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May 1st, 2013
 Love the Sinner by Avril Ashton
Series: Brooklyn Sinners, Book One
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, GLBT, M/M
Length: 229 pages
 
Summary:
Detective Gabriel Ashby has never looked twice at another man, yet the criminal across from him, the man he’s interrogating, isn’t like any other. Gabe can’t deal with the sudden, intense need he has for one of NYPD’s Most Wanted. Everyone close to Angelo Pagan ends up dead, with the smug gang leader standing amid the rubble. Gabe would love nothing more than to bust Angelo’s ass and lock him up. So why is he seeing the bastard in his dreams at night?
Angelo Pagan knows attraction to Gabe is suicide. He’s resolute to ignore the chemistry . . . until a police raid goes wrong. He critically injures Gabe, changing the trajectory of both their lives. Now the two can’t get close enough. They settle into a forbidden affair threatened by lies and betrayal, living on different sides of the law with no way of breaching the gap between them. With the authorities looking to make an example of Angelo, Gabe has to decide if it’s really worth it to hate the sin but love the sinner.
Reader Advisory: This book contains brief scenes of gang-related violence.
A Romantica® erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave
AJ’s Review:
Love the Sinner, Avril Ashton’s first book in the Brooklyn Sinners series, is fast-paced, action packed, sexy, emotional, and full of raw, uninhibited sex. If the bullets don’t get you, then the smoking hot love scenes will.
Detective Gabriel Ashby is in a rut, especially in his personal life. However, when he meets Angelo Pagan, the leader of Los Pescadores, sparks fly as the two men go head to head to solve Angelo’s sister’s murder. While the witty, sensual banter that’s volleyed back and forth between Gabriel and Angelo is intriguing, it’s the undying need, professional suicide, and denial that makes this couples’ love for one another so explosive.
Angelo Pagan is highly intelligent, ruthless, dangerous, and deadly when it comes to protecting the people that he loves. Not only is he seeking revenge for his sister and father’s murder, but also for the attempted murder of Gabe, the man his heart and body desires. I always enjoy the forbidden love/bad boy trope and Ms. Ashton takes it to a whole new level with her riveting characters that make you want to root for the bad guy. But in spite of their undying love for one another, it’s forbidden and risky. Will Gabe and Angelo find a way to destroy their enemy in order to pursue their Happily Ever After?
 The secondary characters in Love the Sinner are well-developed and give this story a full-bodied feeling similar to the finest of wines. The suspense and mind games that occur throughout the book are realistic and play out like an SVU episode. It’s obvious that Ms. Ashton did her homework in regards to the culture of gangs, as the dialogue was rich, buoyant, and believable. The characters are three-dimensional and flawed, yet lovable. You can’t help but instantly like Angelo who is supposedly the bad guy. As the story unfolds and the reader learns more about out two heroes, it’s obvious that they are desperately in love. I immediately fell in love with Angelo’s mother who not only understood and loved her son unconditionally, but was someone with whom he could confide in. They had a special relationship that made my heart swell with joy. In addition, the push and pull play between Gabe and his brother gave me a few “aw” moments as these two gruff men bared their feelings and showed how much they cared for one another. However, I must admit that Ms. Ashton has left me with more questions than answers in regards to the series. For example, what’s going to happen with Pablo? Moreover, how will Mr. S’s endgame play out in the grand scheme of things and when will his story be ready?
Avril Ashton has penned a compelling story with heart and soul that will keep you on the edge of your seat, biting your nails until the very end. The plot is well-crafted and immediately draws the reader into the crux of the story. The love between Gabe and Angelo is intense, emotional, raw, genuine, and at times, simply beautiful. The danger is palpable as our heroes try to determine who is friend and who is foe. And last, but not by any means least, the sex is explosive and will melt your e-reader to smitherines. I couldn’t get enough of this tantlizing story and ended up reading it in one sitting. Therefore, if you haven’t checked out Love the Sinner by Avril Ashton, then you are definitely missing out because this fantastic writer will take you on the emotional roller coaster ride of a life time and then some with her magnificient characters, riveting plot, and no-holds barred love scenes.
Rated 5 Ravens and a Recommended Read by AJ!
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Posted in 150+ Reading Challenge for 2013, 5 Ravens, A.J., Author Review, Avril Ashton, Contemporary Romance, ellora's cave, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Erotic Romance, GLBT, Love the Sinner, m/m, Raven Divas, Recommended Read | No Comments »
April 22nd, 2013
 Fire and Rain by D.V. Patton
Publisher: eXtasy Books
Genre: Erotica, M/M, GLBT
Length: 143 pages
Summary:
Chris is a man drifting through life, but after one bad choice too many, he finds himself marooned in a gay resort in sunny Spain, paying off a debt to a London gangster.
He meets an enigmatic Irishman, Ciaran, who is as charismatic as he is elusive. Chris can’t tell if Ciaran is just a mirage, a sunny ghost whipped up under the Mediterranean sun. Passion burns both men up, until the summer fires fade and the rain comes.
Chris washes up in Ireland, and here, in cold Dublin he must finally face the truth—the people you love can break you…or save you.
Barb Manning’s Review:
Fire and Rain by D.V. Patton is a contemporary gay romance involving Chris and Ciaran, two young men from different backgrounds who meet during a summer in Spain. From the outset, the relationship between Chris and Ciaran is rocky at best. I had a hard time seeing this as a romance, since the attraction is almost non-existent during the first part of the novel. I wasn’t sure until half way through the book if Ciaran was even gay. There’s very little sexual tension or passion between these two and certainly no hot looks across a room.
 Fire and Rain is a confusing collection of elements. It could be a crime drama with the mafia-type characters like Mattie and his sister, Donna, compelling Chris to work off a major debt through a money-laundering scheme in Spain. I even briefly thought a relationship might develop between Chris and Peter, the older guy Chris meets while trying to make a phone call. The chemistry between Chris and Ciaran is interesting, but I never had the sense of any great passion, even from Chris who seems to be the only one attracted at the outset. Ciaran seems to spend all of his time shoving Chris away. A situation not helped when everyone suddenly leaves Spain under a cloud of police investigation.
Fire and Rain left me with many questions and very few answers. I got the feeling from the novel that this could have been a great story with some further plot development. The characters were certainly complex enough. I’m still wondering just what Ciaran’s role was in Spain.
Rated 2.5 Ravens by Barb Manning!
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Posted in Author Review, Barb Manning, D.V. Patton, Erotic Romance, eXtasy Books, Fire and Rain, GLBT, m/m, Raven Divas | No Comments »
April 20th, 2013
 The Sex by Laura Tolomei
Series: The Virtus Saga, Book One
Publisher: eXtasy Books
Genre: Dark Urban Fantasy, Erotic Romance, M/M/F, M/F, M/M, Menage a Trois
Length: 246 pages
Summary:
If Sendar stood a chance, perhaps it would be thanks to the arbitrary twists and turns of a blind destiny. Or maybe someone would discover the truth about the ancient ways and compromise our peaceful existence forever. Either way, people needed a hero to shed new light on the age-old mysteries. And he was just about to answer their prayers.
AJ’s Review:
Ms. Tolomei has penned a riveting story that will take the reader through a myriad of emotions that range from anger to sorrow to unbridled passion. Any book that can accomplish such a feat is FREAK-IN-FANTASTIC in my opinion. The characters are well-developed and three-dimensional, the dialogue is refreshing and bold, the emotions are raw and untamed, the world building is amazing and intriguing, and the sex is explosive and uninhibited. I simply couldn’t get enough of this well-crafted story and read it in one sitting.
Prince Caldwell is sexy, intelligent and at times heartless. His character left me with conflicting emotions. On one hand, he’s kind to Yilanor and it’s obvious that he cares about her. However, just as soon as Chris (a.k.a. Lord Templeton) who is also his lover enters the picture, he treats her inhumanely and I must admit that it pissed me off. I wanted to pummel Prince Caldwell and Lord Templeton on many occasions throughout the book. I don’t know if I would have been as trusting and patient as Yilanor was given her predicament.
Yilanor is a smart, sexy, strong woman with gumption who simply broke my heart. She had endured so much at the hand of other peoples’ jealousy and inability to understand her true nature. I loved how Ms. Tolomei shed more light on her character, especially as the story progressed and the reader was able to gain a better understanding of the trials and tribulations that Yilanor had endured over the years. It was obvious that she loved Prince Caldwell and would do anything for him, even to her own detriment, which was somewhat disconcerting.
It took a lot for me to even begin liking Lord Templeton. Most of the time he’s childish, snide, and simply ruthless when it comes to Yilanor. He takes every opportunity afforded him to make her feel like dirt and for that I wanted to smack him upside the head. While Ms. Tolomei shedded more light on Chris’ psyche, it still didn’t justify his poor pissed behavior. In fact, there was a point in the book that he kept using his past to justify his poor behavior which was unacceptable in my book.
All feelings aside, these three are destined to be together in one way or another and that’s where the suspense begins for me. Although Ms. Tolomei provides a few clues throughout the book, she leaves more questions than answers in her wake as Prince Caldwell, Lord Templeton, and Yilanor travel to The Nephis Valley. Ms. Tolomei piqued my curiosity regarding Yilanor, Prince Caldwell, and Lord Templeton’s Virts and the power that is generated from them. I’m curious not only how all of their Virts work, but also how sex seems to feed them, as well as allow them to communicate with one another more freely. Trust me when I say that the sex is hot enough to scorch your eyebrows, which makes The Sex the perfect title for the first book in this amazing series. Yilanor, Prince Caldwell and Lord Templeton’s appetites for sex is voracious and decadent. If the sex scenes don’t melt your panties, then nothing else will. 
The secondary characters are just as intriguing as our heroes and heroine. They all have secrets that they’re hiding and I must admit that I can’t wait to see how they all fit into the overall grand scheme of things. Each secondary character is also well-developed and add depth and complexity not only to the plot, but also to the relationship that is forging between our heroes and heroine. The stakes are high and who will come out the winner remains to be seen as Prince Caldwell, Yilanor, and Lord Templeton’s destiny is molded into what it was truly meant to be. Will this dynamic trio embrace their destiny or will the past and jealousy keep them off-course; thereby, destroying any future that they might ever have, which could possibly be strong enough to span the test of time.
The Sex is dark, edgy, and raw, especially when it comes to our heroes and heroine’s emotions and sexual proclivities. Laura Tolomei has crafted an amazing dark, urban fantasy with engaging characters who are so flawed and full of anger, as well as unrequited lust and passion that it’s amazing they haven’t killed one another either literally or through their bouts of sexacapdes. The plot is well-developed, the emotions are intense and raw, and the sex scenes are uninhibited and full of passionate lust that will draw the reader into their web decadent pleasures with the turn of every page. What an amazing group of characters who simply leap off the pages to bring this tantalizing story to life. Bravo Ms. Tolomei, as you’ve hit the ball out of the park with The Sex, the first book in The Virtus Saga series. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Rated 5 Ravens and a Recommended Read by AJ!
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Posted in 150+ Reading Challenge for 2013, 5 Ravens, A.J., Author Review, Dark Fantasy, Erotic Romance, eXtasy Books, Laura Tolomei, m/f, m/m, m/m/f, menage, Menage a Trois/Quarte, Raven Divas, Recommended Read, The Sex, Urban Fantasy | 1 Comment »
April 17th, 2013
 Short Rides by Lorelei James
Series: Rough Riders
Publisher: LJLA, LLC
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Western/Cowboys, Anthology
Length: 169 pages
Summary:
Short Rides is an anthology compilation of two novellas and one short story in the Rough Riders world. These are NOT meant to be read as standalone stories, but are a peek into favorite character’s lives after the happily ever after…
The stories included in the Short Rides anthology are:
King of Hearts* – Deputy Cam McKay deals with a murder/suicide case on Valentine’s Day.
Rough Road – Chassie, Trevor and Edgard Glanzer spend a romantic weekend away from the ranch and kids celebrating their anniversary…only to return home to face their biggest challenge yet.
All Knocked Up – Keely and Jack Donohue are having a baby. Given Keely’s raging pregnancy hormones, will Jack need to wear a cup in the delivery room?
*previously published in the Guns and Roses anthology in 2012
AJ’s Review
PURE GENIUS! are the two words that come to mind after reading Lorelei James’ latest release in the Rough Riders series, Short Rides. Ms. James is a mastermind at combining fantasy, fiction, and real life situations to pen compelling stories that warm your heart, put a smile on your face, and heat up your body in all the right places. Short Rides is the perfect compliment to the Rough Riders series for readers who need a quick fix of some of their favorite characters.
King of Hearts
In King of Hearts, Ms. James delves into the difficult subject of PTSD and the struggles that veterians deal with on a daily basis. She handles this difficult topic with finesse, class, and reality as Cam McKay’s struggles with PTSD pushes itself once again to the forefront of his mind after he’s called to the scene of a murder/suicide. What increased the depth of this short story is how Ms. James focused on the importance of family and friends to help victims of PTSD. Add a few smoldering love scenes, some rambunctious kids who will steal your heart and put a smile on your face, and a loving wife who’s determined to help her man fight his demons and you have an awesome short read that will keep you engaged until the very end.
Rough Road
In Rough Road, we get a glimspe of how things are going for Chassie, Trevor and Edgard Glanzer. I love this polyamorous relationship and was excited to see how things were going with this dynamic trio and their children. While things are great on the homefront, outside of it is another story. Chassie, Trevor and Edgard knew that the untraditional lifestyle they had chosen to lead wouldn’t be easy, but when it begins to affect their children, these three must ban together and allow some family members to assist in making the hardest decision of their lives. Ms. James has created a riveting story that entails bigoted people who don’t understand how much love the heart can handle. Instead, they pose their views on the Glanzer family and begin instilling hate in their children. Rough Road is as real as it gets and there are individuals and families dealing with these same issues at some level on a daily basis. I loved how Ms. James didn’t sugarcoat the situation. She emphasized that life is hard and unfortunately, we can’t protect our children from everything. But it’s imperative that we stand up for what we believe not only for our own sakes, but also for our children even when things get tough. Furthermore, she emphasizes that no one person or family is an island of it’s own, so it’s important to ask for help from your larger family when the going gets tough because if you’re a McKay or West, they have your back.
All Knocked Up
All Knocked Up is the perfect title for this at times hiliarious, riveting story as the reader is allowed to witness how Jack and Keely have grown over the years. The witty banter and sarcasm still exist in this dynamic duo’s realtionship, but also the unwavering love that these two have for one another. I must admit that Keely and Jack are two of my favorite Rough Riders’ characters, so I was estatic to see how they were doing. The chemistry is still smoking hot after four years of marriage and the start of a family. Ms. James does an excellent job of showing how a couple’s life changes once they begin having kids and it ranges from the mother’s body after childbirth, to their sex life, to the early morning feedings, and simple exhaustion of it all. But more importantly, Ms. James shows how a man and woman who desperately love one another can work through anythng as long as they keep the lines of communication open.
I absolutely loved Short Rides and hope that Ms. James will do more of these short anthologies that bring us up to speed with our favorite characters. The dialogue remains crisp, witty, and fluid, the characters are genuine, flawed, and lovable, and the situations are as real as they come. If you haven’t picked up a copy of Short Rides, then do so today. Ms. James has hit a homerun with her first self-published anthology and I for one want more of them. Bravo Ms. James and thanks for bringing a little more joy into my world with your Rough Riders series.
Rated 5 Ravens and a Recommended Read by AJ!
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Excerpt:
“Mama, what’s a faggot?”
Chassie’s entire body seized up and she nearly dropped the bowl she was washing. She turned her head and met the startled eyes of her husband Trevor, who was packaging leftovers on the counter beside her. She managed to ask, “Where’d you hear that word?” in a steady voice.
“At school. A third-grader said my dads were faggots.”
She briefly closed her eyes. Living an unconventional lifestyle in a conservative rural area guaranteed this question would come up at some point—but she hadn’t expected it this soon. Their six-year-old son Westin had just started first grade a month ago.
Chassie rinsed and dried her hands before she turned around. “How about if we wait to talk about it until Papai is done giving Max his bath? You can stay up a little later tonight.”
Westin’s big blue eyes were somber, suspicious of the bribe. But he nodded and returned to his “homework”—an activity book they’d purchased after his disappointment at not having schoolwork every night in first grade.
Trevor came over and set his hands on her shoulders. He kissed her temple and whispered, “Come on, Chass. Baby, take a deep breath. We’ll get through this. That word doesn’t have the power to destroy what we’ve built unless we let it.”
She nuzzled his jaw. “I know that. It’s just…”
“Mama!” A little person slammed into the backs of her legs. She glanced down. A naked little person.
Two-year-old Max grinned at her, his brown eyes triumphant, his dark hair sopping wet.
Edgard sauntered into the kitchen, a bath towel draped over his forearm. “That boy is as slippery as an eel.” He wrapped the towel around Max like a straightjacket and hoisted him up amidst Max’s happy shrieks and giggles. “Kiss Mama and Daddy goodnight, little streaker. Then if we can wrassle your jammies on fast, we’ll have time for one book.”
“Two books!”
Chassie smooched both of Max’s chubby cheeks and smoothed her hand over his wet hair. “’Night, Max. Love you.”
Trevor kissed Max’s forehead. “Love you son, ’night.”
Edgard’s gaze winged between Chassie and Trevor. He mouthed, “Problem?”
“I’ll fill you in upstairs. I need to check on Sophia anyway,” Trevor said. He looked at Chassie. “I’ll tuck her in if she hasn’t already crashed.”
Four-year-old Sophia ran at such high speed all day that many nights she conked out while watching TV or playing in her room.
The guys disappeared upstairs.
Chassie finished cleaning the kitchen and headed to the basement to throw a load of clothes in the washer. Her mind had locked on Westin’s question. She knew one thing about her thoughtful son—the taunt hadn’t been tossed at him just today. Westin tried to figure things out on his own, so she worried he’d been dealing with defining the nasty word for longer than a day.
She leaned against the wall, fighting tears, fighting memories of the cruelty directed at her growing up. The jeers—lazy Indian, ugly squaw—still lingered years later. Back then she’d been so shy she hadn’t fought back. Her brother Dag might’ve gone after her tormentors, but he’d been fighting his own demons. No doubt he’d had the word faggot hurled at him.
What really caused that long ago hurt to deepen was the knowledge that if their father had known Dag’s sexual orientation, he would’ve flung that word at his son without hesitation.
When Chassie, Edgard and Trevor decided to add kids to their family, they all three worked every day to make sure their children knew they were loved. To make sure their children knew their parents loved each other. And to show them that love is what built and what sustained their lives. Especially when it was love that a lot of people didn’t understand.
Chassie held on to that thought as she scaled the stairs.
* * * *
Trevor plugged in the nightlight and left the door open a crack before he headed down the hallway to the master bedroom.
He removed his long-sleeved shirt and T-shirt, tossing them in the hamper along with his dirty jeans. After washing his face and arms, he slipped on a pair of black sweatpants and a gray tank top. He’d need to channel his frustration after they talked to Westin, because guaranteed he’d wanna punch the shit out of something.
Faggots. Who taunted a kid—a kind, innocent little boy—with that term?
You would have.
Goddamn. Trevor didn’t want to think along those lines, to remember the judgmental asshole he’d been at one time. He’d been raised that way—as had Chassie and Edgard—which was why they were raising their kids differently.
He perched on the edge of their gigantic custom-made bed, forearms resting on his thighs, his face aimed at the carpet. Westin and Sophia were aware their family was different from the norm. But due to divorces and remarriages, didn’t most kids these days deal with multiple parents? How was it anyone’s business how they lived in their own home? Or how they loved each other? He’d bet the ranch very few traditional family units were as attuned to each other as theirs. They had to work harder at communication because of having a third partner. And he wouldn’t have it any other way—regardless of the societal repercussions.
Footsteps fell across the carpet. A pause. “Did you mean to leave the light on in Sophia’s room?” Edgard asked.
“No. Guess my mind was elsewhere.” Trevor glanced up. “Was she still awake?”
“Nah. She just yanked the covers over her head. I shut the light off.”
“Thanks. And Max?”
“Out. He didn’t last through one book, let alone two.” Edgard gave Trevor a once-over. “We working out tonight?”
“I’ll need to hit the heavy bag after…”
“After what?”
He sighed.
“Trev, what’s goin’ on?”
So Trevor told him.
Edgard didn’t say anything. Then he crouched in front of Trevor to get his attention. “That’s not all of what’s bugging you.”
The man knew him so well. Trevor reached out and ran the back of his knuckles along Edgard’s jaw. He hadn’t shaved for a day and Trevor had the sudden need to feel beard burn on the inside of his thighs. On his chest. Scraping on his cheeks and neck as he kissed Edgard senseless.
“Dangerous to keep lookin’ at me like that, meu amor. Burning me alive with those fiery eyes of yours won’t make me forget the issue at hand, as much as I’d like to.”
“I know.” Trevor dropped his hand. “I fuckin’ hate that I used to be that type of kid Westin is dealin’ with. Anything I didn’t understand, I belittled. I laughed when I made kids cry. Laughed. Jesus. How many people I bullied growing up would say I’m getting what I deserve? Seeing my son cry.” He exhaled. “I’m to the point I can handle what anyone calls us. But it breaks my damn heart that Westin is hearing that shit.”
“Hey. You’re not the same man you were. Thank God for that.” Edgard stood and held his hand out to Trevor. “Worrying about karma coming back to bite you in the ass won’t help us now.”
As soon as he was upright, Trevor tugged Edgard against his body and buried his face in Edgard’s neck. “I’m grateful every damn day that we have this life.”
“Me too. We knew goin’ into it, it wouldn’t be easy.”
“Some days I can’t believe we’ve all been together eight years. And other days, I feel like my life started when I met Chassie and you came back.” Trevor lifted his head. “Do you think we oughta cancel—”
Edgard covered his mouth with a brief kiss. “No. The three of us need the time together. Chassie will be relieved that we’d planned to keep Westin out of school tomorrow anyway.”
“So we’re all set?”
“Yep.”
Trevor grinned. “Chass is really gonna be surprised.”
“I was surprised. It was a sweet, romantic thing to plan, Trev.”
“What can I say? You and Chassie bring out the best in me.” Trevor kissed him, more than a soft peck but less than the tongue tangling soul kiss he preferred. “Let’s go talk to our son.”
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Posted in 150+ Reading Challenge for 2013, 5 Ravens, A.J., Author Review, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, LJLA LLC, Lorelei James, m/m, Raven Divas, Recommended Read, Short Rides, Western Cowboys, Western/Cowboys | 7 Comments »
April 17th, 2013
 Finn’s Christmas by Angel Martinez
Series: Endangered Fae book #1.5
Publisher: Silver Publishing
Genre: GLBT, Erotic Fantasy Romance, M/M
Length: 34 pages
Summary:
Winter in Canada can be a little tedious. The cold, the snow, the ever-darkening days, the hibernation… Finn’s inability to stay awake has Diego worried sick and with Miriam visiting, he has a difficult time explaining his lover’s sudden narcoleptic behavior.
Finn just wants to turn into a badger and burrow until the sun returns, but he also has his reasons for wanting to escape the long sleep this year. Agonizing over the perfect gift for Diego turns him in convoluted mental circles as he struggles with the concepts of gift giving and fidelity.
The perfect solution occurs to him in the middle of a snowy night, and he struggles to make it work before he turns into a permanently frozen pooka.
CONTENT ADVISORY: This is a re-edited re-released title.
Tamara’s Review:
 I was so excited to see that Ms. Martinez decided to do a Christmas follow up to the first book in her Endangered Fae Series. As with the first book, I absolutely fell in love with Finn and Diego. It was like coming home to a quirky but beloved family. It was great to check in on them during the holidays. I found Finn’s fumbling to be endearing as he tried to grasp the concept of the holidays while I also shared Diego’s fear when he thought he was losing his lover – but I’m not going to give any more of the plot line away.
However needless to say, I once more pulled into Ms. Martinez’s world as I followed Diego and Finn’s relationship. This author did a wonderful job in not only drawing me back in, but also putting enough back story into this short that if a person wants to read it independently from the first book they can. However I would suggest reading the first book – but I’m partial. As usual, the chemistry jumped off the pages and I have to give kudos to the author for bringing a special amount of sizzle to the holidays.
Rated 4.5 Ravens by Tamara!
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Posted in 4 1/2 Ravens, Angel Martinez, Author Review, Erotic Romance, Fantasy, Finn's Christmas, GLBT, m/m, Raven Divas, Silver Publishing, Tamara | No Comments »
April 16th, 2013
 Justice’s Little Nibbler by Stephani Hecht
Publisher: eXtasy Books
Genre: GLBT, Paranormal, Erotic Romance, M/M
Length: 116 pages
Summary:
Tyson—the Wolf had been nothing but an annoyance to Justice since he’d sought refuge with the Wolf pack. Sure, the kid may be cute enough, but he’s more hyper than a kid jacked up on candy, and he never knows when to shut up. So, why is it that Justice feels an attraction to the hyper Wolf with a motor mouth? What’s more, why is he so protective of him?
Ever since the Justice came to the pack, Tyson had a mad crush on Justice. There is just something about the quiet Tiger shifter that calls to Tyson and makes him want to claim the man as his own, so Tyson is sad and disappointed when Justice seems to always be so annoyed with him.
Then another pack moves in and tries to take the Wayne County Pack’s territory, and everybody is going to have to work together to survive. Will Justice be able to protect Tyson? Or will Tyson’s eagerness to please get him into trouble?
Barb Manning’s Review:
Justice’s Little Nibbler is the fourth story in the Wayne County Wolves series, a gay shifter tale by Stephani Hecht. This is not a standalone novel; therefore, to get the full effect of the story readers should be familiar with previous books in the series. Ms. Hecht is a good writer, so the characters in Justice’s Little Nibbler are interesting and entertaining with clear voices and characteristics. Justice, one of the main characters in this episode, is a strong tiger shifter who works to protect the motley new pack he and his siblings are now a part of. Tyson, on the other hand, is a young wolf shifter with the serious hots for Justice.
Unfortunately for Tyson, Justice’s chief feeling about the young wolf is that he’s an annoyance. The focus of Justice’s Little Nibbler is primarily Justice’s change in opinion. When external forces confront the shifter pack, circumstances force Justice to see Tyson in a new light. They come together amidst violence and war, which leads to a fiery chemistry between Justice and Tyson.
This particular novel does not progress the story of the Wayne County Wolves much, since the focus is the relationship between Justice and Tyson. The pack is still at risk at the end of the tale and serious questions about Justice and his siblings remain unanswered. Justice’s Little Nibbler raises lots of questions, unfortunately it does not answer very many. Also, without background information from earlier books in the series, immersion in the romance between Justice and Tyson is difficult. Like many shifter novels, Justice’s Little Nibbler relies on the “mate bond” to bring together couples. The immediate sexual attraction this relationship promotes leaves little opportunity to actually build relationships.
I liked Justice’s Little Nibbler, so I’m going to pick up the earlier books from the series. Ms. Hecht is a fine writer and her stories are always entertaining. This one gets 3 ravens and I’m looking forward to the next episode.
Rated 3 Ravens by Barb Manning!
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April 4th, 2013
 Colors of Love by Jess Dee
Series: Speed, Book Two
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, M/M, M/M/F, Menage a Trois
Length: 133 pages
Summary:
Their true colors are hidden…until one woman turns everything upside down.
Speed, Book 2
Seth Pace, guitarist of the rock band Speed, is a born dreamer, and nothing stands in his way of making those dreams a reality. Except when it comes to band manager Luke Struthers. He’s everything Seth wants in a partner, but even after five years of perfectly explosive sex, Luke refuses to commit.
After a childhood ravaged by abuse, Luke knows he’s a potential danger to anyone foolish enough to love him. Seth is safer without him, but Luke has no idea how to cut him loose painlessly. Until he spots Seth’s kind of woman—pretty, smart, friendly. The plan: seduce her into a sexy threesome, then leave the two alone to fall in love. Problem solved.
A night of excitement with the two hottest men on the planet? Yeah, baby! Yet Kaz’s inborn ability to read auras tells her something isn’t right. It’s obvious Seth and Luke are madly in love, but subtle clues in Luke’s aura signal he’s up to something. She’s not sure what, but if she doesn’t do something quick, the two men she’s quickly come to adore will wind up without the happily ever after they both deserve.
Warning: One man + one man + one woman = a whole lot of steamy two-way and three-way M/M & M/M/F sex, a hero or two to drool over, and a heroine who recognizes true love when she sees it.
AJ’s Review:
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! Colors of Love is much grittier than See You In My Dreams, the first book in the Speed series because Ms. Dee addresses the sensitive topic of child abuse and the cycle that can wreak havoc on an abused one’s life if he/she allows it. My heart simply broke for Luke as he fought not only his desires for Seth, but also his love for the man. It was obvious that these two were soul mates, but fears from the past continued to collide with the present to put Seth and Luke in a difficult position regarding their relationship.
Seth may be young, but he’s insightful, soulful and head-over-heels in love with Luke, flaws and all. I loved his determination and drive to go after what he wanted even as Luke continued to deny their love. It takes a strong man who’s heart is open to not flip a switch when his lover tries to set him up with someone else and then not-so discretely walk away from the relationship. I must admit that Luke had gall and Seth had the patience of Job and love on his side.
Then enters Kaz, a woman who reads people based more on their auras than their actions. I absolutely loved Kaz and thought that she was wise beyond her years. Ms. Dee either knows how to read auras or she’s done her homework because Kaz’s reasoning behind what she was seeing from Luke, Seth and even her own aura was on the money. I loved how this couple had to truly struggle and fight for their Happily Ever After by not only relinquishing their secrets and fears, but also dealing with the past. The further the story progressed, the more I became invested in what would become of Luke, Seth and Kaz. While the sex was scorching hot as usual in a Jess Dee book, once again it was the emotional connection between the characters that drew me into the plot of the story and ultimately their lives.
The dialogue is rich, heart wrenching, and realistic. The characters are wounded, yet lovable, inviting, kind-hearted and simply trying to find their place in life like everyone else, which made them very easy to relate to. The sexual chemistry between Luke, Seth and Kaz sizzled throughout the story, but it was obvious that the love shared by this trio was solely between Luke and Seth, which piqued my curiosity in regards to how Ms. Dee was going to resolve this love triangle. While there was a part of me that was a little disappointed with the ending, I whole-heartedly agree with Ms. Dee’s solution. Unfortunately, it left with more questions than answers regarding the series.
Jess Dee seamlessly transitions from the first story in the series, See You In My Dreams, into Colors of Love. In fact, she did an excellent job of showing how the two stories overlapped. I loved that the reader was able to follow-up with Sophie and Nathan. My only niggle is that I would have liked more interaction between the brothers. In this installment, it almost seemed as though Luke and Seth’s relationship was a secret from his brothers. Is that the case Ms. Dee, and if so, will it be resolved in the next book?
Colors of Love is an entertaining story that will pull on the readers’ heartstrings as Luke and Seth try to break the cycle of abuse, fight for their love emotionally while heating up the sheets physically. The additional twist regarding Kaz not only increased the depth and complexity of the story, but also provided an additional avenue for Seth and Luke to use in order to workout their problems. I also loved how the reader was able to get a better feel of the rock-in-roll scene from the perspective of Luke, who was the band’s manager. Moreover, I’m fascinated with Kaz’s abilities to read auras and wouldn’t mind having mine read one day. Jess Dee has penned a compelling story that at times is intense, soulful, sensual, and endearing as each character struggles to find their Happily Ever After. Kudos to Ms. Dee as Colors of Love is a wonderful sequel to See You In My Dreams. So, if you haven’t already done so, bee sure to checkout Jess Dee’s Speed series! You won’t be sorry.
Rated 4.5 Ravens and a Recommended by AJ!
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Posted in 150+ Reading Challenge for 2013, 4 1/2 Ravens, A.J., Author Review, Colors of Love, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, Jess Dee, m/m, m/m/f, Raven Divas, Samhain Publishing | No Comments »
March 21st, 2013
 Shibari Auction House: Leaf by Sean Michael
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Contemporary, Erotic Romance, BDSM
Length: 48 pages
Summary:
When River calls his twin Leaf and says “Brother, I’m in trouble,” Leaf does the same thing he always does — he comes to River’s rescue. Leaf’s twin is thrilled he showed up, and quickly takes his clothes, tells him he’s going to have a great time and leaves Leaf to be auctioned off at the Shibari Auction House in his place.
Not quite sure what River has gotten him into this time, Leaf is stunned to find himself auctioned off for seventy-five thousand dollars. Not sure exactly what’s expected of him, he tells the man who won him the truth and finds himself treated more than fairly by James, the man who bought a week of his time.
Has River left Leaf holding the bag? Or has River inadvertently granted Leaf fantasies he didn’t even know he had?
Barb Manning’s Review:
Shibari Auction House: Leaf is another chapter in Sean Michael’s BDSM series that focuses on the activities at a high-end auction house that provides a venue for young handsome men to sell their sexual companionship to the highest bidder. This latest book tells the tale of an encounter between Leaf deCosta and James Carson.
Leaf is always coming to the rescue of his twin, River and he shows up at Shibari Auction House determined to do the same thing again. Leaf finds himself replacing his brother on the auction block and agreeing to provide a week of BDSM services and companionship to the very wealthy James Carson. The short story is about their sexual encounters during their first night together. This book is like all of the others in the series. James is a rich Dom and Leaf is a young, inexperienced Sub.
Having read the previous three novellas in this series, I didn’t find anything new in this book. The characters, while likable are almost interchangeable with characters from other Shibari books or Hammer Club series books. James is a confidant and protective Dom, while Leaf is the essential shy, virginal and inexperienced twink. Although the book is all about the sexual encounters, there are no hard-core BDSM scenes in Shibari Auction House: Leaf. Details regarding the lives of the characters beyond the sexual scenes never emerge. James and Leaf are shadow characters, stand-ins for every other BDSM couple in almost every other Sean Michael story.
Sean Michael is a good writer, despite the occasional lapse in editing, and can create rich characterizations with depth and intricacy. Other books by Mr. Michael such as the Between Friends series or Unlikely Hero are great reads with strong plots and full-bodied characters. Shibari Auction House: Leaf is not one of Sean Michael’s best efforts. The scenes are bare bones in description. Leaf and his twin brother, River has some history and background, James, on the other hand, is a virtual unknown. What does he do outside of Shibari or his home? Who are his friends? Does he have family? Shibari Auction House: Leaf answers none of these questions. It’s worth 3 ravens, mainly because of the mechanics of the book. I’ll continue reading Sean Michael because of past gems like Unlikely Hero and Between Friends and I’m hoping for better fare in the future.
Rated 3 Ravens by Barb Manning!
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February 27th, 2013
 Squeak and a Roar by Joyee Flynn
Series: Midnight Matings, Book #1
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand Publishing
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance, GLBT, M/M
Length: 112 Pages
Summary:
[Siren Classic ManLove: Erotic Alternative Paranormal Romance, M/M, shape-shifters, sex toys]
The paranormal world is in chaos. The elders are tired of their younger people playing the field, causing trouble, and fighting with each other. Everyone who attends the UPAC Conference now has twenty-four hours to claim a mate of a different species. If they don’t, they will never have a mate. The spell is cast. There is no escaping the Midnight Matings.
Software developer Gavin Ashby is perfectly happy with his life. He finds other people annoying after being around them for only a short period of time, and having a mate sounds like pure torture to him.
Video game tester Ant Marino is satisfied with his quiet, solitary life. After being accosted and almost forcibly mated, he meets the aloof but handsome Gavin.
Neither Ant nor Gavin are prepared for the feelings that arise. Will the two men continue to dance around each other or will they pounce on love and never let it go?
A Siren Erotic Romance
Lace’s Review:
I pleasantly surprised when I began reading Squeak and a Roar by Joyee Flynn because it was a unique M/M read that at times had me smiling and other times gasping. This book had a thriller feel which was great, but it also had some editing flaws. However, I found it to be an enjoyable read overall.
 Gavin is a fierce lion shifter, who comes off as a non-likable jerk at first. But with help from loved ones and his mate, he softens a bit as the story progresses. I had a stumbling block with this character to the point that I found myself wanting to throw my hands up, and ask Ms. Flynn why she created Gavin for Ant. This was even after reading this book was a mystery.
Ant is adorable, sweet, and lovable, which is needed in handling a lion like Gavin. But make no mistake, Ant was no push over. He stands up against Galvin a lot because he believes in them and what they can give each other.
The sex scenes were hot, yet at times sweet. There was a scene that had me holding my breath because it was definitely not for the faint of heart. So Fair Warning! You get the connection between the heroes of this book, as they get pushed to their limits, which is what makes the outcome totally shocking.
The plot line was slow at first, but picked up nicely about midway through the book. I would have never imagined a hot read would include a mouse shifter, but there you have it. LOL ! Squeak and a Roar is worth reading till the end. I feel myself needing to read the other books in this series by Stormy Glenn and Gabriele Evans to see where on earth this series generated from. *grins*
If you like M/M stories with an off cue plot, then Squeak and a Roar will be right up your alley.
Rated 4 Ravens by Lace!
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February 25th, 2013
Double Time by Olivia Cunning (Unabridged)
Series: The Sinners On Tour, Book 3
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Narrated by: Justine O. Keef
Narrator’s Performance Rating: 5
Running Time: 12 hrs 43 mins
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Menage a Trois, M/M/F
Now Available:
 
Summary:
Sinners on Tour Series, book #3 (reading order #5)
Featuring rhythm guitarist Trey Mills
READING ORDER:
Backstage Pass, Rock Hard, Hot Ticket, Eric’s Story, Double Time
He Craves Her Music and Passion
On the rebound from the tumult of his bisexual lifestyle, notoriously sexy rock guitarist Trey Mills falls for sizzling new female guitar sensation Reagan Elliot and is swept into the hot, heady romance he never dreamed possible.
She Can’t Get Enough of His Body
Ecstatic to be on tour learning the ropes with Trey’s band, The Sinners, Reagan finds she craves Trey as much as she craves being in the spotlight.
They Both Need More…
When Reagan’s ex, Ethan Connor, enters the scene, Trey’s secret desires come back to haunt him, and pleasure and passion are taken to a whole new level of dangerous desire.
Blackraven’s Review:
Passionate. Bad Boy. Loyal. Naughty. Open-Minded. Big Heart. Sexy. Senusal. There are so many words that come to my mind when I think of Trey Mills. The man is absolutley gorgeous and he makes no apologies for enjoying the pleasures of both men and women.
While Jace was the strong silent type who grabbed my attention, Trey was the naughty, bad boy rocker who stole my heart, made my body hot, and my heart swell with hope. Once you get to know this enigmatic man who has loved only one man for thirteen years, you will fall in love with him the same way that I did.
Trey has been in love with Brian Sinclair for as long as he can remember, but Brian is happy with Myrna now and unfortunately things change. While it broke my heart to watch Trey in pain and anguish over Brian’s new family, I was so happy when he realized that it was time to let go of the past. Ms. Cunning has incorporated so many poignant lessons in this story that you can’t help but be in awe. The primary one being that when you let go of the past, you open up yourself and your heart to new opportunites and a future that you never imagined in a million years, and that’s exactly what happens to Trey.
Although Trey is sex personified, he has a heart of gold that is also vulnerable. I loved the lively, touching family dynamics between him and his brother, Dare. It’s obvious that there is nothing in this world these two wouldn’t do for one another. Moreover, I loved that Dare accepted and loved Trey for who he truly was unconditionally. While Brian may view Trey as an irresponsible individual, he’s dead wrong and there were so many times that once again “Master Sinclair” disappointed me in his communication with Trey. To an extent, I found Brian selfish because he was never man-enough to be truly honest with Trey or himself about his feelings and that’s a shame because Trey is supposed to be his best friend. Instead, he chose to be an ass and in my opinion, that’s his loss.
Reagan is smart, sexy, adventurous, talented, and exactly what Trey needs. Their relationship sizzled from the very beginning and it was obvious that these two were going to take you on the pleasure ride of your life. Reagan has been hurt, which makes her vulnerable, especially to men who enjoy sleeping with other men, which made for an interesting twist as Trey’s secret becomes harder and harder to keep under wraps. Add in Reagan’s sexy roommate and former lover, Ethan, and things begin to get hot in the kitchen as well as in the bedroom. Will Reagan and Trey be able to work out their differences in order for both of them to truly find what they need?
Ethan is one hot alpha male. That’s the only way to describe him. He makes no apologies for being bi-sexual and knows exactly who he wants to spend the rest of his life with: Reagan and Trey. He’s fierce and protective of the people he loves and willingly puts aside his needs to make the two most important people in his life happy. But as the bedroom heats up and their emotions beome more vulnerable, something has to give. Will these three finally admit what’s obvious to everyone else before Reagan’s stalker does something drastic to ruin their Happily Ever After?
Olivia Cunning has crafted well-developed characters with so many dimensions that it will make your head spin. As you get to know each one of them on a more personal level, you can’t help but be in awe by their depth. The dialogue continues to be fresh and witty, the emotions raw, the drama high, the sex hot, and the complexity of each band member’s life more intriguing as they continue to balance being on the road and being there for their families. These are all real life situations that any reader will be able to relate to which is part of what makes these characters so genuine and full of life.
 Narration:
Ms. O. Keef continues to be an amazing narrator with each story. The emotions and complexity of each character continues to shine through as her stellar voice portrays the band members we have grown to love. It’s obvious that Ms. O. Keef understands these enigmatic characters that Ms. Cunning has developed because in each audiobook these characters develop a life of their own that quickly draws you into their inner circle and never lets you go. The Sinners on Tour series in audiobooks is one of the best series that I’ve listened to this year.
Ms. Cunning excels at penning well-developed characters and an emotion-packed story infused with wit and humor. Double Time is provactive, luscious, seductive and quickly had me begging for more. I know that Trey’s book is the last book in the series and we still have to backtrack to Eric’s, but to be honest, I don’t know if it’ll be enough for me. Maybe Ms. Cunning would consider giving us an “Encore” story. Either way, I’ve enjoyed meeting this charismatic group of characters who have stolen my heart. Now for my bigger question: When do we get Dare’s story? I’m dying to know more about the members of Exodus End.
Rated 5 Ravens and a Recommended Read by Blackraven!
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Posted in 2013 Audiobook Challenge, 5 Ravens, Audiobook, Author Review, Contemporary Romance, Double Time, Erotic Romance, m/m, m/m/f, menage, Menage a Trois/Quarte, Olivia Cunning, Raven Divas, Recommended Read, Tantor Audio, The Blackraven | No Comments »
February 11th, 2013
 Beauty by Sophie Oak
Series: A Faery Story, Book 3
Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc.
Genre: Fantasy, Erotic Romance, M/M, M/M/F
Length: 312 pages
Summary:
In one horrifying night, Bronwyn Finn lost her family, her kingdom, and the princes who had haunted her dreams for years. Left alone, years pass as she fights for survival and craves revenge against the uncle who took everything from her. But she’s never forgotten her Dark Ones.
A tragedy marred Lach and Shim McIver’s future. The future kings of the Unseelie Fae are obsessed with finding their promised wife—Bronwyn. Lach and Shim have never stopped believing that Bronwyn is their mate. She is the bond that connects the halves of their shared soul.
With the blessing of the renegade kings, Beck and Cian Finn, Lach and Shim begin a dangerous quest to find their bride before Torin and his hags take her life.
Across two planes, a war will rage. Lives will be lost. Love will be found. And the Seelie Fae will welcome their true kings home.
Trixie’s Review:
Sophie Oak’s newest venture into the Faery world brings us a bit of closure as we finally meet the long lost Finn and what a meeting it is! Bronywyn has had passion filled dreams of two princes for years, but nothing prepared her for their in person flaming charism a. Lach and Shim will stop at nothing to make Bronwyn theirs and that means venturing onto Earth. Delightful writing pieces Ms. Oak’s Blissful characters with her Faery ones. Hilarious adventures and dialogue await us all as the two worlds collide.
Lach and Shim have their own unique Faery skills to go along with their machismo appeal. Beauty really made me laugh out loud at times. Great to see humor mixed in with romance and a story line that while not completely realistic, is definitely entertaining as well as remarkably written. I am constantly amazed at how in depth Ms. Oak’s characters are and to what extent I find myself enjoying them.
If you haven’t read any of Sophie Oak’s other Faery books, you will still be able to understand Beauty: A Faery Story 3 and will find yourself wanting to go back and fill yourself in on the rest of the Seelie clan and their family. While this story has underlying mini stories within it, the power of the love between Bronwyn and her men keeps the focus on them. Whether you like fairy tales of the classic sort, fantasy, or even erotica, Beauty has a great blend of all three. Settle in for a trip through several planes to find that love can not be stopped.
Rated 4 Ravens by Trixie!
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January 7th, 2013
 What Chris Wants by Lori Foster
Series: The Edge of Honor Series, Book 5
Publisher: Harlequin HQN
Genre: Contemporary Romance, M/M, GLBT
Length: 42 pages
Summary:
New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster captivated readers with her stories of love, justice and danger in the Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor series. Now, fan-favorite Chris Chapey gets his own story!
When the going gets tough, the tough turn to Chris Chapey. As the right-hand man to a group of take-no-prisoners mercenaries, Chris can organize a top-secret rescue mission with his eyes closed. But when it comes to his personal life, Chris is the one who needs a little help.
His problem: Matt Houser. Chris can’t deny his attraction to Matt, but Matt has no idea what Chris’s job really entails and how much it means to him. Matt challenges Chris to change his life—and make a place for him in it. Can Chris risk telling him the truth?
Look for more titles in the Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor series, available now from Lori Foster and Harlequin HQN: A Perfect Storm, Savor the Danger, Trace of Fever and When You Dare.
Blackraven’s Review:
I love Ms. Foster’s The Edge of Honor Series, so I was ecstatic to learn that she had written a story for Chris. In 42 luscious pages, Ms. Foster quickly draws the reader into the drama that is swirling around Chris and Matt. These two were the perfect balance of Ying and Yang as they worked through their difficulties to find a Happily Ever After that was questionable until the very end.
The witty banter and smooth dialogue will have you laughing until you cry as the women in Chris’ life meddle in his relationship with Matt. In my opinion, Chris was and is the glue that holds this magnificent, charismatic group together, so it was only right that he found his Happily Ever After. Unfortunately, the road is bumpy, intense, and at time humorous, which is what makes What Chris Wants so endearing.
Not only is the sexual chemistry between Chris and Matt off the charts, it was obvious that these two communicated on a level that was solely reserved for them. As always, it was nice to see how everyone from the previous books were doing, which added to the complexity of the situation and provided depth for such a short story. In essence, Ms. Foster managed to pen the perfect mix of humor, drama, and family ties to create an “Aw” effect. What Chris Wants is not only a beginning, but also an end to a wonderful series that encompassed danger, secrets, smoking hot love scenes, humor, unconditional love and most importantly acceptance. I’m still getting goosebumps from reading this enchanting story.
If you haven’t picked up copy of Lori Foster’s The Edge of Honor series then your definitely missing out. What Chris Wants is the perfect closure to a great series that entails charismatic, flawed, yet lovable characters who will steal your heart and take your breath away. Kudos to Ms. Foster for stepping outside of the box with Chris’s story and trying something new. In my opinion, you hit a home run.
Rated 5 Ravens and a Recommended Read by Blackraven!
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January 3rd, 2013
 Willow by Lee Brazil
Publisher: Breathless Press
Genre: GLBT, Contemporary, M/M
Length: Novel
Summary:
Making decisions is sometimes difficult for Willow Shaw, but loving Cade Lawson comes easily. Too bad Cade regards him as too young to know his own mind.
As a favor for an old friend, cop Cade Lawson is keeping a watchful eye on his young neighbor, Willow Shaw. He’d thought that would involve some hanging out, watching movies and heart-to-heart talks on college life.
But the Will who moved into his apartment building wasn’t the same little boy who’d worshipped his father’s friend. No, this Willow is rowdy, defiant, challenging, and alluring. He stirs feelings that Cade is uncomfortable with.
Cade might be uncomfortable, but Willow Shaw is desperate. He’s had a crush on Cade for years, and he’d hoped it would fade away one day. Hiding his growing feelings is his top priority, even if it means acting like a prick, because there is absolutely no way a man like Cade—strong, decisive, handsome, and experienced—is going to be attracted to him.
Barb Manning’s Review:
Willow by Lee Brazil is a gay romance between an older Cade Lawson and a younger Willow Shaw. Cade is best friends with Willow’s father and there’s almost 20 years difference in their ages. If that’s not a big enough obstacle, Willow thinks his father hates him for being gay. Willow also has problems with focusing–too much external stimulation and he freezes and can’t make a decision.
On the surface, this sounds like the ingredients for a great story. Unfortunately, the only things Cade and Willow have in common are family history. Cade and Willow’s relationship devolves from one of hero-worship and puppy love to out-and-out hostility. When Cade makes an effort to break through to Willow, the novel skirts around BDSM with blindfolds and handcuffs but doesn’t really get into the lifestyle. That’s the problem with Willow, the novel lacks focus.
The characters also don’t engender much affinity. I at least want to like the main characters in a romance novel. Instead, I found myself wondering why Cade is wasting time with someone as young and inexperienced, as well as trying to figure out just what Willow finds so fascinating about Cade. In addition, the ending was a major disappointment because the story just comes to an abrupt halt, leaving many issues unresolved. If Willow is part of a new series, it’s off to a very rocky start. Unfortunately, I have too many questions and not enough ambition to seek the answers in a sequel.
Rated 2.5 Ravens by Barb Manning!
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January 2nd, 2013
 Adore by Ann Mayburn
Series: Sam and Cody book 3
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Genre: GLBT, Erotic Contemporary, M/M
Length: 64 pages
Summary:
Sam and Cody have settled into married life, living in their dream home, and are more in love than ever. There is just one thing missing from their lives to make their home complete: A baby to share their love with. Adoption is difficult enough, but the struggles and hardship of trying to adopt as a gay couple may be too much for the men to handle. When a series of setbacks leaves both men with broken hearts and wounded souls, it will take a Christmas miracle to give Sam and Cody the strength to give adoption one more try.
Barb Manning’s Review:
Adore by Ann Mayburn is the third book in a contemporary romance that continues the story of Cody MacPherson and Sam Dunham, two young men married and fiercely in love with each other. Cody and Sam run an exotic stone business that has left them fairly well off. Their life together seems perfect from the outside, but one thing’s missing to make it perfect — a child of their own to make them a family.
Cody and Sam have an established relationship, so much of Adore focuses on their efforts to adopt an infant. Ms. Mayburn handles the story with a sensitive touch; constructing a tale that pulls all of the heart strings while detailing their rocky road to possible parenthood.
Ann Mayburn’s writing style is clean and crisp and some interesting characters populate Adore, including the young mother-to-be, Nancy and her challenging mother, Mrs Yost, as well as Cody and Sam’s attorney, Arthur. Adore leaves you with a warm feeling about love, commitment and family. It’s a fine conclusion to a romantic trilogy about two men trying to make a family.
Adore is a sweet, nice and easy read to curl up with on a long winter night. Cody and Sam are an engaging couple determined to become a great family.
Rated 4 Ravens by Barb Manning!
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December 26th, 2012
 Becomes the Rose by Pelaam
Publisher: Silver Publishing
Genre: GLBT, Erotic Contemporary, M/M
Length: 83 pages
Summary:
A simple hiking trip takes a sinister turn when Tarin is left alone and stranded. He thinks his luck has changed when he stumbles across an idyllic hamlet nestling between the forest and mountains. He also thinks he may have met the man of his dreams in the handsome and enigmatic Boyce.
However, dreams become nightmares when Tarin discovers this is no idyll. Instead it is home to a cursed community where no one is what they seem and the only reward for an innocent like him is death.
Is Tarin’s attraction to Boyce as innocent as it seems? What chance can there be for love when faced by a century-old curse born of hate?
Darkstar’s Review:
Can love exist in a fairytale place or will it die in a cursed community?
What starts out as a weekend trip during Halloween to reignite an old passion that’s gone up in flames quickly turns into doom. Tarin and Lexis’ relationship had been spiraling downward for sometime. Tarin couldn’t explain it but he knew Lexis was not the one. Although they had mutual interests like hiking, camping, and enjoyed making love, occasionally, was that enough for Tarin?
The answer to the above question suddenly reveals itself when Tarin is stranded in the middle of nowhere by his ex, Lexis. Tarin puts together what few resources he has and tries to make the best out of a bad situation, but he has no clue that down the road lies a community that has a century old curse born from pure hate. Unfortunately, he’s headed straight for DARKNESS and possible DEATH.
 As things quickly went from bad to worse, Pelaam draws the reader into this engaging plot that revolves around a fairytale town, a century old curse, and more hate than anyone can stand. Yet, in the middle of all of this chaos is a blossoming relationship between Tarin and a seductive stranger who has a dark, sexy voice that appeals to all of Tarin’s private parts. He tried to shake off the attraction he felt for the man behind the seductive voice because he really didn’t need to go there. Unfortunately, Tarin had enough problems, way more than he wanted and the only thing he really needed to focus on was how to get out of the mess that Lexis had left him in.
Boyce, the newcomer, appeared and Tarin saw how attractive he was with shoulder blonde hair and a nicely trimmed goatee. He was tall, slender, and very seductive. Although these features were appealing, Tarin was attracted to Anton’s eyes the most. When the sexy man offered Tarin help that involved a good meal, somewhere dry and warm to sleep, and a hot bath, it sounded like Eden. Or, Hell? The longer Tarin stayed, the longer he began to question whether or not the fairytale place was a dream because things weren’t always what they seemed. Can dreams become nightmares in a split second?
My favorite scene is where the mist is settling on the road. What comes out of that mist is rather strange, being in the middle of nowhere. The author leaves you wanting to know what is on the other side of the mist. He doesn’t give away anything until the last word, and then you turn the page. You wonder what happened to Lexis. Will he come back?
You start to get uneasy when you think about what will happen to Tarin when he reaches the other side of the mist. The author did a real good job of leaving you at a point where you want so much more. Another book? Would that satisfy the hunger? I think it would help.
Becomes the Rose by Pelaam is a well-written and edited page turner that left me with a mouthful of questions. Will Lexis come to the rescue or will Tarin have to get out of this on his own? Will love develop between Boyce and Tarin? When Tarin started thinking about love in the middle of this mist, you wonder what is wrong with him. Doesn’t he have enough troubles? Keep turning the pages and you’ll find out as the plot thickens in Becomes the Rose, which was a good read!
Rated 3.5 Ravens by Darkstar!
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Posted in 3 1/2 Ravens, Author Review, Becomes the Rose, Contemporary Romance, Darkstar, Erotic Romance, GLBT, m/m, Pelaam, Raven Divas, Silver Publishing | No Comments »
November 29th, 2012
 Calling the Shots by Christine d’Abo
Series: Long Shots, Book 4
Publisher: Carina Press
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, M/M/F, M/M, BDSM, Menage a Trois
Length: 180 pages
This review copy was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
Summary:
He’s had a wild ride, and now sex club owner Josh Scott is looking for a change of scene. But first, he’s determined to bring two friends together, and he’s willing to be a third wheel to move things along…
Beth Norris is eager to be set up with hot bartender Oliver Stephenson, but she’s equally attracted to matchmaker Josh. Soon she’s fantasizing about both men at once—and about being the one to call the shots in the encounter…
Ready to move on with his life post-divorce, Oliver is conflicted by the realization that he’s attracted to women and men. Or more specifically, to Beth and Josh. He tries to keep his distance, but it’s not long before the chemistry between the trio combusts in a night of mind-blowing sex.
In the light of day, it’s clear something deeper than desire is growing between Josh, Beth and Oliver. But though Josh has helped others find love in unconventional relationships, is he willing to take a chance on one himself?
Blackraven’s Review:
I love Ms. d’Abo’s Long Shots series and I’m so glad to finally find out more about Josh. I couldn’t help but wonder what would happen to him after his love triangle with Paul and Sadie in Double Shot and trust me when I say that Ms. d’Abo did not disappoint in Calling the Shots.
Josh has always been sexy to me, but to find out how he had been tortured and hurt over the years by someone who was supposed to have loved him unconditionally simply broke my heart. I was on my chair rooting for him to find his Happily Ever After with Beth and Oliver. Ms. d’Abo’s characterization of Josh is realistic, believable, and three-dimensional as she shows us a side of Josh that he has done a great job of hiding.
I was also excited to see Beth again, especially given what had happened to her in A shot in the Dark. Beth is intelligent, sexy, caring, and feisty, especially when it’s something or someone that she wants. But don’t be fooled, this heroine has been hurt by an uncaring, self-absorbed, self-involved asshole of a boyfriend and I wanted to pummel him for hurting her. But never fear, Beth has two sexy men who are more than willing to make her forget her ex.
Oliver is new to the series and I was intrigued by him the most. It’s obvious that he’d been tortured by his soon to be ex-wife who was a money grubbing biach that I wanted to b*tch slap. Sorry, but she really worked my last nerve. Fortunately, Oliver has found himself in love with two people who if he were honest with himself have the ability to calm his fears and make him whole. However, when the past collides with the present for our heroes and heroine in different forms and their love for one another is tested, will they give into the pressure and fear, or will they fight for what they all truly desire…unconditional love and acceptance?
Ms. d’Abo does a wonderful job with the secondary characters who provide more insight into the mindset of our primary characters. In addition, she increases the angst level and suspense by incorporating a stalker into the plot, which increased the depth and complexity of the story. I was engrossed from page one and found myself reading the entire story in one sitting. The dialogue is fluid, the setting is vivid, the lust is explosive, the fear is palpable, and the love is endearing and everlasting if our heroes and heroine will give each other a chance.
If you haven’t read Christine d’Abo’s Long Shots series, then you’re definitely missing out. Calling the Shots is a wonderful addition to this engaging series with mesmerizing characters, unbridled passion, and unrequited love. So pick up Calling the Shots and embrace your inner lust and uninhibited desires. You won’t be sorry.
Rated 4.5 Ravens by Blackraven!
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Posted in 4 1/2 Ravens, Author Review, BDSM, Calling the Shots, Carina Press, Christine d'Abo, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, m/m, m/m/f, menage, Menage a Trois/Quarte, Raven Divas | No Comments »
November 26th, 2012
 Wolf Moon by Vic Winter
Publisher: Torquere Press
Genre: GLBT, M/M,M Erotic, Paranormal Romance, Menage a Trois
Length: 41 pages
Summary:
Adam has been waiting for the first full moon after he turned twenty-one since he was fifteen and realized he had the shifter mutation. He’s been hanging out with Jef and the Alpha’s pack, eager to be shift so he can finally be accepted and have a family and home.
When the night in question arrives, though, Adam’s in for a terrible surprise as he shifts into something most certainly not a wolf. Can ranger Chuck and eagle-shifter Tam convince him that he’s not only perfect just as he is, but doesn’t need wolf-shifters to find his home?
Barb Manning’s Review:
Wolf Moon by Vic Winter is an unusual shifter novella about Adam, a young man on the verge of adulthood and approaching his very first full-moon shift. Wolf Moon is a tale about the search for family and belonging. Mr. Winter’s main character, Adam, is a lonely young man who desperately wants to belong to the wolf pack he’s adopted.
Adam is sure he’s on the way to becoming part of a strong wolf pack until his very first shift. Shortly thereafter, Adam finds his life turned upside down when he shifts into an animal that is definitely not a wolf. The romance of Wolf Moon develops from two new people who enter Adam’s life on the night of his first shift and the discovery of his shifter animal. Ranger Chuck and Tam, an eagle shifter, enter Adam’s life in a pivotal moment and change its course.
Mr. Winter’s characters in Wolf Moon are interesting and clearly drawn. Adam evokes considerable sympathy in his search for friends and a family with whom he can belong. Chuck and Tam may be what he’s looking for if he can learn to accept himself.
Wolf Moon’s main characters Adam, Chuck and Tam have a strong sexual attraction uniting them and the sex scenes are spicy, but the real focus of this novella is the unity of family and friends. Chuck and Tam offer physical as well as emotional shelter to Adam. I liked this short novel and the vulnerability of Adam, as well as the unusual shifter behaviors and physiology.
Rated 3.5 Ravens by Barb Manning!
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Posted in 3 1/2 Ravens, Author Review, Barb Manning, Erotic Romance, GLBT, m/m, M/M/M, menage, Menage a Trois/Quarte, Raven Divas, Torquere Press, Vic Winter, Wolf Moon | 1 Comment »
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The secondary characters in Love the Sinner are well-developed and give this story a full-bodied feeling similar to the finest of wines. The suspense and mind games that occur throughout the book are realistic and play out like an SVU episode. It’s obvious that Ms. Ashton did her homework in regards to the culture of gangs, as the dialogue was rich, buoyant, and believable. The characters are three-dimensional and flawed, yet lovable. You can’t help but instantly like Angelo who is supposedly the bad guy. As the story unfolds and the reader learns more about out two heroes, it’s obvious that they are desperately in love. I immediately fell in love with Angelo’s mother who not only understood and loved her son unconditionally, but was someone with whom he could confide in. They had a special relationship that made my heart swell with joy. In addition, the push and pull play between Gabe and his brother gave me a few “aw” moments as these two gruff men bared their feelings and showed how much they cared for one another. However, I must admit that Ms. Ashton has left me with more questions than answers in regards to the series. For example, what’s going to happen with Pablo? Moreover, how will Mr. S’s endgame play out in the grand scheme of things and when will his story be ready?
