I am a huge fan of the Roughstock series. Ever since the first book, Roughstock: Blind Ride, I’ve been hooked on B.A. Tortuga’s cowboys. So it was reaI am a huge fan of the Roughstock series. Ever since the first book, Roughstock: Blind Ride, I’ve been hooked on B.A. Tortuga’s cowboys. So it was really a no-brainer when I noticed that this book was available to review. Ever since Beau and Sam’s appearance in the beginning of the series, I’ve wondered about Beau, the sexy Cajun bullrider, and when I saw that the third book, Roughstock: File Gumbo Season One, was about him and his lover, Sam, I knew I was in for a real treat indeed!
Two-time Bullriding champion, Beau Lafitte is having one of the best seasons of his career. He’s well on his way to win the championship for the third year in a row, making him highly respected bullrider by his peers and a favorite among rodeo fans. For years, he and fellow bullrider, Sam Bell, have been partners. Although, they don’t openly flaunt their relationship to the other cowboys, they don’t try to hide their feelings for one another either. The one thing that Beau has always been able to rely on, is the strong bond he and Sam have for one another, but lately Sam’s attitude is starting to change and this worries Beau.
While Beau is having his best season, Sam is having his worst. Not only is he not winning, he’s been injured several times and is starting to believe that his heart isn’t in it like it used to be. He’s getting tired of living off the road, and longs for them to retire and live happily together on their little farm. To make matters worse, some of the other cowboys are starting to make negative comments about his poor performances and have seriously implied that Sam is riding on Beau’s coattails. Unfortunately for both men, this is starting to put a strain on the foundation that the men have built together. When Sam is seriously injured at the end of the season, Beau must make a hard decision about their careers and their future together.
I loved this book! The intense feelings and bond that Beau and Sam share together was very apparent throughout the book. I adored that Beau and Sam were determined to work through any obstacles that are thrown their way. Not once, did I doubt the dedication and love they feel for one another. Even though they had their conflicts, I understood where both men were coming from, and rooted for them to work out the hard feelings and continued to rejoice in the love that the men have for one another.
Another great thing about this book was the secondary characters. The book starts close to the end of the second book, Roughstock: And a Smile Season 1, so it was really a pleasure to get to revisit the other main characters from the previous books as well. The strong bond of friendship that these men share between them is truly amazing. Not only do they look out for one another, but the obvious friendly affection they have between all of them is really refreshing to read.
It’s also obvious that B.A. Tortuga really knows a lot about the hard life of a rodeo cowboy. This makes the book read realistic, and the descriptions that are written made me feel like I was in the arena with them. Plus the easy writing style and fast paced storyline made this a very quick read. There is plenty of action, just enough angst and tons of hot sex written in this book and all of the books written in this series before it. I also want to point out that even though the main cast of characters in this series are homosexual, they seem to live by the ‘Don’t Ask Don’t Tell’ code, and keep the true nature of their relationship more on the down low. This is tragic, but certainly understandable. I’ve noticed that as the series has progressed, they are starting to reveal the true nature of their relationships to their close friends. It’s been really great to see the main couples start to be more openly affectionate with one another, at least within the small circle of friends. There were several times I found myself laughing out loud at some of the dialog and camaraderie between the men and I teared up a few times as well.
I do think Roughstock: File Gumbo Season 1 could be read as a stand alone book, BUT I do recommend that the books are read in order to understand the dynamics between the cast of characters. Plus, once you’ve read this book, you’ll be hooked, and want to read the first two anyway.
There are three core books in this series: Roughstock: Blind Ride Season 1, Roughstock: And a Smile Season 1 and Roughstock: File Gumbo Season 1. Plus, there are other small shorts that have been published about these characters as well. I just looked at the author’s website and I’m so excited to read that BA’s got Season 2 in the works and should be published later on this year!
Pets, Book One: Sparkling by Mike Shade is a fast-paced and creatively interesting book from start to finish. I was immediately captivated by both of Pets, Book One: Sparkling by Mike Shade is a fast-paced and creatively interesting book from start to finish. I was immediately captivated by both of the main characters and the sweet and loving relationship that develops between them as the novel progressed. I’m super excited that this is the first book in a series and I’m waiting on pins and needles for the next book to be released!
Tynde is the second son of a King. At his home planet Alaquis, and because he is the second son, and that he has some special gifts, he’s been expected to become a priest and become a seer to the noble royalty. Tynde has accepted his fate for years. He’s a sweet, intelligent and gentle man who spends most of his time reading and preparing himself for his destiny in the Priory.
When Tynde’s older brother, and the future King is kidnapped, Tynde is shocked when he is commanded by his father to travel to Kion, where his older brother is suspected of being taken there. Tynde does as his father asks, but he knows he is way out of his element. The two planets are nothing alike, and Tynde is not used to the culture and rather fierce people who live there. Even Tynde’s smaller stature and dark good looks is a rare commodity there. When Tynde literally runs into the gorgeous and wealthy, Koss, he’s immediately taken under Koss’ care.
Koss can’t believe his good fortune to meet such a man like Tynde. His utter innocence and sweet nature immediately captivate Koss and he knows in his heart that Tynde is the man for him. Koss claims Tynde as his Kundi, and literally sweeps the naïve and innocent Tynde off of his feet.
But, Tynde and others believe that he is destined for the Priory. Will Koss be able to convince Tynde to decide what’s best for himself or will be forced to join the order and miss out on the once in a lifetime love that’s been given to him. Will Koss and Tynde be able to find Tynde’s lost brother…and does his brother really want to be found?
I loved this book! I thought that Koss’ stubborn and patiently dominant nature was perfect for the sweet and submissive Tynde. As a well-matched pair, it was wonderful to watch them fall in love and nurture the feelings that blossomed between them. Koss is very sweet and loving with Tynde. Even though his guidance has a tendency to overwhelm the sheltered Tynde, Koss is always loving, patient and is very supportive of Tynde and his special gifts.
I can’t wait until the sequel is released! Although the book ended on a happy note, there are many unanswered questions that will hopefully be answered in the second book. It will be interesting to see what will happen when Tynde’s father, the King, finds out about Tynde’s choice to stay with Koss, and there is the unanswered mystery about what happened to his brother.
When Milo Santiago was truthful about his homosexuality to his family and friends, his entire world was turned upside down. Not only has his parents pWhen Milo Santiago was truthful about his homosexuality to his family and friends, his entire world was turned upside down. Not only has his parents practically disowned him; his friends from his hometown have turned their backs on him too. Since Milo is only eighteen, he’s trying to save some money so he can attend college and have the independent life that he craves. He’s working full shifts as a waiter, and living with his older brother, Dante.
One afternoon, Milo spots an older, handsome man sitting alone at the restaurant he works at. When one of his fellow co-workers notices Milo’s attraction to the handsome customer, he dares Milo to approach the man and ask him out. Since Milo thinks he doesn’t have anything to lose, he approaches the attractive man and fumbles badly by giving the man a terrible come on line. The man looks insulted, gives Milo a few choice words, and leaves without a second glance. Milo feels not only humiliated for being turned down, he’s disappointed as well.
As soon as Milo gets off of work, he knows he needs to do something to get his mind off of being rejected. Since one of his friends work at a local hotel, Milo’s friend allows him to swim in the pool at night. Milo knows this will be a great way for him to blow off some steam and hopefully help him forget the handsome man at the restaurant. Milo is in the middle of swimming some laps when someone else gets into the pool with him. To his utter disbelief, it is the gorgeous man who shot him down at the restaurant just hours before, and it looks like the older man has changed his mind about Milo’s earlier proposition.
Campbell “Cam” Brooks is just in town for a few days. When he realizes the hot young man in the pool is the same one that approached him at the restaurant, it doesn’t take a lot of persuasion for him to change his mind about hooking up with Milo. Cam has no intention of getting serious with anyone; especially with a man who is eight years younger than he is. But, as Cam and Milo start spending time together they both realize that they have more in common than they thought, and there is something very special growing between them.
But, between money issues, fear of commitment, the age difference and being in a long distance relationship make both Cam and Milo realize that there are many obstacles that can keep them from having a relationship together. As both men work through their own set of insecurities and issues, they have to decide if having that once in a lifetime love, is truly worth all the hard work and taking a chance for after all.
I loved this book! Milo does a lot of growing up in this book. In the beginning of the book he was a semi-immature eighteen year old, but as the story progressed; his character slowly evolves to a more mature and well balanced character. At first, I wasn’t sure about Milo being with the older and more mature Cam, but the sexual chemistry and the emotional pull they had between them, soon made me see that they not only brought out the best in one another, I felt they truly belonged together as well.
Ms. Young is a master at writing erotic moments between her characters. Not only are the sex scenes intense and beautifully written, the emotional bond between Milo and Cam jumped off of the pages and into my heart. I soon found myself rallying behind both Milo and Cam, and I rejoiced when they found the happiness they deserve to have together.
Reckless Heart is the fourth book in the ‘Reckless’ series. I think this book can easily be read as a stand alone if you haven’t read the entire series. I do recommend that the series be read because all of the main characters do play a part in the final book, and the series itself is truly an amazing one. Even though I was ecstatic that all of the characters in the “Reckless” series had such a solid and happy ending in the epilogue, it was also a little bittersweet for me too. I truly hated to say goodbye all of the characters I’ve grown rather fond of, and to see this wonderful series come to an end.
The Replacement Guitarist by Lori Toland was a pleasure to read. The heroes are both sexy and very easy to like. The storyline moved along quite quickThe Replacement Guitarist by Lori Toland was a pleasure to read. The heroes are both sexy and very easy to like. The storyline moved along quite quickly and smoothly. Once I started The Replacement Guitarist, I couldn’t put it down. This is the first book I’ve read written by her, and it won’t be the last.
When Blaze Shinozuka was asked to audition to win the honored position as the lead guitarist for the spoiled and very famous singer, Cassie, he thought he’d hit the jackpot. Blaze is comfortable with the knowledge that he’s a talented musician. As a recent musical college graduate, music has been pretty much been the focus of his young life. In many ways, Blaze is quite naïve. Although he’s learned to stand up for some of the things he’s believed in, he’s basically lived a pretty sheltered life.
Blaze has never had a relationship before. Although Blaze has been attracted to both sexes, he’s never felt an emotional/physical pull of intense chemistry with anyone he’s ever met before. So, when he goes to the audition and meets Cassie’s manager, Jason Stockton, he immediately overwhelmed by the intense attraction between them.
Jason Stockton has been cleaning up Cassie’s messes for her entire career. She’s been notorious about sleeping with her lead guitarists. Her love ‘em and leave ‘em attitude has once again gotten Jason auditioning for a replacement guitarist. The moment that Blaze Shinozuka walks in the door Jason is not only floored by the sheer talent the younger man has, but there is an attraction between them that seems to be calling to his heart.
As the men become aquainted and fall into a tentative relationship, there are misunderstandings and people who are working against them being together. Plus, with Jason’s issues of being scorned by a lover in a past and Blaze’s fear of coming out to his family as having a man for a lover, they must learn to trust in each other and the love that develops between them.
I really liked this book. The physical chemistry between Blaze and Jason was scorching hot. Plus, I also really enjoyed how in many ways Jason and Blaze are polar opposites of each other. Jason is older and more conservative, while Blaze is young and more carefree. I definitely appreciated that although they almost fall in love at first sight, they have to truly work to make their relationship succeed.
When I finished this book, I felt like this was just the beginning of their story and possible life together. There are many unresolved issues between them. Plus, with Blaze being young and inexperienced I wonder if that will be a problem for them in the future. There are times he has fantasies about women and I admit that bothered me a little. Don’t get me wrong, the book ends happily, but I’m not sold that they truly have a future together. I have a feeling that they will still have a long road ahead of them.
I've read several books by Stephani and I like her work. I liked this book, but it wasn't one of my favorites by her.
I liked Nash. He was a loveable I've read several books by Stephani and I like her work. I liked this book, but it wasn't one of my favorites by her.
I liked Nash. He was a loveable character and easy to identify with. I did have some issues with Tyler. I liked him. He had a lot to deal with in a short time. Death of his best friend, injured while on duty, discharge from the Marines and so on. I understood his hesitation to be openly gay, but I'm wasn't totally sold that he was suddenly comfortable with coming out and I'm not really sure he was truly in love with Nash. They had some definite chemistry together and Tyler and Nash had obvious affection for one another, but I wonder if they really will live HEA?
I thought the secondary character, Colby, stole the show. The blonde HIMBO has a lot more going for him than meets the eye. I'm looking forward to reading his story and finding out how Tyler and Nash continue to build on their relationship.
I thought Call Me Sir, too was a good book. It has a Stormy's familiar storyline and heroes, but since I think her books are a guilty pleasure for me,I thought Call Me Sir, too was a good book. It has a Stormy's familiar storyline and heroes, but since I think her books are a guilty pleasure for me, I didn't mind that much. ...more
There is no way I can possibly top what both Ivan and Eyre have said about this book. I will say that the "Only" series is one of the best homoerotic There is no way I can possibly top what both Ivan and Eyre have said about this book. I will say that the "Only" series is one of the best homoerotic romance series I've read in a long time.
When I met Calvin in Barnaby's story, I honestly didn't know if I would like him or not. At face value, he comes off kind of cold and uncaring so I was a little bit doubtful that I would warm up to him.
How wrong could I be?
As usual, Shawn's characterization is amazing. She somehow took a character that most people would find gorgeous, but unlikable, and turned him into a man who is warm, intelligent, vulnerable and loveable. I'm shocked that Calvin has ended up being one of my favorite characters that she has written.
Of course, who could resist the sexy and alluring Matt? I loved his determination to plant himself firmly into Calvin's heart. If you haven't read this series and you're a fan of M/M romance, you should treat yourself with this amazing series. I really can't wait until Drew's book:)...more
I love AKM Miles stories. She writes characters that's easy to relate to, and care about. I was thrilled when I noticed she wrote a sequel to one of mI love AKM Miles stories. She writes characters that's easy to relate to, and care about. I was thrilled when I noticed she wrote a sequel to one of my favorite books of hers, Love Jamie, and immediately had to read it.
I was not disappointed.
Love Grant, still has the heart and sweetness that Love Jamie has. It's been a year since Grant and Jamie have been together and all is going well. Both Jamie and Grant's careers are looking up, they are incredibly happy and things are going great until they start being harassed by a man from the past.
This book was a fast paced, easy read. I adore Jamie and Grant. Their relationship continues to grow and strengthen as each day comes. I really enjoyed revisiting them and getting to experience their beautiful relationship again.
Shawn Lane fans rejoice! Her newest book, Still the One, is a continuation of one of my favorite couples Malcolm and Dusty. We first met them in her hShawn Lane fans rejoice! Her newest book, Still the One, is a continuation of one of my favorite couples Malcolm and Dusty. We first met them in her hot and sexy Christmas story, The Best Gift, which brought cheer and happiness to my holiday season.
Still the One begins five years after The Best Gift left off. Malcolm and Dusty have had good years together, but their relationship has come to a crossroad. Both men are dedicated not only to each other, but to their careers. When a once in a lifetime opportunity comes for Malcolm, he must leave Dusty to pursue his dreams. But, as time wears on the couple, is their love strong enough to beat the separation and the odds that are stacked against them?
I loved this book! This is a prime example why Shawn Lane is a favorite author of mine. The chemistry between Malcolm and Dusty is steamy hot! Her sex scenes are always turn on the air condition worthy! I swear I had to refill my iced tea twice while reading this book! Even more than the hot sex is the wonderful dialog and obvious affection and love Malcolm and Dusty have for one another makes Shawn stand out as one of my favorite M/M authors writing today.
Still the One could be read as a stand alone book, but if you haven't read The Best Gift, do yourself a favor and read it. You will fall in love with this couple just like I have!!
Andrew Grey is one of my favorite authors. His book are a must buy for me because they make me feel all kinds of emotions when I read them. There is sAndrew Grey is one of my favorite authors. His book are a must buy for me because they make me feel all kinds of emotions when I read them. There is something about the way he connects us with his characters and brings us into their lives that really resonate with me.
Love Means Courage is a difficult book to review. I don't want to give much away about it so I've decided to just relate my feelings about this wonderful book without getting too much into the storyline.
Love Means Courage is actually the prequel to Love Means No Shame. I read Love Means No Shame first, because it's actually the first book in this series. Knowing what happens to Len and Cliff years down the line left me feeling bittersweet and melancholy throughout this book. I'm not saying it took away my enjoyment of reading their love story, but it definitely made an impact on my feelings toward Len and Cliff, and how much I enjoyed their story.
I can't recommend both Love Means No Shame and Love Means Courage enough. I do think they needed to be read in the order Mr. Grey intended, so don't cheat and try to read this one first!
There were several times throughout the book I found myself tearing up and cheering Cliff and Len on. I loved them. The connection they have with one another and the determination they have to be together and build a stable and happy family with each other and young Geoff was wonderful; despite the obstacles in their path and the things they had to overcome made me love them that much more.
I loved this book in general and I look forward to reading many more stories written by Mr. Grey in the future.
There are several things that went through my mind when I read Brier’s Bargain by Carol Lynne. I was excited to see that it wasn’t going to be a ménag There are several things that went through my mind when I read Brier’s Bargain by Carol Lynne. I was excited to see that it wasn’t going to be a ménage based relationship, and the premise looked interesting because Brier is mentally challenged. I hate to admit that Carol does stick her neck out there when it comes to writing about less than perfect heroes. She has a way of making me feel for them and have a special place in my heart for them because they are so unique and heartfelt.
The story was good. I liked Brier and Jackie. I thought that some of the issues they go through as far as Brier needing to be more independent for himself and from his brother was very realistic. Jackie was very good with Brier. He is encouraging without pushing him too hard and it was obvious that they really loved each other throughout the book.
The problem I had with the book is when I bought the book from Total E-bound books; it was listed as first in a series. There isn’t any indication that this book continues from another series from another publisher. If I had known this I wouldn’t have read it out of context like I did. From the first chapter I felt somewhat lost. It’s obvious that there was a lot going on before Brier and Jackie’s story and I felt like I was always one step behind because I hadn’t read the previous book. I thought this was somewhat unfair. It took away from the story and I was disappointed because I was lost throughout the book.
What stinks is I really love a series and I really liked this book. I just hate being left behind.
This book is hard to rate. I liked Brier and Jackie, but I would have enjoyed them much more if I hadn’t been lost on and off throughout the book. I decided to rate it a 3 because of that. I’m planning on trying to find the first book, Bram’s story, and read it (if it’s not a ménage) and maybe after I read it, I’ll change my rating. I do think that Total E-Bound publishing should have let readers be aware that the Bodyguard series is a spinoff of another one, but that is just my opinion. ...more
Andrew Grey’s books are becoming an automatic buy for me. I really enjoy getting to know his characters and he never disappoints me with his interestiAndrew Grey’s books are becoming an automatic buy for me. I really enjoy getting to know his characters and he never disappoints me with his interesting stories and sweet romance.
Bottled Up is no exception.
Sean’s life took a change for the better in one day. He saved homeless teenaged Bobby from being attacked behind his store, not knowing that just being around the sixteen year old boy would bring out parenting instincts he had thought he’d never had. While filing the police report he became acquainted with Officer Sam Davis, who is not only the nicest law enforcement officer he’s ever met, but he’s also the sexiest one, too.
When Sean finds out that Bobby has been lost in the foster care system, Sean immediately takes young Bobby in. They form a trust and bond with one another and soon both Sean and Bobby not only become like family and Sean takes measures into fostering Bobby and even adopting him.
While Sean and Bobby start forming a father-son relationship, Sean and Sam become close as well. Sam seems determined not only to have Sean in his life, and Bobby as well. As Sean and Sam get to know one another, Sam finds out that Sean has a tragic and somewhat mysterious past, that when is revealed just makes Sam love and want to protect Sean even more.
But, someone is out to kidnap Bobby, and Sean and Sam must deal with keeping Bobby safe, as well as Sean’s past, before they can become a family that all three of them long to be.
I really loved all the characters in this book. The character growth and development both Sean and Bobby experience after truly being accepted and showered with love changes both of them. All three characters are heroes in there own right, for what they overcome to become a family.
I loved Bottled Up. If you are looking for great characters that is easy to care about and a sweet and loving romance, Bottled Up is for you.