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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 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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Posted in 3 Ravens, Author Review, Barb Manning, Erotic Romance, eXtasy Books, GLBT, Justice's Little Nibbler, m/m, Paranormal Romance, Raven Divas, Stephani Hecht | 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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Posted in 3 Ravens, Ahibaria Auction House Leaf, Author Review, Barb Manning, Changeling Press, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, GLBT, m/m, Raven Divas, Sean Michael | No Comments »
February 28th, 2013
 Two Fangs and a Hoof by Joyee Flynn
Series: Midnight Mating, Book #4
Publisher: Siren-BookStrand Publishing
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance, GLBT, M/M/M
Length: 116 pages
Summary:
[Ménage Amour ManLove: Erotic Alternative Paranormal Ménage a Trois Romance, M/M/M, bondage, sex toys, public exhibition]
The Gathering is called. The spell is cast. There is no escaping the Midnight Matings.
Shea Mayer suddenly finds himself the prize in a game of tug-of-war. He doesn’t want to be the chew toy of one vampire, much less two. Despite Shea’s protests, they each stake their claim.
Calin and Dustin have been living on their own since their coven tried to kill them for being gay. Now they find themselves once again being rejected by someone who is supposed to love them.
Will Shea, Calin, and Dustin find a way to navigate the twisted path forced upon them by their leaders, or will they remain lost—and lose everything that could be?
A Siren Erotic Romance
Lace’s Review:
Two Fangs and a Hoof by Joyee Flynn is the fourth book in the Midnight Mating series, and I must say even though the other books in this series were great reads, so far this is my favorite.
 You have three stunningly sexy men, along with some equally sexy bedroom actions. What more can you ask for, right? Even though there is a lot of love/hate going on these three make Two Fangs and a Hoof worth reading. I have to admit, I have never read a book with this premise. I have a hard time enjoying POV stories, but Ms. Flynn made this easy.
Shea, the herbivore shifter, is a power whore. Sorry, but it is true. I have a love/hate feeling for this character, he is unsure of his mates and how they became mated, but in the end he understands why they did what they did.
Calin and Dustin are two cute vamps. We don’t get too much on these two, but what we do makes me want to snuggle up with them. They did what they needed to in order to survive. Their hope is that Shea will accept it in the end and share in their love for one another.
There was not much in the way of supporting characters, but truly these three made such a strong story that there was no need. There is a touch of on the edge of your seat moments, which adds to the plus factor of this book.
The backdrop of Two Fangs and a Hoof was a different feel, but in a good way. Ms. Flynn sure did capture my attention and that’s saying something for a reviewer who doesn’t read much M/M stories. 
Rated 4 Ravens by Lace!
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Posted in 4 Ravens, Author Review, Erotic Romance, GLBT, Joyee Flynn, Lace, M/M/M, menage, Menage a Trois/Quarte, Paranormal Romance, Raven Divas, Siren Publishing, Siren-Bookstrand, Two Fangs and a Hoof | No Comments »
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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Posted in 4 Ravens, Author Review, Erotic Romance, GLBT, Lace, m/m, Paranormal Romance, Raven Divas, Siren Publishing, Siren-Bookstrand, Squeak and a Roar | No Comments »
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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Posted in 5 Ravens, Author Review, Contemporary Romance, GLBT, Harlequin, Harlequin HQN, Lori Foster, m/m, Raven Divas, Recommended Read, The Blackraven, What Chris Wants | No Comments »
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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Posted in 2 1/2 Ravens, Author Review, Barb Manning, breathless press, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, GLBT, m/m, Raven Divas, Willow | 1 Comment »
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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Posted in 4 Ravens, Adore, Ann Mayburn, Author Review, Barb Manning, Contemporary Romance, Decadent Publishing, Erotic Romance, GLBT, m/m, Raven Divas | 1 Comment »
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 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 »
November 20th, 2012
 Up In Arms by Kindle Alexander
Publisher: Phaze
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Length: 194 pages
Summary:
When Reed Kensington–ruthless attorney, self-made millionaire and handsome playboy–returns from abroad and accepts a position with a prestigious law firm in his hometown, he believes his life is perfect. Reed never expected a chance meeting with an auburn-haired temptation to make him cross-examine his life or his future.
Trevor West, a military special ops team member, has a secret not even his best friends and fellow team members, Brody and Rylie, are privy too. He’s gay and has a crush on one of them since their first days in boot camp.
Never willing to let his secret out, Trevor meets Rylie’s older brother, a handsome and debonair playboy who unleashes all his secret desires. Will Trevor risk it all or will his duty to his country cost him his only hope at love?
Naunet’s Review:
Up in Arms is a military themed romance between lovers and the lovers of our country. This is a tender love story by author Kindle Alexander. Ms Alexander is a new writer who I will look forward to reading more of her work. She taps all the sensory elements that binds a romance reader to the narrative, characters, conflicts and resolutions. The erotic scenes possess in my opinion the right amount of sizzle, yet innocence of new love.
Ms. Alexander’s character portrayals were realistic and I felt connected to all of them as they handled their personal conflicts and cheered as these issues were resolved. I became caught up in Ms. Alexander’s genteel and even flowing writing style. It was so romantic.
Reed Kensington is a wealthy attorney residing in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, his old stumping ground, when he accepts a partnership in a very prestigious law firm. Reed is devilishly handsome, sexy and a big playboy. His confident persona radiates and is a magnet to both sexes. Reed is a homosexual and extremely comfortable in his skin and has all the big boy toys money can buy.
Trevor West is young, solid, muscularly ripped, deliciously handsome and a member of the Marine’s Special Forces and is a dear family friend to the Kensingtons.
Rylie is an affluent, professional, six foot natural blond with adorable green eyes that are capable of making knees quiver.
The Kensingtons: Carson and Olivia are the proud parents of Reed and Rylie. They are kind and supportive of their son’s love styles. Carson and Olivia are wealthy, well known and respected in the Washington government elite. Olivia is an elegant, classy woman with pose and grace and she knows how to pull off the best social events. These talents are apparent in the setting and atmosphere of the rehearsal dinner and wedding.
 Elise has been the love of Rylie’s life since they were children. She is a beautiful, intelligent and genuinely gracious woman who is loved by many friends and family.
Thanks to the enchanting wedding festivities Reed and Trevor converse, laugh and share drinks which is the magical beginning of a love so true and deep.
I was in awe of Trevor’s innocence during his encounter with Reed. I found the intimate relationship between he and Reed almost enchanting because of the caring and tenderness in the sensual moments they shared. I laugh and was emotionally touched by the deep unconditional love Reed displayed.
The ending really hit home for me especially in light of the acceptance of the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, as well as the President’s and other influential peoples’ acceptance of loving relationships of same sex couples.
I thoroughly enjoyed Up in Arms and recommend it to adults in search of a good read about all types of love and an open mind.
Rated 4.5 Ravens by Naunet!
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Posted in 4 1/2 Ravens, Author Review, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, GLBT, Kindle Alexander, m/m, Naunet, Phaze, Phaze Books, Raven Divas, Up In Arms | No Comments »
November 8th, 2012
 Mate Healer by Amber Kell
Series: Dragon Men #4
Publisher: Silver Publishing
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Fantasy, Erotic Romance
Length: 178 pages
Summary:
Lian Blythorpe avoids entanglements. Nevair Dragonfang is deeply entrenched by them. When they meet, their outlooks change and they forge a bond. But not everyone is happy with that outcome.
His parents’ violent ending makes Lian Blythorpe vow to keep things light between himself and any partner. His promise is abandoned when he meets Nevair Dragonfang, the religious leader for an entire planet. One glance into Nevair’s intense gaze and Lian melts. It only takes them coming together one time for Lian to find himself captured by his sexy mate to the point where he can’t imagine life without him. Unfortunately, not everyone is pleased with their bond and one man’s jealousy sends Lian to a trial by fire he may not survive.
Tamara’s Review:
Good Golly, Miss Molly! Mate Healer is a superb book! Ms. Kell has really won my admiration with this book. She managed to portray the religion of the “dragon men” without me gritting my teeth. Normally, this reviewer has huge issues with reading religion in erotica. Must be my naughty catholic girl saying “you bad little girl” but I digress. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I really liked Nevair and couldn’t help but love Lian, as he suddenly realizes he needs his mate – no matter what happened to him as a child. Now there’s a smart man – one who actually recognizes what he has and is willing to do anything to hang onto him.
Not to say that everything is smooth sailing between the men. The friction may be hot between the men but the chemistry is even hotter until this reviewer was wondering if her kindle was going to catch on fire. Of course this book isn’t all about some steamy m/m sex. Nope! It also has a person out to muck up their happiness before it even has a chance to grow. Fast paced and steamy, I’d definitely suggest you pick up a copy of Mate Healer. You won’t be sorry. I know I wasn’t!
Rated 5 Ravens by Tamara !
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November 8th, 2012
 Mate Dance by Amber Kell
Series: Dragon Men #3
Publisher: Silver Publishing
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Fantasy, Erotic Romance
Length: 123 pages
Summary:
Intergalactically renowned dancer, Raven knew something was lacking in his life but it wasn’t until he rescued a little girl did he learn it was a dragon shifter prince.
Heading to a bar after a dance performance, intergalactically famous dancer, Raven, ran into a little girl beside the dead body of her grandmother. His one good deed in helping out the little girl would lead him into the arms of a dragon prince. Raven soon learns that once a dragon spots its mate it will keep him closer than gold.
READER CAUTION: This title is an expanded, re-edited release.
Tamara’s Review:
Okay after reading the second book of the Dragon Men Series, I wasn’t certain which direction Ms. Kell was going to take her series. I can’t say I was disappointed when I read Mate Dance but at first I wanted to punch out one of the heroes, Prince Kaemon. He had personality issues which made me grit my teeth and pray that the author could redeem him before the end of the book. And I will say she did…but not how. I won’t give away her plot. You’ll just have to read it and find out.
I will say; however, I did immensely enjoy seeing Raven put his mate in his place. He treats him like he’s another man not a Prince who is heir to the throne and expects the man to behave better and isn’t shy about telling him when he steps out of line. I loved his character. Not only was he entertaining, his story tugged at my heart strings. Add to the whole mess an adorable little girl who is able to wrap all the men around her little finger and sizzling chemistry between the heroes and you have a fast but to die for read.
Rated 4 Ravens by Tamara!
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November 7th, 2012
 Mate Test by Amber Kell
Series: Dragon Men #2
Publisher: Silver Publishing
Genre: GLBT, Paranormal,Fantasy, M/M
Length: 93 pages
Summary:
Bonding with a space dragon left Tor blind but not helpless. When his uncle requests he go to the dragon planet to check on his cousin and negotiate mineral rights with a king, he goes, unknowing his hand in marriage is also at risk.
READER CAUTION: This title is an expanded, re-edited release
Tamara’s Review:
I’ve so been waiting for this book ever since I read the first book in the Dragon Men Series. And let me tell you, Ms. Kell didn’t disappoint. In Mate Test I got to revisit one of the characters from the first book, Tor. I loved his character. Who wouldn’t? He’s blind from binding with a very rare space dragon but still super masculine and alpha in his behavior. He doesn’t let his blindness get in the way of getting what he wants. Particularly if it happens to be King Naron’s prized chef.
What really intrigued me was the relationship that Tor had with his dragon, Baroy. I love how Ms. Kell wove it into the tale, much more so than she did in the first book. In Mate Test Baroy seems to be much more active than the dragons in the first book. I also loved the fact that Tor has children and how he deals with his dragon’s jealousy of them. Tor is a strong character who just seemed to leap off the pages. Mate Test is definitely a book I’d recommend to all my friends who enjoy m/m and maybe a few who don’t. It’s just that good!
Rated 5 Ravens and a Recommended Read by Tamara!
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November 7th, 2012
 Mate Hunt by Amber Kell
Series: Dragon Men #1
Publisher: Silver Publishing
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Paranormal, Erotic Romance
Length: 179 pages
Summary:
When Jory’s father sends him to the dragon planet to make a match little does he know that Jory will bond with not one but two powerful men. His final decision will change the fate of world.
READER CAUTION: This title is an expanded, re-edited release
Tamara’s Review:
Yum! What’s better than two men together? How about about three? And that’s exactly what Ms. Kell delivered with her first book in the Dragon Men Series, Mate Hunt. Of course being the dragon freak I am, I absolutely had to pick this up. Particularly when I figured out that there were dragon shifters in the story line.
Ms. Kell did a wonderful job creating the chemistry and friction between all three males, particularly between Jory’s competitive mates, King Rai and the Nobleman Val. I was ready to scream at them before the book was half over. I could just tell that they wanted each other and being the stubborn men that they were, they ignored it. Good thing Ms. Kell gave them Jory. Now I won’t give away the ending of story but I assure you it’s well worth the read, especially when there’s an unknown villain plotting to end Jory’s life and Rai and Val need to figure out how to not only save their mate but also get along as well.
Rated 4 1/2 Ravens by Tamara!
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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?
