Elisa Rolle's Blog, page 141

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Finding Sanctuary (The Hampton Road Club #6) by Morticia Knight

Finding Sanctuary (The Hampton Road Club Book 6)[image error]

"I adored Francesco and Theo as a couple. The story developed quite smoothly and the secondary characters very likable. This is a sweet romance between a rich Hollywood contractor and a homeless hooker/con artist. The story is drama free and quite enjoyable to read. Highly recommended for those who'd like a sweet, quick read."

Francesco might not know a thing about being a submissive, but for Master Theo, he’d be willing to learn anything.

Living on the streets of 1920s Los Angeles and pleasuring men in dark alleys for his survival is not how Francesco had thought his life would turn out. But he’s filled with the hope that someday—if he learns how to be a respectable fellow—he can make a home for himself and maybe even find a man he really cares for who also cares for him. In the meantime, he hustles to get by and looks for the good where he can find it.

Theo’s existence is safe and predictable. He indulges in his perverse nature at his friend Saul’s sadomasochism club on Hampton Road and negotiates contracts for the Hollywood players and studios. When an enticing little grifter crosses his path one day, the encounter unnerves him. Not because he gets conned, but because the refreshingly open and unaffected young man holds a mirror up to Theo’s own dreary existence. Theo might have plenty of material wealth, but his wealth of spirit can’t compare to the delightful Francesco’s.

Theo rescues Francesco from a dire situation and brings him home. If nothing else, he can at least find the desperate young man some decent employment. Instead, they both find themselves increasingly drawn to each other. But until Theo introduces Francesco to what being a submissive means, he doesn’t dare give his heart away. Francesco has yet to discover the secrets that are hidden behind the walls of the Hampton Road Club.


comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: A New Beginning for Angelo by Morticia Knight

A New Beginning for Angelo

"I truly enjoyed this historical. It's even more enjoyable to read while seeing the MCs relaxed with their relationship even though it's the 1920s, where being gay is taboo. Being gay and into BDSM was even worst. The story and romance was sweet and fun to read."

A Hampton Road Club story

Angelo wonders if the Hampton Road Club will offer him a new beginning and whether he can love two men at the same time.

Angelo escaped his family’s farm to be with his first and only love in Los Angeles. He meets up with him at Walter’s speakeasy, but their reunion is short-lived when Angelo discovers that his lover is embracing the Roaring Twenties with as many men and as much hooch as he can. With nowhere to stay and no job prospects, Angelo faces an uncertain and scary future.

Ex-prizefighters Bruce and George enjoy their employment at the Hampton Road Club for more than one reason. They can indulge in their passion for sadomasochism and search for the boy who will be the submissive they keep forever. Unfortunately, none of the men at Hampton Road are good prospects. When they run into a forlorn Angelo in the alley outside a speakeasy, their protective instincts kick in. But will they want to do more than just protect Angelo? And will the shy and inexperienced man embrace a lifestyle he never knew existed?


comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Midnight Flit by Elin Gregory

Midnight Flit (The Carstairs Affairs Book 2)

"This was such a treat to read. The plot was all I expected it to be, fun, intriguing, quirky, you name it. The author was kind enough to provide the previous book so I could have an understanding of how some of the things that developed in this book happened and to become familiar with the characters as the story started. Besides adoring the main characters, I also loved Emily, Miles Ma, and Pritchard, Miles manservant. They were a lovely addition to the plot. I recommend this one to everyone and will definitely be reading more from this author."

Miles Siward and Briers Allerdale return for another thrilling Jazz Age adventure .

“Silk stockings on expenses.”

Miles’s aristocratic mother has information of importance to the British Government and he must escort her home from Bucharest immediately, but their plans go violently awry and Miles and Lady Siward find themselves on a train to Belgrade - where Miles’s lover is posted. Since their pursuers are looking for a man and a woman, might two women slip past them unnoticed?

"Is anyone on this train who they say they are?"

Briers doesn’t know whether to kiss Miles or punch him but is delighted to accompany him and his mother on their journey. All he has to do is keep an eye open for their enemies - but who exactly are they; the enormous Russian, the sinister priest, the handsome jazz pianist, or maybe the winsome young movie star? And his mother-in-law might just be the most terrifying of all!

All aboard for the ride of a lifetime, with a cast of characters you'll never forget!

comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: The Solstice Prince by S.J. Himes

The Solstice Prince (Realms of Love Book 1)[image error]

"It’s always a delight when a writer takes the time to truly flesh out the setting, especially in a fantasy novel. The textures, smells, and glowing little details bring the setting of this story to vibrant life. I also enjoyed the characters, especially the grumbly-but-kind Cook. The Amazon product description describes the story as “light and fluffy,” and it’s true, but in all the best ways. “Light and fluffy” in this case doesn’t mean insubstantial, and it doesn’t mean a lack of emotional depth or growth. A complex little story unfolds with surprising delicacy, and involves plenty of both depth and growth. The MC has suffered, but the violence and suffering are in the past. So many of the characters in his present are beautifully kind—and it works. I really, really enjoyed this on many levels, and will look forward to more from this author."

The Solstice Prince is Book #1 in a brand new epic fantasy romance series, Realms of Love, by bestselling author SJ Himes.


Rescued from slavers, healer novice Jaime Buchanan finds himself alone and free in Pyrderi, a kingdom of magic, mythical creatures, and a culture as open and kind as his homeland was cruel and close-minded.

Despite his rescue, Jaime is not left without scars, both mental and physical. Traumatized by his experience and hiding his gift, Jaime struggles to earn his place in the kitchens of Angharad Palace, the heart of Taliesin City. His former life as a student of the healing arts leaves him at a disadvantage in the kitchens, and his damaged state is becoming more apparent by the day.

One day, when necessity and fate intervene, Jaime meets someone unexpected--Prince Maxim, youngest son of the Pyrderian king, a sword master and a devastatingly kind man. Unaccustomed to powerful people with compassion and heart, Jaime flees. A cascade of events reveals Jaime's hidden talents of healing, and he finds himself not in chains, but at the beginning of a new life.

This swift change of fortune opens Jaime up to new possibilities, including a smitten prince who cautiously courts Jaime, easing him away from his fears and reminding him that compassion and love can make him strong. The winter solstice is quickly approaching, and Prince Maxim shows Jaime the enjoyment and excitement to be found in a land that embraces the ice and cold, and the mysteries of all things magical. He learns to see the man under the royal mantle, and Maxim is more than even Jaime suspected.

The winter solstice is nigh when tragedy strikes, and Jaime learns that his past of grief and sorrow can be a pillar of strength for his solstice prince. If there is one thing that Jaime believes above all else, it is in the healing power of love.


comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Starting From Zero by Lane Hayes

Starting From Zero (Starting From Series Book 1)[image error]

"Justin Cuevas and Gray Robertson are as different as chalk from cheese - add an age gap of 14 years and it would seem they have no hope of getting into any kind of relationship. And yet, there is that spark, plus Gray has a load of respect for singer Justin's talent while Justin admires the heck out of the still hot at 44 Gray who had made a million or two in the music business. Business partners, band members and just plain old pains in the neck try to get in the way of J and G's budding relationship and for a while there I wondered if it would work out for them. The HEA is there but it took work on both their parts - just as it should. Highly recommended."

Justin Cuevas is going through a rough patch. A broken relationship, a scandal, and the demise of his band have shaken the aspiring rock star’s confidence. Working two jobs and sleeping on his friend’s sofa isn’t ideal, but Justin isn’t ready to give up yet. With a little luck, he’s hoping to re-launch his music career in LA with his new band, Zero. The key is to stay focused, and not get distracted by his past…or the sexy songwriter he can’t get out of his head.

Gray Robertson has written dozens of hits and worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. But he’s never met anyone like Justin. The younger man is fiery, passionate, and smart. A powerful voice for a new generation. Other than an unforgettable one-night stand and a passion for music, the two men have nothing in common. Or do they? Justin knows the out-of-the-blue challenge to write a quintessential love song is a huge opportunity. And it’s the ultimate test for someone who’s doesn’t believe in happily ever after. When sparks fly, Justin and Gray realize they have a shot something special if they start from zero together. Maybe even love.


comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Driven by Suzanne Falter

Driven (Oaktown Girls Book 1)[image error]

"Nice easy read. Characters were well written. Page turner I didn’t want to put down. Looking forward to more in the series."

Who says you can't find the love of your life while you're getting your tire fixed? Even IF your boss is actively trying to close her garage? Driven is the oldest woman-owned garage in Oakland - and the pride of the lesbian community. At least, it is until the uber-competitive former race car driver Mindy Rose shows up and opens her own garage, complete with chair massages and a sushi bar. Mindy's out to destroy Driven, a fact that galls her good-hearted, and very ethical Irish assistant Kate. This is just reinforced when Kate has an emergency blow out, and is forced to go into Driven for a repair. Instantly, she finds herself drawn to the tall, tantalizing co-owner Lizzy. That's when things get ... well ... complicated. Especially because Kate is an undocumented worker who seriously needs her job. Soon Kate finds herself hatching a secret scheme to save Driven, while falling hard for Lizzy. Yet, Lizzy has no idea she's part of the Mindy's nasty operation. Or even that Mindy is out to get her. Can sweet Kate and passionate Lizzy finally find the love they've been looking for forever? Or will Mindy find out and bring them and Driven down - and get Kate deported in the process? And when is Kate going to tell Lizzy who she actually is? It's just the beginning of the wild ride that is the Oaktown Girls series.


comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Payback by Charlotte Mills

Payback

"I liked this book. Was really enjoying it from storyline, characters, and writing style then near the end I got totally thrown off in what was happening to the point I had to go back and reread certain sections. The ending was almost unbelievable to me. Still scratching my head."

A thrilling lesbian mystery about trying to right a past wrong…despite the consequences.

Detective Constable Kate Wolfe is sent to a Cheshire backwater after falling foul of a disciplinary hearing in London. But before she even has a chance to settle in, Kate finds herself in a situation there’s no coming back from. She’s reported as a troublemaker to her new boss, Detective Chief Inspector Helen Taylor, a no-nonsense veteran who once had an esteemed, high-profile career.

The pair investigate a spate of arson attacks, a dead body found in a burnt out building, and a missing architect while fighting their growing attraction for each other. The discovery of a dumped vehicle in a quarry lake sparks a series of events that will change their lives forever.

comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Out in the Offense by Lane Hayes

Out in the Offense (Out in College Book 3)[image error]

"I'm not a big football fan but it's obvious the author is - there is great knowledge of the game in this well written story. Christian is a star college football quarterback who sucks at math, principally statistics. Rory is a math genius as well as being a champion wrestler. Christian's coach sets him up with Rory for tutoring is he wants to stay in the game. There's a sweet and loving romance here, you are quickly drawn into the men's opposite yet compatible personalities. Lots of quirky humor battles with angst in the form of Christian's overbearing father, and Christian's own reticence in coming out. Great story!"

Christian Rafferty is a talented quarterback with a big secret. He’s determined to make the most of his final season on the football field, and if possible, avoid any confrontations with his conservative parents about his future. It shouldn’t be difficult; he’s become adept at keeping his public and private lives separate. However, when a math class threatens to derail his plans to graduate on time, he realizes he may need outside help.

Rory Kirkland has a reputation for being a tough guy. He’s a former wrestler and recent college graduate who needs a real job. Until he finds one, tutoring is a decent temporary gig. Luckily, his brain is his biggest asset. Rory is a genius. He credits his sport for helping him deal with angst and rumors about his sexuality when he was younger, but he doesn’t care what others think anymore. He likes his new status as an out and proud bi man; and he recognizes something of himself in Christian. But Rory didn’t count on falling for him. When an unlikely friendship collides with intense attraction, both men begin to realize that coming out on offense just might be the surest path to love.


comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: The Mystery of the Moving Image (Snow & Winter #3) by C.S. Poe

The Mystery of the Moving Image (Snow & Winter)

"I think this is my favorite from the series so far! Wonderfully written, exquisitely developed, all-around great story! I loved the drama Sebastian always seemed to get into and the idea that not until the end do we find out who the actual perp was. Well bloody done!"

Snow & Winter: Book Three It’s summer in New York City, and antique shop owner Sebastian Snow is taking the next big step in his relationship with NYPD homicide detective, Calvin Winter: they’re moving in together. What should have been a wonderful week of playing house and celebrating Calvin’s birthday comes to an abrupt end when a mysterious package arrives at the Emporium. Inside is a Thomas Edison Kinetoscope, a movie viewer from the nineteenth century, invented by the grandfather of modern cinema, W. K. L. Dickson. And along with it, footage of a murder that took place over a hundred years ago. Sebastian resists the urge to start sleuthing, even if the culprit is long dead and there’s no apparent danger. But break-ins at the Emporium, a robbery, and dead bodies aren’t as easy to ignore, and Sebastian soon realizes that the century-old murder will lead him to a modern-day killer. However, even with Sebastian’s vast knowledge of Victorian America and his unrelenting perseverance in the face of danger, this may be the one mystery he won’t survive.

comments

Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Knight's Fire by S.J. Himes

Knight's Fire (Scales of Honor Book 1)[image error]

"This story had me even before it began. The fact that the author consulted, and credited, a historical fact checker — and added a foreword about their research -- got my respect immediately. The characters are three-dimensional and rich. And I absolutely loved how the author managed to make a prince’s war retinue gender-diverse without effort or explanation. But enough about technical matters. This is, simply, a beautiful and well-told story. The setting is palpable without being too much. And I absolutely loved the characters and their relationships. So happy this is the first book in a series. I’ll definitely be back for more."

Stories tell of great fire-breathing beasts large as castles, fierce and deadly, capable of magicks that no human can match. The Kingdom of Kentaine once allied itself with the dragons of old, but eventually, the dragons were lost to time and fell into legend.

Sir Gawain, First Knight of the Realm, is tasked by his older sister the Queen to travel to the edges of their kingdom, where a beast is flaming villagers and has the locals ready to form a mob and hunt it down themselves. His mission is to find the dragon, stop the violence, and do what he needs to maintain the peace.

His journey puts him in the heart of a confrontation with the dragon, but instead of saving the villagers, it is the dragon that needs rescuing. Zephyr, a fire dragon and an escaped slave, needs protection, time to heal, and a chance at a life full of hope.
Gawain can do no less than offer his sword, his shield, and his heart. Evil is hunting Zephyr, and it will not stop until it has reclaimed its prize.

Beyond the legends lies the truth, and love, like fire, consumes everything it touches.


comments