’s battle with alcoholism, and how that broke his family both physically and emotionally. He has been trained to keep his family’s secrets, and his twin sister and father maintain a “scorched Earth” policy of forgiveness; burned once = forever lost.

With the fate of Two Spirits determined, Josh has to heal from the loss of his love and his livelihood. He goes back to art, and it’s the best medicine for him. Kris has some soul searching to do, and to clear the morass of his life away until all that remains is the love he might reclaim. I loved the secondary characters in this: Cypress the native artist, Zack, Josh’s AA sponsor, even The Judge and Tyna, Kris’ father and sister fill in so many gaps.

Like all books where addiction is part of the story, forgiveness is the key to redemption. This is a process, much like art. It only grows based on what you commit to it. Kris has withheld his forgiveness so long, feeling powerless to give it, based on his youth. Now, as a man, he sees the choices laid out before him and the ramifications of those decisions. Will he live an empty life? Can he, after that brief respite with Josh, bear to be alone? Or, can he make the changes necessary to be a full partner to a Josh who has remade his life into one of use and purpose, all without any prodding from Kris?

I’ll be truthful, while I found Kris a sympathetic character, I really didn’t like him for much of the book. He felt like a selfish man, using and abusing Josh’s emotions. I may not have liked him, but I did understand him–and I was glad that he was finally truthful with Josh regarding his family’s tragedy. Kris makes a complete 180 as the book winds out, but it took me time to trust him, and that was okay. Not every character needs to be immediately likable. Josh was earnest and compassionate and larger than life. His growth after meeting Cypress and finding his art again was stunning and joyful. I had complete satisfaction with Kris and Josh repairing their relationship, charting a new course. The art references were lovely, and the hints at native mysticism were a fantastic touch. This is truly a love story, but one that takes the hard road to get there. And that made is oh-so-real for me.

I can easily see this book spun into a series featuring the separate love stories of Cypress and Zack. They have men in their lives already with whom they dearly desire to reconnect.

Interested? You can find REFIRED on Goodreads, Dreamspinner Press (ebook and paperback) Amazon (US and UK) Barnes & Noble and AllRomance.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win two ebooks from BA Tortuga (The Terms of Release and Articles of Release)
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the author:
Texan to the bone and an unrepentant Daddy’s Girl, BA Tortuga spends her days with her basset hounds, getting tattooed, texting her sisters, and eating Mexican food. When she’s not doing that, she’s writing. She spends her days off watching rodeo, knitting and surfing porn sites in the name of research. BA’s personal saviors include her wife (still amazing to say that), Julia Talbot, her best friend, Sean Michael, and coffee. Lots of coffee. Really good coffee.

Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to hard-core cowboys to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which was raised in Northeast Texas, but has gone to the high desert mountains and fallen in love. With books ranging from hard-hitting GLBT romance, to fiery ménages, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.

You can find BA online on her blog, Facebook, twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

pride

Executing a BONDAGE RESCUE–Review & Giveaway!

BannerTemplate(11)
Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for a new book in Morticia Knight’s contemporary M/M BDSM romance Kiss of Leather series. I enjoyed both BUILDING BONDS and SAFE LIMITS, so I naturally wanted to read BONDAGE RESCUE. All throughout these books I’ve liked the strong relationships that develop–with the hint of kink that’s ever present.

Check out the excerpt, my review and get in on the book giveaway below.

bondagerescue_800_3About the book:
Kyle’s best friend Marshall resurfaces and he’s in a lot of trouble. Can the men at Kiss of Leather convince a former Dom to take on the mouthy sub?

Master Derek and his new sub Corey have signed a contract and enjoy their first scene together. The love between them is strong and Derek is as protective of his boy as ever. The only thing left that would make their world perfect would be to bring Corey’s ex-Dom and abuser to justice.

The legal firm that represents Kiss of Leather is charged with hiring a private investigator to flush out the man who orchestrated Corey’s gang rape. Stone Manning is hesitant to take the job, though. He was once wrongly accused in the death of a sub and swore never to enter a BDSM club again. But he owes attorney Glen Sharp his life after the lawyer got him acquitted.

Their meeting is disrupted when Kyle’s missing friend Marshall calls for help. Master Josh promises to help the mouthy Marshall get back on his feet under one condition—Marshall must sign a six month D/s contract as a full-time sub and prove he can fully submit to a man as well as learn to respect those around him.

Stone Manning suddenly finds himself charged with taming the brattiest sub ever. In truth, the bigger the brat, the more his heart races with excitement. Marshall promises to be just the type of challenge to inspire Stone to be a Master again. As Stone learns more about him, he sees the pain that Marshall has always tried to numb with drugs and alcohol. Stone also sees a man he could love—if he can ever reach him.

In the meantime, Stone and his investigative partner, Chuck, continue to search for Corey’s attacker. The abusive Dom appears to have gone underground. But what they don’t realize is that the closer they get to their prey, the more dangerous he becomes.

Reader Advisory: This book contains references to drug and alcohol abuse.

How about a little taste?

Stone considered Marshall. He was smart. But he was also in so much emotional pain, viewed his life through a lens of fear, loss and regret. Stone wondered if six months would be long enough to address all of Marshall’s demons. He’d have to do his damnedest to be everything that Marshall needed.

“Sit down, please.” Stone indicated to the chair across from him.

Marshall blinked at him in confusion as if Stone had announced to him that he was an iguana. “Okaaaay…” He lowered himself gingerly on the seat as he continued to stare at Stone as though he were insane.

Obviously not the reaction he’d expected after his little rant. Good.

Marshall made a small strangled sound, dropping his chin to his chest. He lifted it again with a sigh. “Okay, Sir.”

Stone rose then circled around the table until he reached Marshall. “Good boy.” He placed his palm on the top of his head, Marshall jerking away the second they made contact.

“What are you doing?”

Marshall’s tone had held an edge of fear to it that Stone didn’t like. He kept his words soft.

“I was praising you because you did that perfectly. Thank you.”

The expression on Marshall’s face held confusion. His brow furrowed as he averted his gaze. “Oh. Uh, you’re welcome, Sir.”

Marshall fiddled with the towel as if repositioning it. There was a noticeable tremble to his hands. Stone wondered if it was from being upset or more related to Marshall’s blood sugar or a lack of alcohol. There was so much to handle in regards to Marshall and Stone didn’t want to overwhelm him. The desire to understand why Marshall had reacted negatively to a gentle touch nagged at him. But it wasn’t about what he wanted. It was about what Marshall needed. The first priority was his sub’s physical health.

“Would you like some coffee, boy?”

Marshall jerked his head up. “Coffee?”

“Yes, boy. Is that something you like to have in the morning?”

“Yes, Sir. But…I mean, isn’t that a part of my whole submission thingy? Josh used to make me do that every morning for him.” Marshall snickered. “Oh my God. He knew better than to have me cook, though.”

“Hmm. That’s good information to have. We’ll have to get you some simple recipes to begin with, perhaps a basic cooking course.” Stone glanced over his shoulder as he approached the Keurig machine. “Do you take anything in your coffee?”

“Hold up. Cooking course? I don’t think so.” He placed a hand delicately across his chest. “I’m not really into that whole Gordon Ramsey scene.” Marshall favored him with a sly smirk. “Although, I wouldn’t mind doing him.”

“You never answered my question.”

“Huh? What question? You were talking about me cooking.” He grunted, speaking as if to himself. “As if that would ever happen.”

“It’s going to happen and I wanted to know how you take your coffee.”

Marshall narrowed his eyes. “You can’t make me do something I don’t know how to do.”

“Once you finish a cooking course, then yes, I can make you do it.”

Marshall crossed his arms and Stone noted the wince he made that was undoubtedly from pulling on the wound on his elbow. “I’m not cooking and no, you can’t make me.”

Stone leaned with his back against the tiled counter, his stance relaxed, almost as if he was bored. “Are you aware of what they’ll make you do in prison, Marshall? And how do you suppose they might make you do something you don’t want to do? Josh explained to me that the amount of Ecstasy and cocaine they found on the ground near you when you were thrown from the car would be enough to put you away for a very long time. How confident are you that a public defender would be your best bet as opposed to the type of legal counsel Josh can provide? All he wants in return is my assurances that you’re submitting to me completely and showing me, as well as those you interact with, proper respect. I’m to report to him on a weekly basis.”

The distress on Marshall’s face was clear. “But…Josh said I had six months. I can’t be perfect right away! What if I make a mistake, and I didn’t mean to, but you tell Josh I’m a fuck-up? This isn’t fair!” Marshall’s breathing elevated. “This is a fucking nightmare. I’ll never be able to handle this. I can’t cook. I’m not good at anything except shaking my ass and sucking cock.” Marshall buried his face in his hands before tearing them away. “Fuck it. I’m leaving.” Marshall started to rise.

“Sit.”

Marshall jumped, but stayed seated, his eyes widened as he stared at Stone. He made sure to keep his voice calm and soothing as he spoke. “You’re not a fuck-up and once we get to the point of discussing consequences to actions, calling yourself that, or any other derogatory reference, will be cause for punishment.”

“Like telling Josh you’re done with me.”

It hadn’t been a question and had been said with a veneer of sadness. Marshall felt the tug in his chest he’d first experienced when he’d seen Marshall at the club.

My Review:
This is the third book in a series and should probably be read after SAFE LIMITS (book two in the Kiss of Leather series). There is an overarching plot in this series that relates to unsafe Doms who use and abuse their subs. This is primarily to find “Master Tony” who organized the gang rape of Corey from SAFE LIMITS.

The main love story in this book is between Master Stone–a retired Dom and current PI–and Marshall, best friend of another sub. Stone had been accused in the death of a sub years ago, but was later proven to be innocent. He hasn’t been in the lifestyle since, however. And now, as investigator for Corey’s abuser, he’s sure that history is repeating itself. Marshall’s been a bad bad boy, and he’s sure that no one will love/want him. He needs to clean out and learn to love himself, and Master Stone keeps a cool head when Marshall challenges him time and time again.

Their relationship is slow to build, but has good results. I liked how Stone encouraged Marshall to get stronger, and take charge of his life. He encourages Marshall, and gives him latitude to make mistakes–and make good choices, too. Because of their close association, Marshall and Corey become good friends. When the plot turns dark and deadly, it is Marshall who takes a lead and stands up for himself and Corey. Expect a thrilling chase and some touch-and-go moments. Also, expect some deep emotional bonds and thrilling sexytimes.

Again, I really love the considerate BDSM connections made in this series. All the partners feel good about themselves and their lovers. The pairs are all consensual and monogamous, with a bit of exhibitionism/public scening being the largest nod to kink.

Interested? You can find BONDAGE RESCUE on Goodreads, Pride Publishing, Amazon (US and UK) and Barnes & Noble.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win a $25 Amazon GC and a signed copy of BONDAGE RESCUE.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

Morticia KnightAbout the Author:
Author Morticia Knight spends most of her nights writing about men loving men forever after. If there happens to be some friendly bondage or floggings involved, she doesn’t begrudge her characters whatever their filthy little heart’s desire. Even though she’s been crafting her naughty tales for more years than she’d like to share – her adventures as a published author began in 2011.

Once upon a time she was the lead singer in an indie rock band that toured the West Coast and charted on U.S. college radio. She currently resides on the northern Oregon coast and when she’s not fantasizing about hot men she takes walks along the ocean and annoys the local Karaoke bar patrons.

You can find Morticia online on her website, Goodreads, Totally Bound, Amazon, Twitter and Facebook.

pride

Gotta LOVE ME TENOR–Review & Giveaway!

LMT-BannerTemplateHi there! I’m so excited to share a review for a brand-spanking-new contemporary M/M romance from Annabeth Albert. LOVE ME TENOR is the second book in the Perfect Harmony series, and you know I adored TREBLE MAKER so I jumped at the chance to read this one.

Drop down to check out my review, an extended excerpt and get in on the $20 Amazon GC giveaway!

LovemeTenorAbout the book:
Trevor Daniels is feeling aimless. A recent college grad, he’s not sure what to do with his useless degree, and his family all but abandoned him after he revealed the truth about himself. But a friend’s suggestion that he take his chances on a reality show aimed at finding the next big boy band strikes a chord with him—until the show’s producers convince him to act like he’s in a relationship with a guy who’s not at all his type. It isn’t exactly love at first sight for Jalen Smith either—but lust just might push them in an unexpected direction. If only their secrets weren’t even more twisted than their sheets, threatening to cost them the win—and each other…

How about a taste?

“You brought your luggage?” The receptionist looked at Trevor like he’d brought a snake to the movie studio offices instead of a rolling suitcase and a backpack.

“My flight was late. And then customs—”

“Fine.” She held up a hand, shimmery with the sort of nail art Trevor’s sisters weren’t allowed to wear. “You can have a seat.” She motioned to a seating area with square leather and chrome chairs and a metallic-looking shag rug.

“Wait. Is my group here yet? Stand Out!?”

“Let me check.” She glanced at a pink sheet on a clipboard. “No.” She made a shooing motion back in the direction of the waiting area.

“Thanks.”

The receptionist disappeared back down a hallway, teetering on shoes that put her a good six inches taller than Trevor. The building was kind of a letdown. The whole complex was a series of gigantic gray warehouses, but the inside of this one was like any other office building in America. Or Canada. He’d only been in Vancouver a couple of hours and kept forgetting he wasn’t in the States anymore.

His bag made a loud clickety-clack sound as he dragged it across the tile floor to the seating area, but the only occupant in the chairs didn’t even glance up. The guy was about Trevor’s age, maybe a bit younger. His eyes were half-closed, like waiting for producers to call his name was just so boring. He had that jock sprawl, maximizing every inch of the low chair. Trevor took a seat with a good view of the guy. Indifferent eye candy was his favorite kind.

He had this thing for straight guys, particularly jocks. Jocks were his personal kryptonite; they made his knees turn into magnets, headed straight for the floor. And the guy across from him was the deadly, heart-stopping red kryptonite brand of jock. His build was perfect—not too tall, because Trevor was picky about that—but jacked like a Chevy with a lift kit. Hell, even the dude’s neck was ripped. Jock’s foot moved back and forth in motion with the music pumping in his ears from pricey Beats headphones.

Because dude’s eyes were shut, Trevor felt free to continue his inventory of hotness. Baggy shorts. T-shirt for a wrestling team. Wrestling. Trevor had to shift around on the slick leather couch before continuing his appraisal. Cheap white socks, but black shoes that probably cost more than Trevor’s bike. Rich elitist jock? Yes, please.

The outfit was notable because Trevor would have figured most guys coming to a TV studio would want to dress up a little. He had, but of course now his pressed khakis and dress shirt seemed horribly overdressed compared to jock boy and the receptionist wearing a cutoff denim skirt and a tank top that seemed to be made out of nothing more than knotted rope.

Maybe dude wasn’t there to be on TV. Or if he was, maybe he was there for a different show from the music reality show Trevor was on. He certainly didn’t look like the boy band type. Dude looked ready for an MMA-fighter type show, or maybe working as a stunt double. But if he wasn’t on Trevor’s show, that meant—

“You done checking me out or you need me to turn to the other side?” Jock’s eyes snapped open. They were a startling shade of hazel, almost amber. And at the moment, they were filled with undisguised irritation.

Oh, crap. Trevor gulped hard. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He dug out his phone, giving himself something to look down at. He’d been caught before and it almost never ended well. With any luck, Dawn would show up soon and he would never have to see jock boy again.

“Oh, don’t be shy.” Jock boy had a killer whisper: husky with a hint of command to it. He said it with the air of someone who knew exactly how hot he was. And now he was going to make Trevor pay for noticing.

Trevor didn’t look up from his phone, but inside he was squirming in his chair. In a different situation, he’d be more than happy to let this play out until he was on his knees in the restroom with jock boy berating him, but he’d sworn to turn over a new leaf. Plus there was always the risk that jock wanted all the verbal abuse and none of the fun. No more gambling.

“Yeah. That’s what I figured.” The other guy snorted.

“Trevor! You made it!” Dawn came barreling across the lobby, red hair streaming behind her. She was flanked by two nearly identical blond giants—one wore a blue polo shirt and khaki pants, the other a brown polo and blue pants. Both had the same bored smirk on their faces.

“What are you doing with your luggage?” Dawn’s smile was replaced by a frown, like Trevor was some clueless kid making her day more difficult. “Why didn’t you give it to the receptionist? They’re sending all the contestants’ stuff over to the house while we tape the intro segments.”

“Here. I’ll take it.” Blond giant number one grabbed Trevor’s bags, tossing them like they were a set of hand weights.

“Jalen!” Dawn stepped around Trevor to hug jock boy, who stood up to greet her. “It’s about time. I was starting to freak!”

Just his luck. Dawn hung on Jalen the jock like they were old friends, tugging his headphones down to his neck and rubbing his closely cropped black hair. Oh, geez. Jalen looked a bit young to be Dawn’s boy toy; she had to be in her late twenties. But no matter what Jalen was to Dawn, he was now a giant pain in the neck to Trevor. A sick feeling gathered in his gut and his hands tightened.

“Did you meet Jalen already, Trevor?” she asked.

“No,” Trevor said carefully. The tension in his muscles climbed to trampoline spring tight—any second now Jalen was going to call him out for creeping on him.

“We’re acquainted,” Jalen drawled at the same time.

“Um. Okay.” Dawn frowned but luckily kept talking before Jalen could reveal way more than Trevor wanted. “So this is Carter. And over there is Carson.”

Twins. They had to be twins right? Trevor was already in too much shit for gaping and didn’t want to stare hard enough to figure it out.

“So, are we ready to become the next boy band?” Carter spoke like some dude on an infomercial, each word carefully articulated for maximum impact. “I am so ready to win this thing.”

The riot in Trevor’s stomach grew worse. Win? With Jalen the jock? As in Trevor was now in the same group as jock boy? And the blond giants? For the next six weeks?

“Yeah. Let’s do this.” Carson came back over. Like Carter, he had a macho, commanding voice, probably a baritone when he sang. Heck. Trevor really didn’t want to be the only tenor on a team of One Direction wannabes.

“Okay Stand Out!, let’s go film your intro.” Dawn motioned for them to follow her down the hall.

Oh, hell. He was really going to be on camera, in a boy band, right freaking now.

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

Trevor hails from a conservative Christian family which has rejected him due to his sexuality. He’s weeks from graduating college and his whole life already seems a bust. He’s cut off from his family and his planned job as music director in his father’s church. He has no prospects, no home and less than $100 in his bank account when he gets a call to take part in a “boy band” reality show. Trevor was part of an acapella group in college, and even participated in a previous reality show with that group the summer before–one of this new show’s producers is the one calling him back, and well, he has the choice between homelessness and six weeks of room and board in the reality show house. Plus, if the group he’s with wins…well!

Okay, it’s not gonna be easy, especially when Trevor learns that he’s part of a “gay” band. And, not just part…he’s the “other half” of a couple, to a guy he has never met.

Jalen is doing this show as a favor to his foster sister, and he doesn’t mind singing so much, but he hasn’t had any formal training, and he’s not sure what to make of Trevor, his “boo.” Jalen’s a beefcake mix of Black-Hispanic-Hawaiian genes, and though he isn’t tall, he dwarfs 5′ 5″ Trevor. They are pressed into sharing a room in the house, and that’s not all they share. Okay, well, that is all they share at first, but the pressure cooker of the competition soon draws them close.

Trevor has such a negative view of himself, it’s upsetting. He’s never been good enough for his family, his music group, his instructors, etc. He’s also so very hard on himself for looking too femme, with a high vocal range that also makes him feel femme. He has NO desire to be femme, but it’s kinda default, on account of his stature, and his self-loathing really affects him, holds him back from being the best he can be. Jalen is such a nurturer. As Jalen gets a glimpse into Trevor’s world, all he wants is to keep Trevor safe. It’s not easy, due to a developing medical problem that worsens as the story winds on. The big crisis comes just when it looks like Jalen and Trevor and their group are poised to win the whole thing.

There are some spectacular feels in this book. Trevor’s capacity for self-loathing seems deep and wide, but Jalen’s steadfast affection, and eventual love, is able to slowly draw Trevor into a positive mindset. There is some rather deep shame kink here–some I hadn’t read before–and I liked the way it was handled. The whole “different strokes” take was interesting and kept me engaged, as I hoped that Trevor would work past it. The playful banter was so spot on, and the insight from both Trevor and Jalen’s POVs were compelling. The competition didn’t play such a role in this book, as very little of the story takes place before an audience and there are no weekly eliminations, so the bulk of the narrative was focused on the characters and their love story, and how it developed.

There are good secondary characters, too. Carter and Carson–the other half of the “band” are not pleasant at first, but we get a good look in on them when the going gets rough. I liked how Trevor and Carter interacted when it looked like the whole plan was going up in smoke. Jalen’s sister is a good gal, despite the prickly situation of being a boss in the show.

I totally loved this one, and am not nearly ready to wait goodness knows how long for the NEXT book in this series now that I broke my rule and read the (included) first chapter of book three… ARRGH!

Interested? You can find LOVE ME TENOR on Goodreads, Amazon, Kensington Books, Barnes & Noble, iBooks, Google Play, and Kobo. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

****GIVEAWAY****

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

About the Author:
Annabeth Albert grew up sneaking romance novels under the bed covers. Now, she devours all subgenres of romance out in the open—no flashlights required! When she’s not adding to her keeper shelf, she’s a multi-published Pacific Northwest romance writer.

Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. Annabeth loves finding happy endings for a variety of pairings and is a passionate gay rights supporter. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two children. Represented by Saritza Hernandez of the Corvisiero Literary Agency.

Find Annabeth online on her website, Goodreads, twitter and Facebook.

pride

Hearts Working OVERTIME–Book Blast & Giveaway!

BannerTemplate(10)
Hi there! Just getting the word out for a contemporary New Adult M/M romance from T.S. McKinney. OVERTIME features a college basketball player reuniting with the wealthy boy who’d turned his life upside-down years before. It sounds like a pretty tense game they’ll be playing…

Check out the excerpt below and be sure to enter the giveaway for one of five $15 Amazon Gift cards.

OvertimeAbout the book:
Jagger Jameson could be the poster child for a nasty childhood campaign but he refused to allow it to dictate his future. At an early stage, he learned to shut down all emotions and focus solely on survival. As it turned out, survival came in the form of a basketball scholarship with the University of Kentucky Wildcats. As the rest of the team around him focuses on having a good time and building friendships, Jagger worries only about using his talent to help him escape the life that was dealt to him. Everything is going smoothly until somebody from his past makes a reappearance and with just the mention of a name, Jagger finds himself struggling to maintain his cool façade.

Colton Montgomery’s wealth allowed him the opportunity to have about anything in the world he could desire…except the only thing he’d ever really wanted – Jagger Jameson. When the opportunity to try and tame his Wildcat comes his way, Colton gladly accepts the challenge.

How about a little taste?

Sure, it had been less than twenty-four hours since he’d come face to face with Colton Montgomery for the first time in four years, but he’d managed to think of nothing but Colton Montgomery every moment he was awake. He thought of the way Colton’s emerald eyes had looked at him so intently that he felt like the man could dig into his soul, see all his secrets, know all the things he didn’t want people to know. Dick had described it as ‘dude, Colton Montgomery just spent the last thirty minutes eye-fucking you’ and then summed it up with ‘and he wants to fuck you’ – typical Dick.

He’d thought he was prepared, thought he’d managed to build up an immunity against the rich prick that had stunned him years ago, but the second he’d walked through the door and saw him, every protective barrier he’d worked so hard to build over the years disintegrated with one lusty smirk from Colton. Fuck, he was in so much trouble. Riley knew….

One look in Riley’s eyes and Jagger didn’t have the first doubt that Riley knew he was attracted to Colton – hungry for Colton. His captain had given him a sympathetic look. It was as if he had somehow figured out that Jagger had always had the hots for a boy way out of his league and now, fucking now, when he didn’t need any distractions, that boy decided it would be fun to tease the poor kid – make him think he was wanted for something other than…hell, what was he good for if it wasn’t going to be sex? He’d never given himself to another man. Actually, Colton was the only man he’d ever looked at with those thoughts dancing around in his head. He’d fucked a handful of women over the years and enjoyed it…just enough to get the job done. There had never been the first doubt in his mind about his sexuality until Colton-fucking-Montgomery’s ten words.   Fuck!

The basketball hit him square in the chest, bouncing away and damn near knocking the breath out of him. “Shit, sorry, Riley. I was going over some plays in my head. I’m good, I swear.” Thank the fuck they were just in warm-ups before the championship game. “We Will Rock You” was blasting over the speakers because that song never got old when it came to championship games, whipping the crowd into a frenzy. Championship games were always a bundle of excitement – add a Cinderella story into it, and the people and media ate it up. Shit, even half the state of Kentucky kinda hoped Florida Gulf would win or at least make a good showing.

What the fuck did they know? They didn’t have any idea what was on the line…how their winning might damn well destroy him. Sure, it was all fun and games for Colton Montgomery, but it was his fucking self-esteem, pride, and sanity up on the auction block.

“Get your head out of your ass, Jag. I’m going to need you at one hundred percent tonight if we plan on winning this game.” His hands flung around the arena. “The entire crowd is either openly pulling for Florida Gulf or secretly hoping they win. I feel like we’re up against everybody in this fucking arena and my fucking point guard has his head shoved all the way up his own fucking ass!” Yeah, his tirade ended with a scream. That was Riley for you. He hated to lose. Well…correction; he didn’t like losing but if everybody played their damndest, he could take it. When they lost because one or more of them ‘had their head up their fucking asses’, he completely lost it.

He was already losing it.

“My head isn’t up my ass, Riley. I’m good. When the whistle blows, I’m going to shove this ball all the way up Colton Montgomery’s arrogant fucking ass.” He gave Riley a fist bump, hoping that was a normal action. He’d seen others on the team doing it….

“I hope so, Jag. If not, I’m afraid he’s planning on shoving something else up yours.” Riley crossed his arms over his chest and stared at Jagger, waiting for a reaction…any reaction. He wasn’t disappointed. Well, he was disappointed because he was fucking certain that without their point guard playing top notch, they were damn well going to get beat, but, on the other hand, some life in the kid’s eyes was something to see. Finally….

“There’s no need to be gross, man. I’m ready. Colton Montgomery will not score the first point tonight, mark my words.”

Riley rolled his eyes. “I don’t necessarily think its gross, but I don’t think it’s what you’ve got penciled into that fucking life-plan that you’ve had since day-fucking-one.” He shoved another basketball against Jagger’s chest. “I’ll hold you to that promise of him not scoring any points, Jag…just don’t let him do the same to you.”

The warning buzzer sounded before Jagger could respond (and question the ‘not necessarily gross’ statement) and the crowd went absolutely nuts. This was it. Championship game – it would look awesome on any resume he sent out. If they won…no, when they won, he could probably pick which accounting firm in Kentucky he wanted to work with. It all came down to this night.

Even after he’d promised himself he wouldn’t do it, his eyes drifted to the other end of the court and immediately found his adversary. Colton Montgomery, in all his fucking, glorious, arrogant, rich beauty was staring right back, a confident smile curving his lush lips. He offered a wave and a wink. Jagger flipped him off and headed to his bench.

Interested? You can find OVERTIME on Goodreads, Amazon, and AllRomance.

 ****GIVEAWAY****

Clink on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win one of five $10 Amazon gift cards.

Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the author:
TS McKinney lives in East Tennessee with her high school sweetheart/husband and all the countless dogs she picks up from deserted country roads. Her professional career has been in business but her heart has always belonged to the fantasy world found in books. Creating wicked worlds where one can meet the perfect hero – and then do anything to him that you want – has been a hobby that has brought her plenty of hours of fun and naughty entertainment.

When not working, reading, or writing, she loves to spend time with her family and forcing them (because they don’t really have another choice) to allow her to redecorate their houses…and listen to her naughty…sometimes sadistic stories.

You can find Ms. McKinney online on twitter and Facebook.

pride