Gay romance

Changed by a RITE OF SUMMER–A Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review for Tess Bowery’s newly released M/M historical, RITE OF SUMMER. It’s actually an all-male menage, but that’s only part of the story. It’s set in England, in 1810, and brings in some really scary homophobic issues–as well as packing some incredibly tender and erotic moments. It was a great read.

Rite of Summer (Treading the Boards, #1)About the book:
There are terrors worse than stage fright. Like falling in love.

Violinist Stephen Ashbrook is passionate about three things—his music, the excitement of life in London, and his lover, Evander Cade. It’s too bad that Evander only loves himself. A house party at their patron’s beautiful country estate seems like a chance for Stephen to remember who he is, when he’s not trying to live up to someone else’s harsh expectations.

Joshua Beaufort, a painter whose works are very much in demand among the right sort of people, has no expectations about this party at all. Until, that is, he finds out who else is on the guest list. Joshua swore off love long ago, but has been infatuated with Stephen since seeing his brilliant performance at Vauxhall. Now he has the chance to meet the object of his lust face to face—and more.

But changing an open relationship to a triad is a lot more complicated than it seems, and while Evander’s trying to climb the social ladder, Stephen’s trying to climb Joshua. When the dust settles, only two will remain standing…when they’re not flat on their backs.

Warning: Contents under pressure. Contains three men, two beds, one erotic piercing, and the hottest six weeks of summer the nineteenth century has ever seen. (m/m/m – m/m).

My Review:
Evander and Stephen have been together for nearly a decade, living the gay life in London. Evander is a composer and Stephen a violinist. Evander has a patron, the Earl of Coventry who invites Evander and Stephen for a six week holiday at his country estate. Stephen doesn’t want to go, he hates being confined in places where he can’t be himself, and being openly gay is not possible on the earl’s estate. Plus, he has to suffer the constant company of ‘his betters’ which is aggravating. But, if Evander demands he go, Stephen goes. Plus, Stephen knows their livelihood is dependent on Coventry’s whim and funding so he goes… The only upside is beautiful Joshua, a talented painter who is the distant relation, and personal painter, of one of the noble guests.

Joshua has been without a lover since his beloved sailor sank with his ship two years before. He is terribly attracted to Stephen, and cannot understand why Stephen lets Evander lead him around so much. He is startled to observe Evander and Stephen en flagrante delicto in the dead of night, and is even more surprised when Evander invites him to share their bed. Once.

But once is not enough for Stephen who had secretly desired Joshua, or Joshua. They continue until the party is overtaken by news of catamite (homosexuals) arrests in London. Stephen and Evander are shattered–some of the men taken into custody and hung were friends and former bedmates. Joshua wants to comfort Stephen, but his ability to do so is hampered by the suspicions of their hosts and patrons.

The book is a careful study in the emotional lives of both Joshua and Stephen, who share the POV. Stephen is routinely belittled and abused by Evander, and he knows no other life. Joshua calls to Stephen, supports him in a way Evander never has (or hasn’t in years) and Stephen wants to be with Joshua, but cannot due to Evander’s control.

I was really glad to see the unraveling in this dysfunctional relationship. Stephen really grew in terms of his emotional well-being. Joshua, did not grow so much as curl inside himself. He has lost in love before, and is rather brutal with Stephen in order to prevent being hurt again. He wants Stephen terribly, but won’t accept him if Evander is a part of the deal–forcing Stephen to re-evaluate his relationship, and make choices that are healthy instead of comfortable.

The end was a little too drawn out for me. I liked the story, but wanted it to progress a little bit faster. The characters were all well-drawn and felt very realistic in their goals and behaviors. I really enjoyed the depictions of actual historical events–namely the famous London raids–and how it affected the characters. Expect an HEA and some super sexytimes involving both M/M and M/M/M.

Interested? You can find RITE OF SUMMER on Goodreads, Samhain Publishing, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

About the Author:
Tess has been a fan of historical fiction since learning the Greek and Roman myths at her mother’s knee. Now let loose on a computer, she’s spinning her own tales of romance and passion in a slightly more modern setting. Tess lives on the east coast, with her partner of fifteen years and two cats who should have been named ‘Writer’s Block’ and ‘Get Off the Keyboard, Dammit.’

You can connect with Tess on her website, Facebook and twitter.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

Cover Reveal and Giveaway JACK GETS HIS MAN

Hi there! Today I get to spread the word on a soon-to-be-released contemporary M/M romantic comedy, JACK GETS HIS MAN, from DE Haggerty.


About the book:
Jack’s life is awesome. His store is making money hand over fist and his best friend has found love. So what if he’s feeling a bit restless and put out about his upcoming birthday and his ex is being a pain in his fabulous behind? That’s nothing he can’t handle. But then his smoking hot new bookkeeper discovers things at the store aren’t actually as they seem.

Someone is playing fast and loose with the finances. Jack’s bestie and his gal pals, the gray-haired knitting detectives, jump at the chance to solve Jack’s problems. When they aren’t re-enacting scenes from spy thrillers, they’re setting Jack up on dates and generally insinuating themselves into his love life. They’re determined to find love for Jack as well as his missing money. Will Jack catch a thief or find love? Either way Jack’s going to get his man.

How about a little taste?

“Hands in the air. Drop to your knees,” was shouted at them. Blinded by a flashlight, it was impossible to identify the speaker.

Martha huffed. “There is no way I’m going to my knees, young man.” She yelled at the light.

“Me either. I’ll never be able to get up again.” Ally agreed and put her hands on her hips in protest.

Jack shook his head but quickly dropped to his knees. Only he would get caught while snooping with two grandmas who refused to listen to the police. He hung his head and pretended he was somewhere else, anywhere else.

The cop lowered his flashlight and brought out a pair of cuffs. He started walking towards the group but stumbled when he took in Ally and Martha. He shook his head. “Are you ladies willing to go quietly into my squad car?” He asked.

Ally and Martha took one look at the cop and nodded. “Wherever you want to go officer,” Martha responded. Oh great. Now they were flirting with the arresting officer. Jack waited patiently on his knees until the cop reached him. He was cuffed and then dragged to his feet.

“Come on ladies,” the officer stated while pulling Jack to the cop car.

There were two squad cars in Damien’s driveway. Betty, Rosemary, and Rose were already sitting in the backseat of the other car. They waved as Jack passed with Ally and Martha in tow. Jack shook his head at them and looked for Izzy. She sat in her car and mouthed sorry but didn’t make a move to help them. Jack knew it wouldn’t help anything if Izzy got out of the car. She’d just get arrested as well but still he stuck his tongue out at her. The cop scanned the area to see where Jack’s tongue was pointed. Izzy immediately started up the car and, with a squeal of the tires, took off. Jack chuckled.

“Aren’t you going to turn on the siren,” Martha asked once the cop was back in the patrol car and they were headed to the police station. Ally bobbed her head in excitement. Jack hung his head.

The cop chuckled. “Normally perps don’t like the siren on.”

“Why not?” Ally leaned forward to get a better look at the officer.

“They don’t want to be seen being hauled to the police station,” was the officer’s perfectly acceptable answer.

Ally and Martha huffed. They leaned back and crossed their arms across their chests. “Well, that’s just boring,” Martha said to Ally. Ally nodded in agreement.

The quiet didn’t last long. “So, officer,” Martha began. “Are you single?” Jack tried to make himself disappear at this point but unfortunately closing his eyes and wishing he was anywhere else in the world but in the back of a cop car that smelled like piss with two elderly troublemakers turned matchmakers was a bust.

“I’m single ladies,” the officer readily answered. “But don’t get your hopes up for your granddaughters. I’m also gay.” Jack prayed for a hole in the floor of the sedan to open up and swallow him whole.

Ally and Martha clapped in glee. The officer turned around in surprise before quickly returning his attention to the road. The quick look was all Jack needed. It appeared that he’d been arrested by a man hot enough to be Mr. January in the police calendar. Although it was dark in the car, he couldn’t miss the curly brown hair and eyes the color of rich chocolate. He’d bet the man was made of muscles as well. He nearly sighed but caught himself just as he saw Ally and Martha looking at him for a response. He buried his face in his chest. Luckily, they had arrived at the police station.

Interested? You can pre-order JACK GETS HIS MAN on Amazon. Release is scheduled for 7/1/15.

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Click on the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win a $15 Amazon Gift card.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the Author:
I was born and raised in Wisconsin, but think I’m a European. After spending my senior year of high school in Germany, I developed a bad case of wanderlust that is yet to be cured. My flying Dutch husband and I have lived in Ohio, Virginia, the Netherlands, Germany and now Istanbul. We still haven’t decided if we want to settle down somewhere – let alone where. Although I’ve been a military policewoman, a commercial lawyer, and a B&B owner, I think with writing I may have finally figured out what I want to be when I grow up. That’s assuming I ever grow up, of course. Between tennis, running, traveling, singing off tune, drinking entirely too many adult beverages, and reading books like they are going out of style, I write articles for a local expat magazine and various websites, review other indie authors’ books, write a blog about whatever comes to mind and am working on my sixth book.

You can catch up with DE Haggerty online on her website, Blog, Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

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At What Cost For FAMILY JEWELS–A Review for Joyfully Jay

Hi there! Playing a bit of catch-up shouting out my review for MJ O’Shea’s FAMILY JEWELS. I am a total swooner for Brit men, and especially the underdog. This book has a bit of both. It features an Interpol art crimes inspector and the thief who steals his heart!

Family JewelsAbout the book:

Corbin Ford, aka the Nightwatchman, named for the antique pocket watches he leaves behind at jobs, has been in the cat-burgling business for years. His father was. His grandfather was. His mother is still one of the most renowned thieves. Corbin likes his high-profile heists, priceless paintings from private collections, artifacts from museums, but his favorite? Jewels. Sparkly, beautiful jewels. If they’re famous, better yet.

Interpol agent Luke Eldridge has one goal and one goal only: to catch the Nightwatchman. Luke’s been after him for months, but getting the slip time and again is getting embarrassing. Luke has never even laid eyes on the bastard, but he’d happily strangle him. And then arrest him.

When Luke meets Corbin, the man of his dreams, he falls hard and fast… only to catch Corbin red-handed with his hand in a jewelry case at the scene of the highest-profile murder that’s rocked the international world in years.

I really enjoyed the tension that built between Luke and Corbin. They had some real chemistry. Plus, they made themselves so vulnerable. They are together for several months before the inevitable happens–long enough to know their relationship is real, and worth fighting for. Even when Luke knows all about Corbin, he’s torn between duty and his heart’s desire.

You can check out my entire review over on Joyfully Jay.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

DINNER AT FIORELLO’S Is Delicious–my review on Joyfully Jay

Hi there! Today I’m sharing my love for Rick R. Reed’s contemporary M/M romance DINNER AT FIORELLO’S over on Joyfully Jay’s Book Reviews. This was an especially tender romance between a new-graduated high school boy, Henry, and an executive chef, Vito, who doesn’t want to fall in love.

I had previously enjoyed Reed’s LEGALLY WED, and was anxious to read more of his work. I was just as charmed as before with his characters and the lush setting descriptions. As a native Chicagoan I could see my hometown in the pages, with startling clarity. I, too, sweated along with Henry on sultry walks and sweating ‘L’ rides. I’ve had his same sun-baked feet too exhausted to go forward. I haven’t had his sudden lack of home and family, but Henry never squawks. He’s determined to make his life his own, even when the convenience he’s had growing up is suddenly yanked away.

imageAbout the book:
Henry Appleby has an appetite for life. As a recent high school graduate and the son of a wealthy family in one of Chicago’s affluent North Shore suburbs, his life is laid out for him. Unfortunately, though, he’s being forced to follow in the footsteps of his successful attorney father instead of living his dream of being a chef. When an opportunity comes his way to work in a real kitchen the summer after graduation, at a little Italian joint called Fiorello’s, Henry jumps at the chance, putting his future in jeopardy.

Years ago, life was a plentiful buffet for Vito Carelli. But a tragic turn of events now keeps the young chef at Fiorello’s quiet and secretive, preferring to let his amazing Italian peasant cuisine do his talking. When the two cooks meet over an open flame, sparks fly. Both need a taste of something more—something real, something true—to separate the good from the bad and find the love—and the hope—that just might be their salvation.

You can find my full review on joyfully Jay.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

Creating Love With The WEDDING FAVORS–A Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review for Anne Tenino’s WEDDING FAVORS, a contemporary M/M romance. I’ve fallen for the Bluewater Bay series,which has been pretty interesting.

Wedding Favors (Bluewater Bay, #7)About the book:

Lucas Wilder’s best friend is a traitor. First, Audrey moved back to their hick-infested hometown, Bluewater Bay, and now she’s marrying a local. His own brother, in fact. And as her Man of Honor, Lucas gets coerced into returning for an extended stay. Although, between his unfaithful ex-boyfriend and his artist’s block, going home isn’t the worst thing that could happen. Even if the Best Man is Gabriel Savage, Lucas’s first crush, first hookup, and first heartbreak.

The only reason Gabe hasn’t been waiting for Lucas to return to Bluewater Bay is because he never thought it’d happen. Not that it matters now that Lucas is back—Gabe’s still a logger who’s never been anywhere (Canada doesn’t count), and Lucas is now a famous sculptor who’s been everywhere twice. Plus, there’s that shared past.

When Audrey asks Lucas to make her wedding favors, the only place to set up a kiln is at Gabe’s tree farm. Soon, they pick up where they left off twelve years before, then blow past it, discovering why neither of them forgot the other. Now they have to choose how much of their history they’ll repeat, and what future they’ll make together.

My Review:

4.5 stars for this reconnection M/M romance. This is part of the larger Bluewater Bay series, but can be read as a standalone.

Lucas has just finished moving his belongings out from the home/studio he shared with his long-time boyfriend in LA when his BFF, Audrey, calls from Bluewater Bay to tell him not only is she getting married in 6 weeks, but also that she’s marrying his brother, Zach. Lucas is not ecstatic–he loves Audrey, but he hates their hometown, and doesn’t want to return for the nuptials. And he’s especially frustrated to learn that Audrey wants him to be her Man of Honor…so his brother’s Best Man is none other that Gabe Savage, the boy who broke him 12 years ago.

Gabe Savage has carried a torch for Lucas Wilder ever since high school. He loved him, secretly, but never owned it because he knew even then that Lucas was meant for the big wide world–he was a promising artist in school and had been accepted to college states away. Meanwhile, Gabe knew the only place he’d ever live was on his 5th generation family tree farm. Gabe took one forbidden taste of Lucas back then, and learning that Lucas is coming home for the wedding kindles a hope for…more.

Lucas, unfortunately doesn’t harbor any warm, fuzzy feelings for Gabe. He sees, instead, the person who touched him once–he thinks for sport. Gabe wasn’t particularly adept at expressing himself (this hasn’t changed) and made it clear all those years ago that Gabe and Lucas was just a “one off” leaving Lucas feeling foolish and used, and more than eager to flee Bluewater Bay. Gabe was afraid Lucas would stay for him, back then, and it would ruin Lucas’ chances, but he never intended to hurt Lucas for real. Now that they see each other at all the wedding-related events Gabe has a chance to explain; Lucas isn’t thrilled, but he does admit that he may have let that sour memory sit too long.

Working on sculptures for Audrey’s wedding favors requires Lucas to spend time out at Gabe’s farm–where the is plenty of wood, space and, yes, horse manure to power Lucas’ kiln. He’s also inspired by Gabe, who is ever-present and ever-helpful. I really loved how they worked hard to talk this time around. Sturdy Gabe is a taskmaster, which is very much appreciated by Lucas–who has a bit of a humiliation kink. Their romance is really excellent. They have a true affection growing, and are bashful of the repercussions: Lucas is only supposed to stay until the wedding, but he’d consider staying longer if Gabe asked. Gabe wants, with his whole heart, for Lucas to stay, but he’d never ask–he won’t clip Lucas’ wings. On the flipside, the podunk town Lucas hated is better seen with his older, more experienced eyes. Bluewater Bay has developed some in all the years and it’s not long before Lucas imagines himself staying…or at least settling not far away and visiting Gabe….often.

The whole second half is a delicious ramp up to an HEA ending that has all the right feels. There’s a little bit of domination, but it’s never the focus of the lovemaking. Lucas is kinda endearingly odd, as a person, falling into artistic fugues and getting consumed by his vision for hours on end, but his genuine appreciation of Gabe as a man–from the heady rush of body hair, to loving his body scents and firm musculature, was something I could really appreciate. 😉

Gabe was so loving and tender, having the deepest affection and yet being willing to sacrifice it for Lucas’ best interest. I could have smooched him longtime.

There’s a little bit of angst, but it’s downplayed. This book is a smooth ride and a feel-good for any type of day.

Interested? You can find WEDDING FAVORS on Goodreads, Riptide Books, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and AllRomance. I received a review copy courtesy of NetGalley.

About the Author:

Raised on a steady media diet of Monty Python, classical music and the visual arts, Anne Tenino rocked the mental health world when she was the first patient diagnosed with Compulsive Romantic Disorder. Since that day, with her trusty psychiatrist by her side, Anne has taken on conquering the M/M world through therapeutic writing. Finding out who those guys having sex in her head are and what to do with them has been extremely liberating.

Anne’s husband finds it liberating as well, although in a somewhat different way. He has accepted her need for “research”, and looks forward to the benefits said research affords him. He thinks it’s kind of cool she manages to write, as well. Her two daughters are mildly confused by Anne’s need to twist Ken dolls into odd positions. They were raised to be open-minded children, however, and other than occasionally stealing Ken1’s strap-on, they let Mom do her thing without interference.

Anne’s thing is writing gay romance and erotica.

Wondering what Anne does in her spare time? Mostly she lies on the couch, eats bonbons and shirks housework.

Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her website, Facebook or twitter.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

All About BLOWING OFF STEAM–A Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review for BLOWING OFF STEAM, a contemporary M/M romance that features an awkward trainspotter and a reformed playboy. Joy Lynn Fielding has written a truly delicious romance that celebrates all the best in geekery and do-overs.

Blowing Off SteamAbout the Book:
Two guys, a train, and lots of steam.

Sam Chancellor has been in love with the steam engine Old Bess since he was six years old. Well, maybe not literally, but even when he’s lost everything else in his life, he’s always had her. But now her place in his heart has been unexpectedly challenged. Her new driver, Ryan Saunders, is the embodiment of all Sam’s fantasies.

Ryan has written off Sam as just another geeky trainspotter—until the moment Ryan sees him without his usual shapeless hoodie, and realizes that for a nerd, Sam’s pretty built.

When Ryan overlooks Sam’s awkwardness long enough to suggest a hook-up, Sam seizes the opportunity—and Ryan—with both very eager hands. Finding common ground in their shared love of Bess, their time together is better than Sam ever dared dream.

But there’s a reason Ryan never talks about his past. And when Ryan’s job is threatened, Sam’s well-meaning intervention puts both Ryan and Bess in deadly danger.

Product Warnings: Contains train geekery, bed-hogging, a hero with no experience and another with plenty to spare, and a spider called Mabel.

My Review:
Sam is a small-town man, living alone in his late great-uncle’s home in Cardyle. He has always been awkward and not had many friends–growing up a scrawny gay orphan who loves trains did not engender many personal friendships, though he is very well-known in the local and online trainspotting community. Not long ago, Sam spotted something else of interest: Ryan Saunders, the new driver of Old Bess, the prized steam locomotive of Cardyle.

Ryan Saunders has been a flamboyant playboy most of his life. He’s run his wealthy father ragged, and is now under strict orders to not seek any contact or else his monthly allowance will be cut off. This isn’t ideal when he new boss insists Ryan speak to his father for a large endowment to Old Bess’s Trust–or else Ryan can just move on to another job.

Ryan is frustrated over his situation, and takes solace in picking up the geeky but earnest Sam one night after work. Sam is an exuberant, if completely inexperienced lover, and this has a peculiar effect on jaded Ryan. They begin to discuss Ryan’s trouble at work, and Sam is outraged. His attempt to fix the situation pulls up some really disastrous information, the kind that puts more than Ryan’s job security on the line. I really enjoyed the tension here–I didn’t know how or what form the attacks would come, but I was sure that Ryan, and perhaps Sam, was in life-threatening danger which really added a whole different dimension to the story. What I expected would be a wrongful termination suit, or perhaps a botched blackmail scheme, turned out some much more harrowing! I loved it.

I also loved the tenderness that developed between Ryan and Sam. It was entirely sweet, and funny, too. Poor Sam and his pet garden spider! Ryan certainly had no love for Mabel/Shelob. He did, however, have love for Sam, so I guess all was as it should be. As a Yankee, I swoon for British men, and the manner in which they treat themselves. From disparaging each others’ tea strength to the side-eyes they gave over train configuration, I adored every moment of Sam and Ryan together.

This book has a crazy-good amount of sexytimes, though not all of it is described in gritty detail. The scenes were often emotionally present, and that was charming, and sexy, too. As a mother of boys, I get the train fascination and I really enjoyed the trainy details. It was heartwarming to see such a stodgy experience, trainspotting and steam locomotives, brought into contemporary life. And, really, I can’t help loving when a geeky guy lands a sexy keeper. Both Ryan and Sam are essentially alone in the world, and they find such companionship with each other I was rooting for them all the way.

Interested? You can find BLOWING OFF STEAM on Goodreads, Samhain Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and AllRomance. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

About the author:

Joy Lynn Fielding lives in a small English market town, where she indulges her passions for vintage aircraft, horse-riding and gardening (though not all at the same time).

Joy has a tendency to wax lyrical about the fascinating facts she discovers during her research for books. Thankfully she has a very patient Labrador who has a gift for looking interested in what she’s saying while he waits for the food to arrive.

You can find Joy online on her website, Facebook and twitter.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

Happy Book Birthday to SPEEDY REWARDS!

Speedy Rewards Banner

Hi there! I’m so excited to participate in the release day hoopla for SPEEDY REWARDS, a new contemporary M/M romance from Jeff Erno.

Speedy RewardsAbout the book:
Phil Mitchell pours his heart and soul into his job as manager of Speedy Mart, a local convenience store. He loves his work and he loves his fellow employees, but when it comes to his personal life, Phil is lonely and depressed and still pining for his long-departed ex.

He embarks upon the week from hell where anything that can go wrong does. It begins with a truck crashing into his outdoor sign and only goes downhill from there.

Add an asshole homophobic boss hell bent on seeing him fired and Phil realizes he needs to put into place a plan to save himself and his job.

First step in his plan… do something about his love life.

Meanwhile, Ezra, one of Phil’s team members, is dealing with his own roller coaster ride of a week.

As is Brandon, the local cop…

And Mark, the homophobic boss…

Perhaps, with a little… luck, the next week will be better.

Buy Links

Book trailer

How about a little taste?

Phil had started out in retail back in high school, working as a bag boy at the local supermarket. He took some community college classes but did not complete his degree. It didn’t matter, though. Back then, a college degree wasn’t required, especially not for retail management. He rose quickly in the company, advancing to a management position.

Finally, when the company he’d worked at for ten years went belly-up, he found himself in the unemployment line. At age twenty-five, his mom had just died and he found himself completely alone, unemployed. He decided to go back to school to complete his degree. He signed up for online classes and continued with them even after he landed the job managing the convenience store. He received his diploma right around the time he met Darren online.

Looking back on his life, he realized that period, though difficult, had been perhaps the most hopeful he could remember. Though still grieving the loss of his mother, he felt like life had begun anew. He had a new career, a man he genuinely loved, and even a college degree. That was also when he began learning Spanish.

But the honeymoon stage of his relationship with Darren didn’t last long, and when it became obvious Darren was far more interested in spending his free time with a bottle of booze than with Phil, they started to grow apart. Phil devoted most of his energy to the store, and when he wasn’t working, he spent a good deal of time online. The relationship withered on the vine, until one day, Darren was gone.

“You work hard,” Humberto said. “You’re always working, no?”

“Sí,” Phil said, laughing. “Yes, I’m always working.”

“Every day I see you. You no have days off? You work too hard, man.”

“Well, it seems to me you work pretty hard, too, Humberto. You’re in here every day, on your way to work. Come on down to this register. I’ll ring you up.” Phil stepped over to the check stand on the far end, the one Janine had just vacated.

“Gracias,” Humberto said, stepping up to the counter with an armload of junk food. He placed the bags of chips and the Hostess snack cakes on the counter.

“What do you do?” Humberto stared at him, smiling, and Phil wondered if maybe he didn’t understand the question. “¿Cual es tu trabajo?”

“Oh… oh. Soy un manitas.”

“¿Manitas?” Phil had heard the word, but couldn’t immediately remember the meaning.
“Oh, you’re a handyman. You fix things.”

“Sí, sí.”

“Wow, like, do you do plumbing work?”

“Oh yes, yes of course. Por supuesto.”

“Hm. Ya know, I need to find someone to come fix my sink. At home, I mean. At my house. Do you have a card?”

Humberto cocked his head to the side, as if thinking.

“¿Una tarjeta? A business card.”

“Oh, yes. Yes!” He reached into his shirt pocket and removed a business card, handing it to Phil. “Call me and I’ll come fix you up.” He winked, and as Phil looked into the man’s eyes, a lump formed in his throat. “I have all the right tools for the job.”

Phil quickly looked down at the touch screen on his register, trying to focus on the task of completing the transaction. “Uh, yeah. Um, do you want a bag for this?”

“Una bolsa,” Humberto said, laughing. “Sí.”

Phil placed the business card next to his register and tore off a plastic bag from the dispenser. Then he began filling it with Humberto’s items.

“I’ll let you see my big hammer,” Humberto said, lowering his voice.

WHEW! I can’t wait to read this one! Look for my review in the coming weeks…

In the meantime, you can pick up SPEEDY REWARDS today. Don’t miss the 1 Year Anniversary 40% Off Sale on Wayward Ink Publishing’s site! Also available on Amazon (US, UK, DE and AU), Barnes & Noble and AllRomance.

About the author:
JEFF ERNO began writing LGBT fiction in the late 1990s. Although an avid reader and amateur writer from a very young age, Jeff pursued a career as a retail store manager in Northern Michigan. When his first gay-themed novel was published, he was shocked that anyone would even want to read it. So far, he’s published over thirty novels. Jeff lives in Southern Michigan, where he works part time at a convenience store.

Jeff’s writing credits include a variety of themes and sub-genres including male romance, Young Adult, Science Fiction, erotica, and BDSM. He is the winner of a 2012 Rainbow Award and an Honorable Mention in 2011. His style is unpretentious and focused upon emotionally-driven, character-based stories that touch the heart. Jeff is especially passionate about young adult literature and combating teen bullying and youth suicide.

You can catch up with Jeff on his website, Facebook, Twitter, or by email.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

For Them, Love Was About TAKE–A Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review for TAKE, a M/M erotic romance by Ella Frank. TRY is the first in the three book series, and you can find my review here. I totally liked it bunches. I’d advise any readers to get the books in order. The series is billed as an erotic romance, and there is nothing less than a whole lotta sex in the first two books. What’s more, however, is a slowly developing love story between a man who never wanted a man, and a man who never wanted to need a man.

Take (Temptation, #2)About the book:
TAKE – verb: to reach for and hold in one’s hands or get into one’s possession, power or control.

Logan Mitchell is a man who’s always been more than happy to take what he wants. It’s a philosophy that’s proven lucrative in both his business and personal life, and never was it more apparent than the night he laid eyes on Tate Morrison. After pulling out all the stops and convincing the sexy bartender to give him a try—he’s hooked.

Now, Logan finds himself in a predicament that demands more from him than a smart-ass answer and his innate ability to walk away when things get too deep. He has a choice to make, and it’ll force him to do something he’s never done before—take a chance.

Tate Morrison knows all about taking a chance. He took the biggest one of his life the night he showed up at Logan’s apartment to explore his unexpected reaction to the man. Ever since then, he’s thought about little else.

At first he was convinced his attraction was based solely on his body’s curiosity. But the more time he spends with the silver-tongued lawyer, the more Tate realizes that their physical chemistry is only the beginning. He’s starting to catch a glimpse of what life with Logan would be like, and it’s one full of excitement and satisfaction—a far cry from what he had in the past with his soon to be ex-wife.

Each man will face their fears as they begin to understand the true meaning of give and take. Their feelings for one another will be tested, as will their very beliefs. But now that they’ve found love where they least expected it, will they be brave enough to reach out and take it?

My Review:
First of all, that’s probably the sexiest cover I’ve ever seen. And I got the paperback of Lady Chatterley’s Lover on my bookshelf. It had better clue you in that this book is SEXY…

We left the last book with Tate outed to his conservative Catholic family and he and Logan discovering how to move forward with their budding romance. Tate had never had a sexual experience with a man, before meeting Logan. Now, he is beginning to understand how he feels about his sexuality, and how satisfied he is with Logan as a partner. He does not particularly find other men attractive, though this is evolving.

The big crisis of the book is dealing with Tate’s homophobic family. It does not go well. In fact, introducing his family to Logan goes spectacularly bad. On the outs, Tate requests some time apart–which drives Logan insane. (Short trip!!) Still, during their week apart, Tate learns that his appreciation for attractive women is not attraction, and he really wants to make a go of things with Logan. Meanwhile, Logan learns that Tate is a good and honest man, someone to whom Logan can finally cleave, unlike his previous relations with others. The book ends with a minor cliffy, but nothing to get bunched up over.

We do get a fair amount of content between Logan and his half-brother Cole. The family dynamics between Logan’s “family” and Tate’s are quite different, and it was really cool seeing their relationship so accepted by their peers.

There is a lot of heartfelt conversation in this book, more so than in the first one. These men are trying to build a relationship, instead of simply taking sexual pleasure. In that regard, the book names are a little mixed-up, IMHO. It’s absolutely smoking hot, and filled with more sex than a gay bar’s bathroom. Expect to be F-bombed back to the Victorian age. I’ve finished the series, so I’ll share my review for TRUST in the coming weeks.

Interested? You can find TAKE on Goodreads and Amazon.

About the Author: (In her own words…)
I am first and foremost a proud Australian, but currently reside in Texas with my husband. I love to read and write contemporary and erotic romances, but I also like to step outside of the box at times when it comes to telling a story that really speaks to me.

I absolutely adore dessert. I could skip the main meal and head straight to the dessert line every time…especially anything that is covered in caramel. I am a GLEEK (yes I admit it… So? It makes me happy), on the other hand I love Dexter and he makes me happy too, so analyze that!

I love to sing really bad at the top of my lungs, and I often have conversations with myself. Some of my favorite authors include; JR Ward, Tiffany Reisz, Nalini Singh, Lori Foster, Lauren Dane, SJ Frost and many more.

Last but certainly not least, I am the author of The Exquisite Series, Blind Obsession and most recently The Temptation series.

You can find her online on her website, Facebook and Twitter.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

Together They Learned In NATIVE TONGUE–Review Giveaway & Excerpt

tourbutton_nativetongueHi there! Today I’m sharing my review for Lucy Felthouse’s NATIVE TONGUE. This is a contemporary M/M military romance novella which is the sequel to DESERT HEAT, and features British officer Hugh Wilkes and his first committed lover, linguist and medical student, Rustam Balkhi. Don’t forget to drop down below and enter the giveaway!

Native Tongue (Desert Heat #2)About the book:
They may be back on British soil, but the battle isn’t over.

When Captain Hugh Wilkes fell for his Afghan interpreter, Rustam Balkhi, he always knew things would never be easy. After months of complete secrecy, their return to England should have spelt an end to the sneaking around and the insane risks. But it seems there are many obstacles for them to overcome before they can truly be happy together. Can they get past those obstacles, or is this one battle too many for their fledgling relationship?

Thank you so much for having me here today. I’m delighted to share an excerpt from Native Tongue which shows the boys, Hugh and Rustam, out in Soho, the gay-friendly area in London. They’re still trying to settle into their relationship and get used to not having to hide who they are. They’ve also bumped into a couple of out-and-proud gay gays who are intrigued by their story. I hope you enjoy the snippet, and be sure to scroll down and enter the giveaway, then check out the rest of the stops on my blog tour.

Happy Reading,

Lucy x

Many thanks to Lucy! So, how about a little taste?

Lots of handshaking between the four men ensued as they were all introduced.

“So,” Jared said, glancing between Wilkes and Balkhi, “would it be okay if we joined you?”

Wilkes turned to Balkhi. “Are you okay with this?”

Balkhi seemed a little taken aback by the whole situation, but there was warmth in his eyes. “Yes, of course. I suspect Jared and Paul will be able to give us some… insider information that we might find useful.”

“Excellent!” Jared clapped his hands, then reached for Paul’s hand once more. “Okay, let’s go. I’m looking forward to this.”

With that, Jared and Paul turned around and began walking down the street.

Wilkes looked at Balkhi, shook his head, and shrugged. “I’ve no idea what just happened there, but it looks as though we’re in for an interesting evening.”

Balkhi smiled, and as they fell into step behind the other couple, he leaned in close to Wilkes and said, “Yes, I think we are. And the best part is I get to take you home afterwards.”

The true intent of his words was unmistakeable. Wilkes’ heart missed a beat. Warmth flooded his face, then the blood started to flow somewhere much lower down. He managed to engage his brain enough to reply, “Carry on saying things like that and we won’t even make it to the bloody restaurant.”

Chuckling, Balkhi reached out and took Wilkes’ hand again. “Yes, we will. We have made it this far, and we are doing well. Let’s see this through. Spending the evening with other gay men will be good for us. We will be able to see how it is done.”

“I don’t think it’s as simple as that, Rustam. We can’t just copy everything they do.”

“I know. I simply mean that being in their company may relax us, remind us that it is perfectly normal, and perfectly okay, for two men to be affectionate towards each other in public. I am not proposing we start kissing in front of an audience, or fucking on the restaurant table. I am just saying we may learn something from them. Or we may not. But they seem like nice people, so it cannot hurt to find out, can it?”

“Now you’re the one who’s absolutely right. Though I’m glad you don’t want to kiss or fuck in public.”

“Why?”

“Because,” he growled, pulling Balkhi closer and speaking quietly into his ear, “I don’t want to share you with anyone else, that’s why.”

A small smile crept over Balkhi’s lips. “And I do not want to be shared. We may not have any idea what we are doing here, but make no mistake, Hugh. I am yours, and yours alone.”

Wilkes felt an urge to lean over and give Balkhi a quick kiss, but his bravery didn’t stretch quite that far. Not yet. They were still holding hands, which was a great start, but perhaps it would be better to get used to that before doing anything else.

Internally, he shook his head. Why the hell was this so hard for them? Why couldn’t they just throw caution to the wind and show affection however they wanted?

Because, he reminded himself sternly, they couldn’t break long-standing habits in the blink of an eye. They’d get there, he was sure of it. It would take time, but they’d get there.

Realising he hadn’t replied to Balkhi, he squeezed his hand. “And I am yours, Rustam. For as long as you’ll have me.”

teaser_nativetongue copyMy Review:
This is the second book in a series; it is best read in sequence.
4.5 stars for this happy sequel.

Hugh Wilkes is home for Afghanistan and looking forward to reconnecting with his lover/translator Rustam Balkhi–an Afghan native who has returned to London to continue his medical schooling. These two had an illicit relationship while stationed together at a British base camp, but, in England, they have the opportunity to be out and proud with each other.

Over the course of a few weeks, they meet on weekends and practice being out together in public. It is a big adjustment to come out of the closet. They have lots of sexytimes and some small misadventures, but they tackle them together–not least of which is Hugh coming out to his family.

There is some mild angst, but the book is short and the pace is brisk. The bulk of the book is highly positive, with a story centered on two men building a positive, loving relationship. It is sweet and tender, with a good dash of heat.

Interested? You can find NATIVE TONGUE on Goodreads and Amazon (UK, US, AU, CA and DE), All Romance eBooks, Barnes & Noble, iBooks UK, iBooks US, and Kobo, and Smashwords.

For those of you that haven’t yet read Desert Heat (which is recommended before picking up this book), there’s a great value two book bundle available exclusively on Amazon, and is FREE to Kindle Unlimited members.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win an Amazon gift card.  Make sure to follow the whole tour—the more posts you visit throughout, the more chances you’ll get to enter the giveaway.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck and keep reading my friends!

Lucy_Felthouse (2)About the Author:
Lucy Felthouse is a very busy woman! She writes erotica and erotic romance in a variety of subgenres and pairings, and has over 100 publications to her name, with many more in the pipeline. These include several editions of Best Bondage Erotica, Best Women’s Erotica 2013 and Best Erotic Romance 2014. Another string to her bow is editing, and she has edited and co-edited a number of anthologies, and also edits for a small publishing house.

She owns Erotica For All, and is book editor for Cliterati. Find out more at her website, join her on Facebook and Twitter, or even subscribe to her newsletter.

Double Feature of Charlie Cochet Shifter Books

Hi there! Today I’m highlighting two shifter books from Charlie Cochet that I reviewed over on Joyfully Jay Reviews. You know I’m mad for the THIRDS books, (See reviews of Books one & two, three and four) but this other series is less police procedural and more shifter males finding love.

This new novella series centers around some husky and wolf shifters in eastern Canada just trying to be with their true mates. And, I’m a sucker for fated love…

You can check out BOTH full reviews in one simple click over to Joyfully Jay.

An Intrepid Trip to LoveThe first book in the series, AN INTREPID TRIP TO LOVE, is a sweet tale about two men who have been separated by duty, even though they have known they were true mates for 20 years, and even though they work side-by-side every day. There is some delicious humor and fun sexytimes, though I will tell you it ends on a bittersweet note.

I totally enjoyed it, and it’s totally free, on AllRomance.

Healing Hunter's Heart by Charlie Cochet eBookBook Two, HEALING HUNTER’S HEART, is a little more in terms of both plot, and plotting.

Without spoiling too much, you should know that there has been a rift in the husky pack, and Hunter’s true mate had been left behind. While Hunter recoups from and injury, he plans his revenge–and how to get his delicate Ari free and safe with him.

There are many players here, allies and enemies alike, but the strong characterization comes through. It’s not as humorous and the first book, but the action and drama are intense. I really liked.

You can find HEALING HUNTER’S HEART on Amazon, All Romance, Dreamspinner Press and Barnes & Noble.

Want to read my full reviews? They’re waiting on Joyfully Jay, just for you!

Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends!