This is my half of a Co-Review with fellow Goodreader OJ. You can check out his thoughts on our ~ ~ ~ 5 Edge-of-my-seat Stars
This is my half of a Co-Review with fellow Goodreader OJ. You can check out his thoughts on our and see if we both agree.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I was devoured by this book. Chewed up, spit out, and regurgitated. Beginning with a frantic run for survival, continuing with a head spinning, psychological thriller, settling into a completely quirky frontier Peyton Place, and culminating with an intense mountainside clash. All this while exploring heady subjects of self-worth, bigotry, and racism. Wow!
This hair-raising, action-packed read is far from the lazy, historical drama that I was expecting. I couldn’t put it down. It got into my psyche and won’t let go. What a terrific, unexpected treat. Definitely one of my best reads of the year.
CHARACTERS
John Chapman � A gentle soul in a harsh environment forced to find his core of steel to survive. John’s visible development through this book is striking.
Daniel McQuay � This gruff, brutal frontiersman had me on-edge with every encounter. He slowly devolves into a calculating terror that the reader will never forget.
Palmer � A young man ahead of his time. His ideas and beliefs feel so familiar, but are at the same time completely out of place. I connected with him immediately.
Gwennie � My favorite character. A half-breed woman who lives life on her own terms. Her intelligence, integrity, and fortitude were uplifting and authentic.
STORY
Two men alone in the frozen wilderness must survive the harsh environment inside and outside of a remote frontier cabin. To survive they will need to learn to trust each other, but when one of the men is always on a hair-trigger there is rarely a moment to let your guard down. Bit by bit small cracks in this tenuous relationship develop. Secrets, deceptions, and hints of atrocities all add up to a feeling of impending ruin.
A chance for escape leads to a new life. A fresh start. But nosey townspeople with plans of their own don’t allow much room for John to be John. They are a ridiculous mix of characters that come as unexpected levity and a reprieve from the anxiety-driven first half of this book. But don’t let your guard down.
Action-packed and heart-pounding right up until the end.
WRITING
The ability to cause simultaneous heart-pounding anxiety and delirium-driven laughter is talent. This frozen wilderness, two men in a cabin story could have easily been boring and slow. Instead these months on end of winter isolation have edge-of-your-seat intensity with near constant events taking place.
Michael Jensen manages to include big, deep topics like racism, homophobia, and rape well within the context of the story. It felt both historically accurate and necessary to the over-arching plot, not just stuck-in pandering to enrich the story. Excellent.
I highly recommend this psychological thriller.
**I would like to thank the author, Michael Jensen for providing me with an advance copy for review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
*This is my portion of a GGST (GayGuyStraightGirl) c0-review written with GR member, OJCast*
INTITIAL THOUGHTS
I think I've found a new series to fol~~~
*This is my portion of a GGST (GayGuyStraightGirl) c0-review written with GR member, OJCast*
INTITIAL THOUGHTS
I think I've found a new series to follow. A character driven murder mystery that captivated me more with relationship development than plot, but it all fit well together.
THE CHARACTERS
Both of these guys are surprisingly fresh. They are believable, unique and flawed. The romantic relationship surprised me over and over. It isn't perfect and that made it special.
"We keep finding the most inappropriate places to make out, you know."
Dr. Ilmarinen Gale (Mari) - What a name, right? And right from the start I liked him. He's flamboyant, flirtatious, continental, mouthy, brilliant and secretly reserved. Fabulous contrasts in his character. His gift: Human-cyber Interface
Sometimes it was a pain in the ass to be both a psychic and a skeptic.
Jake Chivas - Sturdy, solid, steady, stable, SEXY and quite un-confident. American. Not Mari's typical pick. His gift: Psychometry, clairvoyance.
And I just love Mari's mom!
THE STORY
Dr. Ilmarinen Gale and former detective, Jake Chivas are pressured to collaborate on a work related mystery. The two men have previously "noticed" each other running in the park and after a brief but flirty encounter they are both uncomfortable being put on such a task. But when the big boss makes the request it's hard to say no. They're just going to be professional, do the minimum, and get back to their normal routines. Yeah. Right.
As they delve deeper into a mysterious disappearance, they also delve deeper into each other's pants. The mystery pales in the background for a good portion of the book while we get to explore these men and they explore each other. But it picks up eventually and it winds along with a couple of twists and turns. I can't say it was this aspect of the book that riveted me, but that's okay, because the relationship development held my interest. To be clear, the mystery was fine, fully fleshed,just not earth-shattering. The characters though, they rocked my world.
THE WRITING
A straightforward and uncomplicated writing style made this a readable read. It wasn't heady by any stretch. I particularly like the believable complexity the authors added to the sex scenes. I wasn't expecting to find something surprising there. Well done.
No doubt about it, I'll be looking for the next book in the series.
I would like to thank Pride Publishing for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
OJ, OJ, OJ what have you gotten me into here? T**Triggers: Deals with PTSD, death, and injury.
I wrote this as part of a co-review with OJCast.
Review -
OJ, OJ, OJ what have you gotten me into here? This one's on you dude. Talk about a difficult book to review, whew! Solid storytelling and plot development here. It took me from deep depths of emotional despair, to soaring elation with second-chance relationships to incredible frustration with some of the writing aspects. I was adjusting my review score constantly. Bottom line - I'd say this was hit and miss, but with big hits and big misses.
THE CHARACTERS
James (Jamie) Massey - Dyed in the wool Special Forces soldier, Jamie has been on tour four times. He's seen too much, lost too much, but can he be resurrected?
Chris Baker - Freakin' sexy-ass cowboy bull rider, Chris is a dichotomy. He is a country boy drawn to the big city. He finds a lot there, including the love of his life.
THE STORY
This book was a struggle. Jamie struggled. Chris struggled. I struggled.
Jamie never had a choice whether he would be a soldier or not. It's in his family's blood. He was groomed from a young age to do his best, be the best, and as he rises to each and every challenge. But he also loses bits of himself along the way.
Chris is one of the good guys. He's talented, intelligent and caring. Maybe too caring. I think the reader is supposed to fall for Jamie, but it was Chris for me all the way.
Settle in for a very complete story about two men who have lived a lot of life and then come together at a point in their lives that find them both ruined. Trying to survive the depths of despair and the horrors of war, there isn't much left for these guys to give. And yet, they find a way.
THE WRITING
Annd this is where I struggled. I realize backstory is important, but it felt like it was worked out after the main story had been written and that rarely works. Honestly I would have trimmed the heck out of it. It wasn't repetitive, but it was just too much. There was nearly no dialog for the first twenty percent and that really slowed down the read. At times I felt like I was reading a non-fiction, or even a mission report about Jamie's deployments.Top that off with fade-to-black scenes (not just the sex scenes) that were just getting somewhere enjoyable and...I struggled.
And then the very weak editing affected tempo and overall readability, unfortunately.
However! There were some brilliant, shocking and emotional moments that made the book memorable. I'm still thinking about these guys; they've stuck with me. This author has solid storytelling abilities that a more ardent editor could resurrect. I won't hesitate to give her work another try.
You can read more of our co-review on my blog and see our questions regarding our read for each other here - Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
I would like to thank S. Davidson, the author, for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
How do you tell people about a book that you’re so in love with that, even though you’ve read it over and over…and over, it becom~~~
**5 Stars**
[image]
How do you tell people about a book that you’re so in love with that, even though you’ve read it over and over…and over, it becomes more cherished with each reading? How do you explain that each scene is better than the last and it would be impossible to choose a favorite part? How do you describe that the author’s words in this romantic and thrilling love story pierced your heart and lifted you away? I guess by asking them to trust you enough to read it.
Surrender the Dark is a book I have had the most wonderful pleasure of being involved with from early on. I was able to see this story develop through many revisions. And boy, did it evolve. With each rendition it grew wonderfully more complex, compelling and beautiful. I have a rather biased review for you, as you can tell, but please know that this book is special regardless of my rapport with the extraordinary and lovely, Tibby Armstrong.
CHARACTERS
Benjamin Fuller � Impertinent, cocky, insolent and cantankerous. And also none of those things. Benjamin is driven, skilled, and deeply, deeply troubled. Quite a package. And all those eccentricities come in the fair-haired lithe and agile form of a blind hunter dressed in leather and weapons.
Tzadkiel Dragoumanos � Battle-hardened, sophisticated, lethal, and virtuous. As War King, Tzadkiel exudes power and confidence. His unquestionable honor drives his sense of duty, no matter his conflicted heart.
Nyx � I believe you are going to completely dig Nyx! One of Benjamin’s two best friends from his youth, and a full-fledged badass all on her own. Nyx has the wisdom of a sage, the patience of a saint, and the swift acumen to keep a tetchy Benjamin in line.
Akito � He breaks my heart in this book. I think you might find a little of yourself in Akito. I did. It’s not easy being the ‘regular� guy.
STORY
I won’t say too much here (I want you to discover this all on your own), but this story spans some 20 plus years with exciting and engrossing circumstances that capture you from the very first pages.
Benjamin’s family has been hunting monstrous vampires for eternity, it is their sworn duty. Benjamin, a hunter born, a hunter bred, is raised to continue his family’s legacy. He and his friends take the responsibility seriously, and they’re good at it, working as a team to protect Boston from these heinous creatures.
Tzadkiel’s family has been torn apart and now their home, Boston, is at risk of ruin because of an imbalance between warring factions. It is up to Tzadkiel to protect his mora at any cost. And to do this he will need a sacrifice.
WRITING
Writing like this proves romance can be so much more than just a scintillating read. This beautiful composition weaves rhythm with harmony, witty repartee with fiery passion, reasoning with turmoil. Tibby Armstrong has amplified her writing prowess exponentially with this book. She skillfully crafts a paranormal romance book that is convincing, sumptuous, and most of all splendidly entertaining.
[image] A quote I cut, with the author's permission, from a FB post.
A Saturday snippet for all you m/m vampire lovers:
Tzadkiel yanked the hunter’s head back to expose his neck. Benjamin gasped, his pulse leaping under the goose bumps dotting his skin. The scent of terror, sharp and bright, called to Tzadkiel, whetting his predator-drive. Hunger and arousal licked at his control, peeling back the layers of his humanity to expose the vampire beneath. “That’s right, hunter,� Tzadkiel bit out, saliva pooling. “Fear me.� Benjamin, panting, remained stock still, fear pulsing off him in fragrant waves. “Go ahead. Bite me. It’ll be the last fucking thing you do.�
Surrender the Dark Random House / Loveswept December 2016
I would like to thank Tibby Armstrong and Random House-Loveswept for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
~~~ 4.5 Stars This is my half of a Gay Guy Straight Girl Co-Review with fellow Goodreader, OJ. To see our full review click the link below. There is als~~~ 4.5 Stars This is my half of a Gay Guy Straight Girl Co-Review with fellow Goodreader, OJ. To see our full review click the link below. There is also a question/answer session that follows. [image]
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I was wrong, wrong, wrong. I didn't want to read this. Being honest here, I have a character flaw and don't do well with disabilities. Hemophilia terrified me. How could it be something I'd want to read about? I'll tell you how - by being written by a clever genius, that's how.
CHARACTERS
Geoff Gilchrist - This bratty and broken tattoo artist needs kink. His hemophilia is an issue, but his attitude is what needs an adjustment.
Robin Brady - Wealthy, gorgeous, and on the surface very together, but he's hiding from his past and denying his true self.
THE STORY
I could get into the trajectory of the story - both of these men are coming from heavy pasts that have molded them into who they are - but trust me that the plotting is perfect here. Even with the false starts and do-overs, this story moves right along and is perfect for this developing relationship. The way the guys work thru their challenges is as encouraging as it is erotic. So good.
But what I want to tell you about is the clever kink! Oh my gosh, each time I thought Robin had no way to satisfy Geoff I was completely surprised by Ms. Gormley's craft. Surprised and devastatingly satisfied. Whips and chains are lots of fun, but sensory deprivation and mind-fucking are off the charts hot in this book. And there's one scene in particular that had me flying afterwards. Thank you, Amelia!
Robin's mastery of Geoff's particular needs is a thing of creative beauty. Exactly when I thought things would need to back off, Robin just notched up the intensity. And Geoff tests Robin at every turn.
“There’s something phallic about a needle, don’t you think? You’d watch me sliding it into you, knowing there’s no part of you I can’t penetrate. Nothing off-limits. There’s no reason it can’t be part of our play if we want it to be.�
THE WRITING
Ms. Gormley does an absolutely brilliant job here. My overwhelming takeaway was with how real this all felt. So often, for me, bdsm feels like utter fantasy and not real. But here I was instantly connected. I really felt like I was peeking in on a real relationship. Flaws, miscommunication, emotions are all palpable here and made me feel part of rather than apart from the story.
And here's the thing, Gormley doesn't rush this at all. We get lots of up's and down's, starts and restarts, because that's what these guys need. It's how relationships develop. No insta-love here. But believe me, it doesn't drag, each twist and turn is necessary to solidify this complicated relationship.
Lots of kink, but lots of story too. Perfect combo.
I would like to thank Riptide Publishing for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review. Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
My half of our Gay Guy / Straight Girl Co-review. Click the blog link below for the full review and discussion.
3.5 Stars
INITIAL THOUGHTS
Well this wasMy half of our Gay Guy / Straight Girl Co-review. Click the blog link below for the full review and discussion.
3.5 Stars
INITIAL THOUGHTS
Well this was delightful little morsel. A story of second chances and growing up and realizing a perfect life isn’t always the most glamorous. Set in Austin, Texas amid Win’s art, Dylan’s culinary debacle, and the SXSW scene, I’m betting by the end of the first chapter you’ll be craving more.
THE CHARACTERS
Aston Winkler (Win) - A 6� 7� nerdy creampuff! I just ate Win up and could totally go for seconds. Even if I did keep getting his name messed up. Aston/Austin/Win/Winbaby???
Dylan Trevino - Chef du jour � here today, gone tomorrow? I spent a good portion of the book pretty sour on Dylan, but eventually I could see his heart and head were true.
THE STORY
Dylan is a guy down on his luck. He left Win in Austin to go build his career as a chef in the Big Apple. He returns to Texas amid SXSW, humiliated, but determined to get it right this time. Aston is a guy who was betrayed and forced to learn how to keep on moving forward on his own. He just had to find some confidence.
Snappy and spicy storytelling with no angst at all. There is a sprinkle of jealousy and a good helping of self-doubt, but it all rolls up into a tasty bite. This is my first book from Irene Preston and I am pleasantly surprised. She could have easily drowned me in syrupy sweetness here, but she didn’t and I am grateful. Love the cover too! Oh, and I didn’t even tell you about the sexy bits. You’ll just have to peel this one for yourself to find out.
~ ~ ~ I would like to thank Irene Preston for providing us with a review copy in exchange for our honest reviews. ~ ~ ~
I don't usually flounder this much on a star rating. I have to be perfectly honest and say that this one barely squeaked out 4 stars. I hate half~ ~ ~
I don't usually flounder this much on a star rating. I have to be perfectly honest and say that this one barely squeaked out 4 stars. I hate half stars, but this should have 3.5 and that is because I know this author can do better. Do more.
I've read his other writing and I know what Mr. Tonlet can achieve, and I am likely to read anything he puts on paper. So that being said, I find myself coming at this review from a comparison perspective, comparing this work to his others. But the 4 stars stand because of the brave nature of this work and its unique premise.
* Edit - I think I'm realizing that if I had read Grif's Toy prior to Brother's LaFon and another sampling of this authors work, I probably would have rated this higher. But knowing what he's capable of is holding me back. Is that fair? I don't know, but I just wanted to make sure that people know this is a worthy read and I have very high hopes for the sequel. I do recommend this book.
THE CHARACTERS
Marcus "Grif" Griffin - Grif holds something that is identifiable in all of us. In all of our perfections why do we choose to let one "limitation" bring us down? Especially when it is possible that feature may be a treasure to others.
Weston "Wes" De Luca - Bold, strong and so very aware of himself. I am all about Wes!
Tate Diaz - In so many ways Tate is the true hero of this story.
Secondary Characters - There is a nice dusting of secondary characters Pavel, Lance and Matthew Smithton. I would particularly like to learn more about Lance.
THE STORY
**For clarity readers should know that this story's timeline is non-linear. Pay attention to the chapter titles and dates for reading ease.**
This is not a simple love story, but instead the beginning of one. I know there is much more to come here, but this is an excellent basis for what brings Grif and Wes together.
This non-linear story starts out with the two protagonists, Grif and Wes enjoying an evening of fine dining. Or so we think. They don't actually quite get to their dinner, but instead jump right into dessert. "Chocolate?" And this kinky little scene makes your e-ink blur the screen right off the bat.
Then we jump back to Grif's youth and that's where we begin to get an understanding of everything that makes Grif tick. This, I think, is the best and surprisingly weakest part of the story is. Grif's vulnerability and anxiety is understandable, but I just don't think I felt it enough. Later in the book we see that Grif has succumbed to his concerns to a debilitating degree, but if I had been more touched by it earlier it would have had more impact throughout the story.
What does work is how we all have insecurities and that makes this story very relatable.
Grif goes on to college and meets Tate, his roommate, and their relationship is a very special one indeed. Tate is able to read people and he "gets" Grif like no one else can. A tragic turn here takes this story to completely unexpected territory and quite a new chapter in Grif's life, where he ultimately meets Wes.
What if I lose him over that very small part of me that few other people would ever be able to understand—let alone desire.�
Wes could easily be taken the wrong way. The way he handles Grif is, on the surface, shocking, but it's exactly what Grif wants. And, more importantly, this aggressive handling is what Grif needs, even if Grif is reluctant to acknowledge it. Wes is not cruel, he is brave, bold and generous. But I am left a little off kilter here about Grif's continued unease. He has seemingly given himself over to Wes, yet he is still uncomfortable at times.
From being certain true love will never be, to deeply committed devotion, this story spans a nice arc which begins to explain why Wes and Grif are one match in a million. I should also mention that the kinky, hot, weird and twisted sex is done very well. Mr. Tonlet handles that very well. It may just be his signature.
THE WRITING
The story is strong, different and the visuals all work, but this just lacked a bit of emotional connection for me. As I mentioned earlier, Mr. Tonlet's other writing has waylaid me and touched a deep inner core of emotion that few authors have reached, so I suppose my expectations were very high.
I also had a few quibbles with parts of the story that seemed to start but not finish. For instance, Grif's family is fairly integral and fleshed out, but then we had no mention of them further into the story when major plot twists surely would have impacted them too. I, for one, would have liked to have seen Grif's mother's reaction to some of those twists. Maybe in the next book?
Another minor pique is that early on in the book we're told; "No one called me Marcus. No one." Why? Being that "Grif" is part of the title it seems fairly relevant. Or irrelevant if it's not necessary to know.
Also, and this isn't a criticism, I want to know why Wes needs what he gets from Grif. I assume this is expanded on in the next book, Wes' Denial Tease and Denial book 2. I'll certainly look forward to reading it, because I am intrigued by the premise of Wes and Grif's relationship which delves into areas unexplored and that is why this book rated it's 4 stars.
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank the author, Joseph Lance Tonlet for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
This new series of shorts by Brandon Shire promises to be pure reading PLeAsuRe, so long as you understand the premise. These are straight u~~~ [image]
This new series of shorts by Brandon Shire promises to be pure reading PLeAsuRe, so long as you understand the premise. These are straight up erotica. No holds barred, Porn on the Page. And as someone who has said I'd rather read it than watch it, this suits me perfectly.
The blurb tells you everything about the gist of the story, but really it's all about the bang for the buck. And there's a hell of a lot of BANG here.
For me, when it comes to porn on the page, and PWP, it's got to be about the senses. Can you see it, feel it, taste it and smell it? And the descriptives here are spot and steamy.
This is easily a read-over-and-over-again, one-handed gem. And I can't wait to see what Shire has up his sleeve for the next one.
Enjoy!
~~~ I would like to thank the author for providing a advance copy in exchange for my honest review. ~~~
This is one of my favorite reads ever...and somehow I never reviewed it? Bad, bad, bad Lisa. Can we just suffice it to say that Miko i~ ~ ~
This is one of my favorite reads ever...and somehow I never reviewed it? Bad, bad, bad Lisa. Can we just suffice it to say that Miko is my book boyfriend, and I've never said that before, and it also makes me one weird, odd-ball, and I'm really okay with that.
Miko won't be everyone's cup-o-tea, but if you love the weird, the strange and the entirely off-beat, this is for you.
In typical Brandon Shire form the writing is superb. In typ~ ~ ~
***Episode 1 is now a freebie everywhere !!!!!
Hot! Corrupt! Cunning! Smart!
In typical Brandon Shire form the writing is superb. In typical Brandon Shire form the dudes are very steamy. Not so typical is the gritty edge this story has. These guys are bad, maybe even deplorable, but that's what this is all about—loving to hate the wickedness.
Before I had even settled in, my head was whipped around with an out-of-nowhere plot twist. I did not see that coming and I think it's just a precursor of what to expect.
THE CHARACTERS
Sid - If you don't despise him right off I'd be surprised. Still...
Jack - He's still something of a mystery, but there's no doubt he's savvy and sexy.
THE STORY
This serialized erotic fiction focuses on Sid's law practice and his questionable methods. He also scratches a few itches that will probably make your skin crawl. For me though, I couldn't look away.
THE WRITING
As I said earlier, the writing is spot on. Shire's no fluff delivery is perfect for the nature of this story and I can almost guarantee a gasp, a grrrr and a unnnnhh or two.
Remember though, this is about corruption, bad boys and every man for himself. If you're looking for fluff, sweetness or tenderness look elsewhere.
As both a beta reader for this book and a moderator for Mr. Shire's Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Fan Group I have become intimate with Sid and Jack—although there is still much to learn about Jack.
On the Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ group we're hoping for your input for this story while each episode is being developed. Join in the fun here: Brandon Shire Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Group
This serialized fiction is free for Kindle Unlimited users.
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Ninja Dave is rescued by pirate Ian who in turn is rescued by ninja Dave. In between all of thaFREE READ
~~~
A perfectly enjoyable read start to finish.
Ninja Dave is rescued by pirate Ian who in turn is rescued by ninja Dave. In between all of that is healing, loving, sword-fighting, spying, killing and loyalty. An awful lot packed into just a few pages.
Don't get hung up on the loose time frame or quirky use of contemporary speak, none of that matters and, in fact, just makes for a light, entertaining read. Relax and enjoy romance on the high seas.
This delightful read deserves a wonderful full review, but life, you know? Things kept interrupting my read, but each time I couldn't wait to get~ ~ ~
This delightful read deserves a wonderful full review, but life, you know? Things kept interrupting my read, but each time I couldn't wait to get right back to it. To the point of utter frustration.
If you're inclined to read a captivating, delightful and satisfying historical-paranormal romance look no further. I would even dare to say that if you are in one of those moods where you don't know what you want to read, pick this up!
Between Whyborne and Griffin's charming romance, the heart-wrenching past recounts and the deep paranormal plot there is something here for everyone. I just enjoyed this immensely.
Thank you to my lovely deirdre for gifting this to me. She's started me on a series that I'll definitely be continuing.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
~ ~ ~ Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog: ...more
My first time submitting a prompt to the M/M Romance Group's DRitC - Love's Landscapes Event couldn't have been better. Thanks to everyone involved foMy first time submitting a prompt to the M/M Romance Group's DRitC - Love's Landscapes Event couldn't have been better. Thanks to everyone involved for making this happen. What fun!!!
Hilarious Sweet Funny Adorable Awkward Perfect
First, K.C. I just gotta say you....
[image] Crushed It!!!
Then, you just have to know that
[image] I dunno what my favorite part is.
I loved the dressing room scene. Makes me want to visit a leather shop in the hopes of running into guys having this much fun.
Buuut then [image] I laughed so hard during the Skype session my poor dog ran and hid under the sofa.
I cried while laughing at Evan being carried outside. OH his embarrassment killed me.
Mostly though, I'm [image] crossing my fingers and begging that there will be more, because this was not nearly enough. I could read volumes more of Julien and Evan.
So my beautiful, darlin', K.C. ... [image] Thank you for going way, way over and beyond anything I could have hoped for with my prompt. I LOVE IT!!!
**Oooh, I want to add that there is a cool Pinterest page to go along with this story:
It brings some wonderful, extra visual content to an already delightful story.
If you’re already a Jakes fan then you’re going to love this one. It’s just more of everything that Jakes delivers.
If you’re new to S.E. Jakes, climb on the bitch seat ‘cus this one’s gonna own you.
I didn’t know. I mean I just expected a straightforward MC story. I should’ve known it’d be so much more. SE Jakes has been taking her writing to the next level for a while now and her latest work is involved, complex and thrilling. Add in the broken, bent, hurting and sexy-as-all-hell men, a hint of the paranormal and well, you have an SE Jakes book. Just the way a new series should start.
THE CHARACTERS
My cock had zero problems with memory, though. Like a heat-seeking missile . . .
Sean Rush (Rush) - Mouthy, bratty, wiseassed, horny, pretty and pretty tough. He’s got miles to ride before he figures things out, but hey, what a thrill it is to ride along.
Conventional wisdom stated that the bottom was the one in control. Whoever made that shit up hadn’t been fucked by Ryker. Because I was on top, riding him, setting the pace and the only one orchestrating this thing? The dark-haired, dark-eyed man who undid me with a look, never mind his cock.
Ryker- Jeezus, yes please! I’ll take two. Ryker is a man of very few words, but he has no trouble driving his point home. Not that Sean doesn’t challenge him every step of the way.
Gotta-have-more-right-NOW-side-characters - Noah, Linc, Casey, Sweet, Greta and others that have to be redacted…because reasons.
THE STORY
I didn’t need to be rational when a hot, tattooed biker was breaking in to my place and fucking me senseless.
Sean Rush, a bad-boy car thief is fighting his wild side, but he’s seduced by trouble with every move he makes. Speaking of seduced? Meet Ryker. Holy hell. The sexy, biker-man-of-mystery has been sliding into Sean’s bed for months, but does he have ulterior motives? Or is it just sex. Sean’s happy with the easy hookup, he’s used to them, so why does he want more? Or does he?
When Sean’s best friend gets into deeper than he can handle with a car theft ring Sean doesn’t hesitate to help, but this just sets up a tangled web of fubar that slowly unravels throughout the story. I thought I knew things, then I didn’t. There’s doubt and insecurity and PTSD and a whole Havoc MC compound to conquer. But mostly it’s about Sean Rush learning to love, to be loved and to just melt under Ryker’s very, very capable hands.
THE WRITING
Another vision flashed in front of me—that cherry-red Ferrari, me helpless and spread across the hood, and Ryker fucking the hell out of me. Holding my hips as he filled me. Like he was claiming me, punishing me . . . for stealing, for racing, for talking to the other guys while he was there.
If this book was just about the hot, steamy, gorgeous sexy scenes that’d probably be enough with the way that SE write’s ‘em. But there so much more. She successfully sets up the series with this first book in a way that makes the reader want to know more about life inside Havoc and the men that are, or are to become, involved.
In this semi-contained world, Havoc is facing challenges and I, for one, can’t wait to get even more involved. There’s mystery, spy games, intrigue and something a little spooky going on here and that just makes it all the more thrilling.
Stealing was freedom. Being forced to steal, not so much.
I would like to thank Riptide Publishing for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
A Sexy, Fully Developed Romance with Angst, Wealth and Spanking Good Writing!
I love Tibby Armstrong, her writing, her characters and her. I was c~ ~ ~
A Sexy, Fully Developed Romance with Angst, Wealth and Spanking Good Writing!
I love Tibby Armstrong, her writing, her characters and her. I was challenged to a buddy read by Deirdre, who knows damn good and well that I rarely read hetero-romance these days. But, since we have both highly enjoyed Tibby's MM Hollywood Series No Apologies how could I say no? Was it a mistake to veer off into het-landia? Absolutely not.
From the lightening quick beginning I was immersed into New York's elite and dazzling high finance fundraising scene. Enter Peter Wells the Billionaire Bachelor who wants no commitments, but all the control. I found him to be the perfect scoundrel, even to the degree of honestly hating him...for a while.
At the same soiree journalist Georgia Whitcomb glimpses Peter in a very compromising position (well, actually his paid escort is in "the" position). Georgia dedicates her next column to Peter and all hell breaks loose. And the fun ensues.
Peter is running an empire to gain control over his life and Georgia is just running away. However, she finds herself under Peter's control and in his lap and we get to live in the lap of luxury.
Across the room, all eyes were on them. Sounds of work had stopped entirely. [...]Peter shifted his attention over his shoulder to his employees, and everyone scattered like he'd pulled a pin on a grenade and thrown it into their midst. As they went back to their foxholes, he returned his focus to Georgia. "That's two." He held up two fingers. "Three's my limit."
Georgia is no dwindling wall-flower though. She's strong willed, mouthy and an able adversary to Peter's swift, decisive actions. It's really the threat of a spanking that does her in though. I mean what nice, aristocratic girl could argue against that, right? And boy, oh boy, does this playboy know how to deliver.
From high rise elegance to working class warmth this story wound it's way into my heart. And from kitchen, to shower, to boathouse to palace the sex-fest that these two enjoy wound it's way into my...uh... Well, let me put it this way, Tibby Armstrong can write one hell of an erotic scene.
Honestly though, there are two sides to this book. The fun escapades and the deep rooted issues that both MC's have to work through to find their happiness. Tibby makes them work for it and when they reach their "ah ha" moments you do too.
As a bonus: I absolutely adored Sid and hope to see more of him and his new boyfriend. I think they need a nice short to let me know they're alright. ...more
I don't do zombies, or horror so this could have easily not been for me. Instead, it was exactly for me!
Two unlikely characters that happen to b~ ~ ~
I don't do zombies, or horror so this could have easily not been for me. Instead, it was exactly for me!
Two unlikely characters that happen to be brought together by the zombie apocalypse.
Gaga - Slight, timid, and just so, so young. He's a runner.
Mercury - A hardened, alpha hero who's sexy as hell AND he drives an armored RV. Yep, I'm there!
"Well, come on," he said,[...]I'm not leaving a cute little thing like you here, [...] Oh, Jesus, I had been hiding from the few living people left for months just to avoid this kind of situation. But I was kind of cornered, and he kind of had a death shovel and knew how to use it. I guessed if I was going to become someone's apocalypse bitch, it would probably be less unpleasant all around if I went willingly.
Great humor, super fun and sexy. Grab this when you need a pick me up. This'll do it. It is a bit gritty, grungy but not gory.
I'd go on another adventure with them anytime. Even if I have to suffer the apocalypse.
They couldn’t borrow enough time to fix the past now.
I’m probably supposed to tell you about the suspense, tension, pending doom and gory horror, but I’ll leave that to someone else, because what stood out for me was a moment in this book that was a shock to my romanticalistic system! I had been completely wrapped up in the action when suddenly the concern for everything these two were going through, and had gone through, just flat out punched me in the heart. I felt them. I was reading, engaged, caught up in the intensity of the danger when, BAM, the love and care totally hit me. This is like the best of sci-fi with a heart of romance!
THE CHARACTERS
Thanson Nez - The Discretionary, he has to keep secrets. Refined, graceful and carrying the weight of the world in his head.
"I'm a glorified message-taker exiled to the ass-end of nowhere, and you left Corve to fuck half the 'verse for blackmail material.Big win, right there." "A sixteenth." Thanson's smirk held all the mirth he'd abandoned, his negligent hand wave almost dismissive. "An eighth, at most. I have to sleep sometime, you know."
Kazra Ferdow - A fighter, a scrapper, a survivor. "Kazra needed to die trying..."
THE STORY
Kazra and Thanson have a past, but it’s the immediate future that’s out to get them. At every turn a new obstacle tries to cut them off from their one chance at rescue. Between being chased by not!zombies and an impending support system failure on an outlying space station these two show us glimpses of their difficult teenage relationship. Through their banter and recollections there is no doubt that these two have a lot to work through, and they do, all while being chased and running out of time.
You find out that escaping is what these two do best, unfortunately, the last time, they lost each other along the way. Now that they’ve caught up again their long hidden emotions rise to the surface for better or worse. It’s shocking, tender, heart-wrenching and all the while I was being pulled deeper into their relationship.
It ends with a HFN and I really, really hope this series will give me future glimpses of these guys.
THE WRITING
This is my first Reesa Herberth book, but it will not be my last. I found the writing to be tight, with no wasted words. In fact, I thought, there were moments of writing brilliance. Not fluffy or drippy (how wrong would that be in sci-fi?), but emotional and tender in a way that fit the story-line, perfectly.
If I have one issue with the story it’s about my failure to understand how it’s going to connect into the rest of the series. I think I’m missing something here. It didn’t detract from the story though and there will be more explanation in future books, so I can be patient. I am most certainly not done with this series, or this ‘verse. I really feel like this is going to be one to sink my teeth into.
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Riptide Publishing for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you Charlie Cochet for writing a historical romance that was delightfully enjoyable to read. I often find his~ ~ ~
4 Historically Charming Stars!
Thank you Charlie Cochet for writing a historical romance that was delightfully enjoyable to read. I often find historical romance too heavy. Not here. Character driven and quite entertaining. From sexy rendezvous to tender confessions, I couldn’t put this down.
Romantic Fun Sweet Sexy
THE CHARACTERS
Chance (Chauncey) Irving - Fresh, flippant, cheeky and captivating. He’s troubled and troublesome. His internal and external banter had me zinging. Even his derogatory remarks are fun to read.
Jacky Valentine - A hero’s hero. Gorgeous, firm and passionate, he find’s Chance to be the ultimate challenge and boy does Chance challenge Jacky.
Side Characters The Brats: Johnnie Wolfe � He’ll break your heart. Let’s find him an HEA okay Charlie? Bobby Haven � Quiet, sweet and adorable. Alexander Reed � Intelligent and stupid. Can’t he see he’s in love?
THE STORY
I couldn’t believe what I had done. Not having sex with him. I could easily believe that. I couldn’t believe I had allowed him to put me in such a susceptible state, that I had actually agreed to something as ridiculous as putting my trust into some mug I had just met, and an officer, no less.
From the footlights of Broadway to the sandy desert of Algiers this “lightly� historical romance travels through Chance Irving’s life. He finds himself angry, alone and boxed in as a soldier in the French Foreign Legion. Fortunately, he meets Jacky Valentine, in said box, who renames him, reawakens him and gives him much more from life then he ever thought he could have. They are lovely together and will have your heart soaring.
THE WRITING
First person, past tense is not my favorite perspective, but I just loved it here. Chance's narrative flowed smoothly. Charlie Cochet has a wonderful cast of characters and she shows you their qualities, through Chance’s eyes, with upbeat humor even in the midst of some fairly difficult issues. Never for a moment did I feel pulled down while reading this story, although there are some instances of sadness.
If you’re a die hard history buff, this may not be your cup of tea. The author bends the rules intentionally to make a very readable historical. I really loved this and expect to enjoy then next book in the series.
From the publisher: Timeless Dreams title: While reaction to same-sex relationships throughout time and across cultures has not always been positive, these stories celebrate M/M love in a manner that may address, minimize, or ignore historical stigma.
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank author Charlie Cochet for providing me a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Lisa Arbitrary - AttentionIsArbitrary M/M Blog
>
Books:
i-want-book-2
(24)
Loading...
