Lights, Camera, Cupid: A Bluewater Bay Valentine's Collection

Bluewater Bay #6

by S.E. Jakes, Amy Lane, Z.A. Maxfield

Cupid is visiting Bluewater Bay, and he’s leaving chaos in his wake.

Nothing’s been the same in this sleepy little logging town since Hollywood came to shoot the hit TV show Wolf’s Landing—especially Valentine’s Day.

In L.A. Witt’s Just Another Day, beloved actors Levi Pritchard and Carter Samuels have an announcement for their fans, while in Z.A. Maxfield’s I’ll Be There, actor Spencer Kepler and his boyfriend Nash Holly brave a blizzard and a fan convention to spend their first February the 14th together.

Of course, it’s not just TV stars celebrating the day. In Anne Tenino’s Helping Hand, an aspiring artist eager to escape Bluewater Bay decides he just might have a reason to stay: lust-inspiring logger Gabriel Savage. In S.E. Jakes’s No Easy Way, a local teacher reconnects with an old lover working security on the film set. And in Amy Lane’s Nascha, a Bluewater Bay elder recalls how his own unconventional family used to celebrate the holiday.

Real life may be nothing like TV, but when Cupid comes to town, there’s plenty of romance and drama to go around.

Genres: M M Romance, Anthologies, Romance, Contemporary, Holiday, LGBT, Contemporary Romance

226 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 6, 2015

About the author

SE Jakes writes m/m romance. She believes in happy endings and fighting for what you want.

You can contact her the following ways:

You can email her at authorsejakes@gmail.com

You can post to her Facebook page: Facebook.com/SEJakes

You can Twitter her: Twitter.com/authorsejakes

You can post on her Goodreads Group: Ask SE Jakes

You can follow her on Tumblr: http://sejakes.tumblr.com

You can ask her a question as part of the Ask The Author program on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/4595...

Truth be told, the best way to contact her is by email or in blog comments. She spends most of her time writing but she loves to hear from readers.

***
SE Jakes is the pen-name of New York Times Bestselling Author Stephanie Tyler (and half of Sydney Croft!)

Reviews

[~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semi-colons~✡~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

See individual ratings/reviews below.

Three of these stories can be read as standalones. The exceptions are L.A. Witt's Just Another Day and Z.A. Maxfield's I’ll Be There, which are follow-ups to books 1 and 3 in the Bluewater Bay series, respectively.

Just Another Day
L.A. Witt
~4.25~

This was my favorite story of the bunch: a sweet, romantic, sexy follow-up to Starstruck.

It takes Levi inadvertently hurting Carter's feelings to make him realize that Valentine's Day doesn't have to be a purely commercial holiday.

Levi makes a grand gesture; the make-up sex is HAWT; and the cats are all kinds of awesome.

I was smiling like a fool. I love this couple! The wedding's next, baby!

Helping Hand
Anne Tenino
~4.25~

I LOVED this story until the end, when I realized that it was. The. End.

And then I went into full-on angst mode. Because this is surely only the beginning of a story. I need MORE!

Lucas, a senior in high school, is an artist wanting to leave the small town of Bluewater Bay. He wants to get away from his small-minded, alcoholic father and do more with his life.

This read very much like a bittersweet coming-of-age tale. Lucas is scared and insecure. His best friend, Audrey, wants to spread her wings and is tired of everyone thinking Lucas is her boyfriend.

Lucas has an unexpected, unsettling run-in with his long-time crush Gabe, the burly lumberjack who makes tube socks erotic.

There was so much to LOVE about this story. I am hoping and chanting and sending vibes to the cosmos that this is just a teaser for a full-length book to come.

EDITED TO ADD: Anne confirmed that we will get to read more about Lucas and Gabe in her new book Wedding Favors coming out in April! *does Snoopy happy dance* Cannot fucking wait!

I’ll Be There
Z.A. Maxfield
~2~

I didn't care for the original story, and this follow-up did nothing for me. The MCs are apart until the last page of the book. Seriously.

There was no steam and no romance, unless you consider Nash nearly dying in a blizzard while trying to get to Spencer for Valentine's Day romantic. I don't. It's just foolhardy and pointless.

Meanwhile, Nash is asking Spencer about his parents, because after months and months of being with Spencer, Nash has no idea how they died. What?

There were some odd POV switches to Nash's twin Healey and his boyfriend Ford. I could barely keep up with the manic pace of this one. I was simultaneously ramped-up and bored, not a great combination.

No Easy Way
S.E. Jakes
~2~

This is the longest story of the bunch at approximately 900 locations. I'm not an S.E. Jakes fan, and this one had the same frantic, unsettling pace all of this author's stories do.

Two men reunite after years apart. Cary was just 16 when his best friend and lover, Dylan, 19, walked out on him. This is a lover-reconnecting right before Valentine's Day story, and it's fairly subdued in terms of steam for a Jakes’ story.

I would have liked the ending better had Jakes not taken it upon herself to remind us on the last page that one of the MCs was a big man-whore, you know, just in case we were feeling too comfortable with the apparent HEA. Why can't this woman just end a story? Why? *heavy sigh*

Nascha
Amy Lane
~3~

In Nascha, a Native American elder, who is in the early- to mid-stages of Alzheimer disease, remembers his younger days when he was part of a long-term ménage à troi relationship with a man and a woman, Raw and Kitten. The couple sex scenes here are M/M/F, and the F is very present, sexually and emotionally.

When Nascha's sister dies, he raises his niece, then his grand-nephews, one of whom has autism. Cal, the older nephew who doesn't have autism, is 24 and takes care of Nascha and his younger brother. Cal is sick in this story, and Nascha worries about him.

Told in a stream-of-consciousness style by Nascha, the story flits between the past and present, which is appropriate considering it's being told by a man with Alzheimer.

In a way, this story reminded me of Lisa Genoa's brilliant:



But why was this story included in this collection? It certainly showcases Lane's range as a writer, but I felt emotionally disconnected and bereft while reading.

EDITED TO ADD: Hold the presses! I've figured out why this Lane story is in the anthology. It's a sort of prequel to Lane's full-length Bluewater Bay novel coming out in June, which focuses on Cal, the grandnephew:



EDITED TO ADD (June 14, 2015): Now that I've read The Deep of the South, I am seeing Nascha in a new light. Nascha is such a lovable character in the full-length novel, and he sacrifices so much for Cal.

I was happy to get glimpses of Nascha as a younger man, and reading The Deep of the South made me like and appreciate this story more.

[Lisa Arbitrary - AttentionIsArbitrary M/M Blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

~ ~ ~

3.5 Stars

**I've only read one story in this collection so far. So this review is only for SE Jakes' story in the collection--

No Easy Way

"Keep this. Reread it to refresh your memories. Because I plan on doing each and every thing your beautifully dirty mind came up with. And soon."

"Not happening," Cary said firmly, even as an electric shot went through his body. But it was too late--Dylan was already gone.

His fucking MO.

THE CHARACTERS

Cary - Sexy, genius school teacher.

Dylan - A soldier returning from duty determined to get his man!

THE STORY

Look, sometimes you just want to sink your teeth into a juicy bit of MM romance. And that's just what I found here. This was a take-me-away story sprinkled with just a little angst, a surprise or two and fast pacing to give you that delicious bite.

Cary and Dylan have a history and if it wasn't for that this short wouldn't have worked. I was a little confused at first, trying to pair Cary with other characters in the story, but it quickly developed into an obvious, but broken, relationship between Cary and Dylan. Dylan has returned to Bluewater Bay and is going after what he left behind: Cary.

Cary has created a life that does everything to help him forget Dylan, or so it seems on the surface. But besides teaching Cary writes. He just happens to write his own personal fantasies.

Both Cary and Dylan have multiple reasons to want to leave Bluewater Bay and those reasons help give this short a little bit more than I expected.

THE WRITING

This was a quick, sweet, romantic story with a surprising amount of background and history for such a short read. SE telling me stories of broken bad boys is always a treat and for Valentine's Day it was especially sweet and tasty.

~ ~ ~

I would like to thank SE Jakes for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.

~ ~ ~

Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:

http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall I really enjoyed the stories in this Valentine's Day Anthology. Reading this while I was in the process of reading 'The Bluewater Bay' series was perfect timing for me and just worked really well. It was a nice break from the longer stories involved and a chance to go back to some of the characters from stories that I really liked.

Just Another Day by L.A. Witt was a sexy, enjoyable peek at what happens with a couple (being Levi & Carter from Starstruck) have different opinions on a holiday and how sometimes after those opinions clash the true meaning of the holiday is what brings them back together.

'I'll Be There' by Z.A. Maxifield was definitely my favorite. I love Nash & Spencer and this story just made me love them both all the more.

Probably my least favorite story was S.E. Jakes 'No Easy Way'. This one just didn't quite click with me. I didn't hate the MC's, I just didn't really get them. Honestly, I have to admit I feel like maybe I'm not being fair to this one because the rest of these stories tie into books I've either read or will read, so maybe if there was more to this I would have enjoyed it better...I truly don't know.

I loved Amy Lane's story 'Nascha' probably more than I would have if I had read the series in order but because I took a little jump ahead to her book 'The Deep of the Sound' I understood the significance of his story and who and how it affected things in the future. This is a story that would seriously be better read after book #8.

And last of all Ann Tenino's 'Helping Hand' this one just turned out perfect for me because it read like a prequel or a background story and it was for book #7 Wedding Favors' which is the book I read next...so perfect timing for this story and it was just a really, sweet story and the perfect lead in to book #7.

[Gustaf · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this!

[Ele · Rating 3 out of 5]

*2.75 stars*

Just another day, L.A.Witt, 3.5 stars.It was ok, nice, sweet and hot.


Nascha, Amy Lane, 1 star. I absolutely adore miss Lane but...


No easy way, SE.Jakes, 2 stars.Because...


Helping hand, Anne Tenino, 5 stars. I freaking loved this. Wait...did it end?Thank God there is a story coming up.


I'll be there, Z.A.Maxfield, 2 stars.Because...

[Veronica of V's Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is anthology recounts some of the previous storylines in the Bluewater Bay series. For fans of the series, the extra vignettes and novellas will be welcome, but it's better to read this in series.

I really enjoyed the SE Jake's' No Easy Way-- which was a meaty read of reconnection love between Cary and Dylan, Bluewater Bay natives. They were first loves, separated by meddling parents. Now, as adults, they are having all the love they can grasp.

I'll Be There by ZA Maxfield was a great follow up with Spencer and Nash from HELL ON WHEELS, focusing on the building partnership of these two.

All the stories have a Valentine's focus, and includes one proposal. I enjoyed the many different stories and their varied lengths.

[L.A. Witt]

Available Feb 9th from Riptide.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio Book Review

This has been a heartwarming, thoughtful, passionate, and sweet series. I love that several authors compiled a variety of short stories and novellas around the theme of Valentine's Day. Some of the stories are about new characters and some are follow up with all loosely based on the holiday theme and the location of Bluewater Bay. I'll take them separately with a few thoughts on each.

Just Another Day by LA Witt narrated by Nick J Russo
This is a follow up story to Starstruck which featured actors' Levi Pritchard and Carter Samuels. Levi hates Valentines' Day and is irritated when Carter seemed to ignore his wishes. The situation teaches them something about each other and brings about an unlooked for, but rather romantic finish. Hot and sweet and reminded me why I loved their story in the first place.

Nascha by Amy Lane narrated by Nick J Russo
An old man sits in the present caring for his feverish great-nephew and special needs great-nephew while reminiscing on the past that he shared with his two lovers and the unconventional family they had before it was lost. Poignant and heartbreaking, but hopeful in the end. Tissues were necessary. Also this is a prequel of sorts for Book Eight in the series, The Deep of the Sound.

No Easy Way by SE Jakes narrated by Dorian Bane
Second chance romance that will take some doing for just home from the war and now security expert, Dylan and brilliant teacher and closet erotic writer, Cary, because an abrupt parting and a host of painful secrets are between them. Hmm, what to say...I liked it, but a borderline cheating thing and Cary's drama weren't to taste for me.

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino narrated by Nick J Russo
High school senior, Lucas, is at a crossroads as he receives acceptance into art school and must now share with his blue collar logging industry family both that and the fact that he is gay. His best friend supports him, but now wants him to stand alone. A surprising encounter leaves him bewildered and hurt. Interesting subtle piece with that encounter with the older brother's best friend. The reader picks up what Lucas is too young and naive to realize. That moment at the end with Lucas and his dad- sigh-worthy. Definitely looking forward to the full novel follow-up in Wedding Favors, the next book in the series.

I'll Be There by ZA Maxfield, narrated by Nick J Russo
Spencer is participating in a convention in Central Illinois and Nash plans to join him for Valentine's Day. Only a monster blizzard prevents him from getting a flight out of Dallas. Healey and his geek friends help him make his way by car, train, and more closer to Spencer. Both Nash and Spencer have their moment's of truth during the long night. Okay, this was sweet, fun, heartwarming and poignant. Loved the time with favorite characters and the extra time getting a bit more on Nash's brother.
Follow up story to Hell on Wheels

I enjoyed these stories in the audio version and was unsurprised that this just made them even better since the narrators were both favorites. I wasn't thinking about it until I listened to the two follow up stories, but I was glad to have the same narrator as the earlier books for continuity. I thought both acted the characters marvelously.

As to the collection, this was engaging from beginning to end. There was surprising subtlety and depth where I didn't expect it, but the infusion of humor, passion, and small town setting were definitely what I was expecting after getting the earlier books in the series. I imagine these could be read/listened to as standalone in a pinch, but my recommendation is that the reader wait and get them exactly where they fall in the series as book six for optimum enjoyment.

My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slick's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

4.25 Stars

I fell in love with the Bluewater Bay series so it seems fitting that we check in on this once sleepy but now famous town on Valentine's Day. While I loved some stories more than others they were all interesting and pretty damn sexy!

Just Another Day by L.A. Witt 4.5 stars

I loved getting a look at how the relationship between actors Levi Pritchard and Carter Samuel from L.A. Witt's Starstruck is progressing. In Just Another Day we find that Levi is very anti Valentine's day and even though Carter is aware of that he plans something just a little bit special which has Levi saying things he shouldn't and Carter feeling sad. Let's just say that a metaphorical slap on the head from his good friend make Levi see things a bit differently and he makes up for his Valentine's faux pas in style, big time! Sweet and sexy with some great make up sex to book, I loved this little peek into the lives of these two men.

Nascha by Amy Lane 4 stars

Somehow I missed Amy Lane's original book in this series which I plan to rectify shortly but in Nascha she takes a look at the life and love of a long time native Bluewater Bay resident. This was an interesting although somewhat heartbreaking story that spans decades through memories/flashbacks. I appreciated the complexity of the story but I grieved for everything the main character went through in his long and not so happy life. While not a hearts and flowers romance it was none the less a romance and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

No Easy Way by S.E. Jakes 4.5 stars

A second chance romance between two men who once shared something very special before one left town breaking the other's heart, now back in Bluewater Bay Dylan James plans to show Cary that leaving him was the hardest thing he ever did but at the time the only choice. Six years have come and gone and while Dylan is back working in town Cary has a part-time boyfriend that he enjoys spending time with him but one encounter with Dylan and that's all he can think about. These two had a lot of hurt to get past and some interesting stories to explain but one thing was clear...the heat between them was still there and despite everything they still feel so much for one another. I really loved this story and while the characters were well developed I could have easily read a full length book about their earlier relationship and would have loved more time with them in the present but all in all a very enjoyable and downright sexy story.

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino 3.5 stars

This is one of those stories I have mixed feelings about; on one hand we have Lucas Wilder a high school senior, talented artist, and closet homosexual to everyone but his best friend and on the other we have 20 something Gabe Sutton a logger, Lucas' older brother's best friend, and closeted bisexual. So much is going on in Lucas's life and it all comes to a head when he's accepted to art school prompting his father to taunt him forcing Lucas to come out to his family. A strange encounter between Lucas and Gabe leaves Lucas confused and while I understood why Gabe did what he did, I hurt for Lucas. Thankfully Lucas's family comes to terms with his choices and this made me hopeful for his future. Overall I enjoyed this story, but I would have liked a better resolution between Lucas and Gabe.

I'll Be There by Z.A. Maxfield 5 stars

It was fun to check back in with Nash and Spencer from Z.A. Maxfield's Hell on Wheels. In I'll Be There, Nash is trying to reach Spencer who is attending a conference in Chicago so he can keep Spencer calm during a difficult meeting and so they can spend their first Valentine's Day together. A new take on planes, trains, and automobiles Nash uses every form of travel he can and with the help of his twin Healey and Healey's roommates and friends they help him navigate across a snowed in country. Two things I absolutely loved about this story and one was Spencer coming out of his shell and dealing with people and situations on his own and two Spencer figuring out why Nash goes out of his way to help others and realizing what an amazing man he has. Funny, a few moments of panic, sheer joy and absolute love for each other made this one spectacular little story.

Review copy provided for an honest review.

[Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating 4.5 stars

I received Ligths, Camera, Cupid in exchange for a fair and honest review.

What a fantastic Valentine’s Day treat <3 All written by authors I know and adore. Some familiar characters and some new characters. Some laughs and even a few unexpected tears. If you’ve been following the Bluewater Bay series, you need to add this one to your TBR list.

Just Another Day by L.A. Witt

Levi and Carter were introduced in Starstruck, the first book in the Bluewater Bay series, so it was very fitting that they were included in Lights, Camera, Cupid. It was fun spending time with these two again. Being in a relationship hasn’t gotten rid of all of Levi’s little quirks, but he’s working on it. He proves in Just Another Day that Carter’s the most important part of his life and he’d do anything to show him how much he means to him.

Nascha by Amy Lane

Out of all the stories in Lights, Camera, Cupid, this one seemed the most out of place… but it really wasn’t. Nascha’s story wasn’t a happy one, but it turns out that it serves a purpose. I liked the story regardless, but I knew there was more to it than just a old man’s sorrow over what he lost. Turns out that Nascha gives readers some background for the next book in the Bluewater Bay series, The Deep of the Sound, also by Amy Lane.

No Easy Way by S.E. Jakes

This is the first time readers of the Bluewater Bay series are introduced to Cary and Dylan and I’m really hoping that we get to see more of them. Cary was the guy who had everything growing up… and then lost it all. That didn’t stop him from making something of himself. He even got over Dylan when he broke his heart by leaving him. Dylan never thought he was good enough for Cary and knew he would be better off if he wasn’t a part of his life. Nothing is ever as it seems, especially in a world that S.E. Jakes creates. (Oh, and she gets bonus points for mentioning two of my favorite characters from Burnt Toast B&B :) )

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino

I liked Lucas from the time he hit the page in Helping Hand. He was bright, witty and talented and totally at odds with who he was and what he wanted. I really liked the story, but I’m not sure about the ending. I’m really hoping that there’s more to the story between Lucas and Gabe. *sigh*

I’ll Be There by Z.A. Maxfield

Oh Spencer and Nash… I love these guys. In I’ll Be There, readers are even treated to some quality time with Nash’s brother Healey and his geeky friends and boyfriend. Nash goes on a wild trip so he can be there to support Spencer. Meanwhile, Spencer comes to terms with a part of his past that he’s not exactly proud of. I loved spending time with these two again. Hell on Wheels was the third book in the series and another one of my favorites.

[Deanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I usually have a real problem with anthologies. I usually, at best, like one or two stories and wish I hadn't wasted my time on the others. My reaction to this anthology was different. It did contain works by some of my favorite authors. It also tied in the Bluewater Bay series. If you have not read any of that series, you would increase your enjoyment of this book to do so.

JUST ANOTHER DAY by L. A. Witt
I love Levi and Carter even if they do dumb things. This is one story that could only be enjoyed if you had read their book. This is not the first time Levi has made a dumb move. Loved how he tried to correct it.

NASCHA BY Amy Lane
I know some reviewers did not like this story and wondered why it was in a Valentine collection. I loved this story. I loved the POV of the old man suffering in the first stages of Alzheimer's and worrying about his grand nephews. The flashbacks of Nascha's long time love affair with Kitten and Raw were so poignant. Their love story and problems brought tears to my eyes. I would love a story about Nascha and Raw getting it on in the senior housing. I know this is a set up for Cal's story and I do not want to wait.

NO EASY WAY by SE Jakes

I would have loved this to be longer, a novel. Then I could have enjoyed more details of the MCs lives while separated. We have Dylan who was physically abused as a child. A kid that had no future, at least in his own eyes and the town's. Then there is Cary, a smart kid from a privileged economic life. Dylan leaves with no word for a good reason in his eyes. Cary's father loses their money. Cary has to be the responsible one. Years pass and the two are once again in the same town. Dylan is back to win Cary back.

I enjoyed their interaction (Sex) but they should have talked more. Still liked the story.

HELPING HAND by Anne Tenino

Lucas' coming of age and out story. Not a HEA but he is young and going off to college. I loved Lucas and loved his interaction with his best friend, Aubrey. I look forward to more of his story.

I'LL BE THERE by Z.A. Maxfield

I felt more emotion between these guys then in their book. Stupid trip in that weather, but this was a story of love and commitment. I was so happy to get a view of Nash's twin, Healey and Healey's boyfriend. I loved their friends. This was an enjoyable and fun read. No connection to reality but who cares.

[liz]

I went straight to the Anne Tenino story. And I'm BUMMED. It's not a full romance. Not even a HFN. It reads like a prologue. There's nothing on her website or Riptide to indicate there WILL be more. That's frustrating. If there IS going to be another book/continued story, I'm disappointed there wouldn't be an announcement. That's just poor marketing, and now I don't trust the other "standalone" stories in the book. So I'll pause in reading.

3/22/15 update: I read the SE Jakes story. I was...underwhelmed. Just not feeling it with this antho.


4/6/15 update: After finishing Hell on Wheels, I read the ZAM follow up in this antho. Ignoring the obviously glaring timing issue with the epilogue from the novel, this is still...underwhelming. Nash basically putting himself in all kinds danger to fulfill a not-quite promise? Meh. OTT.


*I won free books for 3 months from Riptide publishing, and this is one of those titles.

[BWT · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just Another Day - by L.A. Witt
What can I say? Cute and short and it was nice to see Levi and Carter again.

Nascha - by Amy Lane
I was just confused, then irritated, then resigned. (And I might have skimmed. A lot.)

No Easy Way - by SE Jakes
It was okay. *shrugs*

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.

It’s been my experience that anthologies generally have stories which are great, not so great, and middle of the road. In this one, that’s not true—they are almost all terrific. To help me come up with an overall rating, I’ve rated each individual story and decided to leave that rating so that readers can see which ones I thought were the best.

The stories are:

Just Another Day by L.A. Witt

Levi Pritchard hates Valentine’s Day. In fact, he absolutely abhors it, so when he comes home to find that his lover Carter Samuels (“Starstruck”) has bought him a rare DVD for his collection and is making Pasta Carbonara, his favorite meal, he knows he’s going to have to say something ,and that it will likely hurt Carter’s feelings. He does, and it does, and after a brief period of time out for both of them and a call by Levi to his friend Anna, he does the unexpected and sits down with Carter to explain why he hates the holiday then takes Carter upstairs for a very special Valentine surprise. Saying more here would spoil the surprise but readers will definitely love it as much as Carter does! 4.5 stars

Nascha by Amy Lane

It never ceases to amaze me that Amy Lane can create an entire story spanning over fifty years, sketch full characters with both a history and a future, stir in a little (or in this case a lot) of angst, and spit out a story that is full, rich, memorable, and creates a lump in my throat and a pain in my heart. If I had to assign one word to this story it would be depressing. Another would be complex. It’s a story about Nascha, an American Indian and gambler, who falls in love with his two best friends, Kitten and Rawlins, from the time they are teens. Though those two legally marry, in their hearts they are a part of him, and it’s Nascha who struggles to feel that he’s bound with them forever, especially when life circumstances stink and he ends up trying to raise his niece, then ultimately his grandnephews, one of who has Asberger’s. I struggled to get into the story at first, especially since there are some M/F sex scenes at the beginning when the story is being established. Later when the reader is engaged in the plot, all of the scenes make sense but it is a very complex story for so few pages. But it works, and it’s one of the best of the anthology. 4.5 stars

No Easy Way by S.E. Jakes

Cary Teijan, a teacher who holds the interesting job of tutoring both the delinquents who keep getting suspended and the child actors from the Wolf’s Landing TV show being filmed in Bluewater Bay is shocked when he runs into Dylan James on the set. Dylan is the man he was so deeply in love with in high school who has recently returned after six years in the service, and he’s also the subject of the M/M romances Cary writes under a pen name, romances which are highly successful.

Dylan is back and he wants Cary with all the passion he felt years before, but Cary resists with that same degree of passion because Dylan walked away from him without a word, and Cary is finding it hard to forgive and forget. This story is lengthier than most others in the anthology and is both intriguing and exciting. The fun in watching Dylan go after Cary and watching Cary continually give in then run away makes for a great short story and fits perfectly with the Bluewater Bay stories previously released. 5 stars

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino

Lucas Wilder is the son and brother of lumberjacks who have lived and worked in the Bluewater Bay area for generations, but he’s not willing to follow the family footsteps into the logging business. He barely knows how to hold a saw! He’s just been accepted into a prestigious art school, and he’s terrified to tell his homophobic father that there’s now one more reason for his father to hate him. In fact, he gets so flustered that he spills the beans about being gay shortly after he announces his plans to attend college to study art. Thankfully, his best friend Audrey is there to help him through this fiasco as she’s been there for him throughout high school. Both are looking forward to leaving the town behind them forever when they go to college.

Gabriel Savage, lumberjack and best friend of Lucas’s brother Zach, spots Lucas walking home a few nights later and stops to give him a lift. He gives him more than that too—his first sexual experience as a gay man. To be honest, I’m not sure I get the point of this story. I’ve re-read the entire section of their hookup several times and I still don’t quite understand the point the author was trying to make so for me, this story wasn’t on the same level as the others. In fact, whether it was just supposed to be a quick hookup or whether Gabe truly wanted a lasting relationship with Lu, really doesn’t matter. Either way, the story lacked the spark and interest the others held and that’s very disappointing since I generally love Anne Tenino’s work. 3 stars

I’ll Be There by Z. A. Maxfield

This was a great story to cap the anthology as Nash Holly fights desperately to make his way to the Chicago area to be with Spencer Kepler (“Hell on Wheels”) on Valentine’s Day during the worst snow storm to hit the Midwest in years. It isn’t even so much that it’s Valentine’s Day as the fact that Spencer is so socially inept that he fears meeting the guest of honor at the fan convention he’s volunteered to attend—a woman who is dying of cancer. In a brief Skype session with Nash, Spencer reveals more about his feelings related to his own mother’s death from cancer than he even realized himself. Readers get to witness how Spencer acknowledges the past and, learning from it, deals with the present and waits hopefully to see if Nash can make it. And we get to witness Nash as he delves into his true feelings for Spencer and his gratitude for having Spencer in his life. Their love is greater than the sum of both parts and this story is perfect for their first Valentine’s Day together. 5 stars

If you’ve been reading the Bluewater Bay stories, you know they can each be read as a standalone, as can this anthology. However, readers of the stories will recognize the characters in the first and last stories of this anthology and that will only add to the enjoyment of the book. I recommend this one to all lovers of M/M romance and especially to those who enjoy the added spice of the Valentine’s Day holiday and all of the ways love can be expressed.

Overall average rating = 4.5 stars

[Amf0001 · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had this in my tbr pile forever - I actually looked it up, and I bought it in 2015 and read it in 2022. That's some kind of record for me. Not surprisingly, sitting that long in the cupboard and it got kind of stale. It didn't work for me, I couldn't remember much about Bluewater Bay tv werewolf series as a whole and this didn't really inspire me. It's got some of my favorite authors, but it didn't quite work for me. Next time I have to clear out my tbr pile out sooner!

[UltraMeital · Rating 4 out of 5]

I stared this series two months ago and while I DID enjoy it, due to lack of reading time that month had to postpone the continuation of the series for other books I was excited to read and so here I am returning to this fun series with an Anthology half of which are about couples we already met in the previous installments and all of written by authors I've already read and enjoyed.

I'm reviewing each novella on it's own and then adding my overall thoughts and rating for this Anthology at the very end.

Just Another Day [Levi & Carter] by L.A. Witt ★★★
This was a nice continuation of Levi and Carter's story. If you loved them and wished them all the best he you can see them getting more of a HEA even if they have to first get through Levi hating Valentine's Day while Carter REALLY wanting to somehow celebrate it, or rather express how much his relationship with Levi means to him. I'm not sure why but this one didn't grab me. I liked them in the first installment ("Starstruck") of the series but this mostly scene with Levi and Carter (and the cats) was somehow TOO domestic and lacking when standing on it's own. It could have been a nice Epilogue to their book though.


Nascha by Amy Lane ★★★★★
I'm sitting here in tears over this amazing and sad love story. Nascha's story. A man who wanted a home but only found himself giving it to others. He was happiest with his two best friends and lovers - Kitten and Raw, but things changed once he had to take care of his sister's daughter - Beth. Everyone made their difficult choices, mostly Nascha. I don't want to say more about the plot. I'll just say that Beth's son Cal is the MC in the 8th novel in this series ("The Deep of the Sound") and so I really can't wait to grab it and get more about this special family. We get the whole of Nascha's life story in this short novella, a true heart breaking and touching story I haven't read in a LONG time.

No Easy Ways [Cary Teijan & Dylan James] by S.E. Jakes ★★★★½
I was glad to see S.E. Jakes' name in this Anthology. It's been awhile since I've read a book by her. I'm STILL waiting for the last installment in "Hell or High Water" series (hope she'll get to it soon..) and I"m wondering if it means she is planning on writing a book in this series or is it just this short novella. Anyhow I really enjoyed this one. I missed her writing :) This one was sexy and heart felt. A love rekindled between Cary and Dylan. They met when Cary was in high school and ended their relationship when Dylan left without a word. Now 6 years later Dylan is back and determined to get Cary back. There were a lot of secrets back then, it's time to share them and finally be able to be together again.
My only complaint is the fact Cary cheated on his boyfriend. While their relationship did sound strange and not that committed, I think it could have been handled somehow better..

Helping Hand [Lucas Wilder & Gabriel Savage] by Anne Tenino ★★★★★
This is a short "coming of age" novella, getting us acquainted with the MC in the next (7th) installment in the series ("Wedding Favors"). I actually can't wait to read it! This one was SO GOOD! It's told solely from Lucas' POV, telling us of his home situation, growing up in a poor family of lumberjacks who can't really handle the fact that he is an artist or of his sensitive behavior. Audrey, Lucas' best friend already knows he is gay, but telling his family isn't something he planned on doing, but he found himself doing just that when he confesses he got accepted to art school. That's not the only thing Lucas has to deal with in this short novella. We also get to see what happens when Lucas' crush since forever - Gabriel - learns Lucas is gay. I loved everything about this novella, loved the realistic family relationships and how they changed, loved seeing Lucas and Audrey together as best friends. It had a few funny moments, which was a surprise! Everything else I've read by Anne was somehow more funny than this kind of emotional ride of growing up and learning to stand up as a sort of grown up. What a great teaser! :)

I'll Be There [Spencer Kepler & Nash Holly] by Z.A. Maxfield ★★
Sadly I didn't connect with this story AT ALL. I mean, I LOVED both Spencer and Nash in the 3rd installment ("Hell on Wheels") but the story here, totally alienated me. Basically, Spencer is in a convention and Nash was suppose to take a flight there the day after Spencer but everything got cancelled due to bad weather. So the whole novella Nash is doing his best to fight the snow, storm and icy roads with his brother's help navigating the workable roads. I'm sorry I found that totally boring. Spencer was too insecure I wasn't even sure why he agreed to any of it. Basically it's a convention as well as meeting a sick and dying woman who wished to meet him. They could have met anywhere.. not where Spencer would feel so horrible with his anxieties. Nope. Just nope.

Three out of five of these were absolutely a TREASURE in an Anthology and not even a very long one I call it a win. Also it got me really excited about the two next ones in the series by Anne Tenino and Amy Lane.

More Reviews HERE

[ML Blair · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short stories. Good for a nibble.

[Pete W · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I have only read in this series before reading this one, so here it goes.

L.A. Witt by Just Another Day

It was a nice read, there wasn't much of the characters for me get a feel on, probably because you were supposed to read their book first. It's the classic, men don't communicate story. The author made it works here and things didn't drag out too long unnecessary. The proposal felt a bit cliche for me but I guess it works for them as they tried to make their own tradition and re-appropriate the day for themselves.

Nascha by Amy Lane

Just my warning, lock yourself in your bedroom when reading this. I cried bucket and it's not something you want to do in public. This is the story of an elderly Nascha who was suffering from Alzheimer, when he was lucid he understand that he was killing his dear grandson Cal because Cal was killing himself trying to look after him and his younger brother who had several mental problems. Nascha mentally lapse into the past from time to time as part of his coping mechanism. So, we learn of how he grew up, how he came to be living with his grandsons and what happened in his life. However, this isn't really a happy story per se, I mean from the premise, what else would you expect. As usual, Ms. Lane know how to write about despair and people at the end of their ropes. The story ended with a... suggestion of what would happen. We will probably read what happen next in Cal's book, . Warning, this story is M/M/F.

No Easy Way by S.E. Jakes

I felt that both MCs should have spend their time talking rather than avoiding or boinking each other silly. I supposed I didn't really felt a connection with either characters... The story itself was a bit of miscommunication trope as well as the withheld-information-to-protect-you crap. Is it realistic? Perhaps. But it's not my kind of story. Cary as a genius... I wonder in what way, since it didn't seems to really show in the story. And I think it was a missed opportunity. Most of the story were more about how Cary was still pissed at Dylan and Dylan walking on eggshells around Cary. I supposed it's understandable since they started the relationship when Cary was 15 y/o and Dylan was 19 y/o. On second thought, Cary was amazing that, at 21 y/o in the book, he almost paid off his own house and managed two careers as well. Dylan wasn't too shabby himself at 25 y/o.

Overall, I felt that things should have gone a bit smoother if Dylan really get Cary to sit down and talk things out first.


Helping Hand by Anne Tenino

I thought this was going to be the story Lucas going away to college and perhaps come back to see his family and his prospected partner. Instead, the story focused on Lucas' last period in highschool before he went off to college. The college he have to figured out how to pay for since his family had no money as well as they might not support him to study to be an artist. His love interests here was Gabe, who behave rather badly in this story.

The story ended on a somewhat high note with the dad surprised turnaround. It was a nice story, even though it wasn't what I was expected it to be.

I’ll Be There by Z.A. Maxfield

I really like this one as it was, essentially, a road trip story. It was fun, it was touching at time and it was somewhat lighthearted. It made me interested to read their book.

I have no problem with the quality of writings. These are seasoned authors in this genre. I have a bit of beef with the directions in some of the story but that was my personal preferences and nothing on the quality itself.

[Christi Snow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Just Another Day
Author: L.A. Witt
My Rating: A
Main Characters: Levi and Carter

This was a great follow-up to Levi and Carter's original romance. Levi is a curmudgeon. Carter accepts that about him. That grumpiness most definitely falls to Valentine's Day, too, but when Carter tries to make the day a "little" special, it's the beginning of one of their first big fights. But that fight has a surprising outcome that I loved just in how sweet the sentiment behind it is. And I think this story means that we need a follow-up story for next Valentine's day, too.


Title: No Easy Way
Author: SE Jakes
My Rating: A+
Main Characters: Cary and Dylan

This story is the real heart of the anthology, since it's the story with the most substance in it. And like all of SE Jakes writing, it most certainly did not disappoint.

Cary and Dylan have a history, but it's a history filled with heartbreak and disappointment for Cary. But when Dylan left him suddenly to join the Army six years ago, Cary didn't know the full story. Now Dylan is home, ready to tell all, and looking for a second chance at his first love.

Everything about this story worked for me in a big way. I love the history between the two and that this is their chance at love for a second time. I loved that when Cary's heart was broken, he channeled all that heartbreak and emotion and lust into books and that Dylan has basically memorized those books since he's been gone just to get him through....although Cary used a pen-name so no one would ever know he wrote them.

I loved the story, the tension, the unresolved emotions that flowed off the pages. This story was amazing and if you buy this anthology and read this single story, you will have gotten your money's worth.


Title: Helping Hand
Author: Anne Tenino
My Rating: B+
Main Characters: Lucas and Gabe

This story features Lucas who is a bit younger than the normal m/m hero. He's a senior in high school and dealing with the difficulties of coming out in this small, lumber-centric town where being gay is simply not the thing. This is truly Lucas' story, although Gabe does come into play in helping to ease him through it. It was sweet and I liked the final moments between Lucas and his father. It would have been so easy to go the other direction with the story, but I loved that the author didn't and gave us a heartwarming moment instead.

Warning: this story does not have an HEA. It simply features a boy coming into his own on the cusp of adulthood.


Title: I'll Be There
Author: Z.A. Maxfield
My Rating: A-
Main Characters: Nash and Spencer

This was another sweet story that's a follow-up to one of the original stories in the series. In this story, Spencer is trying desperately to get to his boyfriend Nash during the middle of the snowstorm. Spencer's twin brother, Healey, is providing logistics support to him from home with his team of friends (i.e. geeks). I think what I loved most about this one was getting to see the interactions between the two brothers. There are also some really sweet moments between Healey and his boyfriend, Ford, to round out the story. I really liked this one a lot, too. It was sweet and I'm always a fan of snowstorm stories.


Note: There was a 5th book in the anthology by Amy Lane. While I generally adore Amy Lane's writing, I'm not a real fan of reading historical so I chose not to read her story. It was simply a personal thing...nothing to do with the story, since I didn't read it.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I have been thoroughly enjoying my journey through Bluewater Bay, Washington, a small town that was invaded by Hollywood as the shooting location for a popular paranormal detective series. It has been tons of fun to see the mix of L.A. smarts and small town values. So now Riptide Publishing has given fans and newbies a treat by showing what happens when Valentine's Day arrives in Bluewater Bay.

"Just Another Day" by L.A. Witt
This is a sequel novella to the first book in the series, Starstruck. Levi and Carter are one of my favorite Bluewater Bay couples and it was great to see how their relationship has developed. In this story, Levi, who is a known Valentine's Day hater, is forced to deal with Carter's own opinions on the holiday. I loved the character development that is shown in just a few short pages and the mature way that these two guys handled their differences. That ending made me smile with happiness and, of course, I adored the cameos from Levi's cats, Link and Zelda. (4 STARS)

"I'll Be There" by Z.A. Maxfield
Another sequel that focuses on a favorite Bluewater Bay couple. This time the focus shifts to Spencer and Nash from Hell on Wheels. The basic premise of this story is that Spencer is at a convention in Illinois and is overcome with his anxiety issues. Nash is trying every way he can to get to him, but a powerful snow storm is thwarting his efforts. This tale allowed readers to see how far Spencer has gotten with his anxiety and also gives some insight into his lack of comfort around some of his fans. Plus it was great to see Nash's twin brother and all his geeky friends pull out the stop to help him get to Illinois. (3.5 STARS)

"No Easy Way" by S.E. Jakes
This was the longest of the stories, mostly due to the fact that it involves a new couple. Reunion stories are always one of my favorites so I fell hard for Cary and Dylan. I liked the way that they felt each other out, but just couldn't resist the chemistry between them. Also, it was fun to see S.E. Jakes's military style in a small town romance. (3.5 STARS)

"Helping Hand" by Anne Tenino
When I first read this story, I was a little disappointed because we didn't get a happy ending. But, I have since learned that Lucas and Gabriel will be getting their own story next month. Yeah!! What I liked best about this "falling for your brother's best friend" tale was the relationship between Lucas and his family. His desire to go to art school and come out as gay throws his father for a loop, but things got resolved much better than I anticipated. We get a small taste of romance, but this story is mostly about Lucas. (3 STARS)

"Nascha" by Amy Lane
A unique story about an elderly Native American man who reminisces about his past lovers while bemoaning his battle with Alzheimer's. Stories with the elderly always make me tear up and this was no exception. I liked the way that the author formatted the flashbacks and also let us into Nascha's life. Plus it was exciting to learn that Nascha's grand-nephew would also be taking center stage soon. (3 STARS)

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Audiobook Review:

Rating: 4 stars out of 5

This was a nice collection of stories; it was nice seeing a few characters again along with a few new ones. These stories can mostly be read as stand-alone, but events from the characters books could be helpful and, after looking ahead, some of the other stories are kind of a pre-quel to some more books later in the series.

Just Another Day by LA Witt – 5 stars
It was great to see Levi and Carter again. Levi learns that Valentine’s Day isn’t always about a token expensive gift, but being with the one you love. Levi continues to struggle with being in an actual relationship, but can see everywhere he turns how perfect it is to have Carter in his life.

Nascha by Amy Lane – 4 stars
This was a nice, but very depressing. We get a look at the life of Nascha and his family. He gave up a lot to take care of his niece and her family, but in the end gets the chance to re-connect with his lover Raw. I loved Nascha and my heart broke when he had to give up his lovers and then the death of one after they had reconnected.

No Easy Way by SE Jakes – 3 stars
Cary has pretty much been just been existing since his boyfriend, Dylan, left. Dylan has been in the military for years and finally got the courage to come home and try to win Cary back. That Dylan was willing to take the verbal abuse from Cary for so long without explaining was a miracle. Though this was an interesting story, I had trouble connecting with the characters.

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino – 3 stars
Lucas cannot wait for the chance to get out of Bluewater Bay, he has nothing to keep him here. He feels like the outsider in his family and the town. It isn’t until after he is pretty much forced to come out to his family that he finds out he isn’t quite as different as he thought. When Lucas and Gabe connect and then Gabe pushes Lucas away my heart just absolutely broke for him. I am interested to see what happens to them when I get to their book.

I’ll Be There by ZA Maxfield – 5 stars
I loved Nash and Spencer in their book and it was great to see them again. They both need and love each other so much, it’s wonderful. I loved the look we got at Nash’s twin, Healey, too.
Nick Russo and Dorian Bane did a nice job narrating these story. They really brought the characters to life through the voices and emotions they portrayed.

Cover art by LC Chase is nice and follows the pattern for the series.

[Tabatha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just Another Day by L.A. Witt 4 stars

This was such an adorable read! I loved that they have conflict, but the way that they resolved it was so endearingly sweet. I just can't get enough of these two.

Nascha by Amy Lane 4.5 stars

At first this short story was quite confusing, but once I figured things out it was quite good. My heart was breaking for three people so obviously in love that couldn't actually be together because of society being accepting. Despite it being heartbreaking at times, it was realistic so I enjoyed that. I felt so much for Nascha for everything he had to endure in his life. It was a bittersweet read for sure.

No Easy Way by SE Jakes 4 stars

Cary and Dylan have an undeniable connection, and Dylan was quite the romantic. Their story was kind of sad given all the time that has passed, but I think it will make their relationship that much stronger in the end. I didn't like the vague cheating going on, but the story needed some kind of conflict I guess and everything did seem a bit rushed. Overall though, I did enjoy this one.

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino 5 stars

I really loved this one. I didn't know what to think at first with it being a high school kid, but it was sweet, heart breaking, and just a wonderful read overall. I feel like something is there between these guys, so I can't wait to read their book.

I'll Be There by Z.A. Maxfield 2 stars

I find that there is always one story in an anthology that misses the mark, and unfortunately I'll Be There was my least favorite. I can't stress how much details matter, and this author had them all kinds of messed up. I could go on to point out all of the errors, but I'd rather just focus on the story itself. While reading, I just felt like this story was crazy. Literally, I felt like the characters all needed ADHD meds. It was erratic and frantic, and I just didn't enjoy that. The room mates on the other hand were quite funny, so I did like them. Overall, I just wasn't impressed with this story and unfortunately I doubt I will read the companion story for Spencer and Nash.

*I received a review copy from the publisher/author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

****Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance®****

Story Review:

I must confess this is the first book I’ve read from the Bluewater Bay series. I own most of them but just haven’t made it there yet. This is billed as mostly a standalone, and I would agree with that. There are a few stories that would have benefited from reading previous books, but on the whole, I didn’t miss out.

All the stories made me want to go back and read the first 5 books as well as made me look forward to the next books in the series. The only one I had a problem with was No Easy Way by SE Jakes. It had cheating which is one topic that must be done in a certain way or I just can’t handle it. This was not done well.

Although really sad, I enjoyed Nascha (pronounced Nashua). It just really stood out in my mind. I also really liked I’ll Be There by ZA Maxfield. It was sweet to see the dedication Nash had to Spencer. Helping Hand by Anne Tenino showed potential for Gabe and Lucas in the future and I look forward to their book. I also want to read Levi and Carter’s story after reading Just Another Day by LA Witt.

All in all a good collection of stories about love and what it means to them.

Narration Review:

I really liked Nick J Russo’s narration. He had good tone and voices and was a pleasure to listen to. He did most of the stories, No Easy Way by SE Jakes is the only one done by Dorian Bane. Dorian Bane has a unique voice but not much definition between characters. It was okay but I didn’t feel the narration added to the story at all.

[Cadiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first, I want the rest of Gabe and Lucas' story! It's not fair to end a little short on that kind of a cliffhanger especially when it has so much potential. I'm hoping they turn up later in the Bluewater Bay series.

The rest of this anthology is a sweet mix of characters we've already read about in earlier books and little snippets into the town itself.

Carter and Levi and Spencer and Nash's are both little updates to their continuing relationships which are sweet and emotionally satisfying.

I wasn't quite so sure what was going on with Amy Lane's short but it was an interesting enough read and I understand its now a bit of a prequel to Cal's story which is coming later.
I've already said what I need to happen with Gabe and Lucas and we will be getting that one too so I'm well happy.

The other stand alone was a second chance lover returning after six years in the Army story which had a nice bit of heat to it.
Overall this is a nice set of short stories to while away a couple of hours.

[BevS · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the sequel to Starstruck...even if Levi DOES need a lobotomy sometimes hehe 4.25 stars, read one page of Amy Lane's contribution and decided against it...it certainly wasn't a light hearted happy Valentine's tale so no rating, SE Jakes story just wasn't up to her usual standard for me so 3 stars for that, Anne Tenino's story I really liked and am glad to see Lucas and Gabe may feature in another story....4 stars and finally ZA Maxfield's little sequel to Hell on Wheels (which I have to admit I wasn't that keen on). I liked the race against time element, and Healey is still a good laugh but other than that (and the fact that Spencer was staying at last year's hotel for GRL), this one gets 3 stars. Overall 3.5 stars from me and disappointing.

[Wicked · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved catching up with the already established couples and can't wait to see more of those we got to meet here.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: This ebook was provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Just like in other places around the world, the town of Bluewater Bay is very much aware that it's Valentine's Day. Some may be looking forward to it and already making secret plans to surprise their partners. Others may be wishing that their partners were in town with them instead of being somewhere else when the holiday hits. Then, of course, there are those who don't really care much for the commercialization surrounding this particular day. But no matter who they are and how they view the holiday, this Valentine's Day is going to be one a handful of couples are never going to forget.

Just Another Day by L.A. Witt

Wolf's Landing's leading actors, Levi Pritchard and Carter Samuels, have been together for six months. They're very committed to each other and their relationship, now living under one roof with their cats, Link and Zelda. Life couldn't get any better. But even though they love one another and share a lot in common, one thing they view differently is Valentine's Day. Levi see it as an overly commercialized holiday that forces couples to buy things for one another simply because they don't want their partner to feel bad. However, Carter has made plans, especially since this is the first Valentine's together.

Levi's lack of enthusiasm, for the holiday, not for Carter's efforts, creates friction between the two. Levi knows he messed things up and even though he isn't a fan of the holiday, he finally realizes that it meant something to Carter. He may not be an advocate for Valentine's but he loves Carter and recognizes that he should have made more of an effort to setting aside his own prejudices. Now, Levi needs to make up for screwing up Carter's plans and does it in a way that Carter never expects, making this Valentine's Day even more meaningful and one that signals another new chapter in their lives as a couple.

I've loved Levi and Carter ever since I first met them in the book that launched the series, Star Struck. It was great being able to see what was going on with their relationship and how comfortable and domesticated they were. Their difference in opinion with as far as Valentine's Day is concerned is one that many other couple have in common with them. This was a great mix of romance, light humor, and a dash of drama. Just Another Day by author L.A. Witt was a simple story that was sweet but definitely not sappy and was a good start to this particular Bluewater Bay Valentine's Day anthology.

Nascha by Amy Lane

Nascha George is no longer the young grifter who worked with his two closest friends, husband and wife Kitten and Rawlins Wolf Eyes. They were more than just his friends; they were his lovers and his family. When he's informed by the authorities that his sister has died in an accident and that he's now become guardian to his niece Beth, Nascha's life is changed instantly. Beth becomes his top priority and he needs to become more responsible, leaving little time for engaging in anything else with Kitten and Rawlins. He wants to do right by Beth and sacrifices his own needs and wants for his niece.

As the years pass, Kitten and Rawlins insist upon Nascha that he and Beth are part of their family. But when tragedy strikes and Nascha sees that pain and bereavement may not just cause him to loss his home but one of the very few people he truly loves and cares for. Binds that once seemed unbreakable are not just frayed but are cut off completely, leaving Nascha to realize that he's never really had a place to call his own. Will it take the loss of more people and his own sense of mortality to wake him up and embrace the family that's always been his but has never had the courage to claim for himself?

There's something about Amy Lane's writing that doesn't just tug at your heartstrings but evokes emotions that signal how much a story affects you. Nascha's story is one about love, a love that surpasses the frivolous or romantic kind. His sense of family is remarkable, setting aside his own happiness in order to be the best possible parent for his niece. Even in his current condition, his love for his great-nephews has him making a decision he should have made years ago. Nascha by author Amy Lane may be short in length but is not lacking in everything else that makes a story and characters stand out.

No Easy Way by S.E. Jakes

Cary Teijan hasn't loved anyone as much as he did, and still does, Dylan James. Cary was only fifteen to Dylan's nineteen when they first met but what he felt wasn't mere puppy love. He was willing to risk everything to be with Dylan but then Dylan disappears without a word of goodbye and signs up for the military. Cary's heart is broken and even though it's been six years and he's seeing someone else, no one quite compares to Dylan. He makes himself believe he's moved on, but with the unexpected return of the person who left him behind, Cary's torn between hitting and hugging Dylan.

Dylan had his reasons for leaving town six years ago but he's never forgotten Cary. Now that he's back, he wants to show Cary everything that's in his heart, but he's still unsure if he should confess what (or who) really drove him away in the first place. Using the very stories that Cary wrote to show him that they're meant to be together, Dylan refuses to let anyone or anything stand in his way this time around. Cary isn't sure if he's willing to put his faith in Dylan, especially since he's afraid Dylan will leave yet again and there's the little issue regarding the fact that Cary happens to have a boyfriend.

This is the first S.E. Jakes-penned story that I've ever read and if I had to base my decision on whether I'd want to read more of her work solely on this, I'd say the chances were really, really, REALLY good. The second chance romance is one of my go-to story lines and this one was written quite well, providing necessary tension between Cary and Dylan. The use of Cary's books as Dylan's means to fulfill both their fantasies was a nice touch. I'm curious to see if there'll be a full-length novel waiting in the Bluewater Bay series for these two. For now, No Easy Way by S.E. Jakes has left me satisfied.

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino

Lucas Wilder isn't entirely sure if he is or isn't gay. He's not into girls but he's never been with any guys either. His constant date is his best friend and while there are many who think that she's his girlfriend, some aren't easily fooled. Lucas may not be one hundred percent positive about his sexuality but there's no denying his crush on his brother's best friend. There's something about big and burly lumberjack Gabe Savage that's caught his attention and he can't help but fantasize about him, even if he knows nothing's ever going to come of it, because there's no way Gabe could even be into guys.

Lucas really wants to get out of Bluewater Bay and his acceptance to art school may be his ticket. Paying for that education though is going to be a problem, especially since he knows his parents can't afford the tuition and his father isn't keen on him going to art school. He loves his family but nothing is really keeping him from leaving town...until the one guy who he's been crushing turns his way. Lucas has always planned on going to an art school away from Bluewater Bay but can the possibility of something more with Gabe be the one thing that will wreak havoc on his carefully crafted plans?

This particular story was different from the others because one of the main characters was still in high school and was still experiencing moments of doubt regarding his sexuality. The ending also left the door open for, possibly, a full-length novel, one that I hope will still feature both Lucas and Gabe and provide them an ending they deserve. The resolution of the family drama did feel a bit rushed, making it seem a tad unrealistic. Still, Helping Hand by Anne Tenino was a good read and it was good to see that Lucas' artistic talent was something that wasn't so out of place after all.

I'll Be There by Z.A. Maxfield

Nash Holly isn't going to let a little snow stand in his way to get to Spencer Kepler. Unfortunately, it isn't just a little snow that he's facing; it's a terrible snowstorm. Nash turns to his brother Healey and Healey's genius friends to help him find some way to get to Spencer because his boyfriend needs him by his side. Spencer has never been comfortable in large group settings but because this is something he's doing for a fan diagnosed with his cancer, his anxiety has multiplied. He thinks he's missing whatever gene is supposed to make him feel empathy towards people.

Healey and his friends go above and beyond to help Nash out while Nash is faced with his own life and death situation. Spencer and his family have always seen him as brave but it takes one bad situation on an icy road that makes him fear that he will never see them again. Spencer is also forced to look back on the time he wasn't able to return home to be at his mother's side as she lay dying. With nothing to do but to muse and think, both Spencer and Nash come to their own realizations but never forgetting that they're both there for one another, ready to provide love and support.

Spencer and Nash's love story was a memorable and it was nice to see them yet again in this short story. This provided more dimension to both characters and the fact that Nash was willing to do anything and everything just to get to Spencer had me smiling. It really was rather sweet. I was also glad to see that Healey had his time in the spotlight as well, especially since he's such an interesting character. I certainly wouldn't mind if he had his own book in the future. Hint, hint. I'll Be There by Z.A. Maxfield was a great way to wrap up this Valentine's Day anthology.

Overall, Lights, Camera, Cupid was an enjoyable anthology to read. It was great having characters that I was already familiar with and welcomed new ones to the Bluewater Bay universe. The anthology itself isn't overly long, so readers won't feel as if they have to pick and choose which stories they should read. Each one is a worthy read and I certainly encourage my fellow bookaholics to go through each one. If you're an M/M fan like myself, this is one Valentine's Day anthology that you won't regret reading. I highly recommend Lights, Camera, Cupid and give it 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars for Goodreads. ♥

[Love Bytes Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 star review by Vicki

I love this series and I was quite happy to see a Valentine’s Day anthology being released…. Off for some fun!

Just Another Day by L.A. Witt

We are off to a good start with this story! Levi and Carter were featured in the first Bluewater Bay book, Starstruck. I liked their story quite a bit, and it’s cool to get to see them again. They had some angst and drama in their book, this little story has just a tiny bit of angst. Levi is NOT a fan of Valentine’s Day at all. He wants nothing to do with any of it, too much commercialism, too high of an expectation of perfection, it’s all just too much. He just wants to go home after working and have a nice normal evening with Carter. Carter has a different opinion on the whole Valentine’s Day issue….

So this is obviously a short story, featuring an existing couple. There’s not a lot of drama, just an argument over how to celebrate (or not!) a day dedicated to love. It’s short and sweet, just right for what it is. A Look at the ongoing story of Levi and Carter, and their kitties Link and Zelda! If you haven’t read their book, you’d probably be fine reading this story, you can pretty much pick up the personality traits of the characters, and you don’t really need to know their whole story. Lori is a fantastic writer, she can’t write a bad story if she tried, even a little glimpse like this one!

RATING: 4 Stars

Nascha by Amy Lane

Ohhh… That was just a tragic, sad story. Amy Lane has a Bluewater Bay book coming out in June, called The Deep of the Sound. It’s about a man named Cal, who has a great uncle named Nascha. This is Nascha’s back story. It is heartbreaking. Nascha is part of a threesome, Raw and Kitten are married, and Nascha joins them, the three living and playing together, fleecing tourists of money at gambling tables on the local reservation. Tragedy strikes and Nascha ends up with his niece living with him and has to give up Raw and Kitten for some time. Well, it’s an Amy Lane story, so you can imagine how it goes.

This story is very different from the other stories in this book, it is dark and sad, very little happiness, and didn’t have anything to do with Valentine’s Day. It doesn’t really have an ending, it just stops, to be continued in the next book. It’s very much a prelude to Cal’s story, I liked it in its tragic way, but I’m not sure it fits in this anthology to be honest. It feels like the first few chapters of a book to come. But the writing is beautiful, the characters are deep considering how short it is, and love of these people comes through. Nascha is a very good man living a difficult life, through nothing of his own making. He really does do the best he can with what he is given. At any point he could have walked away, yet he doesn’t, even though others do.

It’s beautiful and tragic, and I look forward to reading Cal’s story and checking in with Nascha.

RATING: 4.5 Stars

No Easy Way by S.E. Jakes

Cary and Dylan were high school sweethearts, but only for a short time…. then Dylan left. Six years later, Dylan comes home to Bluewater Bay. To a pissed off Cary, with some serious abandonment issues. Cary has moved on, he has an arrangement with one of the attorney’s working for the Wolf’s Landing cast, he’s a teacher, and writes some naughty books on the side. He does not have any interest in resuming a relationship with the man that left him. Dylan has spent some time in the Army, has seen a lot, but only wants to come home to Cary. One of the things that kept him pissed off and comforted was finding one of Cary’s romance novels, that had a whole lot about them in it. Real and imagined. Dylan is now ready to fight for Cary.

So this is a nice little story, some romance, some sex, and great background stories for both of these guys. They both have some issues, there is more to the end of their previous relationship than Cary knows, and it all comes out. I was a little uncomfortable with Cary’s treatment of Kevin, his sometimes boyfriend, but other than that I really liked this story. A good balance between drama and romance. With just a bit of Valentine’s Day worked in.

RATING: 4 Stars

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino

Hmmm… I really hope this is the beginning of a story! I liked it, but it was so incomplete. Lucas is a gay teen, just finishing high school in a small logging town. It is the Bluewater Bay we are familiar with, but none of this story has anything to do with Wolf’s Landing. It’s about a small town kid, trying desperately to get out. He is accepted at an art college in California, but has to break it to his family that he not only wants to go to college, but it’s an art college, not in Washington, oh, and he’s gay.

It’s a great beginning, and I so wish there was more! There’s no romance to it, we just get a glimpse of Lucas and his bright future. There is a odd few minutes of passion (on Valentine’s Day) spent with his brothers best friend, but it doesn’t go anywhere. There’s no real connection between the two, just a few stolen minutes, and the hope that maybe sometime, there might be something there. It is a good coming out and coming of age story, and Lucas seems like a good kid, a strong character, he works through his family issues and I hope he gets his happy ever after. But we don’t know that from this story. It’s well written, I do like Anne’s stories, and this one is good, but it just ended and I wanted more. I know, it’s a short story, but it was over so fast!

RATING: 3.5 Stars

I’ll Be There by Z.A. Maxfield

Ha! That was hilarious…. I can’t say it was the most plausible story I have ever read, but it was fun! Even more so because of the location. We met Spencer, the British actor, and Nash, the auto mechanic in Hell on Wheels, the third Bluewater Bay book. Spencer and Nash have a nice little romance with a bit of drama, and live happily ever after. But…. it’s time for their first Valentine’s Day as a couple and they aren’t in the same state! Spencer is an a convention in Bloomingdale Illinois, and Nash is stuck with cancelled flights in Dallas, having promised Spencer he’d be there. Nash calls his genius twin brother, who gets his geek squad friends to come up with a plan to get Nash to Spencer! This is the sweet, hilarious completely unrealistic part. But it was so good!

So I went to GRL last year, at the Indian Lakes Hilton Hotel, in Bloomindale Illinois, that this story is partially set at. ZA was there too, and she nailed the oddities of that hotel just perfectly! From the odd medallions in the center of the round rooms ceilings, the cave bar, the miles of cold tunnels… I remember it all! It was fun to read about a place I have been to that was so strange. The story is sweet and goofy, Spencer and Nash are not together but for a very few minutes at the end, there is no sex, but it was still a great addition to the anthology. And it has a happy Valentine’s Day ending!

RATING: 4.5 Stars

This was an interesting anthology, some fit with the Valentine’s Day theme, some didn’t. Some had a lot to do with Bluewater Bay and Wolf’s Landing, some didn’t. I liked them all, I like these authors, and the stories were all well written. I liked that some had existing couples from previous books, and I liked that some had new to us characters. The ones with existing couples gave us a little glimpse of what they are doing now, and the ones with new characters I’m hoping will have books of their own (one we know already does, Amy Lane’s book is out in a couple of months). If you haven’t read the Bluewater Bay books you should be ok reading this as a standalone novel, but you really should go read the other books too. I love this series, I like that the books are written by a diverse selection of authors but all center around a town and a television show. I also like that it’s set it my neck of the woods! I liked this book quite a bit!

A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars ~ Nothing could've made me happier than to have a little Valentine's Day anthology with shorts starring some of my very favorite characters, and new ones I hadn't met before.

Just Another Day by LA Witt
Why was I not surprised to discover that Levi loathes Valentine's Day because of all the cheesy, crappy commercialization? Typical Levi, he laid down the law, so to speak, to Carter months in advance that he doesn't "do" this ridiculous holiday. However, he neglected to ask Carter about his feelings regarding this romantic day. Uh. Oh.

When Levi and Carter both realize that neither cares about the commercialization of the day, but they do like the sentimental side of Valentine's Day…well, that changed the whole ball game. But how can Levi salvage this after making such a mess of it with the one man he loves more than anyone? Not to spoil it, or anything, but I think Carter's tweet said it all: Levi hates VDay, but he can sure pick out a great gift. #BestBoyfriendEver #MakeThatFiance.

Thank you, Lori - I do adore these guys!

Nascha by Amy Lane
Trust Amy Lane to have me crying through a story of loss, pain, hope, joy, and love. Nascha is seventy-one, and has been living with Alzheimer's for the past few years. This is his story. His memories of his life. His remembrances of the love he shared with Kitten and Rawlings, their days of grifting and laughter and love. His years of being a father figure to his niece when her mom died, and then to her boys when she and her husband were killed. His heartbreak when Kitten died so suddenly, and Rawlins, in his grief, threw him away. Watching his grandnephew, Cal struggling to care for his autistic brother and his great uncle with Alzheimer's. A true story of family and love.

"Him and Raw, if they were going to be in the retirement home together, were going to leave Cal with a future. A man Nascha’s age had no use for the future. The past was the only place he had to go. He was lucky his past wanted him home."

No Easy Way by SE Jakes
Cary and Dylan grew up in Bluewater Bay. They were supposed to be together forever, and then Dylan left, leaving Cary heartbroken and alone. Now, six years later, Dylan has come home after his stint in the Army, and he's working security on the Wolf's Landing set. Cary is a high school teacher, and an author of a series of hot romances based on all the things he always wanted to do with Dylan, and doesn't have a clue how to handle this man being back in town. Especially when he discovers that Dylan has been reading his series (and rereading it) for the past five years. But there are a lot of things that Cary doesn't know about the time Dylan left, things Cary's parents did behind his back, things Dylan isn't sure how to tell him.

This was a really good addition to this anthology. I liked seeing the lives of people in the community who aren't there just because of Wolf's Landing, but because they live and work there. Plus, Dylan and Cary were pretty hot.

Helping Hand by Anne Tenino
Getting to see Bluewater Bay years before Wolf's Landing arrived on its shores was such a treat. Even better was shy, nerdy, artist, Lucas, who is in his senior year of high school, just got accepted to a fabulous art school in California, and he just knows there's no way he can go. His dad is a logger and they don't make any money, and his mom is the cafeteria lunch lady. So, basically, Lucas's family couldn't afford for him to go, not to mention his dad's reaction to what type of person goes to art school. You see, Lucas has had a beard all of these years, his amazing best friend, Audrey, who will be heading to fashion and design school. He's been lusting after his brother's best friend, Gabriel, since he was fifteen, even though Gabe is a logger and his family owns a tree farm so Gabe will never leave Bluewater Bay.

This was a great story about a young man coming out, dealing with his family, and learning how to make adult choices about who he wants to be. Plus, since I cheated and looked at the blurb for book seven in this series, I already know it deals with Lucas and Gabriel! Good thing, too, since as a young adult, Lucas doesn't see, or understand, the choice Gabe makes that leaves Lucas with a bruised ego but a bigger determination to get away from this town.

Thank you, Anne, for ending it the way you did. It was heartfelt and touching!

I'll Be There by ZA Maxfield
Oh, Nash and Spencer have been two of my favorite characters, so I loved it that ZAM was bringing them back to me with a delicious Valentine's Day, combined with snowpocalypse and a man's determination to get to his lover, no matter what. Nash is determined to reach Bloomingdale where Spencer is at the Wolfapalooza con. Unfortunately, a massive snowstorm has descended and pretty much all flights in and out of the Midwest are cancelled. So, what does he do? He calls his genius twin brother, Healey, to get him and his geek friends to map him a way to get there in time. And, by the way, Healey and his friends were hysterical.

"So that’s what we need to concentrate on. We need more data. Do we know what Nash will be driving?” Park asked.
“Not yet.” Healey shook his head. “We need that information. And then we need to get hold of every engineer who worked on the design of that car from bumper to bumper. Then I want you to talk to every man and woman who worked on the assembly line that built it. I don’t care if they only worked on the fucking ashtray, no lovesick twin brother of mine has ever died on some dubious Valentine’s Day Wolfapalooza love quest, and he’s sure as hell not going to do it on my watch. Failure is not an option.”

Nash isn't making this journey so much because it's their first Valentine's, either. It's way more because Spencer is actually very shy unless he's acting or with the people closest to him. He agreed to attend this con because the guest of honor is a woman dying of cancer and her one wish is to meet Spencer. How could he say no? But he's not good in these situations, and even though he tries to hide it from Nash, Spencer is terrified he'll bollocks it up. Yeah, I did the whole "awww" thing too.

A truly fantastic ending, ZAM. Thank you, it made my heart ache.


Thank you to all five of these incredibly talented women for bringing me this wonderful anthology. I'm really looking forward to seeing more of all of these characters in future installments.

NOTE: This book was provided by Riptide Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Narrated by Nick J Russo, Dorian Bane
I think this anthology is best enjoyed if you’ve ready the rest of the Blackwater series.

LA Witt - Just Another Day
Angst, where a couple living in Bluewater Bay angst over Valentine’s Day, which ends, happily, in their engagement.

Amy Lane - Nascha
This is not a romance. At all. It is a walk down memory lane with an old man in the throes of Alzheimer’s. Whose child and granddaughter have died many years before, and whose great grandchild has to look after him and his neuro divergent brother. The story takes place during a lucid overnight period, where the main character remembers his past loves, and what happened with them. It’s all very sad and was confusing to me.

SE Jakes - No Easy Way - Dorian Bane
I love Dorian Bane’s gruff and raspy voice. This story is a second chance romance, but it felt like there wasn’t enough context for these two. There are shitty parent’s on both sides, a thwarted romance, hurt and angst. It kind of gets sorted. But I didn’t really buy the reconciliation.

Anne Tenino - Helping Hand
A high school senior who is gay, hiding in the closet, terrified (justifiably) of being outed and/or beaten and/or disowned by his family. He gets into college, an escape from his small town, tells him family, tells his family he’s gay and has his first experience with his brother’s BFF. Overall, it’s a nice vignette, with no HEA or even HFN.

ZA Maxfield - I’ll Be There
My fav of the collection. A sweet story of one lover braving a brutal winter storm to reach the other. The supporting characters are good, and I wished I could read more about these characters.

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