Deconstructing Infatuation by Merce Cardus is a brief novel, slightly less than 150 pages. It's a romance of sorts, in that it deals with the possible...moreDeconstructing Infatuation by Merce Cardus is a brief novel, slightly less than 150 pages. It's a romance of sorts, in that it deals with the possible relationship between bookish Helen Hayes and dashing Tiziano Conti, an Italian visiting New York for the marathon. The book proposes to deconstruct infatuation through examining the relationship of two unlikely and radically different people.
Helen is a down-to-earth book editor working for a New York literary agency. She lives her routine and quiet life doing her job and seeing her sometimes-present boyfriend Mark until Tiziano disrupts her life by subletting her roommate Marleen's bedroom during her absence.
Cardus is a good writer; she handles the relationship between Helen and Tiziano with some skill. The plot has some issues. The relationship between Helen and Tiziano seems to develop almost overnight with little build-up. The boyfriend Mark never really makes an appearance. His actual presence in the story would have made for a much richer romance. It's easier to accept deception against someone not present.
I liked both Helen and Tiziano, but I might have found them more endearing if I had a clearer picture of their motivations. Helen is the stronger of the two characters and there's more detail regarding her life. Tiziano could be any man. Cardus barely fleshes out his character. What does he do for a living? What's his life like back in Florence? He doesn't appear to be an athlete, but he's come all the way from Florence to see the New York Marathon. Why? These and other questions made it hard for me to love Deconstructing Infatuation. Still, I think the book rates 3 stars for the skill of the author.
Blood Howl: Sanguis Noctis Book One by Robin Saxon and Alex Kidwell is the first book in a two-part set that tells the story of Jed Walker, a mercenar...moreBlood Howl: Sanguis Noctis Book One by Robin Saxon and Alex Kidwell is the first book in a two-part set that tells the story of Jed Walker, a mercenary and Redford Reed, werewolf and hapless object of his pursuit.
The action is almost non-stop as Jed tries to figure just who Fil, his client is and what he wants with Redford. While the two of them flee the clutches of Fil and his minions, the attraction and care for each other builds. Saxon and Kidwell bring together two lonely individuals who never understand the depth of their loneliness until they meet each other. The scenes between these two guys are entertaining and sometimes poignant.
Kidwell and Saxon tell the tale of Blood Howl with wit and humor. Jed, in particular, tries to come off as a wisecracking, gun-wielding tough guy. He doesn't have a care in the world except where his next job will take him. Redford, on the other hand, is quiet and somewhat reserved. Much of his life focuses on protecting others from his monthly change into a werewolf. Despite their differences, there's some serious sexual tension between Jed and Redford; it's immediately clear that they care a great deal for each other.
While, Saxon and Kidwell focus much of the attention of Blood Howl on Jed and Redford, there are a couple of interesting secondary characters. David, a fellow mercenary and information broker and Victor, a professor in obscure history are prominent in the sequel, Blood in the Sand: Sanguis Noctis Book One.
Blood Howl is a fun read with characters that immediately engage. Still, there are a few niggling issues. Saxon and Kidwell devote very little to time explaining how Redford came to be a werewolf or why obtaining him is so important to the villain of the piece, Fil. This is perhaps one of the few weaknesses of the story. Why is Redford hiding in his dead grandmother's house? Why can't Fil just retrieve Redford himself? Why does Fil need to hire Jed for such a seemly simple job?
Aside from these plot issues, Blood Howl is an interesting romantic mystery with some shifter flavoring. This is not the usual paranormal shifter romance with alphas and omegas and wolf pack politics. Nevertheless, Jed and Redford's story is worth reading.
Too Hot to Handle is a short story, less than 30 pages, by L.C. Dean about two young friends who find themselves spending time alone together during a...moreToo Hot to Handle is a short story, less than 30 pages, by L.C. Dean about two young friends who find themselves spending time alone together during a very hot spell in Texas. Tuck is gay, while Jase is not sure. The story focuses on one afternoon and evening when their relationship could change for better or worse.
Dean turns out a passionate and steamy interlude with plenty of drama. Jase is the brawn, while Tuck is the nerdy geek. The two characters are well-matched and clearly care about each other. This is a couple of guys you wouldn't mind getting to know better. The build up to the story conclusion is not without surprises and not rushed.
Too Hot to Handle is well-written with attention to detail. It would be nice to see what, if anything, develops between Jase and Tuck in the future. Too Hot to Handle is short, worthy of 4 stars. Some short stories end up shortchanging the plot or the character development. Too Hot to Handle does neither; it's an entertaining and fun read.
A Tryst of Fate is a gay romance novel by H. C. Brown that involves time travel. Millionaire art dealer Colt Daniels finds himself transported back to...moreA Tryst of Fate is a gay romance novel by H. C. Brown that involves time travel. Millionaire art dealer Colt Daniels finds himself transported back to 1775. He explores the cellar of his newly restored London home after purchasing the portrait of Lord Alexander Swift, a man he's been fascinated by since he inherited his home.
Both Colt and Alexander are engaging characters and much of the action of the novel focuses on the two of them. Alexander is a lonely man suffering under the oppressive anti-sodomite sentiments of the time, while Colt is a free and openly gay man of the 21st century with the money and power to get what he wants.
In A Tryst of Fate Brown writes an entertaining time travel story with glimpses into the difficulties of a modern man trying to live in the 1700's, as well as the obvious hurdles faced by a man from 1775 trying to fit into the modern world. Brown rushes the romance between Colt and Alexander somewhat. They barely know each other before they are falling into bed. A little more build up in their relationship could have made the story much richer.
Nevertheless, the scenes between the two are passion-filled and on occasion touching and sometimes humorous.
Nate's Deputy is the fifth book in Lavinia Lewis' Shifters' Haven series. It's a standalone story about two strong-willed gay werewolf shifters, Nate...moreNate's Deputy is the fifth book in Lavinia Lewis' Shifters' Haven series. It's a standalone story about two strong-willed gay werewolf shifters, Nate Stanford and Deputy Jared Ambrose. Nate's Deputy focuses on life in the small town of Wolf Creek and the activities of its denizens.
Jared is looking to find a home for him and his troubled younger brother, Tristan; while Nate's want to restore the home his deceased brother Rick lost. At the same time these two stubborn young men work to gain a home, they must deal with the shady activities going on in Wolf Creek involving the Supernatural Council. They also need to cope with an attraction so passionate it threatens to overcome all the other obstacles in their lives.
Lewis writes some steamy scenes between Jared and Nate, as well as other key characters in Nate's Deputy, including Aaron and Cary from other Shifters' Haven stories. Lewis has a strong voice and her characters are sympathetic and compelling. Jared's relationship with Tristan is tender and caring. Nate's grief over the death of his little brother is touching, as are the scenes with Cary and Aaron.
Nate's Deputy moves at a fast clip; the action almost never stops. On occasion, this shortchanges the depth of the story. There are also some minor technical and grammatical problems with Nate's Deputy that are not present in other installments of Shifters' Haven. Nevertheless, Nate's Deputy is a fun read worth 3.5 stars. Shifters' Haven is a nice series and with some interesting characters worth getting to know.
Gregory's Rebellion is part of Lavinia Lewis' Shifter Haven series about a group of shifters living on the Crazy Horse cattle ranch outside of Wolf Cr...moreGregory's Rebellion is part of Lavinia Lewis' Shifter Haven series about a group of shifters living on the Crazy Horse cattle ranch outside of Wolf Creek. Gregory, a member of the supernatural council, finds himself sent on a mission to Las Vegas to retrieve Hayden, a young panther shifter living in isolation from his family and the rest of the shifter community.
While you can read this romance alone, background from previous stories in the series supply useful details regarding several of the plot motivations. The story deals primarily with the relationship between Gregory and Hayden and solving the mystery of why Hayden doesn't recognize his connection to Gregory.
Both Gregory and Hayden are likable characters and their story is a good one. However, supernatural council in-fighting occasionally sidetracks the budding relationship between these two cat shifters. Gregory spends much of his time trying to figure out who's behind the supernatural council mate murders, while Hayden is trying to fit into to his new life in Wolf Creek. The two are in for a bumpy ride, which Lewis handles with an entertaining hand.
The writing in Gregory's Rebellion is spare and light; the book is an easy read. The sex scenes have heat and energy. There are some spicy exchanges between Gregory and Hayden, as well as some bedroom appearances by characters from other stories in the series.
Gregory's Rebellion gets 3.5 stars mainly because of a lack of detail regarding Wolf Creek and its citizenry. How did all of these shifters come to be living in the wilds of Wolf Creek? And what about the supernatural council? How do they seem to know what's going on in the entire shifter community, including a lone panther in Las Vegas? Despite these questions, I enjoyed Gregory's Rebellion.
Good Bones by Kim Fielding is not your usual shifter romance. Fielding's novel looks at the life of the moon-called with a more realistic and genuine...moreGood Bones by Kim Fielding is not your usual shifter romance. Fielding's novel looks at the life of the moon-called with a more realistic and genuine eye.In Good Bones, Fielding paints a shifter life as one of isolation, pain, and loneliness. The physical pain of changing from man to wolf is evident. So is the loneliness and isolation brought on by trying to hide an important part of oneself.
Dylan Warner and Chris Nock are the primary characters in Good Bones. Dylan is a young and upcoming architect with one major problem: he's a werewolf. In this case, that means he's going to be furry and on the prowl every 28 days. To keep everyone safe around, Dylan decides to buy an old, seen-better-times Christmas tree farm and make it his home.
Chris, the other main character lives in the dilapidated shack on the edge of Dylan's property. Chris takes thing as they come so when Dylan offers him work helping him remodel the kitchen in his new abode, he seizes the opportunity.
The energy between Dylan and Chris is quirky and interesting. Both men have secrets in their pasts that could derail any long-term relationship. Fielding slowly reveals the complexities of these characters, peeling away layers with a fine skill and poignant imagery. The secondary characters are also well-drawn. Dylan's brother and sister-in-law, Rick and Kay, as well as Matty, his co-worker at the architectural firm all have distinct personalities.
I hope this is the beginning of a new shifter series, since these characters are certainly worth getting to know better. I am definitely looking forward to new books from Kim Fielding.
Solitary: A Hammer Novel by Sean Michael is part of the long-running Hammer BDSM series; it's a sweet novel. The main characters Greg and Ap are immed...moreSolitary: A Hammer Novel by Sean Michael is part of the long-running Hammer BDSM series; it's a sweet novel. The main characters Greg and Ap are immediately sympathetic and engaging. Solitary deals with the development of Ap and Greg's relationship as Dom and sub.
Greg comes to Ap with some serious emotional baggage. A fractured and beaten-down spirit leaves him unable to keep a Dom for more than a couple of weeks; Greg is very high maintenance, demanding a great deal of attention. Ap, on the other hand, is a self-sufficient individual comfortable with his solitary existence out in the middle of the wilds of Northern Canada.
Michael brings these two disparate characters together with warmth and depth. Greg's fragility is clear, but so is Ap's strength. Both characters are well-dawn with distinct features and flaws. Michael focuses more on control aspect of the BDSM life-style in revealing Ap and Greg's story.
Oliver and Jack, owners of the Hammer Club, make brief appearances in Solitary to move the story along at strategic points as Greg and Ap get to know each other on Ap's tree farm. Greg learns to deal with the loss of his former Dom, Tim and he develops new strength under Ap peace-giving touch.
The Hammer Club series is a great collection of stories and Solitary is a fine addition. Ap and Greg's story is worth 4 stars for the skill of writing and the passion of the characters.
Shibari Auction House: Ben is the third short story in the Shibari series by Sean Michael. This series focuses on the activities at a high-end BDSM so...moreShibari Auction House: Ben is the third short story in the Shibari series by Sean Michael. This series focuses on the activities at a high-end BDSM social club, Shibari Auction House, where subs can offer their services up for auction to the highest bidding Masters.
This particular book in the Shibari series deals with sub Ben and Master Lukas and the renewal of their relationship. Both are experienced in the BDSM life-style and have a history with each other. Ben is looking for a one-night contract, while Lukas is seeking something more exclusive and permanent.
It's been three years since they've seen each other and it's a little disconcerting how Michael deals with the separation. Ben had some trouble in the past with a Master, but that's all the detail Michael provides. Michael never explicitly explains why Ben left Lukas, either. Still, their reunion is interesting to watch. There's definitely chemistry between the two handsome young men; sparks, as well as paddles fly between Lukas and Ben.
The Shibari Auction House series focuses a little too much on the sexual exploits and not enough on the story structure supporting the main characters. Ben is a bartender, but he's sporting designer clothing. How does Lukas afford the substantial bid he places on Ben? Who are the other members of the club? And what about Yves, the owner?
Shibari Auction House: Ben is worth 3 stars. Michael is a fine writer, but this is not one of his best efforts.
John's Match is book three in Viki Lyn's Woodland Village trilogy. The novel focuses on the romance between John Kramer and Scott Marwick. Two guys wh...moreJohn's Match is book three in Viki Lyn's Woodland Village trilogy. The novel focuses on the romance between John Kramer and Scott Marwick. Two guys who could not be more different from each other. John is the money man for a small, but rising gaming company, while Scott is a writer with a popular fantasy novel series.
John and Scott meet in the worst possible manner over the inebriated body of Scott's son, Rob. Sparks and accusations fly immediately. Scott thinks John is taking advantage of his young son, while John is certain he wants nothing to do with his jerk of a neighbor. The drama is off to a good start from that point. Lyn writes some entertaining scenes between these two different but attractive men.
John and Scott are both strong men with clear ideals and opinions. There's chemistry between them and some real passion and warmth. Both men have some emotional baggage from their past that they need to put behind them to have a future together. They each try to deal with their problems in an honest way that made them endearing.
Reading John's Match made me curious to read the two previous books in the series. I'd like to know more about the other gay couples in John's Match -- Ryan Adams and Martin Pierson, as well as Drew Adams and Skye Taylor. I'm definitely going to check out the other books in the series.
Amy Lane's Chase in Shadow is a poignant and painful romance between Chase Summers, a young engineer-in-training and Tommy Halloren, a veterinarian wa...moreAmy Lane's Chase in Shadow is a poignant and painful romance between Chase Summers, a young engineer-in-training and Tommy Halloren, a veterinarian wannabe. Both young men carry some serious emotional baggage that they need deal with if they want a future together, if they are even going to have a future.
At the same time Chase and Tommy are working through their emotional angst, they also need to handle their gay-for-pay side jobs. They're having sex with multiple partners disconnected from any real emotions.
Chase has a life built upon a scaffolding of lies and half-truths. He reaches out to Tommy in a move that could save him, if only he's willing to face the fallacies in his life. Tommy, on the other hand, has some serious body image issues he has to overcome.
Lane is a master at creating strong but flawed characters. She paints emotional scenes that make lasting impressions. Her books are always rich with characters who step from the page and tell their story. Lane does not fumble with the awkward moments even when they're uncomfortable to witness.
Andrew Grey's Artistic Pursuits is a gay romance between FBI Detective Frank Jennings and Interpol Agent Leslie Carlton. The two men come together in...moreAndrew Grey's Artistic Pursuits is a gay romance between FBI Detective Frank Jennings and Interpol Agent Leslie Carlton. The two men come together in the aftermath of a high stakes art theft of three fabulous Tiffany windows. Their attraction is powerful and immediate. While their chasing down leads and rounding up suspects, Frank and Les find themselves dealing with strong and unprofessional feelings for each other.
Grey weaves a taught tale; managing to keep the heist front and center of Artistic Pursuits while never losing focus on the budding relationship between Frank and Les. He deals with the mechanics of working on high-profile crimes, as well as the politics involved with much skill. The pacing in Artistic Pursuits is fast, but smooth.
Cleave by Mickie B. Ashling is the third book in the Cutting Cords trilogy. In this installment Sloan Driscoll and Trent Hamilton reach some real unde...moreCleave by Mickie B. Ashling is the third book in the Cutting Cords trilogy. In this installment Sloan Driscoll and Trent Hamilton reach some real understanding regarding their Dom/sub relationship, while Cole Fujiwara and the surrogate mother of his twins, Noriko come to a new stage in their relationship.
Cleave is a very appropriate title for this book, since the word can mean both severing and clinging. I loved this particular book in the trilogy. Cleave ties together some of the loose threads in the earlier books. Ashling reveals some of Trent's personal and family background. Before Cleave, Trent was the shadowy, mysterious figure; this book fleshes out his character.
Cleave focuses primarily on the relationship between Sloan and Trent. There are some painful moments with tears and recriminations, as well as more detail on the BDSM lifestyle. Is Sloan really a sub? He finds some aspects of the Dom/sub relationship disturbing. Nevertheless, he is strongly attracted to Trent. The passion between them is very fiery and Sloan needs the boundaries set by Trent.
Rogues is the third book in Ava March's Brook Street trilogy. Rogues focuses on best friends with benefits, young aristocrats Robert Anderson and Linu...moreRogues is the third book in Ava March's Brook Street trilogy. Rogues focuses on best friends with benefits, young aristocrats Robert Anderson and Linus Radcliffe. Both characters appear in the previous books in the series.
Robert and Linus have a long history with each other from childhood to school at Eaton. They know each other very well and share a very strong bond. The two young men share everything from clothing to household staff to beds. While they love each other, Linus has some trust issues and is certain that Robert prefers women.
Robert wants to make a change in their relationship. He is becoming increasingly jealous of all the young men Linus pursues. At the same time, Robert's tired of hopping in and out of the beds of bored young widows and wives on a weekly basis. The story revolves around a proposition Robert makes to Linus, one that will change their relationship forever.
Armed and Dangerous is book five in the Cut and Run series by Abigail Roux and Madeleine Urban. Roux goes it alone in this chapter of the Ty Grady and...moreArmed and Dangerous is book five in the Cut and Run series by Abigail Roux and Madeleine Urban. Roux goes it alone in this chapter of the Ty Grady and Zane Garrett gay mystery romance. In Armed and Dangerous Ty and Zane are again on an unusual case; this time they are escorting an ex-CIA wet works operative, Julian Cross and his lover, Cameron Jacobs to Washington DC.
The writing is just as taught and gritty in this episode, but there seems to be more humor than in previous books. Roux has a light touch and occasionally she slips into slapstick with some of the dialogue, particularly between Ty and Julian. Armed and Dangerous moves rapidly, as Ty and Zane take their prisoners from Chicago to DC.
This novel wraps up Julian and Cameron's story, which began with Warrior's Cross, as well as includes familiar characters from the Baltimore FBI office and Ty's brother Deuce and his vet friend, Nick. Roux also provides some important character background on Ty through an interaction between Zane and Nick.
As the four main characters make their danger-fraught way from Chicago to Washington DC they deal with CIA kill teams, blizzards and sabotaged cars to name but a few obstacles. Armed and Dangerous is not all action though; there are some steamy scenes between both couples. Ty and Zane reunite after Ty's dramatic departure in the previous book. While Julian and Cameron come together passionately after some harrowing moments escaping capture.
The Cut and Run continues to be a great series. Ty and Zane are an exciting and compelling couple with adventures that never fail to entertain. This is going to be a series that I read again from start to finish. I can hardly wait for the next installment, Stars and Stripes.
Unnatural Calamities by Summer Devon is a delightful romp about Christopher "Toph" Dunham, a headstrong venture capitalist and Janey Carmody, a wannab...moreUnnatural Calamities by Summer Devon is a delightful romp about Christopher "Toph" Dunham, a headstrong venture capitalist and Janey Carmody, a wannabe caterer living in West Farmbrook, Connecticut. Toph and Janey are both trying to raise teenage girls in the picturesque little town.
Unnatural Calamities is a high-energy love story that involves kidnapping, prison breaks, hot sex in bathtubs, and laundry two days past its prime. Devon keeps the pace of the story moving from the opening scenes. Janey is a bundle of nerves and creativity, while Toph smolders with confidence and a take-charge attitude. These two characters have an immediate attraction for each other, but complications hamper their attempts to get together at every turn.
Devon handles her characters with skill and maneuvers them adroitly through the many plot complications. Unnatural Calamities also has some interesting secondary characters that populate the story, such as Mickey, the lawyer, Rachel and Cynthia, the two young teenage girls, and Bea, the ex-wife supermodel of Toph.
Unnatural Calamities is above all else-fun. Following the romance of Toph and Janey was an entertaining afternoon diversion.
The King's Conquest by Valentina Heart is a fantasy romance between Prince Rinin of Kari and King Merinej of Jede, two men brought together to seal th...moreThe King's Conquest by Valentina Heart is a fantasy romance between Prince Rinin of Kari and King Merinej of Jede, two men brought together to seal the peace between countries in a longstanding war. Prince Rinin, as the war prize, must pay for the peace with his body. An arranged marriage between the heirs of two warring nations is the basis of King's Conquest.
Heart creates an alien world where men of a certain lineage can give birth and some can wield magic. There are plots and counter-plots throughout King's Conquest. The story is interesting because of the world building that Heart does. Both Rinin and Merinej are clearly from a different world; Rinin can physically give birth to a child!
The science fiction/fantasy elements of this story add nice color to King's Conquest. Heart speaks in Prince Rin's voice throughout the story. From his perspective, there are glimpses of magic-assisted technologies and alien physiologies. The one shortcoming of this story maybe that Heart tells it through the voice of Prince Rin. What are the motivations on King Merinej? Why is he accepting this marriage arrangement? How does Prince Rin's best friend and cousin, Tyn feel about Rin leaving him behind when he goes to Jede? And what about the villain of the tale, the former harem member plotting against the two men as they try to create a working relationship?
Many questions remain unanswered at the end of King's Conquest. It's the opening chapter in the Mending the Rift series, so the next chapter might address them. Still, King's Conquest is a good start.
The Gallows Tree by RJ Scott is a tale of recovering from abusive physical and emotional trauma. Cody is running from an extremely abusive lover and h...moreThe Gallows Tree by RJ Scott is a tale of recovering from abusive physical and emotional trauma. Cody is running from an extremely abusive lover and he's been running for the past six years. Coming to England to restore Mill Cottage is just an opportunity to get farther away from his pain.
When Cody meets Sebastian Toulson-Brown, the youngest brother of his contractor all his plans go awry. He and Sebastian finds themselves embarked on discovering just what happened to two hapless young lovers lost centuries ago. During the process of finding the truth and settling old hurts, Cody and Seb develop a passionate, but gentle and tender relationship.
Some of Scott's scenes in The Gallows Tree are touching while others are heart-breaking in their pain and pathos. Scott's descriptions of the environs of Mill Cottage are very real. You can almost hear the sounds of crunching fresh powder snow as Cody and Seb trudge across the fields. Likewise, the intimate moments shared by Cody and Seb are sweet in the care they take of each other's feelings.
The Gallows Tree is a story about finding the strength and courage to stop running and facing your fears. It's worth 4 stars for the quality of the writing. It's a sweet tale of love.
For the Bite of It by Viki Lyn and Vina Grey is a departure from the usual vampire fare. One of the main characters, Vincent Esposito is a vampire and...moreFor the Bite of It by Viki Lyn and Vina Grey is a departure from the usual vampire fare. One of the main characters, Vincent Esposito is a vampire and a baker who runs around in the daytime. Vincent is not only hiding the fact that he's a vampire; he's keeping some serious family secrets. Meanwhile, the other main character, John Reeder is a detective hunting up a killer and hiding firmly in the closet.
Lyn and Grey work well together as a team in this opening episode of Vampire in Exile. The scenes between Vincent and John are fraught with sexual tension as they try to solve the mystery surrounding the death of Vincent's landlord.
The story moves back and forth between Vincent's life as a vampire and baker, and John's life as young detective trying to resolve a puzzling mystery. For the Bite of It successfully combines a murder mystery with a romance and a paranormal tale of vampires.
The Vampire Council and the world of vampires weaves cleverly into the murder mystery, as does the romance between Vincent and John. Some entertaining secondary characters, Detective Free Norman and Angelo DeLuca also spice up the story.
For the Bite of It is a refreshing read with some interesting plot twists. There are some weaknesses in the story, particularly, the ending, which feels somewhat rushed. Still, the next episode promises to answer some of the questions left unresolved in For the Bite of It. This romance is definitely worth 3.5 stars.
Feral Lust by Mia Watts is a historical gay romance with paranormal twist. Main character Viscount Lord Atherton is a lonely werewolf hiding out on hi...moreFeral Lust by Mia Watts is a historical gay romance with paranormal twist. Main character Viscount Lord Atherton is a lonely werewolf hiding out on his reclusive country estate. He needs to get married and produce an heir to end his life of pain and change every full moon. Being unsure of his social skills, Atherton hires Michael Hastings, the third son of an earl to coach him in the niceties of high society etiquette.
The chemistry between the two men is interesting. There's passion, but there's uncertainty. Atherton plans to fulfill his goal of marriage, despite his attraction to Hastings, while Hastings is not sure what to make of the secretive Atherton.
Watts develops a passionate romance between Atherton and Hastings and the exchanges between the two of them are colorful. Feral Lust has some week points, namely, the werewolf aspect of the story.
Watts short changes the reader regarding the nature of Atherton's "curse". Wolves are not solitary creatures, but Atherton appears totally isolated. How is that he's the only remaining member of his family? An estate the size of Atheron's takes a sizable staff to run. Where is everyone? How did his family come to be under the "curse"? Feral Lust misses several opportunities to develop a more interesting and entertaining story, particularly the werewolf aspect. The sex scenes with the bondage flavoring are fine, but Feral Lust seems like it's an opening shot at a story that could be very fine.
Unfortunately, Feral Lust appears peopled only by Atherton, Hastings, and Mr. Leedy, the solicitor. Feral Lust is a nice read worth 2.75 stars, but it needs work.
Shibari Auction House: Alec is the second installment in Sean Michael's Shibari Auction House BDSM series. It's a short story that focuses mainly upon...moreShibari Auction House: Alec is the second installment in Sean Michael's Shibari Auction House BDSM series. It's a short story that focuses mainly upon the two main characters Benj, the new Dom and Alec, an experienced sub. The two young men meet during an auction at Shibari House. Alec is selling his services for two years and Benj is looking for a new sub.
This Dom/sub pair has some problems to overcome from the outset. Alec, while an experienced sub, is unsure of himself after his former Master rejected him. On the other hand, Benj is not an experienced Dom. The two have good chemistry, though. There's an immediate attraction. Michael builds the sexual tension between pair with skill. This is a brief story, but it's not an unfinished story. By the end of Alec, it's clear where these two men are going in their relationship.
Michael is light-handed with the BDSM life-style. Much of Alec focuses on the two main characters getting to know each other, discovering their sexual likes and dislikes. This second story in the Shibari Auction House series continues in the same vein as the first with the emphasis on the main Dom and sub. The auction house loosely connects the two stories. It might be interesting to know more about the Shibari House. For instance, who owns the house? What goes on there when an auction isn't underway?
Shibari Auction House: Alec is worth 3.5 stars. It falls a little short of the bar set by Shibari Auction House: Jack, but it's well worth the read.
Shibari Auction House: Jack by Sean Michael is the first book in a new series that promises to be very good. The main characters JF and Jack meet as a...moreShibari Auction House: Jack by Sean Michael is the first book in a new series that promises to be very good. The main characters JF and Jack meet as a consequence of Jack's outrageous gambling debts. To save himself from his debtor, Jack auctions off three years of his life to JF. Beginning a relationship on such unbalanced terms, even a BDSM relationship, would seem risky, but JF and Jack appear to be off to a great start. The chemistry between these two unlikely bedfellows is strong.
Michael is great at writing BDSM stories that skirt around the edges of the lifestyle and Shibari Auction House is no exception. This is different from Michael's usual fare though; Jack is definitely no twink. The tug of war between these two strong men is interesting to watch and the sex is not bad either.
Shibari Auction: Jack is a fun read. It's worth 4 stars for originality and execution. The only problem with the story is the brevity. How's this relationship going to proceed? How will two individuals from such different backgrounds make their relationship work? Perhaps, Michael will take up these details in the next installment.
Living Promises is the third installment in the Keeping Promise Rock series by Amy Lane. This novel has the same intensity and honesty of all her nove...moreLiving Promises is the third installment in the Keeping Promise Rock series by Amy Lane. This novel has the same intensity and honesty of all her novels. Lane is not a pleasant afternoon curl-up read. She grabs her readers and never lets them go. Her writing is definitely in your face. Living Promises is painful and beautiful and so real.
Living Promises is the story of two men with HIV: Jeffrey Beachum and Collin Waters. Jeff is a physician assistant and Collin owns a local auto repair shop. The first time they meet, both are dealing with the trauma of learning to live with HIV. The second time they meet its six years later and Collin has an agenda. His hero-worship for Jeff is now something else and he's determined to get his chance with Jeff.
Characters from other stories in the Keeping Promise Rock series people Living Promises with ongoing stories of their own, but Jeff and Collin hold center stage. Collin wants a relationship with Jeff; unfortunately, he decides to make his move just when Jeff's nicely made life is coming apart around him. The way these two very strong men come to realize what they mean to each is a story worth reading. Some of the scenes, such as the one between Jeff and his father Archie at his mother's Alzheimer's care facility, are gut-wrenching and tragic. Other scenes are warm and touching, as when Collin's mother encourages him to pursue Jeff more forcefully.
Lane is a greater writer; her novels, such as Talker and Locker Room are consistently high caliber. Lane knows what she's doing and Living Promises is a fine addition to the Keeping Promise Rock series.
A Journey of the Heart by Rick R. Reed is a surprising short story that takes a brief, but poignant glimpse into the lives of two young men taking a j...moreA Journey of the Heart by Rick R. Reed is a surprising short story that takes a brief, but poignant glimpse into the lives of two young men taking a journey on a train. A Journey of the Heart exposes that first magic of two strangers physically attracted to each other almost from first sight.
Love at first glimpse may be clichéd, but Reed makes it work. From the opening scenes, it's clear that the two young lovers, Jim and the unnamed protagonist are very much in love. The plot only deals with two train rides ten years apart, but it manages to encapsulate lust, passion and loving comfort shared.
A Journey of the Heart is a very short story and the ending may disappoint some, but the story is a good one. Reed is a fine writer and pens scenes of tight-clench passion with much skill. He invests a lifetime of experience into two brief train rides: one in England and the other in New England. A Journey of the Heart is a touching tale that garners 3 stars.
RJ Scott has a sweet little story in Jesse's Christmas, a holiday treat about a talented photography with the attitude of Grinch regarding all things...moreRJ Scott has a sweet little story in Jesse's Christmas, a holiday treat about a talented photography with the attitude of Grinch regarding all things Christmas. On assignment from his editor, Jesse is in charming, remote Eden Vale to take some Christmas photos for a client's online magazine.
Almost immediately, Jesse is knee-deep Christmas with picture-perfect landscapes and the delightful young Gabriel McClurey, the son of Eden Vale's innkeeper. Scott paints a clear image of Jesse as a man packing a great deal of baggage from a broken relationship. Scott waxes poetic with descriptions of Eden Vale as the little hamlet goes through it's annual celebrations of the holidays.
It's impossible not to smile while reading this tale of love lost and found as Jesse and Gabriel struggle (all too briefly) to develop a relationship in a situation that could ultimately be temporary. After all, Jesse is on an assignment for Christmas.
The only shortcoming in Jesse's Christmas is the brevity of the story. For a small town boy, Gabriel is a little too quick to get involved with Jesse. Still, the writing is good; the flow of the story fine and Jesse's Christmas gets 3 stars.
His Father's Advice by Don Schecter is not so much a short story as a conversation on human sexuality between a father and his son. Sam Conner, a star...moreHis Father's Advice by Don Schecter is not so much a short story as a conversation on human sexuality between a father and his son. Sam Conner, a star athlete and budding young artist has a sexual identity crisis and takes his questions to his gay father, Jerry Conner.
The short story focuses mainly on how Jerry reacts to his son's dilemma. The language Schecter uses is poignant and heart-felt, but it can also be somewhat preachy. Schecter writes His Father's Advice with much care and concern for the topic. It's clear from the outset that he has no opposition to being gay, or straight, or bisexual. Schecter presents an argument for honest sexuality without resorting to labeling.
The sex scenes in His Father's Advice are minimal. The passion of the short-short story is in defense of allowing individuals to make sexual choices guided by their hearts and bodies, not the strictures of society. Despite its brevity, His Father's Advice is nice piece of writing on a sensitive topic.
Brook Street Fortune Hunter by Ava March is the story of Oscar Woodhaven and Julian Parker, two young English gentlemen of the Regency period in Londo...moreBrook Street Fortune Hunter by Ava March is the story of Oscar Woodhaven and Julian Parker, two young English gentlemen of the Regency period in London, England. These two men meet each other through Benjamin Parker, one of the main characters in the first book of the Brook Street trilogy.
Oscar Woodhaven is a sensitive young English aristocrat with plenty of money and lots of time on his hands. Despite his vast resources and social connections, Oscar is a lonely young man. When he meets Julian, Oscar is certain he's found the friend with whom he can share his life. Julian has another agenda entirely. Julian's spent his life on the edges of society, always the outsider, never having enough funds to support the life he feels he deserves. Julian's reason for coming back to England is to find a rich wife.
March handles her characters with sensitivity. She reveals Oscar to be an open and generous character without making him appear gullible. Julian's character comes through in a positive light, despite his single-minded focus upon gaining a fortune through marriage. The white-hot passion between Oscar and Julian is real and the feelings they inspire in each other ring true. March works out the plotting of Brook Street Fortune Hunter with skill--events flow naturally in the story.
March also includes other characters from other books in the Brook Street trilogy. Benjamin Parker and Cavin Fox from the first book make an appearance, as do Radcliffe and Anderson from the third book in the series. If the first two books are any indication, this is going to be a good series.
Country Mouse by Amy Lane and Aleksandr Voinov is a delightful tale of a romantic romp that takes place in London. Two dashing young men, British Malc...moreCountry Mouse by Amy Lane and Aleksandr Voinov is a delightful tale of a romantic romp that takes place in London. Two dashing young men, British Malcolm Kavanaugh and American Owen Watson meet in a rather seedy bar and begin a weekend adventure that could turn into something special if both men are open to trusting each other.
Owen's on holiday with a former girlfriend and he's looking for a good beer and maybe a hookup with a nice guy. While Malcolm is looking for a quick and submissive lay to replace the one stranded in the Tube. Both men are in for a surprise.
Lane is a good writer with strong characters and teaming up with Voinov is no mistake. Country Mouse works well. Voinov and Lane create great characters and the plotting is well-crafted and smooth. There are some moments of emotional angst, but humor tempers them. Country Mouse is written with a light-hearted touch. The tone of the story is similar to Super Sock Man by Lane where the characters have personal problems but the pain and drama of those problems don't color their entire lives.
Cinder by Marie Sexton recounts a childhood fairy tale with a twist. Eldon Cinder has the role of the harried young Cinderella, while Xavier is the Pr...moreCinder by Marie Sexton recounts a childhood fairy tale with a twist. Eldon Cinder has the role of the harried young Cinderella, while Xavier is the Prince desperately in search of a bride. The two young men find themselves caught in a dilemma: the Prince must marry or become a pauper.
How Sexton works out the challenges of this story that everyone knows is entertaining. The story has all the elements expected in a Cinderella tale, namely a stepmother and stepsisters, witchery and magic, as well as new elements to make the story fresh.
There's no sex between Eldon and Xavier, but there is chemistry and a great hulking dog named Milton. Cinder is a fresh look at an old tale handled with much skill and romance. It's worthy of 4 stars for its creativity and sweetness. Cinder is a real charmer.
Horny, Hard and Hare-y is a short story by Mia Watts about three shifters, Charlie, Duncan, and Gibbs and a Michigan Department of Natural Resources o...moreHorny, Hard and Hare-y is a short story by Mia Watts about three shifters, Charlie, Duncan, and Gibbs and a Michigan Department of Natural Resources officer, Ben. The premise of the story builds around the historic race between the tortoise, Duncan and the hare, Charlie, with Gibbs the owl overseeing the competition.
Duncan, Charlie and Gibbs are close friends and roommates who live together and play in the woods of Michigan. Watts develops a cute story around the tortoise and hare fairy tale. For Duncan and Charlie the annual race is a reason to get together and have fun challenging each other. Watts creates some fun characters that enjoy playing games with each other.
Horny, Hard, and Hare-y lacks any sort of back story. Three different shifters somehow come to be living together in the wilds of Michigan and there are no other shifters associated with them. The mystery surrounding where these shifters came from and how they are such great friends distracts somewhat from the story. Still, it's an enjoyable read worth 3.5 stars for the fun.
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