Yin and Yang Reviews

Because he doesn't look 'gay enough' he could be killed

2011-05-26T12:54:00.001-06:00

I got an email today and I was appalled that this is happening here in Canada—because Alvaro Orozco doesn't look "gay enough". This was said by his immigration case adjudicator. WTF? Seriously this is some messed up sh*t and I'm completely and totally revolted that for this reason, this young man—the same age as my oldest daughter—can be deported back to Nicaragua where he is in danger of being killed by his own father... because he is gay.

The article is here, the petition is here.

Kathy Kozakewich

* * * * * *

Change.org

Start an Online Petition »

* * * * * *

Links:

http://news.change.org/stories/alvaro-faces-deadly-deportation-to-nicaragua

http://www.change.org/petitions/let-alvaro-stay-in-canada

Thanks for taking action to save Alvaro.

Outstanding blog -- Words Matter

2011-04-19T20:59:00.000-06:00

Today author Rebecca Leigh had on her blog, guest and fellow author, Johnny Miles.

Johnny blogged about how words matter and the utter power behind them. Do yourself a favour and check it out. I guarantee that you will be as impressed and overwhelmed as I was.

http://blog.rebeccaleighromance.com/2011/04/tell-all-tuesday-special-edition-words.html

Christmas Eve at the Powers That Be Cafe by Xavier Axelson

2011-04-14T12:31:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve at The Powers That Be Cafe by Xavier Axelson

My rating: 4½ of 5 stars

Christmas Eve at The Powers That Be Cafe is a delightful little story! This is Xavier Axelson's first romance and I for one am eagerly awaiting the next one.

In 40 pages this author took me right into the world of The Powers That Be Café; it was a step back to a time I've never been, but after having read of Nat and his place I feel as though I've seen it all through his eyes.

There the efforts of the servicemen and those they're leaving behind to pretend a cheerfulness that cannot totally over-ride the reason that they are all there in the first place. It hangs in the atmosphere; right in the very air they all breathe. Tears, desperation, moments in which to make memories, all of it in an effort to try to forget—for awhile—that these young men are headed off to war with no guarantees that they will be returning.

Mr. Axelson captured this all beautifully.

Then there's Nat; a man who's lived here, if not his whole life, then a majority of it. He's always seeing people arriving and people leaving, but there's no one that stays. Living in a place where there is always someone going or coming and yet, for Nat, there is nowhere else. This is what he knows, this is what he lives. And he's starting to feel the aloneness of his life.

His meeting with Kent is a life-affirming experience, even for those of us that are taken, for a brief moment in time, someplace most of us have never experienced.

Painting with words such vivid pictures is something I usually equate with an author with many books under their belt. But with Christmas Eve at The Powers That Be Café, Xavier Axelson has shown that what it really takes is talent and a facility to be aware of those who with whom we share a world. Nicely done.

Originally posted at Dark Divas Reviews January 22, 2011

http://www.darkdivasreviews.com/?p=3762#comments

View all my reviews

Dutch's Boy by Xavier Axelson

2011-04-12T14:09:00.000-06:00

Dutch's Boy by Xavier Axelson
My rating: 4½ of 5 stars

Dutch’s Boy was, at the end, a deeper story than I had expected; which is rather silly, because Xavier Axelson’s first book I’d read did the very same thing. It’s very nice to know that this seems to be a facet of his writing; it’s definitely something I enjoy a lot.

In this book, Harry is tired of sitting and doing what his father tells him. He has dreams and plans that aren’t going anywhere and the frustrations this twenty-year-old is feeling are nigh onto exploding… and taking no prisoners. Thank heavens for his friend Reb; although, this too, is becoming a problem for Harry. Not Reb himself, but Harry’s feelings for his best friend. They have been changing and now friendship is the least of what Harry wants. But he knows he has to leave before he does or says something that will irrevocably change their relationship. This is the very last thing he wants.

It’s Reb’s support that allows Harry to break free; inertia is not just for objects, but something that we all have to deal with and be able to do something about. And this is a big part of what Reb does for Harry. Of course it helps that his mother is behind him too. She knows that her son is capable and that, as an adult, he needs to leave and strive to live his dream.

What makes Axelson’ book Dutch’s Boy so special is that in only 80-some pages he takes us from a beginning where Harry’s sense of hopelessness is almost overwhelming to an ending that satisfies on all levels. There were a couple of twists that I could not have foreseen, and at the time I couldn’t understand where, if anywhere, the author—or rather Harry—was headed. But once again, Xavier Axelson delivers not only a very enjoyable romance, but a story, that to me, has a deeper meaning: that taking chances to live a dream can bring the biggest rewards of all… and that is very special indeed.

[Originally posted to Dark Divas Reviews - http://www.darkdivasreviews.com/?p=4660]

View all my reviews

Rick Reed - The 9th Circuit just ruled on Prop 8. What can you do?

2011-03-24T15:37:00.000-06:00

If you do nothing else today, then head on over to Rick Reed's blog and see just what you CAN do. Being Canadian I'm not sure that I could *do* anything, but I'm going to be looking around for an opportunity to DO *something*... Yeah, I kinda went on a rant, then lost it all. Which is probably all for the good.

http://rickrreedreality.blogspot.com/2011/03/9th-circuit-just-ruled-on-prop-8-what.html

Jessica Verday: Being Gay is Okay

2011-03-21T15:30:00.001-06:00

I found the above through a tweet -- YA author refuses to change her m/m love story to m/f per publisher request and pulls out of anthology. Bravo! http://ping.fm/Ih2yL -- by Rick Reed and was definitely intrigued to see what the story behind it was.

There's not much more to say because both Rick's tweet and Jessica Verday's blog post say it all.

Candy G. by C. Zampa -- a Winner first time out!

2011-03-02T10:56:00.003-07:00

I'm fortunate enough to belong to a number of groups where the inimitable C.Zampa also hangs out. I've been one of the group entertained by the lovely lady with a wry sense of humour as well as a sense of fun. She's also a very caring person who makes you feel as though you do matter.

So when I found out that her first book had been picked up for release I was so happy...both for her and for me. I love to read and Zampa's writing has always struck a chord within me.

Last night I happened to be on the computer immediately after her book went live [okay 'happened' might be a bit of a stretch; I was haunting Dreamspinner 'cause I knew the book would likely pop up at midnight EST - happily I'm on Mountain time so it was 10:08 when I nabbed it *grin*]. So I did what any other self-respecting book whore would do: I bought it! And then started reading it...and kept on reading it.

Alas, I did have to put it down when my eyes would no longer focus... not as young as I used to be y'know... but when I woke up this morning the first thing I did was pick up where I'd left off. By that point I was just over halfway through its 210 pages... and I couldn't get through it fast enough. But I'm very happy to say that after finishing Candy G. I'm even more in awe of Zampa's talent...and I knew it was going to be good!

I will be reviewing it, but honestly I need to let it simmer for a bit. The emotions were boiling and now that I'm done I can let them percolate through and hopefully, I can find the words to do Candy G. justice. But I will say one thing right now:

Candy G. will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride. You don't know what is coming around the next corner but you do know that it will continue to thrill and excite and tantalise.
The emotions are strong, the characters vital and alive and when you get off the ride, you may feel a little unsteady, but you'll regret that it went by so fast and you'll want to jump on again right away!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Description:
What kind of man drives a bulletproof Mercedes and carries a high-powered pistol in the glove compartment along with his boyhood teddy bear? Candy G does, that’s who. Once the exclusive attorney for the most powerful drug lord in San Antonio, he turned his back on Teirso Flores and walked away. But at what price?

Moving on with his life despite the threat of Teirso’s revenge, Candy meets gorgeous, streetwise Carlos Alvarez, and thus begins a passionate love affair rife with danger, secrets, and specters from the past that just won’t let go. When truths are revealed, will the one thing that brought their worlds together be the test that strengthens their love or the knife that severs their bond forever?

Who: C. Zampa
What: Candy G.
Where: Dreamspinner Press
When: March 2, 2011
How: 210 pages

Buy Here

[http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=2204]

G.A. Hauser's Strangers With Candy

2011-02-13T22:59:00.000-07:00

Strangers with Candy by G.A. Hauser
Perfect Strangers Series
Publisher: OmniLit/All Romance Ebooks
Genre: M/M, Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Length: 8710 words

Buy Here

Summary: Some temptations are too delicious to ignore…
IRS employee Gareth Witherspoon spies a man, alone at a nearby table in a coffee shop on Valentine’s Day. Something about the foreigner calls to him and in an uncharacteristic leap of faith he impulsively slips the man a box of candy.
Urie is new to the United States, but he’s no stranger to heartache. Since arriving in Los Angeles he’s been lonely, isolated, and in desperate need of friendship. Gareth’s gesture touches his heart and Urie finds himself throwing caution to the wind.
All bets are off and anything goes when the two men spontaneously become lovers. Could it be Urie has found his soul mate in the City of Angels?

Kalyko’s Review: Oh I loved this story! I think it was just because Urie and Gareth were so much alike under the skin and that, taking the chances they did, they ended up with their hearts’ desire. A sweet and heartwarming tale that is perfect for the buildup to Valentine’s Day!

Being party to Urie’s thoughts and feelings adds a depth to this story that I hadn’t really expected. We’ve all been lonely, but to feel, as he did, that he didn’t belong and that he would never have what his heart yearned for was so poignant. So when Gareth made the first move, the hope that started to build in Urie was incredibly touching. And to discover that Gareth too had little to no hope for a happy-ever-after, just made the development of what happened between them that much more beautiful.

G.A. Hauser has, once again, taken a fairly simple story-line and added so much emotion and personality to it that you can’t help but be taken in. And if she were ever to write more about these two men, I’d be very happy to indulge myself once again. Strangers with Candy is sweet, but not achingly so…just the right touch with which to celebrate love.

Rated 4½ Ravens by Kalyko!

Originally posted on Blackraven's Reviews

Books, books and more books... and how they saved my life...Literally.

2011-02-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

     Anyone who's been here on my small little personal space on the 'net knows that I like, no LOVE, to read. In fact reading has been a constant in my life since I can remember. It's also helped me through 20 years of undiagnosed depression--from about the time I was 10 until after my third child was born... at almost 30. Long, long time. And while it was never out-and-out full-blown depression it's enough to say that when I was finally treated and the medication took effect, it was as though someone had flicked a light switch. I honestly could not believe how, one morning, it was though the sun, for the first time that I could remember really shone. I could feel in myself that there was a weight lifted off and even now, over 20 years later, that moment is still almost as vivid now as it was then.
     It's an astounding thing to realise that the life I had been living was only a shadow of a life. One of the first things I thought was that I couldn't believe it; that *this* was the reason that my sisters and brothers were able to do so much more. It was a truly life-changing experience.

     Okay, you're probably wondering just what all this has to do with my love of reading, right? Don't worry, I'm used to that...I have a facility for going off onto tangents and getting lost somewhere, but I promise that this is only background...probably more than you ever wanted to know, but still.... *grin*

     The title of this post may sound a little exaggerated but it isn't. It wasn't until a few years after my A-ha moment that I realised that the reason much of my life had been spent in books--and I do mean in books--was that it was the way in which I coped. It was what allowed me to actually live--however much in the shadows it was--my life. It was my anchor, a way in which I could build up my reserves so that I could get up in the morning.

I was an honours student all through school; it was another way that I managed to channel everything.
After I graduated I worked at Imperial Oil in their computer department for 6½ years; a transfer to Calgary in 1979 led to my eventually meeting my husband.
I met the man who, 28 years later, has been a major part of my life and with whom I built a family with our four amazing children.

     But what I find most amazing now, at the age of 51 going on 52 this summer, is that books have become a big part of my life in a totally new and unexpected way.
I started reviewing books back in 2007 at eHarlequin.com. I joined the community and found a whole new world where there were people who, like me, loved books. I was astounded and in seventh heaven.

     In the time since my initial foray into the world surrounding books, I've become a reviewer for five (yes, 5!) different review sites, I worked for a time for an epublisher as a Social Networking Coordinator and I began proofreading for yet another. And just over a month ago I was hired to work as an Assistant Editor in Chief for the latter company.
Can you say dream come true? And at least five years sooner than I ever hoped!

     So because of books I've returned to the outgoing and afraid-of -nothing five year old I used to be. The one that I can't remember, but have heard many stories about over the years. So yes, I truly believe that books--in part--literally saved my life; certainly my sanity.
And yeah, okay for those of you shaking your heads and thinking that sanity and Kathy just do not go together, I admit that normal is not something to which I lay claim...but for me this is a wonderful normal and I embrace it.

Reality Shift 2: Filtration System by Jo Ramsey

2011-01-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

I was extremely fortunate to be asked to review Filtration System, the second book in Jo Ramsey’s Reality Shift series. I say fortunate because I loved the first book—Connection—and couldn’t wait to find out what happened next to Shanna and Jonah.

I have to say that Ms. Ramsey’s second book is just as enthralling, just as amazing a story as the first.

The events in Filtration System take place a few weeks or so after Connection. Shanna and Jonah’s lives continue on mostly as before. But where Shanna previously had no friends—or at least didn’t think she had friends—Jonah is now firmly entrenched in the position. While it may appear that Shanna is the sole beneficiary of the relationship, Jonah too has found that having a friend adds something special. Even while he is able to put behind him the reactions of his fellow students and still feel good about himself, for Shanna this is a totally new experience. Things at school are pretty much the same for her, except that now she has someone there with whom she can talk and spend time, but the rest of her life is still awful. Things at home are no better and we can see from her low self-esteem just what the toll has been on her. Shanna’s relationship with Jonah is a major plus in her life especially with her overbearing, controlling and abusive mother and negligent father. My heart goes out to her; thank heavens for Jonah and his friendship.

Shanna is learning to trust Jonah even more than herself… although there have been some small improvements there as well. She knows what she needs to do and is willing to put up with the resultant pain. It’s freeing for her.

As soon as I started reading Filtration System I was thrilled to find that the first person point-of-view this time is Jonah’s! I liked him so much when we saw him from Shanna’s POV, but to know how he’s feeling and what he’s thinking just increases my respect for him a hundred-fold. He’s an old soul in the body of a 16 year old and, correspondingly, has a maturity far beyond most of his peers. He’s spiritual and solidly anchored in reality, even if his reality is different from most of the rest of the world.

The change in POV not only expands our knowledge of both Shanna and Jonah, but it also allows us a greater understanding of what all is going on around them: I found it utterly fascinating. Ms. Ramsey’s voice for each is as individual and unique as are Jonah and Shanna and I am very impressed at how clearly she is able to differentiate between them. She did a fantastic job on delineating their personalities.

I can easily envision what Jonah means when he’s talking to Shanna about energies, channeling and spirit guides. Do I believe? To misquote Shakespeare—there truly is more in heaven and earth than ever dreamed of—this says it all. And when it comes to the discussion of autism, Jo Ramsey speaks with the voice of experience. What she has to say and how she describes it echoes what I’ve learned. Her knowledge that those with autism cover such a wide range of abilities comes through loud and clear.

Filtration System is not a lighthearted story by any means: this is not only due to the aspect of possession and evil, but what is going on in Shanna’s life as well. It is a story that will make you feel and certainly make you think, and it may quite possibly open your mind to possibilities of things beyond what you know or think you know. The Reality Shift series could very well shift your idea of reality, or at least begin the journey.

Filtration System, while labeled a YA novel, is a stellar book for adults as well: Jo Ramsey takes us into high school and our pasts. She’s nailed the characters, the setting and the atmosphere. Not an easy place or time to be… but in this series she gives us all hope. If you’re a fan of Urban Fantasy, Young Adult or just a riveting story that you won’t soon forget then I have a recommendation for you: Filtration System: Reality Shift 2 by Jo Ramsey is a winner in any category in which it’s placed and it’s a story that should, by all rights, become a YA classic.

Kathy K.

----------------------------------------------------

Description: Jonah Leighton never expected to have a close friend, especially one he met at his school, where he’s usually either picked on or ignored. A few weeks after meeting Shanna Bailey, he’s realized that she’s a kindred spirit. Intelligent, funny, and interested in the things he can teach her, Shanna is the first person with whom Jonah’s ever been comfortable sharing his knowledge.

However, Shanna’s frequent injuries cast a pall over their friendship. Jonah suspects that Shanna’s mother abuses her, but without proof, he can’t do anything. And his concerns about Shanna take a back seat when he becomes aware of a threat to our universe: An entity from another reality wants to cross over into ours, and the resulting energetic backwash will vaporize our world.

Genre: Young Adult, Metaphysical / Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Jupiter Gardens

BUY HERE

* * Originally published on Reviews at Ebook Addict
(http://www.ebookaddictreviews.com/2010/10/08/reality-shift-2-filtration-system-by-jo-ramsey/)

The Black Prism by Brent Weeks

2011-01-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

5 Stars - "Honestly it took me awhile to sit down and read this first book in Brent Weeks' Lightbringer trilogy. I was afraid that it wouldn't live up the the Night Angel books that I completely loved.

But I worried needlessly because, not only is The Black Prism an outstanding story, I love that this world is completely and utterly different from that of Night Angel.

Gavin Guile is an intriguing character, one that I know we will continue to learn more about as the series progresses; but what I've seen so far has got me firmly on his side. There are so many others that like as well; Kip, Karris, Corvan, Liv and Ironfist are only the beginning and I'm sure that before I've finished the second book--whenever that may be--that there will be others just as appealing."

Just rambling...

2010-12-03T23:30:00.000-07:00

It's been a month-and-a-half since I was last here. Some of that is due to the fact that for over two weeks our computer was infested--and I do mean infested--with a very nasty virus.
It probably wouldn't have taken so long if my wonderful hubby hadn't been earnestly doing anything and everything he could do to eradicate said virus. The man's much more patient than I am... I'da taken it in to get fixed after a couple of days.

But we got that fixed and out of the way...finally! Once I got back online, I spent a couple of weeks trying to catch up on all the stuff that had piled up while I was on enforced hiatus. *Whew*
And now things are changing over at one of the review sites where I can be found and for the last few weeks I've been helping to get things moved over. Oh yeah....

And now it's heading into the Christmas season and I've done NOTHING to get ready. I've got most of my shopping done... well, except for my all-gone-from-home adult children... and what to get them; well hubby the other day suggested we give them all money. :-)

I've got on tap Sloan Parker's Breathe... and between that and Ethan Day's Life in Fusion I'm torn... and then there are the reviews for the sites I review for... Someday soon I'll be reading both Sloan's and Ethan's books... all I can say is it better be VERY soon!

Fat Girls - DVD

2010-10-17T22:54:00.001-06:00

Saturday evenings I go to my youngest sister's to pick up her laundry--otherwise it would cost her $50 a month that she doesn't have. I've been doing this for a few months now and what's been a lot of fun is that we will watch a movie together. We're making inroads into my James Bond collection--poor girl had never watched anything 007! *gasp* Cripes, I've been watching the movies for as long as I can remember... although probably not when they first started coming out... I'da been only around 3 or 4. And we've gone through some of her Star Trek movies... although she says that there are eleven... hmm, I only know about the original five or six. But that's okay, I'm a mild trekkie too.

ANYway... lately I've been taking some of my gay movies to her place as well and wow... my sister thinks just like me! Scary thought actually since everyone in the residence already thinks we're twins, even though I'm 5 years older. But anyways, it's another link between us and it's one that I'm enjoying immensely.

So this past Saturday--hmm, guess that was last night--we watched Fat Girls. I'd seen a preview for it and it looked really good, as well as being different. I'm not only a book slut, but I'm pretty whore-ish for movies and CDs as well. Yeah yeah....

And once again, back to the point.... *sigh*
So, for anyone that's not heard anything about this movie, let me fill you in:

Blurb [from back cover]: In a small Texas town, Broadway geek Rodney and plus-sized Sabrina have loads in common. They dig who they are. They don't care what other high-schoolers think. And they're both hunting for the perfect guy. But when they find their hunky dream dates, will they have the courage to strut their forbidden love at the Graduation Dance?

This hilarious, heartrending journey of self-discovery in small-town America is a testament to growing up very gay, very big or just very different.
______________________________

I must say that I enjoyed it; it's definitely not a high budget film, but it has loads of character--as well as characters--it's fresh, funny and it has a message that even I, long past the age of high school angst, found to be worthy of repeating, but not here. No way am I going to ruin the ending... or even the middle.
Ash Christian--actor, director and writer--did a marvelous job and his cast-mates were wonderful as well.

If you're into quirky, feel-good and very enjoyable movies, then I have a recommendation for you. :-D

A timely blog... but then any time can be the right time.

2010-10-06T00:33:00.000-06:00

I got an email the other day and yikes! I lost it for a few days, but I found it again and, having just started going through the various blogs listed in the article thought wow! This is definitely an article that I think of interest; Just going through the first blog had me all over the map emotionally... and rightly so.

Coming out, says the straight married mother of four adult children, has got to be, in many cases, utterly devastating. And honestly, it's not for nothing that homeless teens and teen suicides can very often be directly linked to homosexuality and the reactions of family, friends and other important people in a young adult / teen's life.
This is not taken from any studies, it's completely apocrophyal... but I've read enough to know that the 'coming out' experience can be brutal; and for teens who, at probably THE most difficult time in their life emotionally, mentally and physically just by virtue of being a teen, face rejection and the like... frankly the devastation just about kills me. It certainly has me wanting to seriously kick some ass!
*whew* Okay, deep breaths.

Now that I've calmed down - and gotten off the side track - let's move onto the point of this post. Really, it's not about me talking... well, okay I guess some of it is. It's called venting and it's something that... crap....

Anyway; the article is called 50 Brave Blog Posts About Coming Out ( http://www.psychologydegree.com/50-brave-blog-posts-about-coming-out) and honestly these are some very telling blog posts and definitely worth the time. So give them a look and see what you think.

Kathy

Scissor Sisters - Fire With Fire

2010-10-03T01:33:00.000-06:00

With a name like Scissor Sisters I really didn't expect much, but holy cats this band is great! I love the vocals too... gonna do some more exploring of yet another band. Yippee!

Enjoy... I know I sure did.

Well dang! Looking around the 'net

2010-10-02T11:47:00.000-06:00

can be fascinating... as well as a teeny bit of a time-waster. But sometimes I come across something that just... WoW!

Such is a blog post by Alex Beecroft, author extraordinaire and one whose books have space on my bookshelves--at this point virtual, but they're still there.
The point that I was trying to make is the post that you can--and SHOULD--read here, especially if you're a fan of M/M romance...or heck any romance for that matter.

And really, the points made by Ms. Beecroft and many of those who commented are more than a little applicable to nearly every facet of life and society. Who knew that a discussion about books could lead to this?
Well, I for one... after all reading is a HUGE part of my life and who I am. In fact I'm such a big fan I review for three different sites--Ebook Addict Reviews, Dark Diva Reviews and Blackraven Reviews--and I'm also involved in doing a little bit here and there for a couple of epubs.
Books--and their offshoots--and entirely too addictive, but all in a good way might I add.

Anyway, if you have the time, please check out Alex Beecroft's blog; it's based on M/M romance, but its boundaries go far beyond this one element... and all I can say is BRAVO!

Oh and the link: http://alexbeecroft.com/2010/10/rolling-stone-magazine/

My friend Carol has this blog see....

2010-10-02T09:54:00.001-06:00

... and I had goosebumps running up and down my spine while I was reading it!

For writers--like Carol and so many other amazing people--and readers--like me who are addicted to the aforementioned writers--this is an awesome blog... and it just goes to show how powerful the written word is.

Carol, lady, you did AWESOME!!

Hugs sweetie... and may I say that I want to be first in line when your book is released! Oh and I won't say no to an autographed version either. *wink*

Oh, yeah... link: *eyeroll* http://authorczampa.blogspot.com/2010/10/ill-be-seeing-you.html
You'll be glad that you stopped by!

Congratulations and Happy 1st Anniversary to Devon Rhodes!!

2010-09-21T11:06:00.000-06:00

I may not have read all Devon's books yet, but most of 'em are sitting waiting for me to get around to them. Honestly I'm going to have to take a couple of months total holiday just so I can catch up on all the books languishing in my poor beleaguered TBR.

But I digress. Today is the First Anniversary of the release of Devon Rhodes first story--Remarkable Restraint--in the Games in the Dark anthology over at Dreamspinner Press. I highly recommend that you treat yourself to the entire antho as well as Devon's second release, A Pint Light. Then there's her Christmas release--Silver and Gold--from Dreamspinner Press' 2009 Mistletoe Madness; this is a wonderful, wonderful Christmas story.
Even better, head on over to Devon's blog here and comment for a chance to win one of her books! She's offering 4 chances to acquire one of her books... you won't be sorry I can assure you of that!

Bryl Tyne - Lost (The Zagzagel Diaires #4)

2010-08-18T23:43:00.003-06:00

With each one of Bryl Tyne's entries in the Zagzagel Diaries I'm sure that each one is my favourite, or that *this* one is the best. I can't help it; Bryl writes with so much heart, so much... magic!... that I just, each and every time am sure that the latest is the best.
Well, I think this time I'm right. Even now my eyes are welling up with tears--sad tears but also happy. This fourth book--Lost--in Bryl's series about the angel Zagzagel and his charges... and his disobedience of Papa's orders, left me feeling blessed. It may seem an odd word choice, but it's the way that I feel.
I really don't know how Bryl manages, time and again, to come up with these jewels, but each and every time the story glows with a beauty and a uniqueness all their own.
And I know I've said this before and I will say it again, Bryl Tyne is one of my very favourite authors and you don't have to go any further than Lost or any of the three previous Zagzagel Diaries stories--Forsaken, Denial or Desperate--to discover just why I hold this author in such high esteem.

Not too often that I get so emotionally involved with the stories I read... it may appear that it happens often, but between the fact that I read a lot and that there are very few stories that I would give a 10 out of 5 (and I'm not confused...confusing yes, but confused, nope).... the number of stories that I feel this strongly about is quite rare. But so far, all four stories in the Zagzagel Diaries easily reach this peak.

And to be honest, I'm almost afraid of what is going to happen in books #5 and 6... but whatever it is, it will be stunning and once again, I will be buying the book as soon as I notice that it's been released.
________________________________

Book Info:
Bryl R. Tyne; Lost: Zagzagel Diaries #4; Untreed Reads; August 2010

The angel Zagzagel finds himself under direct orders from Big Papa himself to do his job and not interfere with fate’s outcome for his charge Charley. Charley’s had her own share of issues and loss in her life, and Zag’s pretty sure she deserves a break this time. Unable to follow the orders from Above, Zagzagel begins to realize that he may not be able to fulfill his duties much longer. Can he help Charley find closure and peace in his own way, or is it time to give up his wings? This is Diary Entry #4 of 6.The End Is Near

Buy HERE

S.J. Frost - Keys to Love (#3 in Conquest series)

2010-07-20T14:32:00.001-06:00

I've been following S.J. Frost's Conquest series from the very beginning with the introduction of Jesse Alexander and his band Conquest. When Jesse met Evan Arden it was the beginning of a whole new life for both of them. *sigh*
A wonderfully sexy and erotic romance, Conquest conquered my heart; actually it was Jesse and Evan that conquered my heart, but as the story was the vehicle then... yeah, there I go again. *eyeroll*

In the second book of the series, No Fear, we get more of Jesse and Evan's story now that they're a couple and out... but we're also privileged to continue to get to know the other members of the band, primarily Julian Forrester and Kenny Cooper, as well as Jesse's older brother Brandon. And there is any amount of potential for romance and in No Fear we are treated to a sensually rich and compelling story. These guys sure do grab at the heartstrings.

So you can imagine my excitement as the release date for Keys to Love got closer and closer. And all along the way we were teased and tantalised with excerpts and little bits of the story. Talk about making you sweat! But it was all worth it.
Needless to say when I got my copy I sat down and read until I couldn't read any longer then started it again this morning. No WAY was I going to wait any longer.

In the first two books, Julian was a likeable character but not someone that we knew very well and, for me, he was rather eclipsed by Jesse especially. Let me say now, with no hesitation, that that is no longer the case! Julian is now another member of Conquest who's taken place in my heart and I'm intrigued at the way S.J. Frost was able to bring forth the light that had been hidden throughout the first two books and, at the same time, I know it's just because Julian wasn't ready yet. Of course, Julian needed a reason and Morgan Chandler was definitely what Julian needed to make a move.

Let me just say that Keys to Love is a beautiful and very satisfying continuation of the series and that both Julian and Morgan came to life before my eyes. And once more my appreciation for the talent of S.J. Frost and all the others who are connected with the book is unbounded. This is, in my humble opinion, a female's M/M romance story, insofar as the emotional connection and communication between the characters is concerned, but I think that for anyone that has the heart of a romantic, Keys to Love is a wonderful and very enjoyable read. And I'm eagerly awaiting the next story that will come to us from S.J. Frost whether it be these wonderful rocker boys or someone else's turn... just don't keep us waiting in suspense too long... PLEASE???

* * * * * *
S.J. Frost; Keys to Love (#3 in Conquest series), MLR Press; July 19, 2010

For two years, Julian Forrester's been playing keyboards and piano for Conquest. Having left behind a classical career, he's reached a level of fame like he's never dreamed. But fame and fortune can't bring him the one thing he wants most; love.

Morgan Chandler spent years teaching students to love music until budget cuts forced him out of a job. With family debts rising, Morgan accepts a job as a roadie for Conquest. He thinks he'll hate it with one exception -- he'll be close to Julian.

Can the two find the right music together that will lead them to the Keys to Love?

Buy HERE

Dante's Cove -- Guilty pleasure indeed!!

2010-07-10T11:42:00.001-06:00

Oh hell, I bought Dante's Cove, seasons 1 through 3, because between the various trailers and clips that I've seen around the 'net and bits and pieces I've heard about the series I just knew that I'd like it.
I mean, what's not to like about a series that combines magic; evil vs good; innocence; sexy, sexy guys--and yeah the girls are not bad either--and, among all the steamy sex scenes there's even romance! What is NOT to like?
IMHO nothing, nothing at all!

Okay yes it's over the top and is often campy... did I mention that sometimes I have a quite devolved sense of humour? Mmmm... okay that's part of it. While Dante's Cove may be seen as more camp than real story, it's still a fun way to spend some time; at least for me it is.

I ordered the series and got it earlier this week. I watched the first couple of episodes but didn't have enough time to just immerse myself in the experience. Until this weekend. *grin*

Last night I started watching at about 9:00 pm and, at 11:07 Saturday morning, I still haven't been to sleep. Let me tell you that for me, that's unheard of! But I've watched all three seasons and really? I'm ready to watch it again... although this time I'm more inclined to savour the experience. Oh am I ever....

My favourite character throughout the series? Toby played by Canadian actor Charlie David... may I just say OMG, he's so freakin' cute!!! But the entire cast was fantastic. The changes in characters over the seasons was really quite well done; I certainly had no problem with any of it... although I did miss Nadine Heimann--Van--in season three. Oh well....

But even so, I really enjoyed the entire series; of course there was a bit of a cliffhanger at the very end of season 3 and dammit I really want to see it resolved. But, as the fourth season was supposed to start filming last year, sometime in the fall of 2009, and so far nothing's happened I guess I'm just going to have to wait in limbo.
But damn it I really want to know what happens to... oh, right no spoilers.

Well crap. If you want to find out just what the cliffhanger is, then I suggest that you do yourself a favour and indulge in a marvelous and sexy guilty pleasure--Dante's Cove!

Bryl Tyne - Desperate (The Zagzagel Diaries, #3)

2010-07-04T12:48:00.001-06:00

Once again Bryl Tyne's newest story in The Zagzagel Diaries - Desperate - series packs a whallop that hits fast and hard and leaves you--okay, left me--reeling. But then in this series I've come to expect it. Even so my heart totally ached for Nick and as I read his story I was fighting the tears and even writing the review has my eyes stinging.
With The ZagZagel Diaries, Bryl Tyne has shown once again just why this author is one of my favourites. There is so much raw emotion that enfolds us while taking us on many an unforgettable journey; truly outstanding!
Oh... one other thing - as soon as I know that Bryl's got another story out I'm there... and I read it right away too.
* * * * * *

BOOK INFO:
Bryl Tyne; Desperate (The Zagzagel Diaries, #3); Untreed Reads; June

Description: Coming to terms with who you are can sometimes make you take desperate measures. The angel Zagzagel returns in this third entry to the series to help his charge choose love over murder.

Buy HERE

Bryl Tyne - May Day

2010-07-04T12:47:00.004-06:00

I just finished reading May Day by Bryl Tyne and I'm almost bawling... but all in a very good way!
I'd read an excerpt from May Day awhile ago and knew that, as always, this would be a great story... and it was! But what I didn't expect was the direction in which it went, and THAT is what has me fighting tears... happy tears of course.

Kyle and Ryan - wow! I don't know a whole lot about them, but it doesn't matter. What does matter is the obvious friendship between them and their desire to be with Ed. No way am I going to say more except that you will want to RUN, not walk--figuratively speaking--and get yourself a copy. Because I'm telling you now, you won't expect what happens and you won't be able to put the book down without really connecting with these three men. A more unlikely trio? Not to be found... but memorable? Oh YEAH!

* * * * * *

BOOK INFO:
Bryl Tyne; May Day; Changeling Press; July 1, 2010

Description: His forty-ninth birthday approaching, Ed is expecting nothing more than his usual stiff drink and an anonymous fuck in the back room of Yancy's Crossings. What he never expected was to be picked up by two college students and taken for a ride that would change his life forever.

Buy HERE

Bryl Tyne - Denial (The Zagzagel Diaires #2)

2010-07-04T12:25:00.002-06:00

Deena's story in Denial is another winner by Bryl Tyne in The Zagzagel Diaries series and once again I'm in awe of how quickly I was drawn to Deena. Of course Zag is a guardian angel beyond compare - always ready to step over the line if one of his charges needs a more personal touch.

Zagzagel really is all heart and I love how he gets right to the core of whatever pain is causing his charges so much distress.

If you've never read anything by Bryl Tyne, what are you waiting for? The stories are fresh, rich in emotion and always sure to satisfy on a deep and enduring level.

* * * * * *
BOOK INFO:
Bryl Tyne; Denial (The Zagzagel Diaries, #2); Untreed Reads;

Description: The guardian angel Zagzagel returns to save another of his charges, this time a young woman selling herself on the streets instead of saving herself for love. This is Book 2 of The Zagzagel Diaries series.

Buy HERE

Bryl Tyne - Forsaken (The Zagzagel Diaires #1)

2010-07-04T12:19:00.004-06:00

I am really looking forward to more stories from The ZagZagel Diaries. Bryl Tyne is an author whose work I always enjoy; the characters that people Bryl's stories are interesting and people that I can care for; regardless of the length of the story.

Forsaken is very short, 9 pages, but it holds a wealth of emotion; heartache, pain and ultimately acceptance. It's another of Bryl's books that I bought as soon as I realised it was out... and, as always, it's a real treat.

* * * * * *

Book info:
Bryl R. Tyne; Forsaken (The Zagzagel Diaries, #1); Untreed Reads; March 26, 2010

Description: An uncoventional guardian angel attempts to keep his gay charge from committing suicide, while wrestling with his own personal issues. This si the first in the Zagzagel Diaries series.

Buy HERE

Bryl Tyne - The Zagzagel Diaries

2010-06-30T21:23:00.003-06:00

Bryl Tyne with the Zagzagel Diaries series has created amazing and extremely powerful stories. So far the series is up to three books with, I believe, another four planned? Something like that. All I can say is that in these, to date, three very short stories we are taken to a point in each person's life where they are on the verge of self-destruction.
Each of them has come to the point in their life where they have to face that they're gay; each story deals with another emotion that LGBT youth must deal with.
With a spare narrative style we are taken along with guardian angel Zagzagel as he takes matters into his own hands and, going against the wishes of 'Papa', appears to his charge. Each story so far has left me reeling and I've found that I go back to them over and over. My heart is definitely with each of the souls that Zag is determined to not only save, but help them to go that one step further wherein they can actually begin to live.

These stories aren't long, but you won't notice; there is so much in each one that I get utterly caught up in what's happening. Not only do I feel the emotional turmoil, but I can *see* so much of what Bryl describes. This is only part of the reason that Bryl Tyne is one of my favourite authors.

Oh... one other thing - as soon as I know that Bryl's got another story out I'm there... and I read it right away too.
----------------
The Zagzagel Diaries published by Untreed Reads.

Julie Anne Long with Giveaway over at Borders True Romance Blog

2010-06-28T13:17:00.001-06:00

Julie Anne Long's latest release I Kissed an Earl is out tomorrow, June 29. Visit her 'release party' today at Borders True Romance Blog; one commenter will win a great prize!

Guest Blogger, Julie Anne Long with Giveaway!

Jaime Samms - Spinning ... Another winner!

2010-06-21T13:51:00.001-06:00

I've been a fan of Jaime Samms' work since oh heck... last fall? I first *met* up with her on one of Ethan Day's Gay Days and when she provided us with a couple of excerpts I went straight to the bookstore. No TBB list for me! Needless to say I was an instant fan and that's not abated one bit. Each and every story always opens up for me another facet of human nature, what it is that makes us tick, makes us unique. Her stories are some that I will never tire of because there is always something new to be found in the pages.

Spinning is just such a story. Even with only 62 pages, Jaime's able to give us enough background to explain the new, and definitely not so wonderful, world in which the story is based. Earth of the future is quite bleak, but for Ken it's nothing more than a reflection of the sense of aloneness and loss that he's experiencing. Losing the man he loved has torn his heart apart and left him floundering. He has no goals, no desire and no reason to keep on. Except for Mikko.
Out of a sense of...what exactly I'm not sure...Ken's contacted his one-time lover and constant, Mikko.

Mikko, wow! He knows Ken inside out and far better than Ken knows himself. And it's fascinating how Mikko takes control; and the more I read the more I admire and respect him. He's not trying to *fix* Ken's problem, he's working to give Ken his life back and there were a few times where I found myself sniffing back tears... or at least trying to.

Spinning is a beautiful tale of love - lost and found again. We're also given a peek at a life that would, on the face of it, be horrifying. But with the right person at your side and something to work for, it can be an oasis.

Not your run-of-the-mill story, and you have to go with the flow, but it's a Spinning will reward you over and over. I've read this short story at least three times already and when I need a little pick-me-up it's one of those that I'll turn to. Definitely goes a long way to showing just why Jaime Samms is among my favourite authors!

* * * * * *

Spinning by Jaime Samms
Publisher: Pink Petal Books
Genre: Gay Male, Urban Fantasy
Length: 62 pages (pdf)
Buy Here

Summary: Ken has fallen in love twice in his unnaturally long life. He's spent the rest of it trying to forget what falling out of it feels like. Not even the end of civilization has distracted him from his own misery, and now, desperate and achingly lonely, he calls the one person who's never hung up on him.
Mikko lost Ken once, letting life get in the way of love, and ever since the day Ken ran, he's been trying to track him down. He's honed his skills over the years, tracking Ken through the morass of men and ugly affairs, waiting for the chance to make things right.

Ken thinks his messy past is a secret from Mikko, and is too ashamed to admit any of it. Mikko has secrets of his own, things he's discovered about their very nature he's sure Ken's not ready to hear. Back together, after years of cat and mouse, Ken has to learn to trust a man he knows isn't telling him everything, and Mikko has to figure out how to fix something his own negligence might have destroyed beyond hope of repair.

Jo Ramsey - Connection ... Excellent, excellent story!

2010-06-10T11:12:00.003-06:00

I've had Connection by YA author Jo Ramsey sitting in my TBR for far too long, but I finally was reminded that I had it and made a point of reading it. That was on the 7th and I'm still thinking "Holy hell... I want the next book NOW!" From the very beginning I was enthralled and yes, that's the perfect word to describe my experience. And, now that I've finished, I've actually just bought the print version as well.
This is one of those books that I want to have in any and all forms available. And I heard from Jo Ramsey that the next book will be out this fall with a third slated for March 2011. I can hardly wait!!
But yeah, I'm going to have to. *grin*

Shanna is a fourteen year old girl whose life has been anything but pleasant; she's a loner, has extremely low self-esteem and is dreading the beginning of high school (although here, high school starts in grade 10, for Shanna it's grade 9. An extremely difficult time of life in any case.) My heart goes out to her in so many ways - as a mom I just want to take her in my arms and tell her that while life may suck rocks at times, this is not a permanent condition. Unfortunately she's not getting that at home.

But a funny thing happens at her new school. She's still a loner, but she's also always been an observer and what she sees is far more than most people. And she has more people in her corner than she can comprehend.

If you like stories where the characters learn and grow; where there's more than what the eyes see and there really can be things that go bump in the night; if you enjoy stories about friendship and adventure or even if you're just a fan of YA Urban Fantasy, then I have a recommendation for you!
Run, don't walk to Pink Petal Books and buy yourself a copy of Jo Ramsey's Connection.
___________________________

Book Info:

Jo Ramsey; Connection (Reality Shift, Book One); Jupiter Gardens Press; January 2010

At the start of high school, Shanna Bailey doesn’t imagine her life will change. She’s always been the one everyone else puts down, even her own mother. Shanna is positive high school will be no better. But when she meets Jonah Leighton, everything changes. Though most other kids make fun of and even fear Jonah, Shanna finds him to be kind and thoughtful, and he amazes her with the things he knows. Even more amazing, he wants to teach her what he’s learned, and he wants to be her friend.

When Kaylie Sturbridge, one of the popular crowd, starts acting strangely, flipping out in school and shouting about a dark thing following her, her friends shun her. Only Jonah seems to know what’s going on, and he persuades Shanna to work with him to help Kaylie. But can the two of them rid Kaylie of the entity that wants to take over? And can Shanna trust herself enough to do what Jonah needs her to?

Buy HERE - ebook / print

Patric Michael - Conway's Curse

2010-06-04T13:42:00.001-06:00

Patric Michael is another of my favourite authors; the man can write like nobody's business and, at some point in his stories, he usually has me in tears... but they're ALWAYS the good kind!

However, in his latest release - Conway's Curse - there's not a tear to be found. Did I miss them? Nope... 'cause I was, for the most part, laughing too much.

Regardless of the story that Patric writes, one thing is always constant - he can get us so completely and totally involved with what is happening on the pages that we, okay I, often forget about anything else. And for someone for whom books have been a salvation over the many, many years I've been reading, that is still a marvel. It also goes a long way to explain why he's a favourite.

And the cover for Conway's Curse is wonderful and very, very well suited to the story. Just looking at Tion and Kail -- Tion in the towel and Kail in the leaves -- is enough to make me want to jump back into the story. But actually I've already read it enough that I can recall just about everything that happens... the next best thing to reading it.
__________________________________________

Book info:
Patric Michael; Conway's Curse; Dreamspinner Press; June 2010

Summary:
It's while walking along a quiet road that Tion and Kail unexpectedly collide with Conway, a misguided man on a quest to resolve a potentially terrible truth: he's cursed with bad luck—bad luck that transfers to Tion and Kail in a most unexpected and inconvenient way!

Now they must aid Conway on his quest. Along the way, they'll meet duped villagers, a frighteningly ravenous "woof," and their only hope for salvation: a reluctant warrior wizard named Wylde who may be able to bring the trio, and himself, to an extraordinary happy ending.

BUY Link

Moira McCain - Wishes

2010-06-03T09:34:00.001-06:00

This is Moira McCain's first story and I jumped on it as soon as I knew it was available; I then sat and read it immediately... it was wonderful! I laughed, I raged - and wanted to kick Sid's a$$ for him - and then smiled... perfect!

Part of Dreamspinner Press' Summer Daily Dose titled Midsummer's Nightmare: Things That Go Bump in the Night, Wishes is a romance with lots of misunderstanding, hardheadedness and two wonderful men both looking for love and never, ever expecting to find it. Being wolf shifters there had never been a male-male mating... but love will always find a way. And really, although Wishes is anything but a nightmare there are definitely things going bump in the night. Enter Kitty.

Kitty is soooo much fun. I loved her interactions with the guys, but especially with Sid. At least Teigan is a little more amenable to dreams coming true and the impossible becoming possible. And for a short story Moira sure manages to inform us as to the background without overdoing anything. So, yes I'm very happy to read this first story and I'm very much looking forward to many, many more! Congratulations Moira... you Rock!

------------------------------
Book info:
Moira McCain; Wishes; Dreamspinner Press; June 2010

Summary:
On the night of the werewolf mating holiday, Peraphay, Teigan arrives to escort Sid to his unwanted bride. Teigan and Sid are both gay, and they believe what their pack insists on: they will never have mates, much less each other. But the fates step in, and a small spirit in the form of a cat shows up to convince them that wishes can come true.

BUY Link
________________________________________

BTW, the cover is another of Paul Richmond's and I love it... his covers are fun, a little bit naughty and always a visual treat... so YAY!

Carol Lynne - and my catch up week (or two)

2010-05-31T13:17:00.001-06:00

Okay I admit it, I'm terrible at keeping up with some of my favourite authors! Partly because there are so many of them, but also because, while I do read - a lot and often - my day never has enough hours to do as much reading as I'd like. Oh say about 15 hours a day; straight reading time... uh, maybe I should rephrase that 'cause a LOT of my reading is not straight. *grin*

Anyway.....

Yeah, I've had the last four books in Carol Lynne's Men in Love series in my TBR for months. The last time I did a CL catchup was... uh, last fall? That'd be 2009... I'm hoping it wasn't the summer 'cause then it's just been way too long since I sat down and read any CL... and my TBR still has a few of her books - all newer series - sitting there just waiting to get my attention.

So yes; my catchup on the Men in Love then the Bodyguards in Love series as well as the three latest Cattle Valley tales is complete.... Indulgence? You bet, but soooo worth it!

Oh and I was sure that I hadn't yet read Ms. Lynne's Stepping Stones only to pull it up; and while I had read it, it was just too good not to spend a while with Declan and Donovan... oh and Mark. I cannot forget about Mark!

So my list, with mini-reviews, is as follows:

Stepping Stones - Heartbreaking to begin with, followed by hot and ultra-sexy man-lovin' and a romance that will melt the hardest heart!
Arm Candy (CV14) - Finally getting to really know Mario and Asa was a luscious treat.. and oh my, I do love the men from Cattle Valley!

Recipe for Love (CV15) - I really didn't see how Jay and Erico would ever come together, but once again Carol Lynne displays her storytelling mastery! And may I say... I LOVE JAY!!!!
<<<< I absolutely fell in love with Jay; first here and then in the book. What a sexy & amazing man!
Firehouse Heat (CV16) - Leo and Sammy; definitely a hot couple! And their story was touching... and now I have to wait? I need Zac and Jakob's story AND Neil and Ben's... soon please!!?
Riding the Wolf - Day and Eli... werewolves are absolutely scrumptious and the story for these two men is awesome. Definitely a book to re-read!
Open to Possibilities (MiL3) - I do so love a good ménage, and Gabe, Rex and Boone are a wonderful and totally sexy trio. Oh and the story around these three? Stellar!
Closing the Circle (MiL4) - I really didn't see this coming... uh, no pun intended. But WoW! Good thing I like ANY kind of romance - m/m, m/f, m/m/f, m/f/m, m/m/m, m/m/m/f, m/f/m/f/m and any and all combinations thereof. Still having hot flashes... and NO! I'm not at that time of life quite yet, thankyouverymuch. But really? Jake, Cree and Jenny with Remy and Cory? HOLY CATS people!
Going Against Orders (MiL5) - Oh my I thought my heart was going to break... good thing that I know Carol Lynne knows how to write beautiful romance. Mac and Nicco were apart for far too long... but I think they just needed to have Amir to make them complete. *Smokin' babe, totally smokin'!*
Tortured Souls (MiL6) - Bram and Declan? Wow, these two sure fought it, but it all worked out... but honestly? Bram, Thorn and Brier went through total hell... it's about time that Bram had some loving in his life... and Declan is just the man for him!
Reunion (MiL7) - Okay, I really jumped the gun with this one.... I actually bought Reunion first, then discovered that it was seventh in a series. Can you say 'quick trip to the bookstore?' And oh it was soooo good reconnecting... but of course I had just been with all the characters so it was a great continuation. And an excellent segue into Carol Lynne's Bodyguards in Love series.

Brier's Bargain (BiL1) - Brier's story is second only to Bram's for inherent heartbreak, but it's also, in many ways, a gentler or perhaps 'happier' story overall. Brier and his Jackie are an amazing duo and they're perfect for each other. Brier definitely has my heart.

Taming Black Dog Four (BiL2) - OMG! I really could not get enough of Jack, Lobo, Carlo and Renaldo. These four are not just hot enough to sear the pages, they're enough to make my heart to go into palpitations! These men have gone through hell and it's so freakin' beautiful watching them find their way back together. This is just as sexy and I expected it to be... what really surprised me was the strength of the emotions involved. I also really enjoyed the secondary romances... heartbreak there too, but all works out in the end.
Seb's Surrender (BiL3) - Until his story with Jared, Seb was more of a background character, more so than any of the other men in the series. But Jared is the pnly one who could breach Seb's walls. And Jared.... My heavens what the man went through... but to see him finally - or for the first time ever - find himself and to actually be able to see himself as a worthwhile person is testament to the power of love.
I Love Rock 'n' Roll' (BiL4) - Okay I lied... I guess Seb wasn't quite the most background character; Archer definitely fills the bill there. But he sure as heck makes a big impact with Kiefer / Jimmy! I hope that we get to see more of these two in books to come... 'cause they're dynamite together!

Feels so Right - This is Austin and Tony's story and yes, while everything happened between the two of them extraordinarily fast, it was also hot as all get out... love these two together!
I love this cover... very sexy. >>>>>
Sex With Lex - same...

Friends & Family

2010-05-17T21:00:00.002-06:00

Not only a funny, funny movie but also heartwarming, sweet - well it was! - and a real treat.
The blurb is what got me enough that I had to buy it:

' Stephen and Danny are a hip Manhattan Gay couple who have it all, until a surprise visit from Stephen's parents threatens to blow the boys' big secret. The secret? Not that they're gay - but that they are hit men for the mafia! Since Stephen's dad is an FBI agent, the boys are frantic to keep him in the dark. They enlist their fellow mobsters to pose as gay waiters at the faux catering company Stephen "owns" so they can host a party for Dad - with hilarious complications!'

This will definitely be a movie that I watch time and again... and again and again; I'll definitely never tire watching it.

If you're a fan of romantic comedies with some very intriguing and laugh-out-loud twists I strongly urge you to try Friends & Family. If you're anything like me, you'll love it!

I got my copy from TLA Video; love this place!

D.W. Marchwell - Comfort

2010-05-12T23:02:00.000-06:00

4½ stars - D.W. Marchwell excels with his novels, but he also does an amazing job with his short stories. In just a few pages he introduces us to, then gets us involved with, his characters. And he always leaves us utterly delighted. And while I would love to have more story to read, I can never figure out just how Mr. Marchwell could do it. The story may be short but it is complete as is.

Comfort is a tender, loving and, yes I'll say it, sweet story about Chris and Davis. These two young men didn't know each other for very long, but their connection was very potent. I loved the brief shared moments in their lives and the emotions came spilling across the pages [uh, virtual pages:] in an eminently satisfying manner.

Once again, D.W. Marchwell illustrates beautifully just why I not only buy his books as they're released, but also read them right away. And with my extremely large TBR that's saying something!

* * * * * *

Book info:
D.W. Marchwell; Comfort; Dreamspinner Press; May 2010

Summary:
Chris Egeto fled to Canada to avoid the Vietnam War with only fifty dollars in his pocket and a desire to stay alive and whole; he left everything he knows and loves behind. But when he is injured just after making it across the border, Chris doesn't have a choice: he will have to trust the stranger who offers him help, a decision tha will change both their lives forever.

BUY BOOK

Mind Walker by Roy McConnell

2010-05-06T22:35:00.000-06:00

I *found* this book through Goodreads when the author, Roy McConnell recommended it to me. It's exactly the type of thriller that I enjoy; one with a larger-than-life premise and tension-filled action and adventure. It's also got, not a paranormal element so much as a supernatural element that appealed to me. Mind, now having read the book I'm sincerely glad that THAT particular power doesn't exist, 'cause man oh man... NOT a place I'd want to be. Never knowing if my thoughts were my own or not?

I really enjoyed the characters of Chris and Tara and most of Chris' contacts... many of whom I'd love to see in subsequent books. I had ordered the book a week or so ago and picked it up yesterday... by this evening I was done and that is very unusual. It's rare that any new book I get is read right away, but I'm very glad that I did that with Mind Walker.

There was one little thing that jarred a bit - and I did mention it in my Goodreads review but it wasn't enough to take me out of the story; it's certainly not enough to stop me from waiting for Mr. McConnell's next book in the series. For that I'll be eagerly waiting.

* * * * * *

Book info:

Roy McConnell; Mind Walker; iUniverse, Inc.; September 2009 - TPB 228 pages

Summary: For more than four hundred years, the males of the Ostermann family have unleashed their secret power on the world, destroying lives and amassing great fortunes. But five centuries prior, the first woman to inherit the identical gene as the males foretold that another female would be born with the same power. It was she who would stand against the madness of the Ostermann reign. No one knew when she would come…until now.

In present-day British Columbia, Wolf Ostermann rules his exotic estate with an iron fist. Ostermann has no son to continue his family legacy, so if he and his family are to maintain their economic grip on the world, Wolf must indoctrinate his reluctant daughter, Tara. Unfortunately for Wolf, Tara will have nothing to do with him anymore, and that doesn’t bode well for the tyrannical megalomaniac.

Now on the run, Tara and ex-CIA operative Chris Landry must battle for their lives as they ultimately realize the tenacious reach of her father’s powerful mind—and the evil it unleashes on all of humanity.

Bursting with raw emotion, Mind Walker combines action and suspense in a nonstop ride from the landscapes of British Columbia to the Caribbean Islands, and ends in a chilling climax in New York City.

Dark Diva Reviews' - Review Book of the Month poll

2010-05-05T11:02:00.000-06:00

Okey dokey... over at DDR you, too, can vote for your favourite book.
Each reviewer picked their own top pick of books reviewed during April and there is an awesome selection. So head on over here and check it out for yourself.

Lover Mine by J.R. Ward

2010-05-04T23:34:00.001-06:00

I've been a fan of J.R. Ward's since I read her third Black Dagger Brotherhood novel, Lover Awakened. It had been highly recommended on an author's blog I spent a lot of time at, so I figured I'd give it a shot. Huh...little did I know!

I started to read the book and realised almost immediately that the book was about vampires... I didn't READ vampire books! But before I even finished the first page I was hooked and the rest, as they say, is history.

So that's my BDB (Black Dagger Brotherhood) background... the extremely shortened version. *grin* And that brings me up to Ms. Ward's latest book in her extremely popular and ultra-sexy BDB series - Lover Mine. My daughter was sweet enough to bring a loaner copy home from the bookstore where she works, 'cause I'm not a fan of buying hardcovers. But I digress....

* * * * * *
So, Lover Mine and mine review (okay sorry, I couldn't resist):

J.R. Ward has done it again... only this time she's taken the action, the characters and the storyline and ratcheted it all up 100%. Holy moley the woman can write like nobody's business.

Just reading about the Brothers, the way they speak, the way they think takes me to a completely new and foreign world... the mind of men, and not just any ordinary men. Oh no, these are warriors with a capital "w"!

There is rejoicing, some loving - hot and STEAMY and SEXY lovin' - and some heartbreak (and I'm not saying anything about anything...read it for yourselves). But we get a lot more background on John Matthew and Darius... and Tohr. And the connections between a number of the characters is chillingly thrilling!

And OH has J.R. Ward set up some exciting stories to come... I can hardly wait.

-----------------------------------------

J.R. Ward; Lover Mine - Black Dagger Brotherhood #8; Signet Eclipse; April 27, 2010; 512 pages

In the darkest corners of the night in Caldwell, New York, a conflict like no other rages. Long divided as a terrifying battleground for the vampires and their enemies, the city is home to a band of brothers born to defend their race: the warrior vampires of the Black Dagger Brotherhood.

John Matthew has come a long way since he was found living among humans, his vampire nature unknown to himself and to those around him. After he was taken in by the Brotherhood, no one could guess what his true history was- or his true identity. Indeed, the fallen Brother Darius has returned, but with a different face and a very different destiny. As a vicious personal vendetta takes John into the heart of the war, he will need to call up on both who he is now and who he once was in order to face off against evil incarnate.

Xhex, a symphath assassin, has long steeled herself against the attraction between her and John Matthew. Having already lost one lover to madness, she will not allow the male of worth to fall prey to the darkness of her twisted life. When fate intervenes, however, the two discover that love, like destiny, is inevitable between soul mates.

Buy a book and help an important cause

2010-05-01T10:27:00.000-06:00

* * * A nod to Sloan Parker for the title. * * *

Just over a week-and-a-half ago I blogged about the case of Mr. Clay Greene and his partner of 20 years, Harold. Upon an injury to Harold, these men were separated and placed into two separate nursing homes and, subsequently, had their lease cancelled and all their possessions sold by Sonoma County, CA.

Author Sloan Parker, whom I admire greatly, posted on her blog today about a movement going on to help fund the fight for justice taken on by the NCLR. I was amazed, impressed and eager to do all that I could... I also want to thank Sloan for the post... I likely would not have heard about this otherwise.

And all I can say to TeddyPig, the NCLR, J.M. Snyder and All Romance eBooks is wow! You all stepped up and because of your ideas, efforts and generosity I feel that, even living in Canada, I can do something to help.
It's not enough to merely decry the actions taken against Mr. Greene and his partner, it's extremely important to DO something. Well, the NCLR, the group who is representing Mr. Greene, and the above mentioned people / companies are doing just that.

Free ebooks!!

2010-04-30T23:38:00.001-06:00

Over at GLBT Bookshelf (http://bookworld.editme.com/Home), of which I'm a lurking member, they have a selection of FREE Gay eBooks! Now how can anyone turn that down?!

Authors and books are as follows:

Mel Keegan - Crimes of Passion
Victor J. Banis - Deadly Nightshade (fabulous, fabulous book!)
Jayne DeMarco - Don't Go Away
Claire Thompson - Finding Chandler (another great book)
Mary Calmes - First Day of Forever
Josh Lanyon - The French Have a Word for it
Lee Rowan - Gift Exchange
Rowena Sudbury - If
PA Brown - LA Mischief - Halloween Pickup
Eden Winters - The Telling
PD Singer - Waiting

* * * * * * Again, thanks to Chris over at Stumbling Over Chaos for the head's up... I LOVE free books! * * * * * *

Contest over at SciFiGuy.ca for J.R. Ward's Lover Mine

2010-04-30T22:59:00.001-06:00

And you have to have a Canadian address; how cool is that! Of course Lover Mine is on my TBB list - I've got 'em all and I've been avidly collecting them since Lover Awakened was released. Zsadist grabbed onto my imagination and now he and the rest of the Brothers are full-time residents. Okay, not really, but I've got all the books (plus an extra set just in case); obsessed? Me? Nah.... *blush*

Anyway, SciFiGuy.ca has a contest with the prize being FIVE - that's right 5 - copies of J.R. Ward's Lover Mine. We finally have John Matthew's story and I'm really, really looking forward to getting right into it. When I get it in my hands anyways.

In the meantime if you're a fan of J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood, you really don't want to miss this opportunity!

* * * * * * And a big thank you to Chris over at Stumbling Over Chaos for the head's up on THIS contest. * * * * * *

10 Things that make me happy

2010-04-28T22:35:00.003-06:00

Okay, belatedly, I discovered that Ava March had tagged me for the 10 things that make me happy meme... fun! And really I don't think that it's going to take me to long to come up with 10 things...as long as all my brain cells are awake. *wink*
What to do:

~~List 10 things that make you happy.~~
~~Try and do at least one of them today.~~ {Hugs}
Tag 10 bloggers that brighten your day and let them know.
~~Link back to the person that tagged you.~~

* * * * * *

  1. Having my family around
  2. Waking up early and then realising that I don't have to get up
  3. Hugs from my husband and kids
  4. Christmas Eve with my 'from' family and our 'made' families
  5. Being able to sit and read a book all the way through
  6. Seeing my gardens in bloom throughout the seasons
  7. Having an author reply to one of my reviews
  8. Someone loving a book I recommended
  9. Organising my shelves (sad I know)
10. Being able to enjoy my days and my life

More contests for books!

2010-04-28T13:54:00.002-06:00

Okay, call me slow - go ahead, I know it's so - but I finally stumbled over... oh, no I didn't. *ulp* Chris from Stumbling Over Chaos gave me the head's up about these two awesome contests on her blog. So, the least that I can do is pass on the info: I like to share. Oh, btw, the title 'Contest' is the link... below I'll post the actual html... just in case.

* * * * * *

Contest 1: eBook giveaway for Shawn Lane's Only For Him...
Shawn's another author whose books lurk in my TBR - and I actually have to review one that I just read... drat, I can't find my notebook. Never fear, I'll find the notebook and post the review. Suffice it to say it measures up to the Shawn's other books that I've read; that is to say, it's excellent! So of course I want this latest one!

____________________________________________

Contest 2: eBook giveaway of Ava March's latest book From Afar... and, as you may have noticed by the previous reviews of her Bound series books, I'm a fan. This contest runs, I believe until May 3, 2010... so don't delay!

* * * * * *
Shawn Lane - Only for Him (http://www.stumblingoverchaos.com/archives/7016)

Ava March - From Afar (http://www.stumblingoverchaos.com/archives/7018)

Ava March - Deliberately Unbound (free story)

2010-04-28T10:43:00.001-06:00

I had forgotten, but recently Ava posted a short free story update on Oliver and Vincent... and all I can say is "bring out the ice and air-conditioning... you're gonna need it!"

The story is, as you may have guessed from the title of this post, Deliberately Unbound and you can find it on Ava's site here; I strongly suggest you treat yourself.

* * * * * *

Okay, I seriously need something HOT to go here... what to do, what to do? (Unfortunately Ava doesn't have a cover for this latest story... *pout*)

These are some images that I posted awhile ago as a treat... or something. Aren't they GORGEOUS?!??
Ahem... yes, now I feel better. *grin*

Ava March - Bound to Him

2010-04-28T10:27:00.003-06:00

I finished Bound to Him shortly after posting the review for Bound by Deception; but it was late and my brain cells were all sleeping so I thought it would be better to leave well enough alone.

Okay, Wow! This second story in Ava March's Bound series was way more tension-filled and emotionally volatile, but I loved it! Mind, at times, I wasn't any too fond of Vincent; good thing for him Oliver really loved him. But really, there's just no other way for it to have gone. Especially not with Vincent's need to please his father - and what a bastard HE was - and his fear of not living up to society's expectation (Poo on society's expectations).
But I did love that both Oliver and Vincent had lessons to learn; it wasn't all Vincent after all!

Once again, Ava has shown just how amazingly she can combine, in the words of Devon Rhodes, hot and history. Very intense and extremely Yummy!
_____________________________

Lord Vincent Prescot’s life couldn’t be better. Thriving investments, well-respected by his peers, and mind blowing sex with a man who submits to his every desire -- what more could he want?

Lord Oliver Marsden should be more than happy with his life. He’s been in love with Vincent for over a decade and six months ago the impossible happened and they became lovers. But since then, nothing has changed. More specifically, Vincent hasn’t changed. Oliver has tried to be patient -- it took a lot for Vincent to accept the fact he preferred men. But what felt like a tiny distance between them six months ago now feels like an ever-widening chasm. Why can’t Vincent stay the night? Is it too much to ask for Vincent to call him Oliver and not Marsden? He knows Vincent cares for him, but does Vincent love him?

Then Vincent’s father asks him for a favor -- one that involves marriage. If Vincent agrees, he’ll have the respect he’s craved from his father his entire life but he could lose Oliver. Nor does Oliver make the decision easy. To keep Oliver, he’ll have to do more than deny his father. He’ll have to give Oliver his heart.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, Domination/submission, male/male sexual practices.

Available at Loose Id

Ava March ~ Bound by Deception

2010-04-28T00:36:00.003-06:00

Before reading Bound by Deception, I'd read only one other of Ava March's books. That one was Convincing Arthur and I was totally and completely hooked. I've only read these two so far, well no, I'm nearly finished Bound to Him, a sequel for Oliver and Vincent (love it by the way!) but I've got the rest of her books sitting in my TBR. She writes sensual and very sexy historical romances set in the Regency period. Of course I love them; I'm a fan of Regency romances but add to them hot man-on-man loving and I'm all over it! Especially when the author writes with such passion and detail. With Bound by Deception, Ava March has definitely cemented her place on my favourites and auto-buy list. Man, can she write!

Oliver and Vincent's story includes BDSM, but it's more Bondage and Domination / submission than S and M... which is just fine with me. But most of all it's a love story in a dangerous time for men to love men. And Ava shows just how difficult it must have been to risk everything. For Vincent his changing feelings for his best friend contain a definite danger and it's obvious in the way that the story develops.
While today there's no legal threat of death, there is still danger to those in the GLBTQ community and that angers and sickens me. Society has improved, but it still has a very, very long way to go.
____________________________

Lord Oliver Marsden has a secret. He's been in love with his childhood friend for years, though Vincent's never shown an interest in him beyond friendship. Ruggedly handsome, wealthy, and successful, Vincent is everything Oliver is not. And above all, Vincent doesn't prefer men.

Then Oliver discovers Vincent hires a man during his visits to a London brothel. Desperate to be with Vincent, Oliver orchestrates a deception, switching places with the brothel's employee. When Oliver arrives at the bedchamber, he's in for another surprise. Restraints and a leather bullwhip? Apparently Vincent isn't as conservative as he appears.

Lord Vincent Prescot has a secret of his own. One kept locked away and only indulged on the first Thursday of every month. But this month's appointment is different. The mysterious man is so perfect, so beautiful in his submission, rousing protective instincts Vincent can't deny. And to make matters worse, Vincent actually kisses him. Yet Vincent refuses to believe he might truly prefer men, for it could mean the end of his hopes of earning his father's respect.

Will betrayal destroy them or will they be bound together by deception?

Available at Loose Id

Rick Reed's In Cold Blog.. READ it!

2010-04-23T09:55:00.004-06:00

A timely and telling blog post... from Rick Reed and an issue with which I had an... issue. Being Catholic and all... and more and more realising that the church speaks for itself, not me or millions like me.

In Cold Blog: Does Not Compute: Gay=Pedophile

Posted using ShareThis

Really interesting list - Eric Arvin's blog

2010-04-22T14:26:00.002-06:00

I wrote a review for one of Eric Arvin's books - Simple Men ~ Buy Here ~ for Dark Diva Reviews and he was kind enough to leave a nice comment... I love author comments! *grin*
Aaaaanyway... when I went to his blog - Daventry Blue - there's a post that not only surprised me, but really had me shaking my head. The post is 100 Bad Books and when I perused the list - I've read and have 11 of the books... but I think I'm going to have to do some more reading - I was wondering just where these people get their lame-ass ideas from. I mean, really!

So check out the list and see how ridiculous you find some, if not all, of them. People - especially North Americans (and I include Canada along with the US) - are just way too puritanical for my tastes.
And here I could go on a rant about the weird attitudes that changed a children's Japanese anime program when translated to English, including cutting episodes, changing characters' gender and changing the relationship between two women.... *GAH*
I'm speaking of Sailormoon / Sailor Moon... but that's a rant for a different time and one that I've indulged in before, although not here.

Contest over at Ebook Addict

2010-04-21T18:39:00.001-06:00

Over at Reviews at Ebook Addict there's a contest for Amanda Young's latest erotic release, Pool Boy Seduction. The contest runs until Saturday, April 24 and the winner will receive a copy of Amanda's steamy and very sexy story. So be sure to head on over - here - and send in an entry. You won't be sorry!

Pool Boy Seduction

Buy Here

Book Description: All work and no play makes Martin a dull boy indeed. Long hours at the office and a recent split with his ex have more than taken their toll on his love life. Perving on the pool boy seems like a relatively safe way to let off some steam until the barely legal lad makes a move of his own. Surprised at the young man's advances, Martin does what any hot-blooded man would. He offers his body up to the pool boy's seduction.

Geoffrey Knight and The Riddle of the Sands

2010-04-21T14:07:00.004-06:00

Geoffrey Knight not only did it again with The Riddle of the Sands, he totally blew the series out of the water... or rather, the sands. *grin*

After I finished The Cross of Sins I didn't see how it would be possible for Geoff to ratchet up not only the tension and action, but to add another steamy and crazy-fun layer of story. But he did it, and he did it marvellously!

As to which of the five of Fathom's Five I like the best, let me just say... "I don't know!"

But I think Jake Stone's leading the pack a bit.

Geoffrey Knight's series has been likened to the Indiana Jones chronicles and the James Bond series, and I agree that there's a very definite similarity. But if you really want to describe the Fathom's Five series, you'd have to have not only a combine Indy and James, you'd have to up the count to 5 gorgeous, sexier-than-sin, talented and otherwise wonderful gay men who know how to live their lives large and very much in charge.

My one complaint? We're left hanging on a few fronts... and I wanna know now! Pretty please???

Geoffrey Knight and The Cross of Sins

2010-04-21T14:01:00.003-06:00

4½ stars ~ What a rush! I started reading The Cross of Sins late in the afternoon and finished 3½ hours later... I had to stop for dinner, y'know. *grin* But I sure didn't want to put the book down!

With this first book in his Fathom's Five series, Geoffrey Knight has opened up a whole new, exciting and uber-fascinating world.
Talk about heart pounding, non-stop action that takes the reader on a thrill-ride not to be soon forgotten.

If you're into reading stories with sexy men, hot sex and thrilling adventure, then look no further than Geoffrey Knight's The Cross of Sins.

Not a review, but something very important

2010-04-19T22:45:00.005-06:00

....Sonoma County CA separates...
elderly gay couple and sells all
of their worldly possessions

A friend sent me a link to a story that occurred in Sonoma County and involved a couple of 20 years who, on the injury of one of the couple, were taken from their home, placed in separate nursing homes and had all their possessions sold by the county. And, even more heartbreakingly, the one injured died three months later never seeing his life partner again.
The entire article can be found here.

Be prepared, this is not an easy story to read, but I think it's vitally important that people know just what the hell kind of crap can befall two men who lived and loved for so long just because they're gay.

I could go on and on about this; but if I do it will be nothing more than a rant fueled by extreme anger and heartbreak... and no one needs to listen to me do that. But at the end of the story there are links to places where the story can shared; it takes so little time, but I think that we should show that this kind of behaviour is not only held in disgust, but that people are willing to do something about it.

All I can say is that my heart mourns for Clay and Harold; two men who were together for 20 years and ended up separated for the rest of the one man's life. Inhumane, cruel, barbaric, horrendous, terrifying... and these words just scratch the surface of my opinion of the actions taken by a group of people.

No, I'm not an American and yes, we have some laws in Canada that protect the rights of ALL people. But I also know that the vast majority of the Christian - HA! - churches here are constantly working to destroy the basic human rights of GLBTQ people. And their 'crime'? They love someone of the same gender. What the HELL does that have to do with anything?

As a Catholic I cannot even begin to support a church that does this and I find myself separating my faith in God from the religion in which I've spent my life. In my opinion no church that is truly God's representative here on earth could possibly consider the thoughts of outright hatred, though couched in mealy-mouthed platitudes, as something that God would even begin to condone.

Religion is a man-made construct and it takes on a life of its own that has little, if anything, to do with God's will or hopes for His children. And this is but one more instance that proves this out.

Warrior's Cross by Madeleine Urban, Abigail Roux

2010-04-17T19:49:00.002-06:00

I've had Warrior's Cross in my TBR since August of 2009, when it was released. It took me all this time before I read it and, of course, I'm now kicking myself.
MAN, this is one enthralling, fascinating and amazing book.

I really enjoy stories of intrigue and suspense; throw in a romance that's hot enough to cause 3rd degree burns but is also touching and, yes, I'll say it, even tender and, for me, you've got a book that I will go back to again and again.
I was basically hooked when I read the description, but I in no way envisioned the power and the immensity of the story. I'm still feeling the effects of a book that not only wins over the reader's heart, but the mind as well.

Madeleine Urban and Abigail Roux are an astounding writing team and frankly, I feel as though they write with one mind; it's that incredibly of a piece.

Would I love to see more of Cameron and Julian? In a heartbeat!

* * * * * *

Warrior's Cross by
Madeleine Urban and Abigail Roux
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Genre: Suspense, Erotic Romance, GLBT (m/m)

Page count: 303

Buy link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=1468

Description:
Cameron Jacobs is an open book. He considers himself a common waiter with normal friends, boring hobbies, harmless dogs, and nothing even resembling a secret... except a crush on a tall, dark, devastatingly handsome man who dines alone at his restaurant on Tuesday nights. All it takes is one passionate night with Julian Cross to turn Cameron’s world on its head.

Julian's love and devotion are all Cameron could have hoped for and more. But when his ordinary life meets and clashes with Julian's extraordinary lifestyle, Cameron discovers that trust and fear can go hand in hand, and love is just a step away from danger.

A.J. Ryan - Vampire's Lair: Cairo Catwalk

2010-04-15T20:08:00.002-06:00

A.J. Ryan - Vampire's Lair: Cairo Catwalk - Eternal Press - November 2009

Book Description:

Love is dangerous. Life is fleeting. And the choices we make can last an Eternity.

On a photo shoot in Cairo, lovelorn American model Nash Sommers harbors a secret lust for his handsome and confident colleague Ryan Thomas. When a drunken evening leads them to Cairo's coolest nightclub, the two young men decide to explore the undiscovered plearsures of their relationship with the inclusion of a third party - a handsome, mysterious young Egyptian who lures them away from the nightclub...

...and into the dark realms of the City of the Dead.

There, deep within a secret tomb, Nash's languishing lust for Ryan will be put to the ultimate test in the presence of a dark and ancient Egyptian vampire, the evil Ramseth. Will the young Americans be seduced by sin? Will passion and pride lead to eternal punishment? Will the one thing Nash desires most be his doom?

Review: I enjoyed Cairo Catwalk even though it was quite different from Miami Moon. The books are related only in so far as they're vampire stories and that there are three different kinds of vampires: Gatherers, Hunters and Healers. Oh and they're extremely erotic too. *grin*

The only thing that I could want? More story, more detail, especially at the end. But I'm still enjoying the writing of A.J. Ryan.

A.J. Ryan - Vampire's Lair: Miami Moon

2010-04-15T19:51:00.001-06:00

The first book in Mr. Ryan's, to date, 2 book Vampire's Lair series is Miami Moon. I reviewed this for Dark Diva Reviews (review here) and enjoyed it so much that I wanted to find the second book, Cairo Catwalk. Well, I ended up buying the print versions because I could not find the ebooks anywhere; but I'm quite pleased to have the books in my hands.

* * * * * *

A.J. Ryan - Vampire's Lair: Miami Moon - Eternal Press - June 2009

Book Description:
In one night, with one bite, one young man will surrender to his destiny.

Some of us are gatherers. Some are hunters. Some are healers.

Jason Cain ran away to Miami not only to escape his past, but to escape his future as well. He left behind a pretty girlfriend, a college education, and a promising career in the shadow of his father, a prominent Chicago surgeon. He also left behind a haunting tragedy, something that stopped him from becoming the man he was destined to be. But all that is about to change. Under the Miami Moon, Jason Cain is about to be chosen to fulfill his destiny—to become a healer.

Drawn into a forbidden world, plucked from the streets of Miami and taken to a mansion filled with danger and debauchery in the middle of a Florida bayou, Jason is about to experience male love, lust and longing like he has never known before. Here, the Vampire Xavier—the muscular, dominant master of his own lair—will give Jason the redemption and healing that he so desperately craves.

The price—his mortality.

Review: This story wasn’t anything like I expected, but I was still struck by the power of it. For most of it, AJ Ryan’s Vampire’s Lair: Miami Moon is extremely erotic and, other than being quite titillating in a really good way, I can’t honestly say that I thought the story was going to go somewhere. But I was wrong!

Jason is a character about whom it is really easy to care. He’s a lost soul, and although he’s made changes in his life, you know that he’s not found any answers. And like so much in life, the answers that he gets are vastly different than he could ever have envisioned.

And yes, while this is listed as horror, it’s not one that’s terrifying. Extremely erotic with graphic language and sex, along with elements of danger and torture, Vampire’s Lair: Miami Moon is a dark story, but there is a promise of so much more just down the corridor... or is there? Mr. Ryan has captured my attention and piqued my curiosity; I definitely want to know more, a lot more.

Lynn Lorenz, a new book and a contest at Jaime Craig's

2010-04-14T16:05:00.000-06:00

Lynn Lorenz is one of those writers whose books I have to get as soon as they're out. So I already bought her latest - Pinky Swear - at Amber Allure when it was released.

Over at Jaime Craig's - here - a copy of Lynn's book, Pinky Swear, will be awarded; all you have to do is leave a comment, that's it!

Of course if you want to buy your own copy, it's available at Amber Allure; better yet, it's also part of an Amber Pax Collection called From this Moment On. For the rest of the week it's 35% off. Included in the Collection are:

Deirdre O'Dare's Beyond the Shadows
KC Kendricks' A Hard Habit to Break
Christiane France's Independence Day 2
Lynn Lorenz's Pinky Swear
Shawn Lane's Still the One

Definitely not something you want to miss!

Mahu Vice by Neil Plakcy

2010-04-13T22:30:00.002-06:00

I read the four books in Neil Plakcy's Mahu series one right after the other and really enjoyed the opportunity to do so. It's not often I get to move from one story right into the next. Following Kimo over the first three books as he came to terms with the very public knowledge that he is gay was fascinating and often gut-churning. Mr. Plakcy added so much emotional detail about what Kimo was going through that I was, on occasion, almost overwhelmed; he definitely provided a very strong voice. I also loved the police investigations in which Kimo found himself working. I'm a big fan of the genre and the excellent amalgamation of the various elements really makes this a series that I will go back to over and over again.
All I can say is that Kimo Kanapa'aka has a fan for life as does Neil Plakcy. I've now managed to acquire all his books, in both formats if available.

If you've not read anything by this author, I strongly suggest you do; if you want more romance, then definitely try either Gaylife.com or Three Wrong Turns in the Desert. If out-and-out romance isn't your cup of tea, I highly recommend the Mahu series with Kimo Kanapa'aka. But whichever you choose, you can be sure that you will be on the receiving end of an excellent story.

* * * * * *

The fourth book in the series is
----------------------------

Book Info:

NEIL S. PLAKCY; Mahu Vice; Alyson Books; August 2009

* * * * * *

SEX AND VIOLENCE COLLIDE UNDER THE TROPICAL SUN

Honolulu homicide detective Kimo Kanapa'aka went into a tailspin after the breakup of his hot, heavy affair with fire investigator Mike Riccardi. Now that Kimo's beginning to recover, he's forced to work with Mike again on an arson homicide at a shopping center built by Kimo's father. The investigation takes them into dangerous territory, with love, sex and death at stake.

Tere Michaels and her three books...

2010-04-12T20:42:00.001-06:00

I bought Duty and Devotion as soon as it was released 'cause I've been waiting for what seems forever. This is Tere Michaels' latest book in the series and, like the other two - Faith and Fidelity and Love and Loyalty it hits all the right chords.

The first two books are tangentially related and both tell the stories of men falling in love. But that's pretty much the end of the similarities.

Faith and Fidelity is Matt Haight's and Evan Cerelli's story and it takes us on a journey that is filled with all kinds of minefields. It's an extremely emotionally rich tale and, from the first line, I was completely and utterly hooked. Since then I've read the book three times. And, if anything, it had an even stronger impact than the first time... and then I was totally blown away!

When I read this book, whether it's the first time or the third, I feel as though I'm on an emotional rollercoaster; it is impossible NOT to get involved with any of the characters. There was one sentence, from page 209, where Evan came to a realisation: "It never occurred to him that a man would fill that role for him." For Evan, falling in love with another man was galaxies away from anything that he had ever expected. Even for Matt, it was a leap of major proportions... but for Evan it was so much more of a struggle; a lot of that basically came down to their different personalities.

* * * * * *

In Love and Loyalty we're following Jim (James) Shea and Griffin Drake. We met Jim somewhat briefly in F and F when he and Matt met; although then he was known as James. It was wonderful getting a chance to really get to know him and his story.

I loved the people surrounding him; his partner Terry and his wife Mimi and the other couples from the Heterosexual Power Cabal... *laugh* ... what a fascinating group of people! Then there's Ed Kelly; he was the father of a murdered young woman and Jim and his partner Terry were the homicide detectives. What a story!

And when we meet Griffin Drake, you just know that this is going to be a riveting story.

* * * * * *

In this, the third book, we are once again reunited with Matt and Evan, but we also get a chance to spend some time with Jim and Griffin as well.

In Duty and Devotion we're treated to the continuing development - easy and hard - of Matt and Evan's new life. I was really glad of that; there was so much left somewhat unfinished at the end of F and F but only because the changes in both men's lives, and the lives of Evan's children were so extreme. But I really enjoyed the combining of both couples.

With her first book, Tere MIchaels became one of my favourite authors, and everything since then has cemented her there. I'll be awaiting each book that she writes with bated breath... hoping that we get the next one just a little bit faster.

Books that I've read this week (April 2 to April 8)

2010-04-10T00:17:00.001-06:00

Week 2, well okay for the year it's actually Week 14:

but for me it's April 2 to April 8

Finding Chandler by Claire Thompson
Reader, I Married Him by Janet Mullany
Right Side of the Tracks by Jaxx Steele
Falling Star by Olivia Brynn
The Right Side of the Tracks by Jaxx Steele
Faith & Fidelity by Tere Michaels
Love & Loyalty by Tere Michaels
Depression Glass & More by Gene Florence: another of my collections, in a tiny way

TBB & TBR ... and pictures

2010-04-08T16:42:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I mentioned that I had a lot of books in my print TBR. I took a number of pictures using my handy-dandy cell phone and then with this other handy-dandy little device my husband has I was able to upload them to my computer. And now I can share them with everyone! Well, everyone that stops in anyways.

So here goes!

Shelf #1

Shelf #2

Shelf #3

Shelf #4

Shelf #5

Now granted there are overlapping sections, but it was the only way that I could show the scope. Oh, and the shelves in picture #2? The books are in two rows on each shelf... then I've got more piled on top.

And those aren't all of my TBR, but they're the giant's share. Sad eh?

The issues of TBR, TBB & being a hard core reader

2010-04-07T09:45:00.001-06:00

I've always been a collector, and an avid one at that. Anything that strikes my fancy, for whatever reason, ends up getting a great deal of attention. When I was younger - much younger - that included my bread-bag-clip collection... and rocks.
Well the bread-bag-clips are long gone... not, alas, without a sense of regret, but the rocks are still here. And I've added a few more - hundred or so - over the intervening years. Yeah... never said I was normal!

I've also been a reader for just as many, if not more, years. And that's one thing that will never end. It's seen me through years and years of depression and enabled me to cope when I didn't know what the hell, 'scuse me... heck, was wrong. In fact for over 20 years I had no idea that there was something wrong... but my books helped me anyways.

So add together an avid, nay voracious!, reader and collecting and you end up with someone who has books coming out the yin yang. Hey! That's the name of this blog... whaddya know?

Now a few years ago I didn't have a TBR nor a TBB -- for those not in the know, TBR is to be read and TBB, to be bought. I had books that I'd buy but they were read in a matter of days. If I had 10 I had enough new material for oh, say... 10 days.
But a few years ago... and I mean 2007... I found an online community that dealt with books. Well, holy moley can you say 'addiction'?
Thus the beginning of a mass of books that I bought 'cause of the recommendations that I found through other members of the eHarlequin community. And the rest, as they say, is history. Well, not history, but you get the picture.
And speaking of picture... I just took a whole whack of 'em of all my books - read and TBR - here on the main floor. And when I can figure out how to download them from my cell phone, well then....

Anyway.... *eyeroll* before I got sidetracked.
So now I have in excess of 500, probably 600, print books. In 3 years. And my keeper print books is now in excess of 2000. It was about 1200 books back before eHarlequin.
And lets not forget about ebooks! Oh heck no, can't do that.
So I think that the ebook bug first bit in the fall of 2008. In that time I've managed to amass a couple thousand ebook titles... and of those at least a third, if not a half, are TBR.
And danged if my favourite authors - now in the high double digits - don't keep writing and releasing new books. *sigh*

I suppose I could put the acquisition of said books on hiatus but, frankly, that's not freakin' likely. So my TBR continues to grow. Which leads me to my TBB.

So, in an effort to restrain my purchase impulses in particular for ebooks I came up with a TBB list. Huh... yeah, now that is bulging... until I can't take it anymore and then give in and descend on the epublishers that I frequent.

But hey! They're books right? And there are many, many other things that I could be spending my time and money on... and most of them not so good. So, what the heck....

Books that I've read this week

2010-04-02T17:58:00.003-06:00

Over the past few years I've been doing really well at keeping track of all the books I read. Some of it's so that I knew which books to review, but often it was just for the sake of my curiosity. I like knowing what I've read! So, because I've been falling way behind on tracking books read I thought that I would, each week, post the books that I'd read in that week. We'll see how quickly I bore everyone, including myself. *grin*

Week 13:
March 26 to April 1 (all that I can remember)

More by Sloan Parker
No Fear by S.J. Frost
With This Ring by TA Chase
Surfer (anthology: edited by Neil Plakcy)
Miya by DM Sands
Star Man by Jan Irving
Burning Up by Z.A. Maxfield
Silent Night by Rowena Sudbury
Silver Queen's Death by Lex Valentine
The Gentleman and the Rogue by Bonnie Dee, Summer Devon
Del Fantasma: Duck Fart by Jade Buchanan

No Fear by S.J. Frost

2010-03-31T11:47:00.001-06:00

A wonderful follow-up story to Conquest, S.J. Frost's No Fear takes us further into the lives of Jesse and Evan and of the band. We also get to know Brandon more and I have to say I totally love this guy! What a super big brother he is and he seriously needs an HEA. Will he or won't he? You'll have to read the book to find out!

Jesse and Evan's relationship continues to deepen and the emotional connection that we, the reader, get to experience is phenomenal. I really love the way that S.J. Frost writes her characters and their stories. There's no lack of hot & sweaty sex... but more, there's no shortage of love. This really is a romance that I will come back to again and again, along with its predecessor, Conquest.

* * * * * *

Book Info:

No Fear (Conquest #2) by S.J. Frost
Publisher: MLR Press
Genre: Romance, GLBT (M/M), Contemporary
Buy Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=CONQU002

Summary: After Conquest's long tour, singer Jesse Alexander is ready to head home with his partner, Evan Arden. When Conquest hits the studio again, Jesse finds competition from two new bands and tensions reach a breaking point. Facing challenges unlike any he's ever known, Jesse must somehow duplicate Conquest's success and reach his ultimate goal: showing NO FEAR and announcing his love of Evan publicly.

More by Sloan Parker

2010-03-26T13:21:00.002-06:00

I knew before I read Sloan Parker's new, and first, book More that I would love it, but I had no idea how completely it would draw me in. I've read a lot of books that reach out to my heart and my mind and that live on long past the time I read the last page; but More? I"m completely overwhelmed.
It's taken me a couple of hours --and lots of thought-- to be able to even to get to the point of being able to write down how strongly this story affected me. There are so many words running around in my head that it's hard to just pick one and start with it. But I guess I'd have to go with "magic".
Not the magic you find in paranormal or supernatural stories, but the magic that comes to life when you meet someone that changes your entire life, someone that brings out, not only the best, but all that you are. And that is how I feel about this amazing first book by the very talented Sloan Parker.
The story is told through the first-person viewpoint of Luke. He's a man that has closed himself off, except for the superficial, from the rest of humanity. He's got no hope for a life filled with love and he thinks he's fine with that. But the evening that the story opens with will change everything; the men that he decides to spend this one night fucking are far beyond anything he could ever have imagined. In fact, it's the dynamics of the three of them together that changes everything; not only for Luke either. Neither Matthew or Richard were looking beyond the night. And watching as the magic takes hold of all three of these men is, at the very least, enthralling.

I've read other ménage stories and I've really enjoyed them. The titillation factor definitely played a large part in that, but it's always been the emotional connection between the characters that makes a successful ménage. But with More, it wasn't the sex that really got my attention. Yes, the sex was sizzling and über-steamy... but it was the connection between the three men that really makes this story, and ménage, work like no other that I've ever read.
Part of the beauty inherent in the relationship between Luke, Matthew and Richard is that, while they're very different and with varying strengths, they are yet very equal partners. The three of them together are better, and more, than just any two of them alone. They are all totally complementary and utterly necessary to the success of their life together. They each have their own assets that are needed by the whole; there isn't one more dominant partner, although it may appear to be so at times. But being with them as they forge a bond is an amazing adventure and an incredibly rich experience.

Truly, this is a book that enriches the soul as it entertains the mind; and that's not a statement that I make lightly at all.

* * * * * *
More by Sloan Parker
Loose Id, LLC
Genre: LGBT Polyamory (M/M/M), Suspense, Romance
Length: 245 pages (Novel plus)

BUY HERE

* * * * * *
Summary: For fifteen years Luke Moore has lived by three rules: stay off his father's radar, never spend more than a single night with any man, and never fall in love again. But one night of explosive sex and two men whom he can’t get out of his head have Luke breaking them all. Richard and Matthew push him past all his boundaries—both sexually and personally—and now he’s no longer hiding from his senator father; he’s taking him on. And he isn’t just falling for one man; he’s falling for two. If you're going to break the rules, might as well break them big.

But Luke’s father has his reasons for hating how his son lives, and he’ll do whatever he can and use all his power to keep Luke away from Richard and Matthew.

Can this threesome find a way to make their unconventional relationship last with the world around them trying to pull them apart? And will Luke be able to keep breaking his rules for Richard and Matthew, or will he head back to his familiar way of life just when his new lovers want to bind him tighter?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Male/male sexual practices, menage (m/m/m).
-------------------------------------

Only Yours by J.R. Patrick

2010-03-25T16:54:00.001-06:00

J.R. Patrick is a member of one of the groups where I hang out -- I do have a life away from the computer, it just doesn't seem like it -- and when her first book, Only Yours, was released, well of course I was going to buy it! Especially since she had given us one doozy of an excerpt; HOT? I needed refrigeration to cope? Yowza

My heart went out to Dre; he had no idea why Nate had left and it nearly destroyed him.
Discovering the truth about why just about finished the job.
Nate: I tried to hate him for what he did to Dre, but there is just something about him. All I'm going to say is that he has good friends.

This is a story about love, but it's much more than that. It's a lesson in the importance of honesty in a relationship; if you can't tell your partner the truth about something then you're doing a disservice to not only the one you love, but to yourself and the bond you share. And then there's being honest with yourself. Too often it's much easier to pretend that something is, or isn't, what it appears. No one wins in that situation.

Only Yours is also a story about growth, personal and relationship. Both men had something to learn, Nate probably more so than Dre, so that they could build a solid life together. There needs to be equality and honesty, and J.R. Patrick shows us just why it is so important. And she does it in a powerful and affirmative way. This is an author who's just begun and all I can say is... bring it on!

* * * * * *
Book info:

Only Yours by J.R. Patrick
Dreamspinner Press
Genre: M/M, Erotic Romance, Contemporary
Length: 56 pages

Buy HERE

Summary: When Dre asks his boyfriend Nate to move in, Nate leaves in the night without a word. Dre thinks he pushed too hard too fast, but the truth is a little more complicated. Nate is afraid Dre would dump him if Dre knew about his job in adult entertainment. Six months later, Dre is still beating himself up over scaring Nate away when they meet again… at a club where Nate works

The Prophecy of Destiny (Ancient Prophecy 1) by Leiland Dale

2010-03-24T14:47:00.002-06:00

Will Stanton leads an ordinary life working with his grandfather in the family bookstore. From the moment he uncovers a trunk full of ancient papers and his grandmother's diaries, his life changes. He is soon thrusted into a world of werewolves and vampires where he uncovers the truth of his heritage and it's more than he ever imagined.

Eric Bryce is a werewolf whose pack members are slowing dying. As the first sign of the prophecy unfolds, the Ancient Ones guide Eric in search of his mate who is to play a key role in the future predicted long ago. He finally finds his mate, Will, working in a bookstore with danger not far behind. Together, they must fight both the vampires and the illness that is spreading across the pack.

Can Eric and Will fulfill their role in the prophecy or will time run out?
------------------
A Prophecy of Destiny by Leiland Dale
Silver Publishing
Genre: GLBT (M/M), Paranormal, Shapeshifter, Erotic
Buy HERE
* * * * * *
I love shapeshifter and /or werewolf stories... a LOT! And so when already-favourite author Leiland Dale's new book came out you better believe I bought it, and read it.
I know that this is the first book in a series, that or Leiland just likes to tease his readers, and all I can say is -- bring 'em on! Sooner rather than later please. 'Cause, oh my.

I delighted in the relationship that Will has with his grandfather; it's an important part of who Will is and it goes a long way to Will's acceptance of the total upheaval of his life. Will's a real sweetheart and I think he and Eric make an incredible couple.
Eric? Well, the man left everything behind because he was doing what he had to, for the good of his pack, but also because he was totally drawn to Will.

Along with prophecies and destiny, there's danger galore, but there is also emphasis on family --whatever form it takes-- and a sexy, hot and yet sweet romance.
A very satisfying story and another winner for Leiland Dale.
Now if only I didn't have to wait... guess that's what happens when I have to get and read all his books at once.

Eternal by Jesse Fox

2010-03-23T12:05:00.003-06:00

Jesse Fox -- Eternal here

BLURB: Two men, one mortal, and the other immortal seek to end their lives on a night when humanity celebrates love. One haunted by the past and the other by the present. When one is saved from death, an ancient secret is revealed. A secret that tells the truth of a man who was betrayed by all he held dear. Their pain draws them together, but they are bound by something far greater.

Love survives and sometimes one lifetime is not enough.

Title: Eternal
Author: Jesse Fox
Rated: Adult; Contains Explicit Sexual Content Between Two Consenting Men
Price: FREE READ

* * * * * *

I *found* Jesse Fox through Dark Diva Reviews and a review that I did for her book Blood Noir here. I was totally caught up in this book and could not put it down. It's a mystery and thriller and romance all tied up into one compelling story. So when I found that she was offering a free story to her readers I went directly to her site (link above). And, while it's very different from Blood Noir, this novella still has the ability to draw the reader right into it. For a paranormal story Eternal comes across as very contemporary and, even somewhat, real. I think it's the connection between the heroes. All I can say is that for any fans of Jesse Fox, this is a must-read. And for those that have never read anything by this wonderful storyteller, then I suggest a good introduction is Eternal. And then further your acquaintance with Blood Noir. You won't be sorry!

* * * * * *

Jesse Fox -- Blood Noir here
Publisher: Dark Roast Press
Genre: Erotic, GLBT (m/m), Suspense, Thriller
Length: 276 pages

Summary: Alex Klein, professional photographer, leads a blessed life with a supportive family and longtime lover Harley Scott, a successful PI. However, everything is about to unravel. He found peace in the arms of Harley after suffering from night terrors most of his life. Now the night terrors are back and his new assignment in Seattle may be the cause.

While he struggles to control his fears, back in St. Louis, Harley unravels a secret that could destroy the life they've created together. Maggie Reynolds is a convicted murderer, former member of a violent, gang that terrorized the West Coast in the 1980's. She may also be Alex's birth mother, finally free after 25 years in prison. Positive his lover is in danger Harley heads to Seattle to save him from a mysterious stalker not beyond murder to get what she wants. Are Maggie and the stalker one and the same?

Sometimes no matter how many lies you weave the past will come back to bite you in the ass. An intricate web of blood and deception discovered, over two decades in the making, and Alex begins to question his entire identity in the wake of fear. Can he free himself from his past before it claims everyone he loves?

Paul's D'Marco by Leiland Dale

2010-03-19T13:54:00.002-06:00

So yes, now that I've been royally sidetracked -- see previous post! -- I will now discuss the latest book that I read by Leiland Dale.

I read, and reviewed his book When the Bluebird Calls for Dark Diva Reviews and I loved it. But Paul's D'Marco is a different story altogether. One that I love, if possible, even more than Bluebird. I think part of the reason that it appeals so much to me is the suspense element. I love suspense / thrillers and Leiland's imbued Paul's D'Marco with suspense galore... it also doesn't hurt that it's got police in it.

Then there's the romance; whew! Extremely sexy and H-O-T, I loved the development of the relationship between Matt D'Marco and Paul Whittington. And the struggle to discover who is killing these boys; horrific yes, but a mesmermising story nonetheless. In fact, I've already re-read Paul's D'Marco... it's the kind of story that will be a regular re-read.

* * * * * *
Description: Matt D'Marco has happily settled in his routine for years. Now with a pending divorce, recently promoted Matt's life is about to take an entirely new direction. Matt's first case as detective turns out to be a challenge. Desperation sets in when all leads in the child serial killer case leave the police department empty handed. Paul Whittington, psychic and medium, may be the only solution in finding a break in the case.

Matt and Paul are forced to work together. But when a work relationship turns into something more, it challenges everything Matt's known about himself, his life, and desires. Then, a turn in the case could put everything at risk. In the end, can Paul win over Matt's resistance and claim him as his own?

---------------------------------------
by Silver Publishing -- Buy here

Some of my favourite authors - OR - What Ethan Day's Gay Day has done to my TBR

2010-03-19T13:27:00.004-06:00

I've gotta say that Ethan Day's Gay Day is responsible for the huge increase in my TBR and my TBB; actually before Gay Day last September I didn't even have a TBB list. But there you have it.
The authors that show up on Ethan's Gay Day to tease and tantalise us poor lowly readers are phenomenal. And many of them have become favourites: Ethan Day, well Ethan's been a favourite of mine for over a year and each story just cements his place there. But I've also found other authors (and they're in alphabetical order... no way can I put one ahead of another... they're all my faves for a reason!):

Adrianne Brennan
P.A. Brown
Leiland Dale
Jason Eddings
S.J. Frost
KImberly Gardner
Andrew Grey
Jambrea Jo Jones
Geoff Knight (aka A.J. Ryan, aka Sam Cross)
AJ Llewellyn
Clare London
Lynn Lorenz
DJ Manly
Z.A. Maxfield
Patric Michael
AKM Miles
Johnny Miles (still waiting for May 15!)
Jet Mykles
Willa Okati
Sloan Parker (just waiting for it to be released)
Neil S. Plakcy
Devon Rhodes
Jaime Samms
Lex Valentine
Nix Winter

and Amanda Young predates Ethan... actually I *found* Ethan through an interview that Amanda did with him. Best. Interview. EVER!

So, yes when I say that my TBR is unmanageable, I have the above authors to thank! And a few more that I've kind of stumbled onto either through my own blind luck or have been led to by others. But that's a whole different story--all about Book Sluts & Book Man Whores. *grin*

Rick R. Reed and Tales from the Sexual Underground... Contest

2010-03-18T09:34:00.001-06:00

Rick Reed is holding a contest for a chance to win a signed copy of his latest release Tales from the Sexual Underground here. All you have to do is leave a comment on his blog with a way to be reached should you win; of course then many, many people will be overwhelmingly envious! Rick will be choosing a winner tomorrow -- Friday MARCH 19 (not April... *thunk*), so don't delay!

By Degrees by J.B. McDonald

2010-03-17T13:34:00.001-06:00

Heartbreaking and Heartwarming. Both apply even though they're on opposite sides of the same coin. I bought this book not knowing anything about the author; unusual? Yes. But the story description really called to me and I needed to know how Tim and Conner's story was going to go.
Tim's layers and layers of protection were a formidable barrier, but Connor was more than up for the challenge; he's knownTim for years. Knowing him as well as he does, better than anyone, gave Connor an edge that no-one else had ever had. But he still had to work to get past all the barriers.
Connor's gay and has known so for a long, long time. Tim, on the other hand, really thinks he's straight; until his girlfriend tells him different.
Tim, wow. I could feel his prickliness from the first; it was incredibly tangible. And yes, it was a defense mechanism. But he's a man who has never let anything get in the way and he's not about to start now.
Unfortunately, or fortunately, Connor wasn't one to let go of what he wanted... and Tim is definitely what he wanted.

This is far more than a romance; it's about friendships, it's about families and it's about opening oneself to life, regardless of the inherent risks. But above all it's the story of two men who, by degrees, work their way through to a love that is ... I don't know if I have the words to describe just how powerful I found this book; I do know that I'm starting to tear up. *snort*
J.B. McDonald is on my auto buy list and I'm looking forward to exploring more of her writing... in fact I just bought two more of her books; print and ebook.

* * * * * *

BOOK INFO:

J.B. McDonald; By Degrees; Torquere Press; August 2009 (TPB)

Orphaned at eleven and bounced around the foster system, Tim learned young that the only thing he could control was himself. It was a lesson he took seriously, and it's the only thing that keeps him safe from more heartbreak. Conner doesn't understand this desire to control things, but he doesn't need to. He loves everything about his control-freak friend, even the way he quirks just one eyebrow. He has for years.

With Con's arrival, everything starts unraveling in Tim's life. He's questioning his sexual orientation, wrangling with emotions from his past, and fending off questions from Con's well-meaning family. Drowning in a world out of his control, his one hope is to let go and trust that love will save him. But after so many years of burying his feelings, he's not sure it's possible.

Buy this book: ebook / print

Leiland Dale's got a contest... I've entered

2010-03-12T21:12:00.001-07:00

So, Leiland Dale announced that he's got a contest here for three copies of his latest book to be released March 20.
Having read his two previous books ~ When the Bluebird Calls and Paul's D'Marco (reviews to come... promise!) ~ I jumped on the chance to win a new book.
The contest started yesterday, March 11 and runs until March 20. The book is A Prophecy of Destiny and promises to be as engaging as his other two books.

Link: http://silverpublishing.info/index.php?main_page=contest

The House of Silver Oak by Nix Winter

2010-03-06T19:03:00.018-07:00

The House of Silver Oak by Nix Winter --here-- is an amazing story that I was fortunate enough, along with several other members from Ethan Day's Yahoo group, to get a copy of from the author. I've read a few of Nix's books and really enjoyed them; but this one I absolutely loved! In Nix's books, that I've read, there's been an underlying sense of mischief that pervades the story, usually associated with one of the characters. In The House of Silver Oak the mischievous character is Shelly Comstock-Gray. His interactions with the other main character / hero, Cain Hardrain, really make this story sparkle and add a humour that is wielded with a deft touch.

Then there's the eerie mystery of just what it is to be feared in the cellar... and who was responsible for the deaths of Shelly, his brother and his brother's fiancée? I was kept on tenterhooks throughout the book and couldn't wait to get to the answers. But then I was disappointed that I'd come to the end.
There is a spookiness to the story that is wonderfully balanced by the humour. The cast of characters is bigger than I expected and the intricacies of the various connections is quite stunning. Everything, everything, works so marvellously together and I hope that this book gains a wide audience... it is very deserving of such.

Oh and not only is NIx Winter a fantastic author, but Nix is also a stellar artist. Nix has done many covers for other ebooks and, if I'm not mistaken, is the creator of the beautiful and haunting cover for The House of Silver Oak. Multi-talented is the least I can say!

If you enjoy ghost stories, murder mysteries, romances and sexy man-on-man loving, then I strongly urge you to check this book out. And don't delay!

* * * * * *

Summary:

Cain's problems didn't get smaller in Iraq.

Whiskey doesn't fix anything long enough.

His last chance gets him a job as a caretaker for an old mansion.

It comes with more ghosts than he had before.

Don't go in the cellar.

A hundred years before a triple homicide made the house notorious.

Shelly Comstock-Gray is still the celebrated murder suspect.

Cain can't believe the smiling, cheerful ghost hurt anyone.

Mistakes can be deadly.

Don't go in the cellar.

* * * * * *

BUY BOOK

Review for Stealing My Heart Anthology

2010-03-04T23:40:00.057-07:00

Be it in another time, another dimension, or another world, the authors of the Stealing My Heart Anthology will take you away to a world where male/male love and passion reign.

Stephani Hecht, Jambrea Jo Jones, A.J. Llewellyn and D.J. Manly, Carol Lynne, Jaime Samms, and Serena Yates, have all contributed their talents and their time to make this exciting contribution to male/male erotic romance.

All proceeds will go to help fight illegal e-Book downloading. Thank you, and enjoy!

___________________________________
Stolen Memories by Carol Lynne

On the eve of his mother's funeral, Aden Brousseau met Victor DePasse for the first time. For years his mother had warned him to stay away from the dark-haired neighbour, but on that particular evening, Aden hadn't listened. He'd been fascinated with the handsome man since the day he'd overheard his mother and grandfather refer to Victor as a vampire.

Now, twenty years later, Aden once again is in the presence of Victor DePasse. Only this time he's older and knows exactly what he wants.

After years of visiting his charge in his dreams, Victor suddenly has the man he's fallen in love with in front of him. Does he defy his orders and make Aden his, or does he obey and give Aden up to his destiny?

Review: While different from the books of Carol Lynne's that I've read to date ~ I'm horribly backlogged ~ I was quickly entranced by her story. Aden and Victor are men, or man and vampire, that I quickly found myself attracted to and really enjoyed watching as their relationship developed. Some interesting elements added a bit of an exotic touch to the experience.
___________________________________
Stealing Rain by A.J. Llewellyn and D.J. Manly

In the not too distant future, water becomes so scarce the hunt is on for any drop on other planets. Drew and Trace, former lovers find that love, not just rain, is high at any price.

Drew Lecour was once the pride of the military, until he'd decided to leave the federation and became a rogue, selling water to the highest bidder. Trace had a history with Drew, one that involved some hot sex and broken promises. And now, after not seeing him for years, Drew and his crew suddenly show up on a planet Trace has been contracted to protect, a planet where Drew is set to drill for water.

Trace doesn't have a choice. He has to defend the water supply. His men are waiting for their leader to give the order to kill, but he can't bring himself to do that. So he confiscates Drew's equipment and takes him prisoner; but having Drew naked and at his mercy proves far more challenging than he'd anticipated, and then, there are others forces at play.

Review: Another story by two favourite authors ~ A.J. Llewellyn and D.J. Manly ~ that was a departure from other stories that I've read by them writing individually as well as together... but I really like what they did. Drew and Trace were sizzling and I loved as they were able to work through their differences. And then there is the whole idea of water being an extraordinary resource; I couldn't help comparing it to the common theme of the anthology.  Often people look at books and stories as just another source of entertainment, a means to spend some time. But stories are more, a LOT more, than that to the authors; they are their hearts and sweat, dreams and frustrations, and I loved the way that A.J. and D.J. made the correlation with such a great story.
___________________________________
Hotwired Heart by Jaime Samms

A good car thief needs sixty seconds, but grand theft heart might take even less time than that.

Freedom and trust; opposite sides of the same coin that could give expert car thief, Marky, the win he's looking for. Little does he know escaping his gang ties will lead him through heartbreak and into cuffs he hadn't even thought to watch out for. Now he can trust the powerful man who wants to help, or he can keep running.

It all depends on how much he values his freedom, and whether or not Roland has managed the impossible; hijacking Marky's carefully guarded heart.

Review: Jaime Samms' stories are very much among my favourites and with Hotwired Heart she's once again illustrated just why I love them so much. While I wasn't sure at the beginning just where she was headed, I knew that everything would become clear as the story progressed... and I was right. Not only did I get what exactly Marky was fighting, but I really felt for him, for his struggles and his successes. But, like most other things in life, while wanting to do it for ourselves, we often need the support of others. I fell in love with Marky and Rollie... and I'm hoping that this will not be the last we hear of them or of Rollie's club and some of the people there. What a world to explore!
___________________________________
The Magic Thieves by Serena Yates

Elryk Muyd'omir is the most powerful lightning wizard born on Tah'Nut in two hundred years and a pacifist. When he refuses to co-operate with the illegally ruling Xoh'kas family they torture and kill his lover. Rather than risking the death of thousands by losing control over his lightning magic in his rage, he flees to Earth—a place without magic. When the gateway that connects Tah'Nut to other worlds opens Elryk knows that the Law Forces have found him. It is time to either face cruel punishment or fight.

Kaythan Vs'urr is a Law Force Commander who is sent to retrieve the criminal wizard Elryk. He is expected to return him to Tah'Nut for ‘reprogramming'. Secretly disgusted with the Xoh'kas' lack of determination to stop the magic thieves, he has decided to win Elryk for his plan of defeating them. All they need to do is find the fabled Magic Shield to prevent further thievery.
Can Elryk trust the gorgeous Law Commander who wants his help? Will the two men be able to work together to defeat the Xoh'kas and eliminate the magic thieves?

Review: Just when I thought that I had figured everything out, along comes this treasure from Serena Yates, another author whose stories have touched my heart. While futuristic sci-fi isn't really high on my list of favourite sub-genres, there's something so wonderfully basic and elemental (pun intended) about Elryk and Kaythan. I found the tale to be well-developed and quite entrancing. Again, a wonderful illustration for the theme of this anthology.
___________________________________
Stealing Michael by Jambrea Jo Jones

Can one wrong make it right?

Robert's mother pushes him into stealing a painting. He is in over his head when the homeowner catches him in the act. It leaves him wondering what to do now?

Michael's life turns in a new direction when a stranger enters his home and the urge to protect the thief overcomes his common sense. He knows he should be angry but who can resist a thief that looks like an angel?

Review: Robert is a character that I could really feel for and Michael was just plain great.   Michael was a man committed to being the best person he could be, even when acting completely against all his instincts. In many ways this entry in the Stealing My Heart anthology is a modern fairy tale. A talented author, Jambrea Jo Jones has come up with a wonderful story that again makes a graphic point towards the theme. Very nice.
___________________________________
Dragon's Eye by Stephani Hecht

After a decade of living under the iron rule of a sorcerer, dragon shifter, Duncan Moore finally has his chance for freedom. With his former master dead, all Duncan has to do is steal the very thing that has been holding him captive all these years, his dragon's eye. The stone holds his magic and his dragon self and without it, he can never go home again.

What should be an easy theft turns complicated when he finds that someone has beat him to the eye and he has no idea where it could be. To add to things he suddenly finds himself teamed up with the dead sorcerers' son, Trent. For years Duncan has longed for Trent, but had never dared act on his desires. Then one night of passion between the men changes everything and Duncan realises that he could lose something far more valuable than his dragon's eye, he could lose Trent.
Will Duncan be able to save them both? Or will he have to make the ultimate sacrifice?

Review: This is the only story by an author who is still new-to-me. I've read a story that she collaborated on with another author writing in this anthology and really liked it. But now I'm definitely going to be doing some searching for her solo works... that's one thing that I like so much about anthologies. And again, I'm hoping that there will be more to come in tales from this world of mages and dragon shifters... what's not to like?!

* * * * * *

Stealing My Heart ~ Anthology

2010-03-04T14:27:00.002-07:00

I would have bought this book regardless of the authors involved. The idea behind it alone is enough for me to support the cause. But the fact that the authors are all among my favourites and auto-buys, you better believe I have this book!
I happen to love ebooks. Yes, I'm fairly new to the world of epublishing ~ and only as a reader ~ but in the last two years or so I've managed to acquire a thousand or so ebooks. And many of these books are by authors that have become favourites of mine. Their stories mean something to me, often powerful and always enjoyable... and I want them to be able to continue creating these books.
Having a book stolen is terrible, but having many multiple copies being given away FREE is not only a crime, it's incredibly damaging to the epublishers and the authors.
It's also something that raises my ire. Damn it, I've paid for my books and I do so gladly. For me books are not a luxury, they're part of my life and during years of fighting depression, they were a life-saver... literally.

eBook piracy is theft, plain and simple. The thieves involved would like pretty up these thefts with a lot of high-faluting rhetoric that, when all is said and done, means nothing. By uploading and sharing ONE legally purchased ebook, these thieves are taking hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars from the authors whose heart and sweat go into bringing up stories of love, adventure, other worlds, fantasy ~ any of it.
Stealing My Heart? Yes, the title means exactly what it sounds like. And I, for one, am going to do what I can to support the epublishers and authors who have brought so much enjoyment to my days.

* * * * * *

D.W. Marchwell ~ Falling

2010-02-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

D.W. Marchwell's books are addictive! I've not read one that's not appealed to me in a big way. His characters are regular people with flaws and foibles, his scenes varied but always based in reality, and his stories clutch at the heart strings and you don't want to get away.

This is the third of Marchwell's full-length novels ~ Good to Know, Sins of the Father and now Falling ~ and he's had two novellas, one in Dreamspinner Press's Mistletoe Madness, Mitchell's Presence, and his most recent, Until. I'm hooked... but then I've been enamoured of this author's writing since the first book.
There's something about the way that his characters interact, and something about who they are that really resonates with me.

In Falling, Sam and Hank, on the surface, are wildly different. Hank is a logger and he's happiest outdoors drinking in the scenery from his perch way up high in the tallest trees. He's addicted to the thrill that's part of the logger's life while the rest of his life is little more than a search, for what he doesn't know; but women and partying aren't satisfying.
Sam, on the other hand, is a well-established musician from Toronto. His music is pretty much his life, between writing and performing he's not had the time, or really, the inclination to find a man to build a relationship with.
But yet there's something about the other that draws them together. If you want a romance that'll give you all the tingles that you want; if you want beautiful descriptions of scenery or if you plain just want a great story with interesting characters, then Falling is the book for you.

To buy Falling, click here.
To find D.W. Marchwell's other books at Dreamspinner Press, go here.

Reviews and me....

2010-02-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

I just bought D.W. Marchwell's newest book ~ Falling ~ and will be doing a review... I love it, of course!

But when I first started to read it ~ the ebook as I don't have the print version yet ~ and as I was flipping to the first page, I came across the page where little snippets from reviews for his previous books were mentioned. And lo and behold, under the title for his first book Good to Know, there was my little line: "I was completely enchanted." credited to eHarlequin which is the site where I had intially reviewed the book... Can you say excited?
All I can say is, it's a good thing that there was no one in the high school parking lot at the time; I was waiting for my daughter and I nearly deafened myself with my squeal....

Grown up? Who me? Ha, not in this lifetime.

My entire review is here.

Poll on ebook pricing

2010-02-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

An online friend and author ~ Serena Yates ~ whose work I really like, brought to the attention of ebook readers a blog posted by Brenna Lyons. In it Ms. Lyons has a poll about, of course, ebook pricing.
Her blog intro is enlightening and all I can say is that I hope all those who enjoy the ebook phenomenon will take a few minutes to check it out and vote.

You can either click on the link earlier on in the message or here; but it takes so little time and the benefits to those of us who enjoy ebooks could be invaluable. Being able to buy directly from an epublisher, thereby giving more support to our favourite authors, is something I don't want to lose.

Have a good day.. and VOTE! *grin*

Sins of the Father by D.W. Marchwell

2010-02-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

Buying this book was a given; this is the third story by D.W. Marchwell that I've read and it totally blew me away. I've loved his other stories, but in Sins of the Father, he's surpassed himself. This is not a short story ~ I was up 'til 4:30 in the morning because I literally could not put this book down ~ but it read as though it were. Was it worth it? Oh heck yes! (I'm using much stronger language in my mind... just so you know.)
In fact just after I started reading the book I had to go back and buy the print version. This is one of those authors whose storytelling leaves me wanting his books in any form that I can get them... and, while I have a large list of favourite authors, the number whose books I have in all formats is much, much smaller.

Sins of the Father is amazingly rich in detail, the storyline is one that will stand the test of time and the characters? Dear heaven; they were phenomenal and... even thinking about them now leaves me feeling almost overwhelmed with emotion. Connected, involved with, interested in... none of these describe how I felt about them.
And the story ~ Wow! Even though I was merely an observer I felt as though I were there with all my senses involved and it and it totally rocked.

I'd like to say I'm speechless, but of course that won't wash... but it's taken me 6 hours before I felt capable of doing D.W. Marchwell's Sins of the Father any justice at all.

So run, do not walk, and buy yourself a copy... you won't be sorry!

Valentine Scavenger Hunt 2010 at 1 Romance Ebooks

2010-02-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

So when it comes to books, contests and contests involving books I am so there! Which is why I'm touting the Valentine Contest over at 1 Romance Ebooks. Just click http://1romanceebooks.com, find the link to the Scavenger Hunt and off you go.

The contest runs from now to February 14th and they're offering some fantastic prizes. What do you have to lose? Nothing... and so much to gain.

So GO!

Mahu Fire by Neil Plakcy

2010-01-11T17:37:00.003-07:00

Not sure what it was, but there was a little spark missing in this, Neil Plakcy's third book in his MAHU series. But that's not to say that it wasn't still an excellent story; honestly I don't think this man can write a bad story. I really do enjoy following the adventures of Kimo; but there's so much more to the stories than just Kimo and his police magic. There's his family and friends, there is the desire to find that special someone, something that most of us can identify with in one way or another. And there's always a mystery that keeps the reader spell-bound and unsure of just who is doing what and why; at least until the end.

Another excellent story in Neil Plakcy's outstanding series.

--------------------
Book Info:

Neil S. Plakcy; Mahu Fire; Alyson Books; April 2008

* * * * * *

WHERE THERE'S SMOKE...THERE'S DEATH
Honolulu heats up, as passions rise and murder comes calling. Homicide detective Kimo Kanapa'aka is attending a local charity event in support of gay marriage when a bomb disrupts the gala. Someone is out for more than blood...they want victims. With hunky fireman Mike Riccardi at his side--day and night--Kimo digs through the ashes to find that, not only is heat dangerous for the heart, but that fire can burn through the hottest of motives.

Mahu Surfer by Neil Plakcy

2010-01-11T17:35:00.004-07:00

Neil Plakcy has, in Kimo Kanapa'aka, created a character that comes to life. In his struggles with his outing, his desire to be just Kimo Kanapa'aka, former surfer, now homicide detective, he's finding that, to many people, he's more--or to some, less. He's a real person dealing with frustrations that most of us will never have to go through. Even more, he's still a cop and a good one at that. It's driving him crazy that his notoriety is both a help and a hindrance.

Mr. Plakcy's mystery writing is superb, his characterisations wonderful and his storytelling stellar. On so many levels this author has gained my appreciation; and as a writer he's fabulous!

-----------------------------
Book Info:

Neil S. Plakcy; Mahu Surfer; Alyson Books; August 2007

* * * * * *

SURF'S UP... AND SO IS THE BODY COUNT

On the North Shore of Oahu, three young surfers have been murdered--shot by a high-powered rifle while riding the waves. For Kimo Kanapa'aka, the only openly gay detective in Honolulu--and one-time competitive surfer--tracking the killer is his way back to respectablility within his own department. Infiltrating the close-knit surfer community, Kimo discovers more than trouble in paradise. He finds pure evil under the sun.

Mahu by Neil S. Plakcy

2010-01-11T17:29:00.003-07:00

I love mysteries and I love Neil Plakcy's books. Up until I read his Mahu series, I'd only read two of Mr. Plakcy's books, but they really struck a chord with me. So when I found that his first book was a police procedural and that the main character, Kimo Kanapa'aka is a gay homicide detective, I knew I had to get it... and the three following stories as well.

I am pleased to say that I was NOT disappointed! As far as I'm concerned Neil can write just about anything and I'm going to enjoy it.

Kimo Kanapa'aka is a seriously engaging character and following as his life is turned upside-down and topsy-turvy is a rollercoaster ride where you can't see what's coming up next. And Mr. Plakcy keeps the tension honed to a fine edge; but he's also very good at letting us breathe once in awhile.

All I can say is, Neil Plakcy has joined my top favourite and auto-buy author's list... and I've already made excellent headway on collecting all his books.

-------------------------
Book Info:

Neil S. Plakcy; MAHU; Alyson Books; 2009 (reprint)

* * * * * *
A TROPICAL PARADISE CONTAINS DEADLY SECRETS

Honolulu becomes the site for murder and deception. When handsome, mixed-race surfer (and closeted homicide detective) Kimo Kanapa'aka leaves a Honolulu gay bar late one night and stumbles onto two men dropping a dead body in an alley, he has no idea hat he is about to begin the journey of his life--into danger, passion and self-awareness. Kimo's pursuit of this case takes him from the seamy underside of Chinatown to the elegance of million-dollar homes in Maunalani Heights, from gay bars where young men stride naked down runways to bloody crime scenes. The murder has the potential to publicize his personal life and wipe-out everything he has worked for.

Neil S. Plakcy and the MAHU series

2010-01-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

Over the Christmas holidays I finally made time for the four books in Neil Plakcy's MAHU series and I'm so glad that I did. After having read Three Wrong Turns in the Desert and Gaylife.com I knew that I'd love these books. They're not romances but there are romance elements; but even so, I was in alt when I finally got down to reading about Kimo Kanapa'aka. I love mysteries and I love stories about police detectives ~ and my favourite television shows are still Law & Order and Law & Order: Criminal Intent. There's something about the good guys getting the upper hand and making the evil-doers, if not pay, at least have their faces and names put to the crime.

So yes, even though I bought these Print books without having much knowledge about them, I must say how pleased I am to have them on my shelves!
And I will be posting reviews for each of the books in the series shortly... I'm off to pick my daughter up from school...

Power Play by J.M. Snyder

2009-12-30T17:52:00.000-07:00

Power Play is a long, long book ~ my pdf copy is 580 pages ~ and, while it sometimes seemed a little too detailed, it's classic J.M. Snyder in the depth of her characterisations. Ryan and Dante are very much the core of this book and it's who they are singly and together and who they become that is key. Both are young men, Ryan being 19 and Dante, 18. Ryan seems to be quite representative of his age; although his dedication to hockey is stellar. It's a real test of his character when he loses all by which he has measured himself. As for Dante, I don't know if it's part of his basic character or what he's grown up with, but he definitely comes across as a much more mature person. And though it may seem as though this is mainly Dante's story and how he makes a difference in Ryan's life, Ryan had a big impact on Dante as well. I especially loved their openness with each other ~ this may not be *real*, but for a romance I liked it.

What really amazed me is that the time span of the main story is only little more than a week! A lot happened to both Ryan and Dante in a seemingly short period; but with the amount of detail given my JM it's really not surprising.

Even with the length and wealth of detail this was a fairly easy read. Emotional? Oh heck yes! But ultimately a very satisfying read and by the end of the book I really felt as though I knew both Dante and Ryan; and I like them both very much.

This isn't a book, but still....

2009-12-18T18:12:00.000-07:00

I've had the DVD of Shelter on my shelves for months, just never got around to watching it. But last night I did.

OMG... what a fantabulous movie! I laughed, I cried, I cursed, I tingled.. I absolutely LOVED it! I am going to go on and on about it, but I still need to unwind a bit... mostly 'cause I was eavesdropping while my daughter and her friend watched it. ::sigh::

I've got another favourite, favourite movie... right up there with Dear Frankie! Although... right now, Shelter... yeah, that one's the best!

The Santa Mug by Patric Michael

2009-12-18T12:38:00.003-07:00

I have been reading and reviewing, just not here so much. What with all the wonderful Christmas stories and other to-review books, I've sadly let my little niche on the 'web languish.
Then I had a great idea! Well, actually another reviewer from Dark Diva Reviews showed me the way: literally. Helps when I visit other peoples' blogs y'know?

Dark Diva Autumn has, on her blog, posted some of her reviews for the Dark Divas. And the lightbulb flashed!
Without further ado The Santa Mug by Patric Michael (reviewed on Dark Diva Reviews here.)
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The Santa Mug by Patric Michael

The Santa Mug by Patric Michael
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Christmas

Link here

Summary: When Marlon died on Christmas Eve, Darren withdrew from the holidays, and life in general, until Max, the man who introduced him to Marlon, invites Darren to his parents' house for Thanksgiving. Darren agrees and is immediately overwhelmed by Max's large, boisterous family. He tries to retreat behind familiar barriers, but Max has other ideas for the reclusive young man. It's not until Max delivers Marlon's last Christmas gift, four years late, that Darren truly understands that love is the greatest gift of all.

Kathy’s Review: Patric Michael’s stories invariably leave me sniffing and hoping that the tears falling aren’t too obvious. And then they always, always leave me smiling, joyous and light-hearted. The Santa Mug, Patric’s entry in Dreamspinner Press’s Mistletoe Madness holiday series is very much a case in point.

It doesn’t matter how often I read Mr. Michael’s The Santa Mug, the reactions never differ. Each and every time I feel at first heartsick for Darren who’s closed himself off, trying to escape his pain. I can feel the sense of loss and of being lost that he experiences; the emptiness and the feelings of guilt that we nearly always feel upon the death of a loved one. Losing Marlon on Christmas Eve has made the holiday a travesty for Darren. At the same time, the loss of Darren’s spirit has hurt, very deeply, his friends and especially Max. Max whose dedication to his friends, both Marlon and Darren, and his whole-hearted love for Darren slowly begins to break down the walls that pain has built... and drat, here come the tears again!

Patric Michael is a magician when it comes to words and he is able to depict stark, yet overwhelming emotion, with clean and descriptive prose. His each and every word is imbued with feeling and richness and there is never any excess verbiage. With every word, he is able to build a world where love is magic and magic is all around. And, with wisdom, he imparts the truth that anything worth getting is worth whatever time, heart and effort necessary.

If you’ve never read anything by this wonderful author, now is the time to delve into a world of love, emotion and romance. Patric Michael’s The Santa Mug is a fabulous story with which to start.

Rated 5 Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read by Kathy!

For more Dark Diva Reviews, click here

D.W. Marchwell ~ Good to Know

2009-12-02T11:08:00.001-07:00

D.W. Marchwell is a new-to-me author; I *found* him through a guest blog on Book Wenches. The post itself was fascinating reading; when he segued into mentioning his book and added how it was connected with his post, I was hooked and went straight away to Dreamspinner Press. Didn't hurt either that I know the area that he wrote about quite well... beautiful, beautiful country.

So I bought Good to Know and read it within a day or so... with my backlog of TBR books that doesn't happen often, but I was particularly intrigued by the story synopsis and the post that Mr. Marchwell wrote. I was completely enchanted, both by the characters and their stories that became their story. A heartwarming romance with two men and a boy all looking for somewhere to belong. It's about a search for friendship, family and love and about taking what they have made of their lives and learning to open themselves up and risk hurt. But anything worthwhile is earned with tears, sweat and labour and in Good to Know, D.W. Marchwell shows himself to be cognizant and familiar with these concepts.

I'm now firmly in the D.W. Marchwell fan club and will be sure to acquire anything this most talented writer comes out with. Fabulous!

Some of the books I've read... Oh my!

2009-11-23T10:58:00.004-07:00

The joys of reading have never been as evident to me as they have been over the last few weeks. I admit it, I'm a Book Slut ~ and darned proud of it too!~ and being a fairly new reviewer for Ebook Addict and Dark Diva Reviews has been a slice of heaven! While not all of my heavenly reads have been from my review work, a fair bit has. I've slowly been making sure that I add long-time-eTBR books to my reading list. I really wish that there were more hours in the day... and that I could dedicate them to just READING. But, alas, my family does come first and they do like to eat, so.... :grin:

* * * * * *

I finally made a place for Z.A. Maxfield's Notturno in my line-up and it was everything ~ and even a bit more ~ than I had thought it would be. Sometimes the lead-in to a story ~ aka other people's comments, raves and reviews ~ end up leaving me with a slight to severe let-down. Let me say that I've not seen ANYTHING that comes close to the power of Notturno... and that's saying a LOT!
I'm not making mention of ZAM's Blue Fire 'cause I've just recently reviewed it here... :sigh: My oh my... Adam and Jared
T.A. Chase's Nowhere Diner: Finding Love has been in my TBR since its release... I know! And while I knew that I was going to love it ~ everything else that I've read by this marvelously talented author has been fabulous ~ it still managed to take my breath away. I'm sincerely hoping that this is only the first in a series of stories featuring Cookie's diner... I could spend a long, long time there and never be bored!

A few of the review books that I've read lately out-and-out blew me away. I've come to find that there is a plethora of amazing, talented and just-plain-fantastic, ebook authors around and it's been a thrill to find so many of these and add them to my favourite-and-auto-buy list. The latest additions, in no particular order:

Chrissy Munder ~ Fair Wind
Nicki Bennett ~ Flight
Neil Plakcy ~ Three Wrong Turns in the Desert

which led me straight to Mr. Plakcy's Gaylife.com (which has been in my TBR since its release)

Shawn Lane ~ Beyond the Norm
Mychael Black ~ As Above, So Below
Jet Mykles ~ About Something
Rowan McBride ~ One Shot
Rosalie Stanton ~ Firsts

I'm not including here books that I've read and reviewed by authors that I already collect; the above are all new-to-me authors that have blasted their way into my heart and onto my list... Thank heavens! The tried and true favourites:

Ethan Day ~ As You Are
Josh Lanyon ~ I Spy Something Wicked

I actually waited to read "Wicked" because Mr. Lanyon's I Spy Something Bloody was also a long-time resident of my eTBR (I know, I know....); once I figured out that "Wicked" was a sequel novella to a book in my TBR... well, I'm not crazy... much.

* * * * * *

So I decided that today was a great day to at least catch up on my book list; at least here. My poor eHarlequin blog is starting to collect all kinds of spiders and ghostly sounds. Ah well... I'll get better at the time organization thing... I hope!