Tag Archives: M/M

Ride Me (Jaded Ivory #2) by Rebecca Brooke-a review

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RIDE ME (Jaded Ivory #2) by Rebecca Brooke-a review

ebook ONLY 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 26, 2018

Regret.

I’m a man living with regret. It eats at me night and day.

Eights years ago, I ran from Reagan instead of facing the music. I was sure he would shut me out if he knew the truth, so I beat him to the punch. I left and never looked back.

Or at least I tried not to.

To this day, Reagan is always in the back of my mind, trying to make me remember the fun we had. I always wonder what he would have thought if I’d told him everything.

The regret echoes in my head.

Now he’s standing in front of me, looking for answers I doubt he’s ready for.

Can Reagan accept me for who I really am?

••••••••

REVIEW:  RIDE ME is the second instalment in Rebecca Brooke’s contemporary, adult JADED IVORY erotic, rock romance series focusing on the members of the rock band Jaded Ivory. This is twenty six year olds, Jaded Ivory’s drummer Sawyer Alason, and attorney Reagan Setton’s story line. RIDE ME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: RIDE ME contains graphic scenes of M/M sexual situations that may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual firs person perspectives (Sawyer and Reagan) RIDE ME follows the rekindling friendship and building romance between twenty six year olds, former best friends, Jaded Ivory’s drummer Sawyer Alason, and attorney Reagan Setton. From the age of seven Reagan and Sawyer were best friends but the day before each was to head off to college, Sawyer disappeared without explanation. Fast forward to present day wherein Reagan is desperate to reconnect with his best friend, the friend he hasn’t heard from in close to eight years. Enter Jaded Ivory’s drummer Sawyer Alason, and the man with whom Reagan will fall in love. What ensues is the rebuilding friendship, and romance between Reagan and Sawyer, and the potential fall-out as neither one has come out of the proverbial closet, threatening their hard fought anonymity with the media and friends.

Sawyer Alason has always known he was gay but having fallen in love with Reagan at the age of sixteen, Sawyer struggled with the potential loss of his best friend, a friend from whom he walked away without explanation. Now the drummer for the up and coming rock band Jaded Ivory, Sawyer is hoping Reagan’s reappearance won’t be destroyed when the truth is revealed. Reagan Setton never considered himself gay or bi-sexual but reconnecting with Sawyer Alason found our hero wondering about the what ifs, including his strong and visceral reaction to a man he once considered his best friend.

The relationship between Reagan and Sawyer is a rekindling friendship; a best friends to lovers M/M romance that struggles in the face of potential rejection, discrimination and loss of family and friends. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are re-introduced to the members of the band: lead singer Mari Cosmann, and her boyfriend Cole Wallace (Rock Me #1); Keyboardist Heath Marshall, lead guitarist Jackson Hadden and bass player Monty Vance, as well as band manager Tom; Sawyer’s parents Charlene and Derek: and Reagan’s parents Kathleen and Tommy.

RIDE ME is a story of family, friendship, loyalty, and heart break. The premise is engaging and endearing; the characters are colorful, and charismatic; the romance is seductive and passionate. RIDE ME is a wonderful , sensitive and spirited story line of friendship, second chances, and falling in love.

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Reviewed by Sandy

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Binding Blood (Bonds of Blood #3) by Daniel de Lorne-a review

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BINDING BLOOD (Bonds of Blood #3) by Daniel de Lorne-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 20, 2018

Monsters don’t get to be heroes…

Betrayed by his brother and imprisoned in his sister’s dungeon, Olivier d’Arjou isn’t about to let a few chains get in his way. A vampire for six hundred years and a plague on his family for longer, he has no reason to hold back from wiping out the last of his family members and anyone who gets in his way. But first, he’ll need to break free.

When Oberon North, witch and survivor of one of Olivier’s most heinous crimes, comes seeking vengeance, it should be child’s play to bend the witch to his will. But Oberon comes with more power and resilience than Olivier expects and forces him to confront truths he’d rather avoid.

But Olivier’s inner conflict must take a backseat when he learns of his sister Aurelia’s plan to save the world from the demon Xadrak. A battle generations in the making, to succeed requires the ultimate sacrifice from both Olivier and his brother Thierry – and the last chance Olivier has to reclaim his humanity and a future he never thought possible.

••••••••••

REVIEW: -BINDING BLOOD is the third and final instalment in Daniel De Lorne’s adult BONDS OF BLOOD paranormal, M/M dark romance, suspense, thriller trilogy focusing on siblings Olivier and Thierry d’Arjou, and their sister Aurelia. BINDING BLOOD should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events of book two Burning Blood.

NOTE: BINDING BLOOD is a storyline with scenes of graphic violence, rape, torture, and M/M sexual situations, and may not be suitable for all readers.

SOME BACKGROUND : Six hundred years earlier the lives of twins Olivier and Thierry d’Arjou, along with their sister Aurelia, were destroyed at the hands of their father, a man whose demonic possession ensures the ongoing struggle between the d’Arjou siblings. Olivier’s vampire rages with fury as Thierry’s vampire searches for the man that he would always love.

Told from several third person perspectives BINDING BLOOD follows several paths as Aurelia d’Arjou, a powerful witch, struggles to gain control of a demon who is about to destroy the world. For close to six hundred years Aurelia has hunted for the demon known as Xadrak, in an effort send him through the portal from whence he came. To ensure her plans do not go awry, Aurelia must protect the portal, and the key, even if she has to lie and betray the people she loves. While her brother Olivier remains a prisoner in her dungeon, Oberon, one of Olivier’s victims must face his destroyer in an effort to heal them all. What ensues are Aurelia’s efforts to join forces with the present and the past, as another demon is summoned in an effort to pull Xadrak back into h*ll.

BINDING BLOOD is an infinitely detailed, dark and menacing story line consolidating several interconnected plotlines from the two previous instalments. Olivier and Thierry’s ongoing hostilities will be tempered when the truth is revealed; Aurelia must keep secret the legitimacy of Olivier, Thierry and Oberon’s connection to saving the world.

Daniel De Lorne takes the reader on an elaborate journey of magic and mayhem, demons, witches, vampires and lore. The tragedy of unrequited and all consuming love leads to sacrifice, and a loss of innocence forever destroyed by betrayal and vengeance. Oblivious to the truth, Olivier, Thierry and Oberon will become unwitting pawns in an effort to take down the evil that demands the world. A story of sacrifice, hatred, power and love BINDING BLOOD is a impassioned, startling and energetic look at the dark side of paranormal romance.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Beckoning Blood
Burning Blood
Binding Blood

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy 

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Theirs Ever After (The Thalanian Dynasty #3) by Katee Robert-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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THEIRS EVER AFTER (The Thalanian Dynasty #3) by Katee Robert-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 3, 2018

Sometimes happily ever after isn’t all it’s cracked up to be…

Theo Fitzcharles thought he’d put the worst behind him when he became King of Thalania and named his two lovers, Meg Sanders and Galen Mikos, as his Consorts. Unfortunately, the realities of running a country have worn on all of them, individually and as a triad. Theo has every intention of making things right, but first he has to deal with an old enemy who’s closer than anyone could have dreamed.

Meg Sanders never wanted to be a princess. Now that she’s one of two Consorts to the King of Thalania, she knows why—it’s hard work. Every time she turns around, she’s misstepping and fighting not to screw up the careful political maneuvering required for her new position. But her struggles with the new position are the least of her worries she’s attacked in the palace.

Theo, Galen, and Meg must race to identify her attacker and neutralize them before they can make another attempt to hurt her. There’s plenty of people who want Meg out of the palace—and at least one isn’t picky about whether she’s breathing or not when she goes

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: THEIRS EVER AFTER is the third instalment in Katee Robert’s contemporary, adult THE THALANIAN DYNASTY, erotic, MMF romance series focusing on twenty-three year old American and former bar waitress Meg Sanders, bodyguard and protector Galen Mikos, and former crown prince of Thalania Theo Fitzcharles III. THEIRS EVER AFTER should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up six months after the events of book two-Forever Theirs.

NOTE: THEIRS EVER AFTER and the Thalanian Dynasty series contain graphic ménage scenarios of M/M, MMF, MFM sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from several third person perspectives THEIRS EVER AFTER focuses on the struggling relationship between twenty-three year old, former bar waitress / university student Meg Sanders, bodyguard and protector Galen Mikos, and former crown prince of Thalania Theo Fitzcharles III. Upon the death of his father, the once exiled crown prince of Thalania, Theo Fitzcharles III returns to his home country to ascend to the throne but Theo turns the kingdom upside down by naming his body guard and best friend Galen Mikos, and the woman they love Meg Sanders, as dual consorts. Not everyone is happy with Theo’s return or the idea of an American living in the palace, and steps are taken to destroy their love, and break the relationship between them. What ensues is the building but struggling relationship between Theo, Galen and Meg, and the potential fall-out as Meg is targeted on more than one occasion, as Theo and Galen set a plan into motion to take down the guilty party.

Meg and Galen struggle with their newly designated position as consorts to the king. Galen, the once vibrant head of security battles his need to protect the man that he loves; and Meg needs something more than mundane life of drinking tea and scheduling meetings. Theo, oblivious to his consorts’ emotional fall-out endeavors to pull the noble Families together, Families that would rather see someone else ascend to the throne.

The relationship between Theo, Galen and Meg is passionate and sexual but struggles in the face of Theo’s current schedule, and his overwhelming battle to keep peace at home. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense with MM, MMF, MFM, and FM sexual situations.

We are reintroduced to Theo’s sister Princess Camilla (aka Cami); Theo’s new head of security Isaac Kozlov; Meg’s new assistant Alys; and Noemi Huxley, a member of the noble Huxley family. The requisite evil has many faces. Noemi and Isaac’s story is next in THEIR SECOND CHANCE.

The world building continues to look at Theo’s struggle for a smooth ascension to the Thalanian throne. An American as consort does nothing to win Theo’s approval from the reigning noble Families, as Galen must face his past when threats to the people he loves become personal and deadly.

THEIRS EVER AFTER is a story of betrayal and lies; secrets and sins; power and struggle; romance and love. The premise is engaging, intriguing and spicy; the characters are dynamic, spirited and colorful; the romance is provocative and intimate. THEIRS EVER AFTER is an impassioned look at a new hope for the future of Thalania.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Theirs For the Night
Forever Theirs
Theirs Ever After

FREE ebook for a limited time THEIRS FOR THE NIGHT #1

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Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Meg knew what she should do. She should tell Theo that the best way to take care of her and Galen was to talk to them. But with the candlelight playing across Theo’s skin and his skillful hands working at the knots in her shoulders, she couldn’t work up the energy to fight with him. “I’m not happy with you.”
“I know.” He dug into a particularly tight knot, working it with his thumb. “What do you need from me tonight, princess?”
She let her eyes close, let him keep working his magic on her body. Six months into their relationship, and Meg knew that Theo would give her anything she asked for. If she wanted him and Galen to dress up like Vikings and roleplay one of her favorite scenes in a romance novel she was reading, he’d do it without question. He had done it without question last month. Theo might be fucking up on communication and overworked to the point where she barely saw him, but she never doubted for a second that he loved her and wanted her happy.
She slipped beneath the surface of the water. Free of his touch, clarity didn’t suddenly strike her like lightning. If there was an answer, she didn’t have it. Meg slowly stood and let herself drink in the way Theo watched her. As if she was some kind of Aphrodite rising out of the ocean instead of standing here in their tub. “I just want you tonight, Theo. None of the bullshit. Just you.”
He nodded and grabbed one of the ridiculously large towels they kept stocked in here. “Let me take care of you tonight,” he repeated.
Easy enough to read in between the lines of what he wanted. A reprieve in a long line of reprieves. Theo was trying to hold off the inevitable conversation all three of them had to have until he could iron out the mess Thalania had become in his absence. Or maybe the backbiting politics and squabbling seven Families had always been like this. Either way, Theo wanted time to get it handled.
She just wished he’d lean on her and Galen a little bit in the meantime.
Meg stepped out of the tub and let him wrap her in the towel. “Like I’m going to say no.”
Theo dried her gently, thoroughly, making quick work of it. He had a face built for candlelight, all sharp angles and a beauty that was damn near painful to witness. The passing time should have inoculated her to the sight of him, but then he would turn just so or look at her with those big blue eyes, and she’d forget to breathe.
“You could.”
She blinked. “What?”
“You could say no.”
Meg laughed. She couldn’t help it. “Theo, have you looked in the mirror lately?”
He glanced over, and she followed his gaze to the large mirror situated on the other side of the bath. They painted quite the picture, him large and towering over her, his shock of near-black hair several shades darker than hers, his big hands holding the towel against her skin. For once, he wasn’t wearing his usual clothing of suits that cost enough to give Meg hives. In the workout shorts, he looked… Not normal. Theo would never be anything as mundane as normal.
He looked touchable.
So that was exactly what she did. Meg ran her hands up his stomach to his chest and stepped to him. “I know I could say no. I’ve said no to you more times than I can count since we’ve met.” She cupped his strong jaw with her palm. “Theo, are you okay?”
“No.” He pulled her slowly, inexorably closer, until her breasts pressed against his bare chest. “Just… Let me take care of you tonight, princess.”
The rare vulnerability he let her see in that moment seduced her as thoroughly as his body ever had. She nodded. “Yes.”
Theo swept her off her feet and carried her out of the bathroom. Normally, she’d give him shit for such a caveman move, but Meg didn’t want to poke at him tonight. She was tired and heartsore, and both her men were obviously feeling the same. They couldn’t fix the mess waiting for them outside those doors, but they could strengthen their foundations tonight.
She just hoped it would be enough.
Galen waited for them on the bed, clothed in only his skin. Her heart skipped a beat. As much as Theo’s beauty seduced her, Galen’s raw sex appeal knocked her right in the stomach. His dusky skin was crisscrossed with lighter scars, a testament to the abuse his father had leveled at him as a child. His dark hair had grown longer, losing the military-like cut. She liked it. There was a lot to like about Galen.
He watched Theo carry her toward him with a predatory look that sent a bolt of desire through her. Only good things came from Galen getting that expression on his face.
Theo set her on the bed just out of reach and pressed a hand to her shoulder. “Don’t move.” He was only gone a moment, disappearing back into the bathroom and reappearing with a hairbrush. He took up a position against the headboard and urged her to sit between his legs with her back to him.
Theo began carefully combing her wet hair.
Meg closed her eyes and let the gentle tug of the brush soothe her. The fluffy towel and Theo’s proximity kept her cozy, but Galen’s attention pricked along her skin, a promise of things to come. On and on it went. Theo was never one to do things halfway, but he seemed to enjoy the slow slide of the brush through her drying hair as much as she did.
Finally, he set the brush aside and eased her back against his chest. Her hair was almost dry at this point, but Theo moved its soft weight off her neck and pressed a kiss to her throat. He pulled the towel away from her body and tossed it off the bed, leaving them skin to skin. It felt good to be wrapped up in him like this. Even better than his combing her hair.
The mattress dipped and Meg opened her eyes to find Galen had moved to a point just past their feet for a better view. He arched a dark eyebrow at her, but something soft and intimate marred the arrogance of the expression. He needed this reaffirming as much as she did.
For once, no one colored the air around them with filthy words and dirty talk. Theo stroked his hands over her body, the rough slide of his palms across her skin sending her nerves sparking in response. She writhed a little, but he wouldn’t be guided. He paid equal attention to her arms, her shoulders, her stomach and her hips, avoiding her breasts and pussy.
The damn tease.
Finally, a small eternity later, he cupped her breasts, giving them the same slow exploration delivered to the rest of her body. Meg couldn’t stop herself from arching up to press herself more firmly into his hands.
“Impatient,” he murmured against her skin.
“Can you blame her?” Galen’s rough tone made Meg shiver. He reached down and palmed his own cock. “She’s shaking with need.”
Meg grabbed Theo’s hand. She spread her legs wide, hooking them on either side of Theo’s, making sure to give Galen a good show. “Take care of me, baby.” She pressed his hand to her pussy. “You promised.”
“I did, didn’t I?” Theo cupped her there roughly, possessively, the touch lighting a spark beneath Meg’s skin. He pushed a single finger into her, still teasing, not offering nearly enough of what she craved. His voice curled around her, just as intimate as their current position. “I’m feeling generous tonight, princess, so I’ll let you choose how we give it to you.

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Katee Robert learned to tell her stories at her grandpa’s knee. Her 2015 title, The Marriage Contract, was a RITA finalist, and RT Book Reviews named it ‘a compulsively readable book with just the right amount of suspense and tension.”  When not writing sexy contemporary and romantic suspense, she spends her time playing imaginary games with her children, driving her husband batty with what-if questions, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.

Connect with Katee at: Website | Facebook | Twitter| GoodReads | Instagram  | BookBub


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Who We Were by Melissa Collins-Review Tour

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WHO WE WERE by Melissa Collins-Review Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 2, 2018.

Who We Were…

Two awkward teenagers – the loner and the nerd, trying to find our place in the world. Paired in wood shop, we knew nothing of each other, except that we wanted to know everything. Then one life altering moment changed it all and we were left with shattered dreams and broken hearts.

Who We Are…

Two grown men – braver and smarter than we used to be, trying to heal the damage from that irrevocable moment. Even though the past was behind us, dead and buried long ago, we found it impossible to move on without ripping open the scars of our deep wounds.

With twelve years of unanswered questions fueling our desperate need for the truth, we must figure out if who we were will destroy who we are.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: WHO WE WERE by Melissa Collins is a contemporary, stand alone, MM, erotic romance story line focusing on Ryan Masterson , and Quinn Jacobs.

NOTE: WHO WE WERE contains scenes of MM sexual situations and may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ryan and Quinn) WHO WE WERE follows several time lines focusing on the tempestuous relationship between Ryan Masterson, and Quinn Jacobs. As a thirteen year old boy Ryan Masterson found himself the target of bullies including his twin brother Patrick Masterson-all star athlete and the bane of Ryan’s existence. Throughout the years, Ryan would be friended by Quinn Jacobs, a young man who would jump to Ryan’s defence whenever and wherever possible. But Ryan’s home life spiralled out of control, targeted not only by his brother, but the fear of rejection by his demanding father, and it would be twelve years before Ryan would return Quinn’s life.What ensues is the rebuilding and rekindling, back and forth, relationship between Ryan and Quinn, and the continuing fall-out as Ryan struggles to move on from the past, and into the arms of the boy/man he has loved for most of his life.

At thirty years old, Ryan had yet to come out to his parents but coming out meant facing the possibility of rejection, all over again. Unable to move on from the abusive and controlling relationship of his brother, and the news that not all was it appeared to be, Ryan continues to battle between head and heart, especially as it involves Quinn Jacobs. Running was Ryan’s only option, running from what was, and what would never be. Quinn has never moved on from the loss of Ryan Masterson but Quinn was kept in the dark about Ryan’s past. Lost and struggling to forgive and forget, Quinn would come face to face with his past and his future but Ryan was unwilling to reveal the secrets that controlled every aspect of his life.

The relationship between Ryan and Quinn is tempestuous at best as Ryan struggles to find a place within his family, and within a world he knows nothing about. Twelve years would pass before Ryan and Quinn would rekindle a friendship destroyed by secrets and lies, a friendship that would turn into something more. The $ex scenes are passionate, provocative and intense.

The colourful secondary and supporting characters include Ryan’s brother Patrick, and his parents Marybeth and Stephen Masterson. We are introduced Quinn’s sister Sarah, and their parents Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs.

The world building focuses on the home life of Ryan Masterson-the volatile relationship between Ryan and Patrick, as well as between Ryan and his less than supportive parents. Quinn’s home life was in direct opposition to Ryan’s dysfunctional family situation, a situation that continued to haunt Ryan for most of his life. A lack of communication, compounded by secrets and lies, pushes Ryan to run on more than one occasion.

WHO WE WERE is a story of secrets and lies, family and friendship, forgiveness, acceptance and moving on. The premise is heart breaking, emotional and entertaining; the characters are dynamic, charismatic and colourful; the romance struggles in the face of Ryan’s inability to let go of the past.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Melissa Collins has always been a book worm. Studying Literature in college ensured that her nose was always stuck in a book. She followed her passion for reading to the most logical career choice: English teacher. Her hope was to share her passion for reading and the escapism of books to her students. Having spent more than a decade in front of a classroom, she can easily say that it’s been a dream.

Her passion for writing didn’t start until more recently. When she was home on maternity leave in early 2012, she read her first romance novel and her head filled with the passion, angst and laughter of the characters who she read about it. It wasn’t long before characters of her own took shape in her mind. Their lives took over Melissa’s brain and The Love Series was born.

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the Facebook Giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the author on Facebook

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https://www.facebook.com/MelissaCollins.Author/posts/1792493497523438

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Escaping Solitude (Escape Trilogy #2) by Sara Dobie Bauer-a review

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Escaping Solitude (Escape Trilogy #2) by Sara Dobie Bauer-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: RELEASE DATE October 29,2018

Ancient vampire Andrew escaped his tropical island exile with his beloved human sailor, Edmund. They’ve now returned to Andrew’s home in nineteenth-century New Orleans and must navigate not only their developing relationship—and equally haunted pasts—but also a hungry coven of vampires Andrew used to call friends.

Desperate to stay by Andrew’s side forever, Edmund examines the impressive coven library in search of an Elder, the only creature capable of turning Edmund. Although missing for centuries, Andrew believes an Elder must still survive somewhere; they just have to find him.

The search is put on hold when Edmund receives word that his mother is ill in London, and the lovers set off on an oceanic journey surrounded by new friends and old enemies. When things go terribly wrong, Edmund’s fragile human life hangs in the balance, and an Elder must be found or Andrew will be alone forever.

•••••••••

REVIEW: ESCAPING SOLITUDE is the second instalment in Sara Dobie Bauer’s historical ESCAPE paranormal, MM, erotic romance trilogy focusing on formerly exiled vampire Andrew, and twenty-eight year old, British naturalist Edmund. ESCAPING SOLITUDE should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately following the events of book one-Escaping Exile.

NOTE: ESCAPING EXILE contains M/M and M/M/M/ sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from first person point of view (Andrew) ESCAPING SOLITUDE follows Andrew and Edmund as they begin their life together in Andrew’s hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. No longer in exile Andrew is welcomed backed with open arms but Edmund’s presence is like a beacon to other vampires including Felipe, the consort to the vampire who sent Andrew into exile. Enamored with Michelle’s library of vampire lore, Edmund discovers the existence and whereabouts of an Elder vampire, a vampire with the ability to give Edmund a chance at forever with the man that he loves. What ensues is the growing relationship and love between Edmund and Andrew, and the potential fall-out as an accident threatens to end Edmunds life.

ESCAPING SOLITUDE is another quick and easy read; an erotic romance between vampire and human, with the possibility of a happily ever after. We are introduced to female vampire Michelle, and her consort Felipe, as well as the local boy-toys Gabriel and Danys, and their Irish madam May.

The world building continues to focus on Andrew and Edmund’s building relationship, their time together revealing a manic and inquisitive side of Andrew’s human lover, as well as the search for a vampire Elder. The premise is engaging; the romance is passionate and erotic without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text; the characters are colorful and charismatic. ESCAPING SOLITUDE ends on a cliff-hanger-you have been warned.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one ESCAPING EXILE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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Final Day (Wired and Dangerous 2.5) by Megan Erickson-a review

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FINAL DAY (Wired and Dangerous 2.5) by Megan Erickson-a review

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 16, 2018

When his boyfriend is murdered, Erick Lee makes it his life’s mission to hunt down the killer. The question is, how far is he willing to go to catch him?

Erick has been asked to team up by a dangerously captivating hitman who has reasons of his own to want this man dead. But can he trust another killer? And do two wrongs ever make a right?

Everett “Tarr” Hawk isn’t just some lethal hitman. He has his own code of honor. With Erick and Tarr facing a common enemy, it’s only by combining forces that they’ll survive. But Tarr’s code doesn’t include a fierce attraction for someone he’s sworn to defend with his life. Because in Tarr’s world, every night presents a new danger . . . and listening to his own heart could get them both killed.

••••••••••

REVIEW: FINAL DAY is instalment 2.5 in Megan Erickson’s contemporary, adult WIRED AND DANGEROUS romantic suspense series focusing on a group of computer hackers and coders. This is thirty year old computer hacker Erick Lee, and mercenary for hire /hitman Everett ‘Tarr’ Hawk’s story line. FINAL DAY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Erick Lee is Wren’s brother –Zero Hour Book one.

NOTE: FINAL DAY is a M/M story line and romance with same-sex scenarios.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Erick and Tarr) FINAL DAY follows the building relationship between thirty year old computer hacker Erick Lee, and mercenary for hire /hitman Everett ‘Tarr’ Hawk. Erick Lee is desperate to take down the person who murdered his boyfriend but he never expected to find himself owing a hitman for his own protection. Forced to work together when Tarr’s sister and her family are threatened, Tarr and Erick take up residence in Maine in order to protect the people Tarr loves. What ensues is the building but caustic relationship between Tarr and Erick, and the potential fall-out as Erick is caught in the cross-fire of a vendetta meant to destroy the man with whom he would fall in love.

Erick Lee struggles to overcome the murder of his boyfriend, and Roarke’s brother Flynn, a murder he is hoping to avenge but Erick is neither a killer nor a spy, and finds himself battling his way out of a sticky situation. Everett ‘Tarr’ Hawk can’t believe his run of luck or bad luck when he discovers Erick Lee hanging from a building as he attempts to hide from a local gang. On the run, trying to lay low, Erick and Tarr find themselves together when Everett’s sister and her children are once again, forced to hide because of the Tarr’s dangerous life.

The relationship between Tarr and Erick is one of immediate attraction but Erick struggles with Tarr’s lifestyle, that of a hitman for hire, who may or may not consider the who, how and why of the people he kills. The back and forth, yin and yang of sexual attraction is heightened as our couple are forced together to protect Tarr’s family, and ultimately Tarr must protect the man that he loves. The limited $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters including Roarke and Wren (Zero Hour #1), and Everett Hawk’s sister Everly, and her children Cooper and Olivia, as well as Erick’s very colorful friend Trig. The requisite evil has many faces.

FINAL DAY is a story of family and love; vengeance and retribution; second chances at a happily ever after. The premise is fast paced and entertaining; the characters are spirited and lively; the romance is fast and furious. The ‘hacking’ elements are limited; we are not privy certain details including Erick’s connection to Trig, or the how, what and why of the equipment Trig supplied.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Zero Hour
Darkest Night
Final Day

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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James -Uncontrollable (Man Up #5) by Felice Stevens-Review & Giveaway Tour

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JAMES – UNCONTROLLABLE (Man Up #5) by Felice Stevens-Review & Giveaway Tour

JAMES-UNCONTROLLABLE
Man Up #5
by Felice Stevens
Genre: adult, contemporary ,erotic, MM, romance
Release Date: October 2018

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 2018

It’s time to travel with James and Malcolm through their twenty year history as they battle each other and struggle to hold on to a lifetime of secrets.
James
Never good enough.
Not the real son.
I will prove him wrong—prove everyone wrong.
I am someone.
I will succeed.
I don’t need my brother to help me.
I don’t need anyone.
My enemy holds my secret.
He teases me.
Taunts me.
Follows me with his eyes.
Our hot, angry kisses keep me up at night.
I don’t want him.
I hate him.
But I can’t stop thinking about him.
That there’s more to him
I want to discover him.
The truth is unexpected.
My enemy might not only be my friend but the love I never thought to have.

Malcolm
Live, love, laugh.
Life is too short to worry when you don’t know how long you’ve got.
I want every day to be my best.
Like it’s my last.
My friends see what I let them.
Not the real me.
Only one man has ever crawled beneath my skin.
He drives me crazy.
Makes me wild.
Makes me care.
A night of bad decisions changes the course of my life.
Everything I’ve known no longer makes sense.
My enemy now stands by my side.
I’m no longer running.
I want to stay.
I want a future.
Hate has changed to something new and wonderful.
Something terrifying.
Uncontrollable.
Love.

•••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: JAMES-UNCONTROLLABLE is the fifth instalment in Felice Stevens’ contemporary, adult MAN UP erotic, MM romance series. This is Man Up nightclub owner James Rutledge, and fund-raising organizer Malcolm McHabe. JAMES-UNCONTROLLABLE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary although I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and history between James, Malcolm and Rhoades MacKenzie. James is Rhoades MacKenzie half-brother.

NOTE: JAMES-UNCONTROLLABLE contains scenes of MM sexual situations, and may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (James and Malcolm) focusing on both the present and the past, JAMES –UNCONTROLLABLE follows the acrimonious relationship between nightclub owner James Rutledge, and fund-raising organizer Malcolm McHabe. For close to twenty years James and Malcolm’s relationship has been tempestuous at best. Orphaned at thirteen, having never met his biological father, James Rutledge left the only home he had ever known in Fort Lauderdale, Florida landing in New York City into the unwelcome house of his father, and half-brother Rhoades MacKenzie. Embittered and alone, James would spend the next twenty years trying to prove he was worthy of his father’s love, but never having accomplished it before the old man died. A wealthy businessman who owns several successful male entertainment clubs, James would constantly be reminded about his colorful and dangerous past each and every time he faced his brother’s best friend Malcolm McHabe. What ensues is a twenty year struggle between James and Malcolm as James battles his attraction to a man who could destroy his life.

James is embarrassed about his less than upstanding past, and the only person who knows anything remotely about James’ previous life is his brother’s best friend Malcolm McHabe. Angry and hurt James set out to destroy the father never knew but in doing so almost destroyed his own life in the process. Malcolm knows how to keep a secret including a secret about himself that no one knows outside of his immediate family. Working tirelessly to promote charities helping children unable to help to help themselves, Malcolm must face the truth when his relationship with James steps up to the next level. A manwhore by reputation, Malcolm’s previous need for companionship and $ex destroyed any possibility of friendship between our story line couple.

The relationship between James and Malcolm is an enemies to lovers romance; a tempestuous, acerbic and impassioned twenty year relationship predicated on secrets, attraction and unrequited friendship and love. Malcolm pushes James’ proverbial buttons with every encounter; James fears Malcolm’s attempts at friendship is a prelude to humiliation, betrayal and heartbreak. The $ex scenes are intimate and erotic, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

All of the previous story lines couples play secondary and supporting characters. James Rutledge knows the degradation and shame of sexual promiscuity, and he has spent his life rescuing and saving men in a similar situation.

JAMES-UNCONTROLLABLE is a story of family, friendship, vengeance and struggle. The premise is reflective and dramatic ; the romance is provocative, tender and passionate; the characters are gritty, real and spirited. JAMES-UNCONTROLLABLE is an intoxicating tale of rebellion, hate, forgiveness and love.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy 

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I have always been a romantic at heart. I believe that while life is tough, there is always a happy ending around the corner, My characters have to work for it, however. Like life in NYC, nothing comes easy and that includes love.

I live in New York City with my husband and two children and hopefully soon a cat of my own. My day begins with a lot of caffeine and ends with a glass or two of red wine. I practice law but daydream of a time when I can sit by a beach somewhere and write beautiful stories of men falling in love. Although there are bound to be a few bumps along the way, a Happily Ever After is always guaranteed.

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Escaping Exile (Escape Trilogy #1) b Sara Dobie Bauer-Review, Interview & Giveaway

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ESCAPING EXILE (Escape Trilogy #1) by Sara Dobie Bauer-Review, Interview & Giveaway

ESCAPING EXILE
Escape Trilogy #1
by Sara Dobie Bauer
Release Date: August 13, 2018
Genre: adult, paranormal, M/M, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 13, 2018

Andrew is a vampire from New Orleans, exiled to a tropical island in the 1800s as punishment for his human bloodlust. During a storm, a ship crashes off shore. After rescuing a sailor from the cannibals native to the land, Andrew becomes fascinated with his brilliant, beautiful new companion, Edmund.

Edmund is a British naturalist who has sailed the world seeking new species. Intrigued by creatures that might kill him, immortal Andrew is this scientist’s dream—but so is making his way back home. Edmund will fight to survive, even while wrapped in the arms of a monster.

As light touches and laughter turn to something much more passionate, the cannibals creep ever closer to Edmund. Can the ancient vampire keep his human alive long enough to escape exile and explore their newfound love, or will Andrew’s bloodlust seal his own doom?

••••••••••

REVIEW: ESCAPING EXILE is the first instalment in Sara Dobie Bauer’s adult, historical ESCAPE paranormal, M/M, erotic romance trilogy focusing on exiled vampire Andrew, and British naturalist Edmund.

NOTE: ESCAPING EXILE contains M/M sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from first person point of view (Andrew) ESCAPING EXILE follows exiled vampire Andrew as he finds himself drawn to the lone survivor of a shipwreck following a deadly storm. Stranded on an island inhabited by cannibals Andrew and British naturalist Edmund struggle to survive against the odds including Andrew’s desire to feed from the man with whom he will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Andrew and Edmund, as our couple must battle the elements, starvation, and attacks by a group of flesh-eating humans.

ESCAPING EXILE is a quick and easy, erotic read that focuses on the growing attraction and building love between a vampire and human thrown together by circumstance and fate. We learn a little bit about Andrew’s past-his history, his ‘turning’, and the events leading to his exile on a not-so deserted island, as well as Edmund’s need to find and challenge that which, could do him harm. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text. The premise is entertaining and engaging. ESCAPING EXILE does not end on a cliff-hanger but with a promise of more to come.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

TRC: Hi Sara and welcome to The Reading Cafe.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

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Sara: I’m a full time writer who wears pajamas all day and only showers because my husband is on his way home from work. Not kidding. I’ve been writing full time for almost a decade now, and I tend to always write romance, usually with a twist, whether that be romantic comedy, paranormal romance, or romantic horror (yes, that’s a thing).

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Sara: Probably reading so many books as a kid. Anne Rice had a lot to do with it since I read her Vampire Chronicles when I was still in elementary school. Maybe a bit young for that …

TRC: What challenges or difficulties did you encounter writing and publishing your first novel?

Sara: Finding the right publisher. I ended up with World Weaver Press for the Bite Somebody series based on a referral, thank God. What a blessing back in 2015!

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of your new paranormal, M/M romance ESCAPING EXILE and the ESCAPE trilogy?

Sara: Bloodthirsty vampire meets sexy, shipwrecked sailor. Add a dash of cannibals and lots of sex. The trilogy follows them from new love to established love to … well, that would be a spoiler, wouldn’t it?

TRC: From where did you get the idea for ESCAPING EXILE?

Sara: Oh, gosh, I wish I knew. I have no idea. As a writer, I get ideas all the time, but very few of them actually make it on the page. This one probably showed up as some weird fantasy of mine and just grew into a full-fledged storyline.

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning ESCAPING EXILE?

Sara: Very little plotting. I’m not a plotter. I follow characters and see what they do. Escaping Exile is the first of the trilogy, so most of the research came into play in books two and three as the boys travel to Victorian New Orleans and London.

TRC: Has your work with the mental health community and as a LGBTQ advocate helped with your writing and story line premises?

Sara: So much! Thanks to working in the mental health community, I’ve been able to create more complex characters that often share my own psychological traits. My LGBTQ advocacy has given me a clear look at difficulties faced, and although I don’t often get too political in my work, you can see glimpses if you look close enough.

TRC: There is a fine line between romance, erotic and erotica fiction. What do you believe are the differences? And where should the author draw the line?

Sara: Romance versus erotica just depends on the sex, not the plot. Romance, to me, is closed-door sex and fade out, whereas erotica shows the sex and can be mature to explicit. I fear people write off erotica as crappy writing, just smut, but I’ve read some fantastic literary erotica. For me, include as much sex as you want; just keep the characters true to themselves whether you fade out or give a doggy style play-by-play.

TRC: Most, if not all, of your books and series focus on the paranormal. Have you ever considered writing another romance genre?

Sara: I have written a romance novel without any paranormal elements! But it hasn’t been published yet … I’m shopping it with agents right now, and we’ll see what happens. I do love paranormal, though. As a huge horror movie fan, I love a good monster.

TRC: What was the most challenging scene to write?

Sara: The first sexual encounter between Andrew and Edmund. By then, I was so hyped for them to just do it already; I had to be careful not to rush it!

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Sara: Yes, for sure. If your cover doesn’t capture the eye, a reader might not even consider your blurb. They might just pass you by. It’s also important for your cover to fit your genre and the tone of your book.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Sara: The characters direct everything, those bastards. Sometimes, they go completely mad—like in The Escape Trilogy. As the series moves on, Edmund takes over. He does things I never saw coming.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writers fail in this endeavor?

Sara: Know your characters. Write huge character bios before you even start writing so you know everything about them—even their favorite ice cream. If the character feels real, readers will relate. Writers fail when they put plot before character.

TRC: Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the storyline direction? Characters?

Sara: Nope. I write in total silence. I listen to music throughout the day when I’m not writing, though, and yes, I’ll hear certain songs and think, “This is perfect for Andrew and Edmund.” In the case of Escaping Exile, Hozier’s “Better Love” is their theme song.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception people have about authors?

Sara: hat we’re snobby intellectuals. Most of us are just huge, introverted nerds. We really do sit around sipping whiskey, though.

TRC: How should authors measure a book’s success?

Sara: Certainly not by money. That can be a setup for disaster. Measure success by fan response, fan enthusiasm. We don’t do this for the big bucks; we do it because we love telling stories and sharing them with people.

TRC: What is something that few, if anybody, knows about you?

Sara: I’m obsessed with horror movies, but I can’t watch zombie flicks. Zombies are just one step too far.

TRC: Who is your favorite author (living or dead)?

Sara: Impossible. Changes by the day. Today? I’m awfully fond of M/M author Dessa Lux.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Sara: A new adult LGBTQ romantic horror comedy about a monster in Florida. The leading male, Emory, is arguably based on me.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Cheese pizza with black olives

Favorite Dessert: Nah, gimme salt!

Favorite TV Show: Rick and Morty

Last Movie You Saw: Hot Summer Nights

Dark or Milk Chocolate: DARK

Secret Celebrity Crush: Timothee Chalamet (It’s totally not a secret.)

Last Vacation Destination: Milwaukee for SummerFest

Do you have any pets? Two big dogs. Ripley is named after the Aliens heroine. Raylan is named after Elmore Leonard’s Raylan Givens.

Last book you read: Snakes Among Sweet Flowers by Jason Huffman-Black

TRC: Thank you Sara for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the new release. We wish you all the best.

Sara Dobie Bauer is graciously offering an e-copy of ESCAPING EXILE to ONE (1) lucky commentator at The Reading Cafe

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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8. Giveaway is open  internationally.

9. Giveaway runs from August 12-17, 2018

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