historical romance

Love in the SPEAKEASY–Excerpt, Review and Giveaway

SE-BannerHi there! I’m sharing a review for a newly released historical M/M romance that harkens to Prohibition Era NYC and a college graduate who has a lot to learn about life. Suzey Ingold’s SPEAKEASY is a quiet, clean romance between Heath and Art in a time of flux and heady changes.

Check out my review and be sure to enter to win $25 GC to Interlude Press or one of 5 ecopies of SPEAKEASY.

SpeakeasyAbout the book:
In the height of the Prohibition era, recent Yale graduate Heath Johnson falls for Art, the proprietor of a unique speakeasy tucked away beneath the streets of Manhattan where men are free to explore their sexuality.

When Art’s sanctuary is raided, Heath is forced to choose between love and the structured life his parents planned for him.

How about a tidbit?

Heath swallows, playing over an idea that had formed shakily in his head after he saw Frankie, since Art walked through that door and possibly longer without him being fully conscious of it. “Maybe it’s time I was honest. Tell them that I don’t want to marry Ginny or work with my father. Let the pieces fall where they may.”

“You would do that?”

“If it meant being with you, I would do anything.” Heath sits up and the sheets fall to pool around his waist. “I know what I want, now. And it’s you and whatever a future with you brings.”

My Review:

Heath is a young man in a wealthy family just back form his graduation from Yale. His father’s pushing him toward a job in investment banking, with his own firm, but Heath’s been resistant. He’s negotiated a last summer of freedom before he chooses a job and settles down, and he’s playing chaperone to his younger sister Amelia as she decides on a husband. His parents, affectionately known as the Duke and Duchess of their social circle, are also pushing Heath to marry a girl.

Heath’s known for a long time that he’s not interested in women, and copping to a sham marriage is not something he’s willing to do. He’s a romantic at heart, and longs to fall for someone who’d love him back ardently. His best friend from college knows this, and brings Heath to a speakeasy that caters to men who favor men. I should mention here that speakeasies were illegal bars run in the period of Prohibition in the US–during the 1920s when liquor production and sale was illegal. It’s a whirlwind experience for Heath, especially as Heath’s nature is to acquiesce to his parents’ desires. Seeing men being free with their affection lights Heath in fire in a number of ways, not all of them positive. He’s fairly gobsmacked.

He does return, however, and he strikes up a friendship with Art, owner of TJ, the speakeasy that blows Heath’s mind. During the course of the summer Heath and Art become very close, Heath imagining a life spent with the man who is winning his heart, but all good things are not happening. There is constant pressure from Heath’s parents to settle on a job and a wife, and Heath’s attempts at subterfuge are not sufficient to afford him freedom. And, ever present is the possibility of discovery, not just of TJ, but of Art, and exactly what Heath wants to do with him.

I really enjoyed the period aspects of this piece. The setting is so completely Prohibition Era and the prose is an effortless, flawless read. If I have a grumble it’s wishing for some steam. The resolution is very sweet and tender, with Heath making his mark on the world in his own way, and with the support of unexpected people.

Interested? You can find SPEAKEASY on Goodreads, Interlude Press, Amazon, iTunes, Barnes & Noble, AllRomance, Smashwords, and Indiebound.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win a $25 GC to interlude Press or one of 5 ecopies of SPEAKEASY.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the author:
Suzey Ingold is a writer, linguist and coffee addict, currently based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Brought up in a household where children’s books are quoted over the dinner table, literature has always had a strong influence on her life. She enjoys traveling, scented candles and brunch. Her short story, “The Willow Weeps for Us,” was included in “Summer Love: An LGBTQ Collection,” published by Duet, an imprint of Interlude Press (2015).

Find Suzey online on her website, Goodreads, twitter and Instagram.

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Intrigue in THE BLACK LOTUS–Review & Giveaway

The black lotus tour bannerHi there! Today I’m sharing a review for an historical paranormal/ magical romance set in 1750s England. THE BLACK LOTUS by Claire Warner is an interesting read, featuring a headstrong debut, an immortal rake and some seriously messed up “familial relations”.

Catch an excerpt and review and be sure to enter the giveaway below.

The Black Lotus ebook coverAbout the book:
….though I would dearly love to play court to you, I would hurt you more than any other.

It is 1752.
The year that will change the life of heiress Melissa De Vire. As she makes her first fumbling steps into society, she meets the handsome young cad Justin Lestrade and his world tears her perceptions apart. For Justin is more than he appears and his secrets and enemies are manifold. Drawn irresistibly to him, she finds herself sinking into a realm of feuds, magic and old curses and her life will never again be the same.

How about a little taste?

“Justin?” He turned as she spoke, “I think you should pursue Melissa De Vire.” He dropped what he had been holding and walked towards her. “What?” Utter shock permeated his tones and he stared down at her as though he could not believe what he had just heard. “You must be mad.”

“No, just practical.” Unconcerned by the anger on his face, Emily reached down and pulled the gold bracelet back onto her wrist. “You like her, that much is obvious and she seems to have some interest in you, despite her transparent denials.”

For a long moment, Justin said nothing, stunned by the words that were coming out of
Emily’s mouth. “Haven’t you just convinced me that this existence is so much hell, that you would lie with someone you don’t care for just to rid yourself of it? Why would you ask me to pursue someone I couldn’t be with? Do you hate me that much?”

Emily turned away and sat down in one of the chairs. “I don’t hate you Justin, but if you don’t take her and make her yours you will regret it.” She picked up her bonnet and began pulling at the flowers set into it. “Alistair already knows about her, give it a little time and she will be linked with us. I’d much rather you drag her along rather than leave her to be fodder for John.”

“So how does my brother know about Melissa?” Justin’s voice was dangerously quiet as
he stood opposite her. “Have you stirred the pot again?” He turned and slammed his fist into the wall. “I thought you were past these petty games. Real people are at stake.”

“Yes.” She stood and faced him. “Real people are at stake and if you do not act this time, John will merely take her from you in the same way he took Anna.” She grabbed his fist and brushed the drops of blood from the knuckles. “Do you not realise yet that there is nothing that you can do to hide her from him.”

“I’ve spoken to her once.” He hoped that she did not see through the lie, “And that has been all. God curse it Emily, she may only be intrigued, do not turn this into a grand love affair on the basis of one conversation.” He pulled his hand free and seized the back of her neck. “If you start this, you’d better be prepared to face the consequences.”

Emily laughed in his face. “Don’t threaten me darling, I won’t take it.” Her hand snaked around his wrist and she pressed hard on the joints, causing him to gasp in pain. “I will not spend the next few decades suffering from your ill temper. Don’t forget love, that I know you almost as well as you know yourself.”

Justin allowed his hand to drop from her skin and whispered. “Then why would push this? I am interested yes, but I know that I can’t have her. John need only know that I flirted with her, as I do with many women.”

“I push because John will know regardless. He has his spies and he will find out.”

My Review:
This is a very very very long historical paranormal romance. I think I may have truly enjoyed the story if it had been 200 pages shorter.

Melissa is debuting in her London season when she meets the enigmatic rake Justin Lestrade, newly returned from the colonies to take up his family estate. He’s a bona fide rake with dubious connections. Melissa, who is very different from “polite society” must be sequestered after her disastrous debut, because the scandal of her yelling and slapping an attacker is too headstrong for the lads of London to accept in a suitable wife.

Going back to the country, Melissa learns that her estate is close to that of the ruined Lestrade homestead. The county is rife with gossip regarding both Melissa and Justin Lestrade for different reasons. They do find cause to meet up, both taken with each other and fearing a future. For different reasons. Headstrong does not begin to describe Melissa. Reckless, feckless and foolish would be better adjectives.

I’m usually a fan of a plucky historical heroine, but Melissa is really a woman out-of-time, here. It’s London 1760s or so, and she seems one step from burning her corset and demanding autonomy. She knowingly associates with persons that will undoubtedly make her unmarriagable, and this is okay because she doesn’t want a strange man/husband lording it over her all the time. Buck up, Mellie, all is completely lost due to your own frippery.

Justin and his family have dark secrets. These dark secrets have to do with Justin’s recognized intelligence well beyond his years, which are (supposedly) numbered at 19. Let’s just say that the curse of Lestrade is unique, but confers unwelcome and gruesome side effects. Is he involved with the mysterious disappearances and deaths of young maidens in the London area?

Well, the mystery of the dead women is pertinent to the story, but not directly Lestrade’s fault. Justin and Melissa sense a developing bond though they have little contact. There are players at work behind the scenes that are hostile in practice and malevolent in intent. It is a race to see if they will uncover the budding affection between these unsuited lovers, and how they will upset this burgeoning apple cart. The magic behind the mystery is complicated and rightfully deemed a curse.

I had wished the work was a bit less verbose and repetitive. It definitely hampered my enjoyment. Also, the book ends, but the story does not. It seems that the end comes at the climax, and there is a whole new adventure to unwind in a new book–with Melissa rising from the ashes of her family’s downfall. Really a depressing end, even if the love story is beginning to get underway.

Interested?You can find THE BLACK LOTUS on Goodreads, Amazon, and Amazon UK.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win a $10 Amazon GC or a copy of the book.
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

claire warnerAbout the Author in Ms. Warner’s words
When I was a child, I made up games and characters when my sister and I played with dolls. As I grew older, I would make up scenarios and scenes, fully intending to write them down but never finding the time. In my late teens, I discovered the world of role playing and settled into an avid ‘geeky’ life of D&D, comics, sci-fi and fantasy fiction. Years passed and I finally gave voice to the stories in my head. I write romance, fantasy, action and adventure. I love tales of steampunk and history, tales of magical powers and dark curses lurking in the shadows. Though The Black Lotus is not my first attempt at a novel, it is the first I have finished.

And some fun facts about me:
I sew.
My favourite Disney film is Atlantis.
I’ve been a film extra and stood 5 feet away from Sam Rockwell.
Babylon 5 is my fave sci-fi show.
I cried at the end of Toy Story 3.

Find Claire online on her website, Goodreads, Twitter, and Facebook.

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THE SHINING ONES–Excerpt and Giveaway!

SO-BannerTemplateHi there! I’m spreading the word about an alt-historical, fantasy M/M romance novella from Dusk Peterson. I’ve not read any of the books in this series, but it sounds intriguing.

Check out the excerpt below and get in on the giveaway!

shiningones6x9About the book:

“He was skilled by now at making innocuous remarks in the presence of the Shining Ones. Nobody had even guessed that he knew what they were.”

The Eternal Dungeon is filled with prisoners who shine like the sun.

No one knows this except Barrett Boyd, a guard notorious for having survived a disciplinary punishment that should have killed him. He is also notorious for his rebellion against the authorities of the royal prison. At a pivotal time in the Eternal Dungeon’s history, when abusive practices of the past may finally be abolished, Barrett finds himself drawn to the mystery of a younger guard, Clifford Crofford, who claims that he and Barrett are love-mates.

Barrett has no memory of this. He has no memory of anything before his punishment. What does the past matter, compared to Barrett’s determination to protect the prisoners? But Barrett cannot ignore his bond with Clifford, and the closer that Barrett comes to Clifford, the more the danger arises that Clifford will question Barrett’s sanity. . . .

This novelette (miniature novel) of disability and love can be read on its own or as a side story in The Eternal Dungeon, an award-winning speculative fiction series set in a nineteenth-century prison where the psychologists wield whips.

The Eternal Dungeon series is part of Turn-of-the-Century Toughs, a cycle of alternate history series (Dark Light, Waterman, Life Prison, Commando, Michael’s House, and The Eternal Dungeon) about disreputable men on the margins of society, and the men and women who care for them. Set between the 1880s and the 1910s, the novels and stories take place in an alternative version of America that was settled by inhabitants of the Old World in ancient times. One of the series in the cycle, Waterman, combines elements of the 1910s with retrofuturistic imagery from the 1960s.

A little taste…

“I don’t want you to mistake why you’re here.”

Clifford quickly shook his head. “No, sir. I know you’re not inviting me into your bed. But we can be work partners, can’t we? To be able to work with you again – to help you fight to protect the prisoners against abuse . . .” He took a deep breath and said more steadily, “I want that more than anything else in my life.”

It would have been easier if he could have told Clifford the truth. If he could have said, “Everyone believes that my brain was changed, and it’s true. Ever since this dungeon’s High Seeker nearly beat me to death for shielding a prisoner against his cruelty, I’ve seen the prisoners here in a way that no one else sees them. I’ve seen the light that shines within them, as bright as a sun. I’ve seen how wondrous they are, and how fragile at the same time. I’ve dedicated my life to serving them in the only way I know how. . . . And I am dedicated to you as well. You are the only one, besides the prisoners, who shines with that deep, bold light. I am your servant, now and forever. I’ll give you anything that I can – anything that will please you. Anything but the love of a love-mate, for if I touched you for more than a few seconds, I would die of the exquisite pain.'”

He had always possessed enough sense not to say that to Clifford or anyone else. Always, from the first few weeks of his awakening.

Interested? You can find THE SHINING ONES on Goodreads, Amazon, and the Author’s store.

****GIVEAWAY****

Clink on this Rafflecopter giveaway link for your chance to win an e-copy of THE SHINING ONES.

Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the Author:

Honored in the Rainbow Awards, Dusk Peterson writes historical speculative fiction: alternate history, historical fantasy, and retrofuture science fiction, including lgbtq novels, original slash, and other types of diverse fiction. Suspense plays an important role in many of the tales; the conflict in those tales is both external and internal. Peterson’s stories are often placed in dark settings, such as prisons or wartime locations. The mood of the stories, however, is not one of unrelieved gloominess; romance, friendship, family affection, and faithful service are recurring themes. Visit duskpeterson.com for e-books and free fiction.

You can find Dusk online on her website, Facebook, twitter, Goodreads and Tumblr.

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Out Today! HOW TO CAPTURE A DUKE–A Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing a review for an historical romance out to day from Bianca Blythe. HOW TO CAPTURE A DUKE is likely to appeal to fans of Tessa Dare, with a heroine who takes her fate in her own two hands…and makes a mess of it. Oh! And, finds true love along the way…

How To Capture A DukeAbout the book:
One reclusive bluestocking…
Fiona Amberly is more intrigued by the Roman ruins near her manor house than she is by balls. When her dying Grandmother worries about Fiona’s future, Fiona stammers that she’s secretly engaged. Soon she finds herself promising that she will introduce her husband-to-be by Christmas.

One dutiful duke…
Percival Carmichael, new Duke of Alfriston, is in a hurry. He’s off to propose to London’s most eligible debutante. After nearly dying at Waterloo, he’s vowed to spend the rest of his life living up to the ton’s expectations.

One fallen tree…
When Fiona tries to warn a passing coach about a tree in the road, the driver mistakes her for a highwaywoman. Evidently he’s not used to seeing women attired in clothes only suitable for archaeology waving knives. After the driver flees, Fiona decides she may as well borrow the handsome passenger…

My Review:
4.5 Stars for this fun, historical romance adventure. A perfect read for fans of Tessa Dare.

Fiona Amberly is a wallflower, a bluestocking, a woman past her prime and unwed at the ripe age of 22. She fled London two weeks after her debut several years before as she’s socially-awkward and graced with horrendous freckled skin and blood red hair. She’s unfashionable and unworried about it. Mostly. She lives with her grandmother in a castle in Yorkshire, and professes to have a fiance, “Captain Knightley” who is off fighting for England against Bonaparte. But the war has ended and all of Fiona’s family are expecting her fiance to collect his bride to be. Especially her ill Gram–who only wants to see Fiona properly settled. Meanwhile, Fiona’s content to dig Roman artifacts from the grounds of the castle and properly document her archaeological finds.

Percival is en route to London with a bag full of jewels, including an engagement ring for a woman he’s never met. He is newly settled into his title as Duke of Alfriston, which he landed because his cousin–the Duke–was killed in action at Waterloo while saving Percival. So, the title fits about as well as Percival’s wooden leg. Having no desire to be paraded out to the ton in search of a wife who would accept his deformity, Percival allows the dowager duchess, his aunt, to arrange a marriage with his dead cousin’s intended. And maybe, one day, they will grow to develop some affection toward each other.

While trying to stop a coach from running into a felled tree, Fiona is mistaken for a highwaywoman. She sees Percival is an attractive man, and well-cultured. And, if she can bring this gentleman to her home to meet her gram, once, perhaps everyone will believe that this stranger is Captain Knightley, and leave her alone in her personal life. Impetuously, she calls herself the Scarlet Demon, kidnaps the Duke, and the game is on.

This is a very cute, and a bit steamy, historical romance that starts out with hi jinks and hijacking and ends in passion. Percival is flummoxed regarding the mad woman who is taking him far from his intended target. In truth, he is uncomfortable around people, now, sensitive to his injury, and his ill-begotten title. He enjoyed being a rake, and now he has to be a nobleman, and live a life that is determined by his aunt, in the shadow of his cousin. Being around Fiona soon turns Percival’s beliefs on their ear. He sees her as a shy woman, but well educated and passionate about her desires in archaeology. True, she’s not “accomplished” by the usual measures, but Fiona’s very attractive to Percival–she’s a big gal, with soft features and red hair he’d love to lose himself in.

Fiona has no illusions regarding Percival’s interest. He makes it plain that he’s betrothed, and she doesn’t want to interfere in that. She doesn’t fend off any of his advances, however, and that’s okay for her. She never expected to marry, so having a bit of carnal pleasure with Percival is an illicit experience, one she will likely never have again. Did I mention Fiona’s impetuous?

The end of the book is far different to how I envisioned it, and I liked that! When I picked up the book I expected it would be very like Tessa Dare’s When a Scot Ties the Knot and there are some similarities, but the differences are vast. I loved how there was enough separation for lust to settle into something more warm, like affection. The dramatic ending was rather lovely, and I enjoyed getting swept away.

Interested? You can find HOW TO CAPTURE A DUKE on Goodreads and multiple Amazon outlets (US, UK, CA and DE). I received a review copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Bianca BlytheAbout the Author:

Born in Texas, Wellesley graduate Bianca Blythe spent four years in England. She worked in a fifteenth century castle, though sadly that didn’t actually involve spotting dukes and earls strutting about in Hessians.
She credits British weather for forcing her into a library, where she discovered her first Julia Quinn novel. Thank goodness for blustery downpours.
Bianca now lives in Massachusetts with her boyfriend, though she will admit to craving warm scones and clotted cream. She’s not certain she can admit to reading about handsome, roguish dukes, at least in a location where her boyfriend might stumble upon the fact.
But if any readers are stumbling upon this, rest assured that she does write about rather swoon worthy heroes 🙂
You can find Bianca on her website, twitter and Facebook.

Thanks for popping in, and keep reading my friends!

Buried Feelings in DARK ECONOMY–A Review

Hi there! Toady I’m sharing a review for an historical M/M mystery with a dash of romance tossed in. DARK ECONOMY by M. Keedwell is a full on 19th century sleuthing expedition, and it was rather interesting.

Dark EconomyAbout the book:

Love can’t stay buried.

Medical student Cadell Meredith has been known to acquire “volunteers” from the occasional pauper’s grave in order to improve his surgical skills. While the legality of this practice is a bit murky, he wouldn’t go so far as to call it out and out robbery.

His latest acquisition, however, is different. The body on his table was obviously healthy, wealthy—and murdered. Cadell feels compelled to seek justice for the dead man, but while dissection comes naturally to him, crime investigation is unfamiliar territory.

Furthermore, he’s caught the attention of one of those new police officers, Blaine Breton. A handsome, sentimental fool who insists Cadell is a criminal. A criminal! Cadell is the first to admit he’s no saint, but he’s no killer.

A marvelous game of cat and mouse ensues as Cadell seeks to expose the truth while hiding his own secrets. A task that grows ever more difficult as his desire for Breton grows…and the danger deepens.

Warning: This story contains mystery, mayhem, and a male romance that starts off in the most delicious way possible—mutual hostility. Enjoy!

My Review:

This is a LONG, but interesting, historical mystery with a DASH of M/M romance.

Cadell Meredith is a medical student in 19th century London. Driven to supplement his income by drawing true-to-life medical diagrams for some of his professors, he stoops to stealing fresh bodies from graves, which is how he comes across the recently murdered Robert Treswick, son of an earl and buried unnamed in a pauper’s grave. It’s also how he falls onto the radar of Constable Blaine Breton–of his majesty’s service. Seems Breton has a particular dislike of graverobbing louts, and lumps Cadell in with this criminal sort.

Cadell is drawn into discovering who murdered Treswick and that puts him into contact with Breton more than feels comfortable. The unnatural urges he’s squelched since he and a childhood friend were caught experimenting and Cadell’s father disowned him eight years ago are all inflamed in the presence of the cold and calculating Breton. In order to turn the tables in his favor, and work toward the mystery’s end, Cadell devises a plan to steal one of Breton’s constable suits and masquerade as an officer. This does move the plot along, and forces Breton to follow his quarry, Cadell, more closely.

I’m not going to belabor the talk of the plot. It’s long, and circuitous. I felt as if I was reading Alistair McLean again, at times, with all the misdirection and partial clues. I will say that I wanted there to be more of a spark between Cadell and Breton. They have a very tentative dance–how does a man approach an officer of the law with his unlawful desires, anyway! That’s one stumbling block. The other is the graverobbing. Both crimes would get Cadell swung from the gallows. That said, there are moments of quiet intimacy where a rapport and grudging regard are built. When Breton needs assistance, be it medical or menial, he calls upon Cadell. There are others involved in the morass, a friend of the late Treswick who becomes an intimate confidante, and a reconnection of Cadell with his teen love.

Throughout, however, there is this excellent discipline of Cadell’s to remain obsessively focused on deciphering the guilty party. By the end he’s uncovered three bastards, foiled a theft ring, and solved three murders–while nearly becoming a fourth. If you’re looking for a spicy romance, this is not your book. If you are looking for a complicated mystery with some M/M elements and excellent historical accuracy, this is your read. I did enjoy it, but would have loved a bunch more lovin’.

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

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!

IF I WERE FIRE–Excerpt and Giveaway

IIWF-BannerHi there! Just spreading the word about a newly released historical M/M romance novella from Heloise West. IF I WERE FIRE is the story of a broke Italian noble and the thief he saves.

Check out the excerpt and make sure to enter to win one of three copies of IF YOU WERE FIRE!

IfIWereFireFSAbout the book:
In 18th century Siena, Count Salvesto Masello has returned home to find the family villa and his father’s estate steeped deeply in debt. In order to save it, he has been selling off valuable family heirlooms, but he is running out of silverware. Somewhere in the villa his deceased father had hidden the art treasures that will pay the debt, but Salvesto can’t find them anywhere.

Amadeo Neruccio has been on the run from the vicious pimp, thief, and pawnbroker Guelfetto, but his toughs finally catch him and bring him to the cellar where Count Masello is selling off his silver. When the count learns what fate Guelfetto has in store for Amadeo, he intervenes and trades the last of his mother’s dowry for the young man’s freedom.

Salvesto had left home over ten years ago to live the life of adventure he craved. He had also hoped to leave his broken heart behind. When he rescues young Amadeo, he did not expect to find love again, or that his adventures had yet to end.

How about a little taste?
Everyone knew everyone’s business in the small hilly honeycomb town of Siena. The house the Masello had once occupied for short periods during the year belonged to a rich merchant now. The eldest Masello had died in a hunting accident in the countryside, and his father, it was said, died of grief a year later. This event had brought the new conte home to the villa with the leaky roof, the broken-backed barn, and massive debt. Yet perhaps Conte Masello was not as bad off as they said, for he had paid Amadeo’s debt to Guelfetto.

Likely Amadeo was wrong about that, too, as the conte had traded for his freedom with silver dishes and spoons. Amadeo swallowed hard but could not dislodge the lump in his throat, a combination of gratitude and resentment. Life in a Florentine bathhouse and sexual slavery to the traditional enemies of Siena was no life at all. He shuddered. He had meant it about throwing himself on the tender mercy of the river.

What kind of master was the new Conte Masello? He glanced at the man beside him and found warm hazel eyes gazing down at him. His new master’s hair was as brown as chestnuts and touched with gray strands. Whatever he’d been doing while the family fortunes dwindled—soldiering, sailing, perhaps even tramping about in the New World—had made him a man with a face weathered by the sun and muscles that strained the seams of his fine clothes. He was broad-shouldered and a forearm’s length taller than Amadeo, who felt like a willow tree beside such an oak.

“We have another stop to make,” the conte whispered. “Finish your prayers.”

The hard press of the conte’s velvet-clad shoulder and the intimacy of his warm breath on Amadeo’s neck sent a small shock through him, and his cock stirred restlessly in response.

Oh no, you don’t. You are not to ruin this chance for me either. Pardon me, dear Saint Catherine. I pledge to you I will stay away from the gaming tables and this man’s bed.

Interested? You can find IF I WERE FIRE on Goodreads, Dreamspinner Press, and Amazon.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win one of three ebooks of IF I WERE FIRE.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the author:
Heloise West, when not hunched over the keyboard plotting love and mayhem, dreams about moving to a villa in Tuscany. She loves history, mysteries, and romance of all flavors. She travels and gardens with her partner of 10 years, and their home overflows with books, cats, art, and red wine.

You can find Heloise online on her blog, Facebook, twitter, Tumblr, Goodreads, Dreamspinner, and Pinterest.

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Cephalopod Coffeehouse Oct 2015–WHEN A SCOT TIES THE KNOT-A Review

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Hi there! Welcome one and all to the Cephalopod Coffeehouse, a cozy gathering of book lovers, meeting to discuss their thoughts regarding the tomes they enjoyed most over the previous month. Pull up a chair, order your cappuccino and join in the fun.

When a Scot Ties the Knot (Castles Ever After, #3)This month I’m reviewing an historical romance from Tessa Dare. I’ve enjoyed some of her books in the past and ran across a recommendation for this new release, WHEN A SCOT TIES THE KNOT, from a friend on Goodreads. I must say I enjoyed it.

I picked up this book on the review/recommendation of Khanh, who rarely finds a 5-Star gem, and gushed over this historical romance. Thanks, Khanh!

Madeline Gracechurch is a proper young Englishwoman whose stepmother and father wish to have settled favorably with a husband. At 16, Maddie is unable to mix in company, however, She suffers intense agoraphobia and knows that she will disgrace her family if pressed into London’s social marriage network. She’s a devoted penpal to her “afianced” however, one Captain Logan MacKenzie, A Highland Scot fighting the French–who happens to be entirely fictitious. She sends him letters and sketches, and arranges to have return letters from him delivered from him.

This charade continues for years, Maddie feeling bad, but not entirely. She expects that her letters are being trashed somewhere, entertainment for anonymous troops who think her a flighty girl. Remorse does set in when her godfather gifts her a Highland estate so that she and Captain MacKenzie will be comfortable upon his return. She decides to end this ruse, now some eight years old, by reporting the death of the valiant Captain. She mourns him properly, vows to never wed and decamps form her father’s home to her Highland estate, in the company of her “ruined” spinster Aunt Thea.

Maddie has been comfortable in her estate for two years now. She has a tidy income from her scientific drawings and the working farm. She is a good mistress, knowing her tenants and ensuring their welfare. What she is not is a woman looking for a man, and one appears on her doorstep out of the bonny blue sky: Captain Logan MacKenzie.

Not just the good captain, he has brought some of his displaced soldiers with him. To stay. Yes, Logan exists, and he received many a letter from a foolish English lass he expected to be decrepit or club-footed or have some gross malformation that rendered her unsuitable for marriage. The young, delicate comely woman who is terrified by his brawn (and assertion that they be married posthaste) is not at all whom he expected to find.

Logan has has a bad time of life. Abandoned by his parents, left as an orphan and pressed into His Majesty’s service by his “adoptive” family, Logan has never known a real home, nor real love. He doesn’t believe in it, and figures that the spoils young Maddie received by conning her family ought to suit him and his cast-off men who have nowhere to live after all their sacrifices for the Crown.

Aunt Thea is overjoyed, and canny. She wants her Maddie to have a love-filled life, and this rugged Highlander seems to fit the bill. Maddie, for her part, is attracted and intrigued, but she agrees to handfast her captain only because he threatens to reveal her subterfuge to all of London’s society.

It’s a big mess, of Maddie’s own creation as she acknowledges, and she womans up. She makes her vows, but allows herself some time to adjust to married life. In particular, she forestalls the consummation of their marriage in the hope that she can locate MacKenzie’s cache of her letters and destroy the evidence thereby unsealing their deal. In the meantime, they spend quite a bit of time together, managing the estate. Maddie’s even prepared to hand this over to Logan, in return for him letting her be, but Logan knows how the English change their minds and take back what they give in Scotland. So he won’t be having any of her deals.

Plus, he’s mighty attracted. His initial lust tempers into admiration when he sees how compassionate she is to all those around her estate. A true affection blossoms between Maddie and Logan, one that is fierce. It scares both Logan and Maddie, but Maddie takes steps to protect her heart–until she recognizes that Logan’s armor guards him too closely for very good reason.

Maddie and Logan are two excellent characters. While Logan is a battle hardened man, he’s not a brute. He’s educated and appreciates Maddie’s peculiarities. Maddie practically swoons when she find him reading her treasured copy of Pride and Prejudice, yet she can’t allow herself to believe such a beautiful physical specimen could truly love her. In fact, she very much believes Logan when he tells her he cannot.

There are some delightful sexytimes. Maddie is a virgin, and Logan has been celibate ever since Maddie’s letters began arriving. He lived a model life to give his men hope, and when the letters started he couldn’t set a bad example of carousing when the men believed he had a steadfast sweetheart. It has created a serious (10 years!) back-up of lust for Logan to carry. The sexual tension is delicious with a constant build and excellent resolution. Logan’s selflessness is a problem through the story–all the way to the very end, and yet, it’s his most endearing quality.

Where can I find me one of those magic mirrors or circles of standing stones? I need me a sexy Highlander, toot sweet.

Interested? You can find WHEN A SCOT TIES THE KNOT on Goodreads, Amazon, All Romance, and Barnes & Noble. This is a mass market paperback so it’s probably in Target and other convenience booksellers–and try the library, too.

Thanks for stopping in, and don’t forget to dash in and see what all my fellow Coffeehouse readers picked as their fave book for the month. Oh, and Happy Halloween!

Compromises Between THE MISTRESS AND HER MEN–Excerpt, Review and Giveaway

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Hi there! Today’ I’m sharing a review for a sexy menage historical romance from Minerva Howe (aka Julia Talbot) that releases today. THE MISTRESS AND HER MEN is so yummy and sexy, I’m hoping for a sequel.

Make sure to check out the excerpt, my review and enter the giveaway for an ebook of your own.

MistressAbout the book:
The path to love isn’t always a straight line. Sometimes it’s a triangle.
When Simon realizes his dearest friend is in real trouble with gambling, whoring and daredeviling, he hits on the perfect solution: provide Matthias with an outlet for his self-destructive urges. While Simon would be more than willing to take on the task himself, Matthias has always fought their “unnatural” attraction.

As London’s Mistress of Discipline, Felice Grey wears her independent and scandalous reputation with confidence. She’ll take on Matthias for one night as a favor to Simon—even break her own rules to let Simon watch. She never expected that Matthias’s struggle against his feelings for Simon would touch her heart, or that she’d feel drawn to both men. Especially since Simon’s dominant nature makes it unlikely he’ll bend to her will.

Simon, barely surviving the night’s session, withdraws to his country estate in hopes that his two favorite people will find each other. Felice and Matthias must make a decision—let happiness fall by the wayside, or pursue it—and damn the risk.

How about a little taste?
London 1779

Simon sat in the depths of a smoky gambling hell, his cravat undone, his coat tossed carelessly across a stool near his feet. He knew he presented the very portrait of a debauched noble gambling his night away. That was precisely what he wanted, because he was in the gaming hell as a spy tonight, rather than a full participant.

Tonight he was watching his dear friend Matthias wager away every bit of good fortune the man had ever possessed. Indeed, Simon saw a note that no doubt represented every bit of Matthias’s remaining land in the pile of loot at the center of his table. What Simon really wished to do was to go over to that table and wipe it clean with his arm, dramatically saving Matthias from himself. He knew, however, that his friend would not thank him for it, so instead he would wait until a destitute Matthias left to drown his sorrows in whatever drink he might yet afford. Then he would buy all of those notes back from the winners, whether they wished to sell or not. A roar from Matthias brought Simon’s attention back from his thoughts. Matthias’s gaming table spilled over, notes and coins flying.

“You’re a damned cheat,” Matthias shouted, and in finally seeing Matthias’s opponent’s face, Simon could not but agree. Lord Chalmsley was, indeed, a terrible cheat. He was also armed with a dagger in his sleeve, which snicked into place against Matthias’s breastbone in less than a heartbeat.

“How dare you, sir?” Chalmsley said calmly. “I have beaten you over and over this evening because of your lack of skill, not chicanery.”

“That’s a load of shite.” Matthias pressed against the blade until a red spot appeared on his lawn shirt. “Had you nothing to hide you would not conceal a weapon and use it so readily.”

Chalmsley backed away slowly. “I only protect myself, you insolent bastard.”

“Ah, but I am no more a bastard than you are,” Matthias stated. “Fight me fairly.”

“I did. With the cards.” With a flourish of his blade, Chalmsley bent to pick up the notes before stuffing them into his coat. “Good night, all.” Matthias lunged, only to be held back by a few acquaintances. Not an easy task, considering his stature, his heavy muscles. Simon watched him thusly restrained, and the kernel of an idea took hold in his mind. The image of that bright spot of blood crystalized in Simon’s thoughts.

Good God, his friend had a death wish. Yes, Matthias had a need to castigate himself. To punish himself for his perceived failures in life. How many times had Simon seen Matthias throw the first punch or toss a note in someone’s face? How many times had the man courted danger to his person simply because he didn’t think he was worthy of his life? He wondered why it had taken him so long to realize that he knew of a solution. Oh, God help him, he might just be able to save Matthias from another night such as this, from giving away his land and his life to fulfill some sort of fatalistic desire.

Matthias needed to explore this need for violence, for self-punishment, in a safe place. Would that Simon could become that place, but he knew Matthias would never accept such games from a man, let alone one he considered a close friend. There was someone, though, someone who would give Matthias what he needed.

Simon stood, assuming his jacket before he left the room so that Matthias never saw him. He dropped his own blade into his hand when he approached Chalmsley from behind, then pressed the dagger to the man’s ribs. “I’ll take those notes, my lord,” he said, smiling when Chalmsley stiffened. “I would have bought them, but I do abhor a cheat.”

My Review:
This is a delicious sexy read that includes BDSM scenes and multi-partner M/M, M/F and M/M/F play.

Viscount Thatcher, Simon Manchester has a serious affection for his good friend Baron Matthias Kingsley. Matthias has an unnatural desire for men that he refuses to indulge. It’s a hanging offense after all. This attraction does his head in, a bit, and causes him to behave in other risky manners, like gambling and brawling He’s lost his fortune many a time, only to have Simon step in and rescue him. This time, however, Simon has a stipulation. He will return Matthias’ markers if Matthias will submit himself to the notorious Mistress of Discipline, Felice Grey.

This night is a battle of wills for Simon, who plays voyeur, Felice, who is a rare hand with a switch, and Matthias, who is finally at peace after some serious punishment. Felice and Simon are each Dominant partners, but each recognizes their desire of the other. They have an increasing affection for Matthias, and a mutual desire to dominate him…together.

The road is not easy. Matthias is very resistant. He is invited back to Mistress’ parlor, but he denies himself release because he’s too afraid that Simon will engage him. Felice’s punishment is severe, and shatters Matthias’ resolve to refuse Simon. Their reunion is bliss, for a time. Shame country folk are so suspicious and uncivil. The end is happy, but I’d have read on and on. I really liked the BDSM elements, and I love me a Domme who holds her own. Felice is an unapologetic feminist in a society that barely tolerates her. Brava! And Simon is so sexy, really. His love for Matthias is illegal, and rare. He’d rather sacrifice himself than put Felice and Matthias in danger, and a realistic threat exists here.

I liked this one bunches.

Interested? You can find THE MISTRESS AND HER MEN on Goodreads, Samhain Publishing, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and AllRomance.

****GIVEAWAY****

Click the Rafflecopter link below for your chance to win an ebook of THE MISTRESS AND HER MEN.
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Good luck and keep reading my friends!

About the author:
Julia Talbot lives in the great Southwest, where there is hot and cold running rodeo, cowboys, and everything from meat and potatoes to the best Tex-Mex. A full time author, Julia has been published by Samhain Publishing, Dreamspinner Press, and Changeling Press to name just a few. She believes that everyone deserves a happy ending, so she writes about love without limits, where boys love boys, girls love girls, and boys and girls get together to get wild, especially when her crazy paranormal characters are involved. Find Julia at @juliatalbot on Twitter, or at http://www.juliatalbot.com. Find all my books from my publishers Samhain, Dreamspinner, All Romance Ebooks, Torquere Press, and Changeling Press at my website. http://www.juliatalbot.com

You can find Julia/Minerva on Facebook, twitter, Goodreads and her blog. Join her newsletter! Get news for Julia and her wife BA Tortuga.

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Love Conquers All ECLIPSING APOLLO–Review and Get Your FREE Book!

Eclipsing Apollo - Review Blog Tour BannerHi there! Today I’m sharing my review for a historical romance that goes waaaayyy back! I really enjoyed author Sasha Summers’ contemporary fiction, (HOLLYWOOD EVER AFTER, HOLLYWOOD HOMECOMING, and HOLLYWOOD HOLIDAYS) so I thought why not? ECLIPSING APOLLO is the lovestory between Apollo, a god of the Olympic pantheon and Coronis, a mortal princess. It is an interesting and bittersweet supernatural tale.

Make sure to check out the excerpt and keep scrolling to get your free book(s)!

Eclipsing ApolloAbout the book:

Apollo is fond of many things. Music, poetry, physical prowess, truth, and love. The Pythian Games are in his honor and he attends, as a mere mortal, to enjoy the competition… and the women. Meeting the fair Coronis offers him his greatest delight. Her strength, her fearlessness, and her beauty clasp his heart with an irrevocable hold. But she wants none of him.

Coronis’ duty is to marry, but she yearns for so much more. She is a fierce competitor, a hunter, skilled in strategy and reason. Those that would court her lack both the mind and the body to rival hers – she will settle for no less. As a mortal, Apollo was both infuriating and tempting. But Apollo the Olympian is terrifying. She fears giving him her heart might destroy her soul.

Demeter’s need for revenge pits Olympian against Olympian, forcing Apollo into a darkness the God of Light must fight if he ever hopes to see his Coronis again.

How about a little taste?

He turned, readying his bow as he’d done a thousand times before. It was all too easy to miscalculate, to skew his arrow a hairsbreadth from the mark. He released the arrow, stunned when it hit the target.

The crowd reacted instantly, applause and cheers breaking the silence.

He looked at Coronis, stunned by the slight smile on her face. “Why do you smile?”

“Father says there’s never been more than four rounds.” Her smile grew. “We shall make history.”

He smiled in response. “Winning is no longer important?”

“Winning is everything,” she argued, incredulous. “Surely you see that?”

In that moment she was not just a woman. No, she was a competitor. An adversary to respect. He nodded, puzzling over the affect this woman had upon him.

Once the field was cleared and the targets were place, a silence fell upon the spectators. He would lead this time. The target was miniscule, an easy miss…

Coronis scarce waited for his arrow to fly before releasing hers.

The crowd waited as the judges ran the length of the field to the targets.

From the corner of his eye he watched her. She stared at the ground, her hands clasping her bow as she shifted from foot to foot.

When the judges pulled her arrow from the target and held it high, the crowd erupted with cheers and applause—to be drowned out by rolling thunder. Rain fell down in torrents, lightning split the sky in quick succession, sending all in the stands in search of shelter. He would have followed the others, but she stood, staring up at the sky, smiling. So he remained at her side.

He would touch her, pull her against him, and hold her. Instead, he stepped closer and took her hand in his. Only then did she look at him.

Lightning pierced the sky, striking a great tree at the edge of the field. He’d scarce heard the crackle and snap of its mighty trunk before the air around them whistled and the tree began to fall. He did not think, but pulled her tightly against him, sheltering her with his body. When the ground shook with the force of the fall, he held her still. Her back was pressed against his chest, her scent tickling his nose, while his arm cradled her waist. His hold eased once he knew she was safe, but the feel of her curves against him was a heady thing. If not for the chill of her wet tunic on his skin, he would have held her until she forced him to release her.

He swallowed, taking in the tree. If he’d not pulled her aside, Coronis would be dead—pinned beneath the tree. His chest felt heavy, weighted by a most crushing pressure. The feel of her, trembling against him, was the greatest comfort. He drew in a deep breath, running his hands along her arms. “You are cold,” he murmured, his nose brushing her ear.

She shivered, pulling from his embrace. She glanced at the tree, the realization of what might have happened clear upon her pale features. She stared up at him with a face so conflicted he would draw her close once more. Instead she ran from him, toward the safety of her father’s house.

My review:

This is the third book in a series, and I’m probably sure I should have read it in order. That said, I still was able to enjoy this book–after I sorted out the backstory.

This is a historical romance of Ancient Greece featuring Olympian god Apollo finding love, unexpectedly, with a mortal princess.

While the pantheon of Olympus squabbles regarding the vengeance Demeter wishes to wreak over a shade who hunts her daughter Persephone, Apollo and Hermes travel to Delphi to compete in the Pythian Games, celebrating Apollo’s ancient victory over a dragon.  En route, Apollo catches sight of a huntress in the wood, Coronis. She is a fantastic physical specimen, and her form while hunting is admirable. He is taken by her physical charms, and thrown off by her acid tongue.

Coronis is off-balance whenever she encounters the beautiful and arrogant (she assumes) Apollo. However, the longer he competes in the games, the more she realizes that his pride is well-deserved. Time and again he stands up for her, and risks much to save her from a forced marriage to Damocles.

Poseidon and Daphne, both angry with Apollo, are set on separating the pair, even after Apollo pledges to marry and remain faithful to Coronis. One reviewer complained that there’s a lot of sex in this book. Ha! The first sexy scene between Apollo and Coronis happens on their wedding night, and there are few scenes after that. It’s not THAT much sex, enough to cement their relationship, which is something that Apollo doubts greatly.

He has never experienced real love, and Coronis possesses such a feisty, hard-won heart that he’s not sure she truly does love him. HE feels that he loves her heart and soul, and wants to make her an immortal, the sooner the better, as he’s had troubling images of her being attacked since they first met. He also sees their son growing strong, so he knows they have a life together, but–and this is probably mythologically accurate–it’s not exactly a happily ever after. I won’t spoil this, but the end is more bitter than sweet. The scheming Olympians have their way, and it leads to heartbreak and bloodshed.

I liked the story. It was interesting and creative. I felt a part of this ancient society, and found it playful and engaging. I’d love to have a god worshiping me, as Apollo did for Coronis. His heart was open, and he reveled in the moments that he felt hers was, as well. There was plenty of plot to move the story along, between Coronis’ unknown lineage, Damocles’ antics, and Apollo’s champion performances. How comical when the man you’ve been sniping at is suddenly revealed to be the god you worship and appeal to for guidance! Poor Coronis, I really did sympathize.

I did have a serious problem in the amount of grammatical errors I found in my review copy. Not sure if I was sent an uncorrected ARC, but there were so many errors (misused homophones, missing words, punctuation, misspellings) that I truly hope so, and I hope all was corrected in the for sale copy.

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

Loves of Olympus series Collage IIThe Loves of Olympus series has had some excellent praise. You can get started by downloading MEDUSA A LOVE STORY, the first book in the series for FREE!! And, THEA’S FATE is FREE as well!

MEDUSA can be found on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo. 

THEA’S FATE can be found on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo.

FOR THE LOVE OF HADES can be found on Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes and Kobo.

32df2-sasha2bsummers2bauthor2bpicAbout the Author:
Sasha is part gypsy. Stories have always played an important role in her life. Her passions have always been storytelling, Hollywood, history, and travel. It’s no surprise that her books include a little of each. Her first play, ‘Greek Gods and Goddesses’ was written for her Girl Scout troupe. She’s been writing ever since. She loves getting lost in the worlds and characters she creates; even if she frequently forgets to run the dishwasher or wash socks when she’s doing so. Luckily, her four brilliant children and hero-inspiring hubby are super understanding and supportive.

You can find Sasha online on her website, Facebook, twitter, Goodreads and Pinterest.
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Dangerous Love Between THE SHEPHERD AND THE SOLICITOR-A Review

Hi there! Today I’m sharing my review for a new historical M/M romance from the writing team of Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon. THE SHEPHERD AND THE SOLICITOR is a slow-burning romance that develops between two people of completely different worlds. One is a cheeky London lawyer, and the other is a reclusive sheep farmer–who is likely the missing heir the lawyer was sent to find….

The Shepherd and the SolicitorAbout the book:
When a storm is brewing, taking shelter could be the most dangerous move of all.

One careless, public sign of affection cost Daniel Pierce’s lover his life at the hands of a hate-filled mob. Grief-stricken, Daniel retreated from society to a sheep farm in the wilds of the north. Years later, Gregory Tobin erupts into his solitary life.

Sent to confirm the existence—or the death—of the Pierce family’s lost heir, Tobin isn’t sure he’s found the right man. The gruff, shaggy hermit calling himself Jacob Bennet bears little resemblance to photographs of the younger Pierce. Tobin needs more time to study his quarry.

With lambing season in full swing, Daniel grudgingly admits he could use an extra hand. Through a long, exhausting night, they parry back and forth as Tobin probes closer and closer to the truth. And something beyond casual attraction simmers between them.

They come together in a crash of desire, but ultimately Daniel must overcome the terrors of the past to reconcile the man he was with the man he’s becoming—a man capable of loving again.

Warning: Many sexy encounters on a sheep farm—NO, not like THAT!—between two adult males with temperaments as different as night and day.

My Review:
This is a historical M/M romance about a reclusive sheep farmer, who may be a missing heir, and the solicitor who’s tasked with the job of finding him. It is set in 1880’s England.

Daniel Pierce saw his lover, Jacob, murdered by a mob when Jacob made one slight romantic overture in public. That was three years ago. Since then he fled London and changed his name. Jacob Bennet is a sheep farmer, and a recluse. He’s worked hard to hide himself away, but he’s not put his past away–only buried it under grueling hours of work.

Gregory Tobin knows exactly who he is: a conscientious solicitor with a moderate income and a lackluster life. He enjoys being sent to track down missing persons, and is good at cajoling them to come home. His most recent regular lover has caved to his family’s pressure to marry–and wants to keep Tobin as his “bit on the side” which is unappealing and appalling to Tobin. He’s glad for the opportunity to hunt the Pierce heir far away from London.

The adventure begins in Kentshire, with dubious leads and a spooked nag–who drops Tobin unceremoniously at the remote grazing field of Mr. Bennet. Being dusty and mucky and unwilling to walk the 8 mile return trip to the village, Tobin begs to stay one night; Bennet grudgingly agrees. It’s lambing season and he’s up to his elbows, quite literally, in sheep. Tobin’s enchanted with the vagaries of farm-life, and looking to ingratiate himself with Bennet, so he pitches in where he can. Tobin’s quite caught unawares regarding his interest–it’s such a different life from his own well-ordered, clean, natty-dressed existence. Under the wide night sky he feels able to breathe, in a way he hasn’t in a long time.

Over the course of a couple days, Bennet and Tobin exchange confidences–Tobin could see the changes in the young man he’d sought, buried beneath the ragged clothes and unkempt beard. Still, there’s an attraction brewing in the lambing shed. It’s an awakening for Bennet, who hasn’t had a man since Jacob was murdered–and never expected to want one again.

Dealing with his secret being out is not so easy, Daniel Pierce is a different man, now–one afraid of crowds and loud voices. Try as he might, Tobin coaxes and cajoles, with little budging on Pierce/Bennet’s part.

I liked how these two lonely souls found solace. That’s what Tobin offered Bennet, and that was what Bennet needed most. The end went a different direction than I expected, which was all to the good. Daniel Pierce restarted his life twice, and the second time was far better than the first. There’s a bit of heat, here. Not too much, but enough to build a bond and drive their growing affection forward. Tobin is a cheeky man–and this is both scary and fantastic to Pierce. The idea of openly loving a man is too dangerous, but their remote locale provides enough cover for their illicit acts. I love historical books which have a realistic depiction of clandestine love affairs. The resolution was excellent, for me. It’s the best kind of HEA in an environment where cohabitation is not feasible, but affection and love still thrive.

Interested? You can find THE SHEPHERD AND THE SOLICITOR on Goodreads, Samhain Publishing, Amazon, AllRomance and Barnes & Noble. I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

About the Authors:

Summer Devon is the pen name writer Kate Rothwell often uses. Whether the characters are male or female, human or dragon, her books are always romance.

You can visit her on twitter or her facebook page, where there’s a sign up form for a newsletter (she’ll only send out newsletters when there’s a new Summer Devon or Kate Rothwell release and she will never ever sell your name to anyone).

Her blog is available here.

She also has a blog with Bonnie Dee, a frequent co-author. It’s mostly just announcements, but we might do good give-aways on occasion.

Bonnie Dee began telling stories as a child. Whenever there was a sleepover, she was the designated ghost tale teller. She still has a story printed on yellow legal paper in second grade about a ghost, a witch and a talking cat.

Writing childish stories for her own pleasure led to majoring in English at college. Like most English majors, she dreamed of writing a novel, but at that time in her life didn’t have the necessary focus and follow through. Then life happened. A husband and children occupied the next twenty years and it was only in 2000 that she began writing again.

Bonnie enjoys dabbling in many genres. You can find her online on her website, twitter and Facebook.

Thanks for popping in and keep reading my friends!