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Dirty Deeds (The Dirty Series #1) by HelenKay Dimon-Review & Giveaway

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DIRTY DEEDS (The Dirty #1) by HelenKay Dimon-Review and Giveaway

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DIRTY DEEDS
The Dirty Series #1
by HelenKay Dimon
Release Date: August 8, 2017
Genre: adult,contemporary, M/M, erotic, romantic suspense

Dirty Deeds

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 8, 2017

No dirty deed goes unnoticed in a seductive game of cat and mouse. But for Alec and Gaige, the wrong move could get them killed.

Alec Drummond didn’t make his billions by playing nice—or by playing much at all. When it comes to pleasure, Alec only has time for whatever’s quick and easy, which is exactly what he gets from his company’s hot new computer genius. But Gaige Owens isn’t some pushover. He pushes back, and it’s giving Alec a rush. The question is, could Gaige be the one who’s leaking trade secrets? Just to be safe, Alec keeps him close at hand . . . night and day.

Gaige never thought he’d roll over for a man like Alec again, but who could resist sex this mind-blowing? Then there’s the draw of Alec’s mysterious side: his cutthroat ambition, his covert CIA connections, and the murder in his past. For Gaige, a deeper look proves an irresistible temptation. But when Gaige and Alec are stripped of their defenses by an unseen danger, everything they don’t know could bring them closer together—or tear them apart. Only one thing is certain: Before it’s all over, someone’s going down.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: DIRTY DEEDS is the first installment in HelenKay Dimon’s contemporary, adult THE DIRTY erotic, M/M romantic suspense series-a spin off from her TOUGH LOVE series. This is former CIA operative Gaige Owens, and billionaire businessman Alex Drummond’s story line. DIRTY DEEDS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty-any important information from the previous series is revealed where necessary. Alec is first introduced in Guarding Mr. Fine (Tough Love #3)

NOTE: DIRTY DEEDS contains graphic scenes of M/M sexual situations, intended for mature readers only.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Gaige and Alec) DIRTY DEEDS follows the search for the truth. Gaige Owens finds himself ‘tied’ to the CIA, and repaying his debt comes with a dangerous mission to Germany, and the man with whom he would fall in love. Enter Alec Drummond, billionaire businessman and civilian security specialist with high ranking government contacts, whose off hour business shipments to Svalbard, the ‘Doomsday Vault’ in Norway, have caught the attention of the CIA. What ensues is the building relationship between Gaige and Alec, and the struggle to uncover the who, what and why behind the ‘mysterious’ cargo entering the secret vaults meant to preserve the world’s food supplies.

Gaige Owens is an IT specialist but his latest ‘assignment’ has him coming face to face with a man who wants nothing to do with Gaige or the reasons behind the CIA’s involvement. Gaige is working undercover at Drummond Industries, and Alec has a difficult time trusting the man with whom he will fall in love. Both burned in the past by people they once loved Gaige and Alec’s attraction to one another is both palpable and immediate. But someone is desperate to keep both Gaige and Alec from uncovering the truth-our couple are targeted at home and at work. The $ex scenes are numerous, intimate and erotic. Alec battles both his heart and his head knowing there is an end date when the mission is complete.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Alec’s second in command Tony, as well as Tony’s girlfriend, former military personnel Caroline; Alex’s PA Pam Masters (Caroline’s sister); CIA Special Activities Division Agent (SAD) Seth Lang (Guarding Mr. Fine#3); Doomsday vault head of security Daniel Berg, and supervisor Astrid Larsen.

The world building continues to focus on the secret military operations, and Black Ops missions; the people, the places, and the threats to world safety and security, and the men whose mission it is to go undercover-in more ways than one.

DIRTY DEEDS is an intriguing and suspense filled story line focusing on the potential destruction of the world’s food supply. The premise is original, engaging and entertaining; the characters are colorful, edgy and animated; the romance is seductive and intense. DIRTY DEEDS is a sensual and passionate story of two men thrown together in the face of impending disaster.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Dirty Deeds Teaser

 

About the author

HelenKay DimonGoodreads /Website/ Twitter/ Facebook

Helenkay Dimon spent the years before becoming a romance author as a . . . divorce attorney. Not the usual transition, she knows. Good news is she now writes full time and is much happier. She has sold over thirty novels, novellas and shorts to numerous publishers. Her nationally bestselling and award-winning books have been showcased in numerous venues and her books have twice been named “Red-Hot Reads” and excerpted in Cosmopolitan magazine. But if you ask her, she’ll tell you the best part of the job is never having to wear pantyhose again.

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HelenKay Dimon’s publisher is graciously offering an ebook copy of DIRTY DEEDS to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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9. Giveaway runs from August 8-11, 2017

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An Unnatural Vice/ An Unseen Attraction (Sins of the Cities 1 & 2) by KJ Charles-Reviews

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An Unnatural Vice / An Unseen Attraction (Sins of the Cities 1 & 2) by KJ Charles-Reviews

An Unnatural Vice

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

AN UNNATURAL VICE ( Sins of the Cities #2) by KJ Charles

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 6, 2017

In the sordid streets of Victorian London, unwanted desire flares between two bitter enemies brought together by a deadly secret.

Crusading journalist Nathaniel Roy is determined to expose spiritualists who exploit the grief of bereaved and vulnerable people. First on his list is the so-called Seer of London, Justin Lazarus. Nathaniel expects him to be a cheap, heartless fraud. He doesn’t expect to meet a man with a sinful smile and the eyes of a fallen angel—or that a shameless swindler will spark his desires for the first time in years.

Justin feels no remorse for the lies he spins during his séances. His gullible clients simply bore him. Hostile, disbelieving, utterly irresistible Nathaniel is a fascinating challenge. And as their battle of wills and wits heats up, Justin finds he can’t stop thinking about the man who’s determined to ruin him.

But Justin and Nathaniel are linked by more than their fast-growing obsession with one another. They are both caught up in an aristocratic family’s secrets, and Justin holds information that could be lethal. As killers, fanatics, and fog close in, Nathaniel is the only man Justin can trust—and, perhaps, the only man he could love.

••••••••••

REVIEW: AN UNNATURAL VICE is the second installment in KJ Charles’s adult, Victorian, historical Sins of the Cities M/M romance, murder-mystery series. This is journalist and former lawyer Nathaniel Roy, and Seer of London Justin Lazarus’s story line. AN UNNATURAL VICE can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and backstory I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise and plot throughout the series. Some of the events of An Unnatural Vice cross over and run parallel to the events of book one-An Unseen Attraction

NOTE: AN UNNATURAL VICE and the SINS OF THE CITIES series contain scenes of M/M sexual situations and may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from dual third person points of view (Justin and Nathaniel) AN UNNATURAL VICE follows the enemies to lovers relationship between the Seer of London (Medium) Justin Lazarus, and journalist Nathaniel Roy. Nathaniel’s latest assignment is to uncover the truth behind self-proclaimed Seer Justin Lazarus-a proclamation Nathaniel is determined to prove fraudulent and deceitful. But Justin has information that could prove helpful to Nathaniel’s friend Clem Talleyfer (An Unseen Attraction #1) as the group of friends endeavors to find the missing heir to the Taillefer fortune and title holder to the Earl of Moreton. What ensues are Justin and Nathaniel’s attempts to stay one step ahead of the people hired to destroy any evidence of an heir, and Justin and Nathaniel’s growing love between two people whose lives follow different paths towards the future.

The relationship between Nathaniel and Justin is slow to build. Their acrimonious but tepid friendship requires cooperation when Justin is targeted by someone in control; Nathaniel is determined to protect the man with whom he is falling in love sweeping his lover to a secreted location fearing for their lives. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

AN UNNATURAL VICE follows the search for the missing heir, although most of the investigation is behind the scenes as the story line focuses on our leading couple. The requisite evil has many faces but the ultimate villain has yet to be revealed.

The world building continues to look at the friendships and relationships of a group of ‘gay’ men in Victorian, England although AN UNNATURAL VICE primarily focuses on Nathaniel and Justin’s struggle to stay alive. Once again, the tone of the story is not conducive to the era or the time-I was expecting a tighter interpretation of the language e.g. euphemisms, slang, sentence structure, and because of this, the story line reads more modern than historic (see my review of book one). The back and forth banter between Justin and Nathaniel is witty and entertaining. The premise is much more detailed and descriptive than the first installment as the author brings to life the dreary and wretched world of Victorian England; the characters are colorful and dynamic although I would have liked more information about Nathaniel’s earlier years; the romance is seductive and intense. AN UNNATURAL VICE is an entertaining story line; a fast paced and intriguing story of mystery, suspense, romance and love.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

________________

AN UNSEEN ATTRACTION
(Sins of the City #1)
by K.J.Charles
Genre: adult, Victorian, M/M, historical romance

An Unseen AttractionABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 21, 2017

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

Lodging-house keeper Clem Talleyfer prefers a quiet life. He’s happy with his hobbies, his work—and especially with his lodger Rowley Green, who becomes a friend over their long fireside evenings together. If only neat, precise, irresistible Mr. Green were interested in more than friendship…

Rowley just wants to be left alone—at least until he meets Clem, with his odd, charming ways and his glorious eyes. Two quiet men, lodging in the same house, coming to an understanding… it could be perfect. Then the brutally murdered corpse of another lodger is dumped on their doorstep and their peaceful life is shattered.

Now Clem and Rowley find themselves caught up in a mystery, threatened on all sides by violent men, with a deadly London fog closing in on them. If they’re to see their way through, the pair must learn to share their secrets—and their hearts.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: AN UNSEEN ATTRACTION is the first installment in KJ Charles’s adult, SINS OF THE CITY Victorian, M/M, historical romance, murder-mystery series. This is lodging-house keeper Clem Talleyfer, and stuffer (taxidermist) Rowley Green’s story line.

NOTE: AN UNSEEN ATTRACTION contains scenes of M/M sexual situations and may not be suitable for all readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Clem and Rowley) AN UNSEEN ATTRACTION follows two paths and focuses on the forbidden relationship between two men: lodging-house keeper Clem Talleyfer, and taxidermist Rowley Green. The year is 1873, and Clem Talleyfer manages, on behalf of his brother, a lodging house for single men. Enter Rowley Green, the local taxidermist, and the man who has caught the eye of the lodging-house manager. When one of the tenants disappears and is found dead several days later, Clem and Rowley face the wrath of not only the local law enforcement but Clem’s brother as well. What ensues is the investigation into the who, what and why, and the building but forbidden love between two men caught in a game of secrets and lies.

AN UNSEEN ATTRACTION is a slow building story line; a murder /mystery plot where our leading couple find themselves targeted for reasons unknown. As the investigation grows, so too does the realization that the person(s) responsible is all too familiar to the lodging house manager.

The relationship between Clem and Rowley is one of immediate attraction but the fear of the unknown and public scrutiny have kept their relationship at a slow burn for several months. When Rowley invites Clem for an evening out, Clem soon realizes that his attraction to the local taxidermist is one of mutual want and need. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

AN UNSEEN ATTRACTION is, first and foremost, a story of murder, mystery and suspense. Clem and Rowley’s backstories are heartbreaking; family history is something no one wants to share. The slow reveal of clues is well paced; the identity of the person ultimately responsible was (for me) easily deduced early on. The language and text is simple; the tone of the story is not conducive to the era or the time-I was expecting a tighter interpretation of the language e.g. euphemisms, slang, sentence structure, and because of this, the story line reads more modern than historic. The premise is entertaining; the characters are colorful and energetic; the romance is sweet and seductive.

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Reviewed by Sandy

About The author

Follow: Twitter / Facebook / Website / Goodreads /

KJ Charles is a writer and freelance editor. She lives in London with her husband, two kids, an out-of-control garden and an increasingly murderous cat.

KJ writes mostly romance, gay and straight, frequently historical, and usually with some fantasy or horror in there. She specialises in editing romance, especially historical and fantasy, and also edits children’s fiction.

Find her on Twitter @kj_charles or on Facebook, join her Facebook group

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Unsteady (On Solid Ground #3) by Melissa Collin-Review and Book Tour

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UNSTEADY (On Solid Ground #3) by Melissa Collins-Review and Book Tour

Unsteady BAnner

UNSTEADY
On Solid Ground #3
by Melissa Collins
Release Date: April 28, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, MM, erotic, romance

Unsteady

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 28, 2017

Micah Hudson and Jude MacMillian were both lonely teenagers. One the new kid and one the target of relentless bullying, they quickly became friends. But when friendship grew into more, the relationship was too much for either to handle. As their tenuous bond was tested, everything tumbled down, leaving them lonely once again.

A decade later, Micah is on the brink of losing his will to live. Beyond exhausted from lying to everyone, including himself, Micah thinks of the one person who knows his deepest secret. Desperate and alone, Micah makes the only decision he feels he has: he must leave. But his need for closure depends on one thing.

Can Jude make room in his Unsteady life for Micah once again?

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: UNSTEADY is the third installment in Melissa Collins’s contemporary, adult ON SOLID GROUND M/M romance series. This is army veteran Micah Hudson, and elementary school teacher / coach Jude MacMillian’s story line. UNSTEADY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. The reader was first introduced to Micah in an earlier story line.

NOTE: UNSTEADY contains graphic scenarios of M/M sexual situations.

Told from dual first person points of view (Micah and Jude) using present day and memories from the past, UNSTEADY is a second chance story line that focuses on the friends to lovers relationship between former childhood friends Micah Hudson, and Jude MacMillian. Micah and Jude grew up the outcasts: Jude a victim of school bullies, Micah the victim of his father’s rigid demands. Micah was Jude’s protector and guardian, and the man with whom Jude would fall in love. But the bullies that continue to stalk Jude throughout his school life forced our hero to push away the only man he would ever love. Fast forward ten years, where Jude would come face to face with his past- Micah Hudson, an army veteran and amputee looking for a second chance at life, love and a happily ever after. What ensues is the rebuilding friendship and relationship between Micah and Jude, and the fall out when too many lies cover the secrets Micah left behind.

Micah Hudson has been living a lie most of his life-rejected by the only man he would ever love, Micah found army life a way to escape everything he left behind including family and friends, and the truth about his love for a man who pushed him away. But Micah keeps buried a secret that once revealed forces Jude to question his relationship with Micah Hudson.

The relationship between Micah and Jude is one of second chances; a rekindling friendship and romance between two men who have never found love or peace without the other. Jude is an alpha male desperate to keep Micah back in his life; Micah is struggling with his place in the world. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

We are introduced to Jude’s fellow teacher and coach Brandon, as well as Jude’s father George MacMillian, and Micah’s service dog Sarge, as well as a number of students at a sports camp run by Jude MacMillian. The requisite evil reveals the discrimination aimed at our story line heroes.

The world building looks at the fall out of fear, lies, betrayal and mistrust. Micah’s lies by omission surface to destroy the relationship with the man that he loves; betrayal comes from an outside source when their relationship goes public.

UNSTEADY is a story about struggle and pain; heartbreak and loneliness; acceptance and recovery. The premise is dramatic and intense; the characters are broken and anxious; the romance is challenging, provocative and fated. UNSTEADY is an emotional story line of second chances, family and love.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
On Solid Ground
On Higher Ground
Unsteady

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Unsteady Teaser

about the author

Follow: Goodreads / Website / Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

Melissa CollinsMelissa 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.

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Melissa Collins Author Page

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Guarding Mr. Fine (Tough Love #3) by HelenKay Dimon-a review

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GUARDING MR. FINE (Tough Love #3) by HelenKay Dimon-a review

Guarding Mr. Fine

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 14, 2017

In this steamy novel of seduction and international intrigue, two brave men are stripped of their defenses—and exposed to dangers and desires that simmer below the surface.

As an agent with the CIA’s special activities division, Seth Lang lives for risk—and yet he’s stuck playing bodyguard to the U.S. consul general in Munich. Although Seth’s last assignment nearly killed him, babysitting some desk jockey in a suit sounds way too easy. But when he lays eyes on the new top man, tactical expert Rick Fine, Seth’s thrilled to see just how hard this job is going to get. Mr. Tall, Dark, and Quiet has a body worth guarding—and he requires hands-on attention day and night.

Dispatched to a German consulate to expose the murder of his predecessor, Rick finds himself in an extremely vulnerable position. He needs a man like Seth—in so many ways. This mission will inevitably plunge them both into jeopardy, but each new threat only brings them closer. Rick just hopes that he can keep his deepest, darkest secret hidden—or else risk imperiling a relationship they’re both fighting for their lives to protect.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: GUARDING MR. FINE is the third installment in HelenKay Dimon’s contemporary, adult TOUGH LOVE (formerly End of the Line) erotic, M/M romantic suspense series. This is CIA and special activities division agent Seth Lang, and temporary U.S. consul general to Munich, Germany Rick Fine’s story line. GUARDING MR. FINE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary. The reader was first introduced to Seth in book two-The Talented Mr. Rivers.

NOTE: GUARDING MR. FINE contains scenes of M/M sexual situations and mature subject matter.

Told from dual third person points of view (Seth and Rick) GUARDING MR. FINE focuses on uncovering an arms shipment ring with connections to the US Consulate in Munich, Germany. Former consul general Ed Wright’s death was labeled a suicide but for all intents and purposes not everyone believes Ed’s death was a suicide-at all. CIA Special Agent Seth Lang is one of those who suspects Ed’s death is part of something much larger including an illegal arms ring that leads back to the people with whom he works. Enter Rick Fine, temporary US consul general, and the man with whom Seth will fall in love. What ensues is the search for the people behind the arms deals, and the building relationship between Seth and Rick as our couple must stay one step ahead of the threats against Rick Fine.

GUARDING MR. FINE looks at international espionage, illegal arms deals, secrets, betrayals, lies and power. Someone with access to the consul general is using the position of power in an unlawful manner. Seth has been hired to protect Rick Fine but Rick’s is also working to uncover the truth and the people involved.

The relationship between Rick and Seth begins as an anonymous hook up before our couple have been introduced on a professional basis. Seth’s immediate attraction to Rick finds our hero breaking all of his rules to protect the man with whom he is falling in love. Rick is determined to protect Seth knowing he is willing to risk his life to do his job but Rick has a secret, one that if revealed, may destroy his relationship with Seth Lang. The $ex scenes are intimate, graphic, intense and erotic.

We are introduced to Owen Rankin, a civilian and the head of security at the consulate; Tim Craine-a spoiled consular language employee who uses his family connections for career appointments; Ben Rogers, the consulate’s public affairs officer; Alec Drummond, another civilian security specialist with high ranking government contacts; and the women in charge of the CIA’s Special Activities Division Helena Bond.

GUARDING MR. FINE is a story with a bit of an inst-love trope that finds two men struggling with their attraction to one another, and the over-protective alpha-ness of being in charge. The premise is entertaining and spicy; the characters are sexy and colorful; the romance is intoxicating and intense. GUARDING MR. FINE is an intimate story of passion and intrigue.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Mr & Mr Smith
The Talented Mr. Rivers
Guarding Mr. Fine

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Wound Tight (Made in Jersey #4) by Tessa Baily-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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WOUND TIGHT (Made in Jersey #4) by Tessa Bailey-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

Wound Tight Banner

WOUND TIGHT
Made in Jersey #4
by Tessa Baily
Release Date: December 5, 2016
Genre: adult, contemporary, M/M, erotic, romance

Wound Tight

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 5, 2016

When CEO Renner Bastion walks into a room, everyone keeps their distance. Well, everyone but the sarcastic, tattooed, Boston-bred security guard whose presence has kept Renner in New Jersey longer than intended. As if the unwanted attraction isn’t unsettling enough, Renner finds out his protector isn’t as unavailable as originally thought.

Milo Bautista just came out to his wealthy, ultra-confident boss, a man he secretly respects and admires…in more ways than he’ll admit. Worldly, experienced Renner would never look in his direction, let alone share some of that confidence he wears like a cloak, so Milo has set his sights on someone else to be his first.

Until Renner offers him private lessons in seduction.

••••••••••

REVIEW: WOUND TIGHT is the fourth and final? installment in Tessa Bailey’s contemporary, adult MADE IN JERSEY erotic, romance series focusing on the men and women in the blue collar town of Hook, New Jersey. This is CEO Renner Bastion, and US Army veteran/security guard Milo Bautista’s story line-both of whom we have met in previous story lines. WOUND TIGHT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Renner Bastion is the step brother to Samantha Waverly whom we met in WORKED UP (book 3).

NOTE: WOUND TIGHT is a M/M story line with graphic same sex scenarios and situations.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Milo and Renner) WOUND TIGHT focuses on the building but forbidden relationship between US Army veteran Milo Bautista, and CEO Renner Bastion. Renner is a workaholic; a wealthy businessman who came to Hook, New Jersey to save a manufacturing plant that employs a majority of the town’s people. Renner is gay but his attraction to the manufacturing plant’s head of security is strictly forbidden as Renner is unaware of Milo’s sexual persuasion.

Milo’s interest in Renner Bastion goes beyond safe guarding the boss. Milo is a man who is uncomfortable with his attraction to men, and his preference seems to be leaning towards the man in charge. When Milo reveals his deepest secret, Renner offers to ‘aid’ Milo in the art of seduction knowing that his feelings for Milo may only go one way. What ensues is a developing friendship that soon leads to something more permanent for Milo Bautista and Renner Bastion.

The relationship between Milo and Renner begins acrimoniously. Renner is Milo’s boss and Milo’s carefree attitude gets under Renner’s proverbial skin. The two are constantly ‘butting heads’ as Milo insists on protecting the boss from the dark and dangerous life outside of work. It doesn’t help that Renner keeps himself secreted away from the people who work and live in Hook, New Jersey making himself persona non grata to his other employees. When Milo asks Renner to help him get over his fear of seducing a man, Renner hopes that Milo directs all that he learns towards the man, himself. The M/M $ex scenes are intimate and provocative. There is plenty of sexual tension between Milo and Renner.

Most of the previous story line couples play secondary and supporting characters including Samantha Waverly, and her husband Duke Crawford-Duke and Samantha are looking towards the future and adding one more to the population of Hook, New Jersey. I am still hoping that Tessa writes a series focusing on Duke’s four sisters-each recently divorced or struggling in their current relationships.

WOUND TIGHT is an emotional but predictable story line; a sweet romance between two men who struggle with who and what they are. The premise is moving and inspiring; the characters are passionate and encouraging ; the romance is intimate and intense. WOUND TIGHT and Tessa’s MADE IN JERSEY series are a moving and comforting look at a blue collar town and the people who live to love.

Reading Order and Previous reviews

Crashed Out
Thrown Down
Worked Up
Wound Tight

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

About The author

highres-MJB_5140.jpgTessa Bailey is originally from Carlsbad, California. The day after high school graduation, she packed her yearbook, ripped jeans and laptop, driving cross-country to New York City in under four days.

Her most valuable life experiences were learned thereafter while waitressing at K-Dees, a Manhattan pub owned by her uncle. Inside those four walls, she met her husband, best friend and discovered the magic of classic rock, managing to put herself through Kingsborough Community College and the English program at Pace University at the same time. Several stunted attempts to enter the work force as a journalist followed, but romance writing continued to demand her attention.

She now lives in Long Island, New York with her husband of nine years and four-year-old daughter. Although she is severely sleep-deprived, she is incredibly happy to be living her dream of writing about people falling in love.

Connect with Tessa Bailey

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Tempting Tristan (Harborside Nights #3) by Melissa Foster-Review and Book Tour

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TEMPTING TRISTAN : Tristan Brewer (Harborside Nights #3) by Melissa Foster-Review and Book Tour

Tempting Tristan Banner

TEMPTING TRISTAN
Harborside Nights #3
by Melissa Foster
Genre: adult, contemporary,erotic, M/M/ romance
Release Date: October 19, 2016

Tempting Tristan

 

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 19, 2016

Tempting Tristan is a stand-alone M/M romance featuring two sexy, lovable alpha heroes.

TRISTAN AND ALEX

Fresh off the heels of yet another bad relationship, Tristan Brewer is taking a break from men to try to figure out where he keeps going wrong. He knows his biggest fault—he leads with his heart, not his head—and that’s never going to change. But after several introspective weeks, he’s beginning to get a handle on things. That is, until badass heartthrob Alex Wells walks into his bar…

Alex has spent eight years in the army, months in a hospital bed, and far too long hiding his sexual identity. He’s guilt-ridden, damaged, pissed off, and up for a Silver Star for the incident that nearly cost him his life—and kept him from his grandmother’s funeral. But all he wants to do is live the life he’s always dreamed of and forget his stint with the institution that allows but doesn’t necessarily accept.

The chemistry between Tristan and Alex ignites from the moment they meet, and the more time they spend together, the hotter the flames burn. But the closer they become, the more Alex’s walls go up, and when the two walk onto a military base, Tristan finds out Alex’s physical scars aren’t the ones that run the deepest.

••••••••••

REVIEW: TEMPTING TRISTAN is the third installment in Melissa Foster’s contemporary, adult HARBORSIDE NIGHTS erotic romance series- which in turn is part of Foster’s LOVE IN BLOOM series. TEMPTING TRISTAN is a M/M romance story line focusing on bartender Tristan Brewer, and US army vet/artist Alex Wells. TEMPTING TRISTAN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: TEMPTING TRISTAN contains graphic scenes of M/M sexual situations.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Tristan and Alex) TEMPTING TRISTAN follows the building relationship between bartender Tristan Brewer, and US army veteran Alex Wells. Alex’s appearance in Harborside following months of hospital recovery and rehab comes with the grief that he missed his beloved Grandmother’s funeral knowing that he will never get the chance to say good bye. Enter Tristan Brewer, the man his grandmother spoke of so highly, and the man that calls to Alex’s heart. What ensues is a romance that is threatened by the scars Alex carries both inside and out.

The relationship between our leading couple is very sexual; there is an insta-love quality between Tristan and Alex although Alex is reluctant to reveal the details of his two tours in the Middle East. Tristan is a man who has been burned by most of the men in his past but is willing to give Alex the benefit of the doubt and helps Alex accept the man that he has become. The $ex scenes are intimate, intense, erotic and provocative.

There is a large cast of secondary and supporting characters including Delilah and Ashley (Discovering Delilah #2) and Wyatt and Cassidy (Catching Cassidy #1). Tristan’s parents are accepting of their son’s lifestyle and the man that he loves but Alex has difficulty with the US Army’s history and the LBGQT community.

TEMPTING TRISTAN is a decadent story line without the interference of any outside conflict; an engaging and energetic tale about two man who fell in love when neither one expected. Alex’s struggle for acceptance in the military causes some disconcerting issues in his relationship with the man that he loves. The premise is encouraging and romantic; the characters are passionate and inspiring; the romance is seductive and heartwarming. Melissa Foster writes an emotional story about acceptance, recovery and love.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Tempting Tristan Teaser

excerpt

“Can I ask you something? You don’t have to answer.”Tristan shrugs. “Have at it.”

“Why were you taking a break? I get that your ex was a prick, but is there more to it?”

He looks down the street, across the street, and then his hand cruises through his hair as it has so often that I’ve already come to expect it when he’s nervous.

“Ian was a prick, but the rest is going to make me sound like a pussy,” he admits.

“I’ve only known you a day, and I already know nothing can make you sound like a pussy.”

He meets my gaze, and his jaw tightens. He lifts his chin and I recognize the struggle between feeling proud and worrying about looking weak. I fight that battle on a daily basis.

“I give away my heart too easily, and I end up getting hurt.”

His eyes never leave mine, and that trust, that confidence, is the sexiest thing I’ve ever seen.

“I was right. Nothing can make you sound like a pussy.” I slide my hand to the hard ridge of his jaw and lean in closer. “I’ve never given my heart away. That makes you braver than me.”

about the author

Melissa Foster

Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance, contemporary women’s fiction, suspense, and historical fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Her books have been recommended by USA Today’s book blog, Hagerstown Magazine, The Patriot, and several other print venues. She is the founder of the World Literary Café and Fostering Success. When she’s not writing, Melissa helps authors navigate the publishing industry through her author training programs on Fostering Success. Melissa has been published in Calgary’s Child Magazine, the Huffington Post, and Women Business Owners magazine.

Melissa hosts an Aspiring Authors contest for children and has painted and donated several murals to The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC. Melissa lives in Maryland with her family.

Visit Melissa on social media. Melissa enjoys discussing her books with book clubs and reader groups, and welcomes an invitation to your event.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads 

 

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The Talented Mr. Rivers (End of the Line #2) by HelenKay Dimon-a review

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THE TALENTED MR. RIVERS (End of the Line #2) by HelenKay Dimon-a review

The Talented Mr. Rivers

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 13, 2016

HelenKay Dimon’s suspenseful, provocative series of double agents and dark desire continues with a novel featuring two men bound by a dangerous job—and by the cravings they feel for each other.

As the son of an international crime lord, Will Rivers only inherited one thing after his father died: trouble. The Pentasus organization deals in kidnapping and murder, and Will wants no part of the power grab that’s tearing leadership apart. But the only way he’ll be able to escape is with some help from his former bodyguard, Hunter Cain, whose sculpted body and brooding looks keep Will awake at night. Somehow, Hunter has resisted the tension between them . . . until, suddenly, he gives in.

As a German intelligence officer working deep undercover, Hunter has a very good reason to keep Will in the dark about his identity and his intentions. Although the sex is hot, Hunter’s true feelings are a growing liability. Now the only way to save Will from his old life is to push him deeper into danger. But when two strong men are each determined to protect the other, the heat isn’t just combustible—it’s a firestorm.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE TALENTED MR. RIVERS is the second installment in HelenKay Dimon’s contemporary, adult END OF THE LINE romantic, suspense series focusing on international espionage and the intelligence agencies of the countries involved. This is German intelligence undercover operative for the BND (Bundesnachrictendienst) Hunter Cain, and heir to the Pentasus crime organization Will Rivers’s story line. THE TALENTED MR. RIVERS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: THE TALENTED MR. RIVERS contains graphic scenes of M/M sexual situations.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Will and Hunter) THE TALENTED MR. RIVERS continues to focus on the take down of the international crime syndicate known as Pentasus. Several weeks earlier German special intelligence agent Hunter Cain had infiltrated the Pentasus organization working as the personal body guard for the youngest Rivers sibling, and heir apparent to the criminal underworld Will Rivers, but a fiery explosion that killed several members of the organization including Will’s sister and more than likely Will’s older brother Peter, found Hunter on the search for the man with whom he was falling in love. Hunter’s assignment was to gather intel about the Pentasus organization but found himself desperately searching for Will, placing himself and the investigation in jeopardy when he refuses to step aside. What ensues is the building relationship between Hunter and Will, and the set up and take down of those trying to take power and control of the Pentasus organization.

The relationship between Hunter and Will is one of immediate attraction between two people at polar ends of the criminal world. Hunter knows that to get involved with his latest ‘mark’, his heart and his mind may break with what it is he may be required to do. Destroying the man with whom he is falling in love is about to destroy all of Hunter’s personal rules and ethics. Will is a strong, intelligent young man who will surprise Hunter and his investigation team with his ability to take charge when it matters the most. Will has no desire to take over the reins of his father’s organization but that doesn’t mean Will isn’t aware of the players involved. The $ex scenes are intimate, intense and seductive.

The secondary and supporting characters include CIA and SAD agents Zach and Fisher (Mr. and Mr. Smith #1), as well as fellow SAD agent Seth Lang. We are introduced to the requisite evil Reynard Gatt, a man willing to do anything to get what he wants; and Will’s latest bodyguard Ed ‘something’ as he comes to be known, a man whose duty and obligation is two-fold.

THE TALENTED MR. RIVERS is a story of mystery, suspense, betrayal and revenge. The premise is a roller coaster of action and suspense followed by the romantic entanglements of our leading couple, leading back to set up and take down of the Pentasus organization. There are moments of humor when the other agents let it be known that Hunter and Will’s bedroom escapades have been recorded for information purposes only. The premise is intriguing and entertaining; the characters are intelligent, strong, charismatic and intense; the romance is energetic and passionate. THE TALENTED MR. RIVERS is a captivating installment in HelenKay Dimon’s END OF THE LINE romantic suspense series.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one-MR. & MR. SMITH

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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His Royal Favorite (His Royal Secret #2) by Lilah Pace-a review

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HIS ROYAL FAVORITE (His Royal Secret #2) by Lilah Pace-a review

His Royal Favorite

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: August 16, 2016

James, Prince of Wales, is making history. He’s decided to come out to his subjects—and the world. However, telling the truth means exposing his relationship with lone-wolf reporter Benjamin Dahan. Although Ben never wanted commitment, the unexpected depth of his feelings leads him to join James in the media’s harsh spotlight.

When the news story explodes across the globe, Ben can endure the mockery and dirty jokes. But after his tragic past is cruelly revealed, his life begins to implode. Can even his love for James be worth this?

James has it no easier. His revelation divides the country and sparks turmoil within the royal family. He must struggle to defend not only himself and Ben, but also his younger sister, who hovers on the brink of a breakdown that could endanger her life.

Is Ben strong enough to survive the onslaught and stand by James’ side? And will James have to make a choice between Ben and the crown?

••••••••••••

REVIEW: HIS ROYAL FAVORITE is the second installment in Lilah Pace’s contemporary, adult HIS ROYAL SECRET M/M romance duology focusing on the fictional Prince of Wales James, and reporter/journalist Benjamin Dahan. HIS ROYAL FAVORITE should not be read as a stand alone as the story line picks up immediately upon the events of book one –His Royal Secret.

NOTE: HIS ROYAL FAVORITE is a M/M story line and contains some sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.

If you have not read book one, there may be some spoilers in my review.

Told from dual third person perspectives (James and Ben) HIS ROYAL FAVORITE follows James and Ben in the days, weeks and months after James revealed to the world he was gay. As the Prince of Wales, and thusly, the representative for the Church of England, James struggles with the possibility of having to abdicate the throne if the Church deems his relationship with Ben against their laws. What ensues is a story line focusing on the emotional and heartbreaking fall out for two men who found love but may lose one another-in the end.

The relationship between Ben and James waivers in the face of betrayal, media exposure, and a past riddled with loss and tragedy. Although Ben and James profess their love for one another, James is not willing to destroy Ben’s life to save the crown; and Ben may not be strong enough to battle the daily life of a royal consort. Unlike the first installment, the $ex scenes are limited, mostly implied and many fade to black. The focus of their relationship is survival in the face of scrutiny, family dysfunction, controversy, and media rumors and hype.

All of the previous story line characters play secondary and supporting roles. We watch as James’s younger sister’s life implodes, and with Ben’s insistence, James takes matter into his own hands. Ben’s life as a reporter meets with betrayal and trickery; and his past refuses to go away quietly. Uncle Richard’s story line is disappointing-the conflict resolution is met with silence and nothing more.

HIS ROYAL FAVORITE is an encouraging, emotional and energetic storyline. There are moments of heartbreak and betrayal; romance and love; acceptance and determination. Some of the story line premise is familiar-perhaps a reflection of the monarchy in real life-with an intimate look at the destructive nature of secrets and loss. The premise is imaginative; the characters are colorful and passionate; the romance is intimate and fated.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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