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April 17th, 2013
 Stroke Rate by L.M. Somerton
Publisher: Total-E-Bound
Genre: GLBT, BDSM, M/M, Erotic Romance
Length: 121 pages
Summary:
Lucien Thorne likes to be in control, but the boy he wants to own may take some convincing.
Gorgeous but shy, Benedict Astor does his best to keep a low profile at the rowing club where he works. However, unbeknown to Benedict, he has attracted the attention of Lucien Thorne, rowing aristocracy, an Olympic medallist and a Lord.
Whilst looking for a new rowing partner, Lucien believes he has found what he needs in Ben. He pushes him to his limits on the water and it becomes clear that rowing with the pretty young man is not his only interest. Ben is attracted to Lucien but confused about his feelings. Lucien is demanding, arrogant and dominant—which Benedict responds to even though he feels he should resist.
Fighting emotions he doesn’t understand, Ben has to contend with the bullying rowing club president and a humiliating auction of promises.
Lucien recognises Ben’s hidden submissive streak and makes his own need for control very clear. He bids for Ben’s time and then forces Ben to admit to his own desire to test the ground between them.
When the deeds to the boat club are gambled away, Lucien and Ben must work together to save it. Will their growing love survive the pressure, Ben’s uncertainty and Lucien’s desire to own him completely?
Reader Advisory: This book contains scorching scenes of dominance and submission between two professional rowers with smoking hot bodies! This includes bondage, chastity devices and orgasm denial, a bratty sub and a foul-mouthed, harsh Dom. There’s also a very brief scene of attempted sexual coercion by a character not involved in the relationship.
Samhain Queene’s Review:
 Stroke Rate is the first book I’ve read by L. M. Somerton. I’m definitely going to check out more of her work.
In Stroke Rate, we’re introduced to Ben and Lucien. Total opposites, Ben is completely oblivious to Lucien’s interest until Lucien requests Ben row with him one morning. Dealing with his growing attraction to Lucien, Ben also has to deal with his innate submissiveness.
While training to compete to win back the deeds to their rowing club, Lucien and Ben also traverse the waters of a new relationship. Even though Ben is submissive, he’s a very strong character who brings out the softer side of Lucien.
Good story. Loved the characters. Look forward to reading more by Ms. Somerton.
Rated 3 ½ Delightful Divas by Samhain Queene!
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Posted in 3 1/2 divas, BDSM, contemporary, Erotic, GLBT, L.M. Somerton, m/m, Samhain Publishing, Stroke Rate, Total E-Bound | No Comments »
March 13th, 2013
 Screwing the System by Josephine Myles
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: GLBT, BDSM, M/M, Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Length: 213 pages
Summary:
He’s nobody’s bitch. Until he gets a ride on the bitch seat.
Forced to apply for a job he doesn’t want, Cosmo Rawlins has only one aim in mind: fail the interview and get back to making music. Except his attempt to shock the older, sharp-suited Alasdair Grant doesn’t have the desired effect.
Instead of getting thrown out of the office by flaunting an interest in BDSM, Cosmo finds himself on his knees, apologizing to the sexy, good-looking Top.
Alasdair has more important things on his mind than training a novice sub, especially a rebellious bad boy like Cosmo. But there’s something beneath the younger man’s defiant attitude that’s too intriguing to ignore.
As Alasdair takes Cosmo in hand—and for a wild ride on his Harley—he becomes obsessed with bending the young rocker to his will, both in and out of bed. Until he goes one demand too far, and Cosmo is gone in a cloud of dust. Forcing Alasdair to admit that earning Cosmo’s loyalty—and love—will involve the toughest challenge he’s ever faced.
Warning: This title contains an overbearing Top with a less-than-glamorous job, a rebellious brat who refuses to call him sir, and a total lack of high-end BDSM clubs or playrooms. Expect floggings over the kitchen table instead.
Samhain Queene’s Review:
Flawed characters with a bit of BDSM thrown in for good measure is what you’ll get with Screwing the System by Josephine Myles.
Alasdair and Cosmo may on the outside look like total opposites, but once you get to know them, and them know each other, you discover they have a lot in common. Cosmo goes on an interview with the intention to fail. He never imagines what happens next with Alasdair.
Alasdair has seen the good and bad of life, and has had his heart broken by life’s choices. Then he meets Cosmo. In Cosmo, Alasdair finds what and who he needs.
There are a few moments that tear at your heart strings, but they are also complimented by humorous moments. I thoroughly enjoyed Alasdair and Cosmo. Ms. Myles has a good story and wonderful characters in Screwing the System.
Rated 4 Delightful Divas by Samhain Queene!
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Posted in 4 Divas, BDSM, contemporary, Erotic, GLBT, Josephine Myles, m/m, Samhain Publishing, Samhain Queene, Screwing the System | No Comments »
November 6th, 2012
 The Hot Floor by Josephine Myles
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Erotic Romance, Menage
Length: Novel
Summary:
Two plus one equals scorching hot fun.
Dumped by his boyfriend and reduced to living in a grotty bedsit, Josh Carpenter has gotten used to expecting the worst. Now he lives only for his job as a glassblower…and occasional glimpses of his sexy downstairs neighbors, Rai Nakamura and Evan Truman.
Every time he overhears the diminutive academic and the hunky plumber having loud and obviously kinky sex, Josh is overwhelmed with lust…and a longing for a fraction of what they have.
To his amazement, Rai and Evan find his embarrassing tendency to blush utterly charming, and the three men grow closer over the course of the long, hot summer. Despite Rai’s charming flirtation and Evan’s smoldering gaze, Josh is determined never to break his new friends’ loving bonds.
On the night a naked Josh falls—quite literally—into the middle of one of Rai and Evan’s marathon sex sessions, the force of their mutual attraction takes control. But just as Josh dares to hope, he senses a change. Leaving him to wonder if the winds of love are about to blow his way at last…or if history is about to repeat itself.
Warning: Contains one well-endowed stud with a sexy accent, one improbably toppy bottom boy with an unfortunate owl obsession, and one blushing naïf who can’t believe his luck. Also, the occasional indulgence in mathematical spanking and some shameless armpit sex.
Evelise’s Review:
Josephine Myles delivers a wonderfully, sensual tale in her novel The Hot Floor. Rai and Evan are long-time lovers who have been known to take a third to their bed; with ground rules. Enter Josh, another tenant at Walcot Terrace and secretly in love with Rai and Evan from afar. Josh admires the two men from a distance and even though the two men flirt with him, he is determined not to come between them. Rai and Evan take a shine to Josh and invite him into their bed and lives and end up breaking all “the rules”.
 The Hot Floor lives up to the words in the title leaving the reader panting breathlessly and wanting more. The story line itself is sweet yet not sappy, making all the characters believable and likable. What I love most about Ms. Myle’s style of writing is her charismatic, colorful characters with a language all unto themselves. The men of her stories are not the typical, everyday Joe and each character brings something unique to the table. In The Hot Floor, there is a bossy bottom, the burly plumber and the shy glass blower; all adding a unique perspective to a brilliant ménage.
She delves into very real relationship issues; jealousy, neurosis, insecurities; all the trappings that occur as you are building a meaningful bond. Each man also gives as much as he takes. Rai, Evan and Josh all strive to make the relationship work in a world where a homosexual couple may not be mainstream, yet alone a ménage. The secondary characters add pizazz to the story as well. Denise and Dylan are wonderful friends, who generate laughs and family, as is Stella, the elderly neighbor.
Ms. Myles truly has a grasp on writing a ménage story where all the partners are equals and the HEA is truly believable. She had me laughing at the antics, wanting to hug anyone of the men at any given time, and sweating at the sex scenes. A definite winner in this reviewer’s opinion.
Rated 5 Delightful Divas by Evelise!
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Posted in 5 Divas, contemporary, Erotic, Evelise, GLBT, Josephine Myles, m/m, menage, Samhain Publishing, The Hot Floor | No Comments »
November 1st, 2012
 Vance’s Rules by Anne Rainey
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Erotic, Contemporary Romance
Length: 118 pages
Summary:
Blackwater, Book 2
Looking at Vance Jennings now, no one would guess that the tough-as-nails building contractor once suffered a broken heart. Twelve years has blunted the pain of the breakup with his high school sweetheart, but not the memory. Until she shows up on his doorstep asking for a second chance.
One look at the sexy redhead, and Vance adds a foot or two to his rock-solid emotional barriers. No way is he letting her back into his life. But he’ll be happy to let her close enough to sample her delectable body.
Shayla Riggs is no longer the vulnerable teenager who was forced to give up her first and only love. She’s older, wiser, and determined to make things right. Except the changes in Vance throw her for a loop. He’s definitely not the sweet boy she remembers. In fact, the grown-up version lights her up hotter than a firecracker.
It takes only a kiss, a caress, to bring back the explosive passion they once shared. But if Shayla can’t find a way to break through the bitter walls around his heart, it just might destroy them both. Again.
Warning: This story contains a stubborn woman intent on seduction and an alpha male with some naughty ideas of payback. Let the fireworks begin!
Shelly’s Review:
 Shayla left Vance years ago, but he never knew why. Now Shayla is back in town to stay and she wants to make things right with Vance. She can only hope he’ll find it in his heart to forgive her. Vance had never thought he was good enough for Shayla and in his mind, she only proved it when she left him. Now she’s back and he doesn’t want to care, but he realizes he still loves her. Should he give Shayla a chance to redeem herself or will she only hurt him again?
Vance’s Rules is a sexy read that will heat you up on a chilly afternoon. The hero and heroine easily reestablish their past relationship after they determine the mistakes of the past shouldn’t stand in the way of their future. The passion heats up quickly and the love reemerges once they get past the anger and resentment. Vance’s Rules is a quick read, but there is a depth to it that makes the story feel complete. It’s easy to feel the emotion of the characters and you almost feel like you’re there. Oh, and speaking of feeling like you’re there…it’s the same with the smoking hot sex (sssss!). What an absolutely perfect read to spice up a boring afternoon!
Rated 5 Delightful Divas by Shelly!
Posted in 5 Divas, Anne Rainey, contemporary, Erotic, Samhain Publishing, Shelly, Vance's Rules | No Comments »
September 6th, 2012
 Checking It Twice by Jodi Redford
Publisher: Samhain publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Menage a Trois
Length: 188 pages
Summary:
The only item on Jana Colton’s Christmas list this year is Kevin Monahan. Preferably naked in her bed. The delicious, hunky chef has been resisting her forever, but she’s pulling out all the sexy stops this holiday. Especially since his acceptance of an out-of-state job threatens to nix her quest to rock his boxers off.
Jana has always been Kevin’s personal Kryptonite, but giving in to her isn’t an option. Relationships are a four-letter word in his book. He cares far too much for Jana to let his emotional baggage ultimately break her heart.
With the arrival of his best friend, Nick Pappas, the balance of temptation shifts. From their past history of sharing women, Nick knows every dirty trick it takes to lead Kevin astray, and he’s not afraid to use them. Particularly since Nick’s convinced that Jana is exactly what Kevin needs to be happy and whole.
Their game of seduction quickly snowballs into something that feels an awful lot like love—in triplicate. But with Kevin dead set on leaving Michigan, there’s a real possibility it could be a blue Christmas for them all.
Warning: This book contains an extremely tormented voyeur, a very naughty and not so saintly Nick, a liberal application of candy cane-flavored body paint, a buzzing butterfly, and enough raunchy fun on a sex swing to melt a snowman…or two.
Shelly’s Review:
Jana has tried for years to seduce her best friend, Kevin, but he won’t give in and give her the satisfaction she’s craving. Then Kevin’s estranged friend, Nick, shows up to try and make amends. Nick knows Kevin’s sexual past and he tries to help Jana break through Kevin’s insecurities and commit to a relationship. They’ve previously shared women, but can they share this one woman, Jana, that they’ve both come to love?
Oh, wow! I don’t think I’ve read a hotter, more intensely erotic book in my life. Checking It Twice is full of explosive menage sex from start to finish, written with amazing ingenuity. This is not a raunchy book, but it’s jam-packed with emotional, sensual, explicitly erotic sex that will keep you hot-and-bothered from page one. I wanted to read it slowly to soak up the full impact, but I just couldn’t do it. The pages flew by at an alarming rate and I was already wanting to read it again, before I actually even finished it.
In my opinion, this is an excellent erotic romance and Ms. Redford writes with experience, practice and creativity. Checking It Twice is awesome and I highly recommend it!
Rated 5 Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read by Shelly!
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Posted in 5 Divas, Checking It Twice, contemporary, Erotic, Jodi Redford, m/f/m, menage, Recommended Read, Samhain Publishing, Shelly | No Comments »
March 10th, 2012
 Hidden Fire by Jess Dee
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Red Hot
Length: 70 pages
Summary:
Well, this is an unexpected twist. Jenna Brooks is all set to spend the weekend wallowing in misery, repairing the cracks in the façade she’s maintained for twelve years. Instead she’s…tied to a chair. Kidnapped by her own twin brother and her so-called best friend.
It’s for her own good, they say. She’ll thank them later, they say. But when they reveal her partner in captivity, she shores up her emotional barriers. It’s Garreth Halt. The one man for whom she let her guard down. What a fool she was.
For one electrifying moment, Garreth had Jenna naked in his arms, on the edge of losing her legendary control. Could have kept her there forever, too, if he hadn’t felt honor-bound to tell her the truth. Before she’d heard the whole truth, though, she’d retreated behind the fortress around her heart.
Now they’re knee to knee, with no escape. While he’s irritated he let his alleged best friend get the drop on him, a small part of him is thrilled. With one final chance to show her his love is real, Garreth methodically, wickedly, sets out to dismantle her defenses.
One dirty word at a time.
Warning: Garreth may have charmed you in Winter Fire, but this time around, his blatantly sexy demands, even sexier actions and heartwarming love for his heroine are gonna make you fall head over heels.
Deb’s Review:
Jess Dee is sure to stir up the flames with her book, Hidden Fire, the second in this series. Garreth and Jenna share a passion for each other, but a tragedy in Jenna’s past and the promise made between her and her twin keeps her from the man she loves.
 How can anyone not love Jenna, who is soft and so heartbroken. However, she proved that she has strength in her core, as the story progressed and I loved that! Garreth is a “sweet, delicious, dark “concoction that, I for one crave. Their chemistry and passion fly off the pages. There is a history between these two you get from the first book, “Winter Fire” that makes you instantly want to know.
The second level characters are so much fun. I loved revisiting Jackson and Rachel and they play an important role in helping Garreth and Jenna find their way to one another where they belong. All of the characters are well-developed and have depth, which makes this enticing story even more enjoyable.
Ms. Dee’s fearless approach to tender subjects is what makes her a “must have” author. She pulls out the knowledge and helps her readers understand.
Lord Ms. Dee, the chair scenes made me wither in my seat…”Hot!” If you’re looking for sensual delights like no other, then pick-up Hidden Fire by Jess Dee. Garreth and Jenna promise to show you a great time. Just bring a towel because things could get a little wet.
Rated 4 Delightful Divas by Deb!
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Posted in 4 Divas, contemporary, Deb, Erotic, Hidden Fire, Jess Dee, Samhain Publishing | No Comments »
November 17th, 2011
 Come Unto These Yellow Sands by Josh Lanyon
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Romance Suspense
Length: 145 pages
Summary:
Sometimes the adventure chooses you.
Lover of fine poetry and lousy choose-your-own-adventure novels, Professor Sebastian Swift was once the bad-boy darling of the literati. The only lines he does these days are Browning, Frost and Cummings. Even his relationship with the hot, handsome Wolfe Neck Police Chief Max Prescott is healthy.
When one of his most talented students comes to him bruised and begging for help, Swift hands over the keys to his Orson Island cabin—only to find out that the boy’s father is dead and the police are suspicious. In an instant, the stable life Swift has built for himself hangs on finding the boy and convincing him to give himself up before Max figures out Swift’s involvement in the case.
Max enjoys splitting an infinitive or two with his favorite nutty professor, but he’s not much for sonnets or Shakespeare. He likes being lied to even less. Yet his instincts—and his heart—tell him his lover is being played. Max can forgive lies and deception, but a dangerous enemy may not stop until Swift is heading up his own dead poet’s society.
Product Warnings: The Surgeon General has determined that Josh Lanyon’s smart, sexy, sophisticated stories may prove hazardous to your heart.
Lasha’s Review:
Some people have compared Come Unto These Yellow Sands to the Adrien English Mysteries, but since I have not read those, I have no idea if this is true or not, so for me this Josh Lanyon will stand on its own as a truly wonderful and unique read.
 Professor Sebastian Swift is a former drug addict who happens to be an award-winning poet. But ever since his addiction caused his career to crash and burn, along with most of the relationships in his life, he’s settled down in an out-of-the-way town to teach at the local college. He has a friends with benefits kind-of relationship with the town’s police chief, Max Prescott and life is fairly pedestrian. Then one of his most promising students disappears after his father is murdered and all hell breaks loose. Sebastian becomes the number one suspect, Max breaks up with him and it looks like someone is trying to kill him. Suddenly life is not so boring after all.
What I loved about Come Unto These Yellow Sands was the utterly flawed way Mr. Lanyon wrote Sebastian. This ‘hero’ is a (sometimes) liar, petty, insecure and on the edge of using drugs again, but deep down is just trying to survive with what life throws at him. Sebastian is far from perfect and that’s what makes him so compelling.
Combine this tragic main character with a twisty whodunit and you have the ideal makings for a mystery novel with romantic influences. Highly recommended.
Rated 5 Delightful Divas by Lasha!
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Posted in 5 Divas, Come Unto These Yellow Sands, GLBT, Josh Lanyon, Lasha, m/m, Samhain Publishing | No Comments »
November 8th, 2011
 Talon and the Falconer by Gale Stanley
Publisher: Silver Publishing
Genre: GLBT, M/M, Paranormal, Erotic Romance
Length: 132 pages
Summary:
Talon, a vampire-hawk is shot down over Lycan territory. Ben, a Lycan falconer, rescues him and helps him escape. When Ben is injured, Talon returns the favor. Neither man realizes they’ve forged a connection that can never be broken, and their only hope for survival is as mates.
Samhain Queene’s Review:
The Symbiotic Mates series just continues to become more interesting and complex as it goes along. Gale Stanley has created an amazing world and beautifully crafted characters. Talon and the Falconer adds another level to the increasing tensions building in the Lycan and Vampire communities.
When Talon and Ben meet, Ben is taken with the beautiful vampire-hawk. Talon doesn’t want to trust Ben but seeing Ben’s interaction with his falcon, Jess, he slowly begins to. Finding out their bonded through the sharing of blood leads them both on a path neither expected.
I can’t wait to see how this series continues. Every story builds upon the one before it. More layers and intricacies abound as Abbi’s research continues and we learn more about the machinations of the Alpha and the Master. Kudos to Ms. Stanley for creating this world that draws you in and leaves you wanting more.
Rated 4 Delightful Divas by Samhain Queene!
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Posted in 4 Divas, Erotic, Gale Stanley, GLBT, m/m, Paranormal, Samhain Publishing, Silver Publishing, Talon and the Falconer | No Comments »
September 20th, 2011
 Barging In by Josephine Myles
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, GLBT, M/M
Length: 219 pages
Summary:
When the boat’s a rockin’, don’t come knockin’!
Out-and-proud travel writer Dan Taylor can’t steer a boat to save his life, but that doesn’t stop him from accepting an assignment to write up a narrowboat holiday. Instead of a change of pace from city life, though, the canal seems dull as ditchwater. Until he crashes into the boat of a half-naked, tattooed, pierced man whose rugged, penniless appearance is at odds with a posh accent.
Still smarting from past betrayal, Robin Hamilton’s “closet” is his narrowboat, his refuge from outrageous, provocative men like Dan. Yet he can’t seem to stop himself from rescuing the hopelessly out-of-place city boy from one scrape after another. Until he finds himself giving in to reluctant attraction, even considering a brief, harmless fling.
After all, in less than a week, Dan’s going back to his London diet of casual hook-ups and friends with benefits.
Determined not to fall in love, both men dive into one week of indulgence…only to find themselves drawn deep into an undertow of escalating intimacy and emotional intensity. Troubled waters neither of them expected…or wanted.
Product Warnings: Contains one lovable tart, one posh boy gone feral, rough sex, alfresco sex, vile strawberry-flavoured condoms, intimate body piercings, red thermal long-johns, erotic woodchopping, an errant cat, a few colourful characters you wouldn’t touch with a bargepole, and plenty of messing about on the river.
Cryselle’s Review:
Who knew there was an entire subculture living a gypsy life aboard long, thin boats on the canals of England? Or that some of them were so darn sexy? Josephine Myles treats us to a peek through Robin Hamilton’s reluctant romance with Dan Taylor, travel writer and terrible noob long-boater in Barging In.
The erotic wood-chopping we are warned of brings Robin and Dan together – literally, with a collision and snarling. From this inauspicious beginning wonderful things bloom. Dan’s out, footloose, and interested, but Robin’s slower to open up; his character is revealed in beautifully done details of his life, his boat, his tattoos, and eventually, his heart.
 The small every day things like getting from one end of the boat to the other become real terrors for a novice who’s not comfortable with water; Robin drops his gruffness in small chunks, opening up to Dan, teaching him practical things and what it’s like to be truly cared for. Each man has his own pain, revealed in his own time. Flaws and fears surface slowly, one step at a time, and we can see each man getting help from the other, all while watching the calendar tick away the brief time that was all they expected to have. Robin and Dan both have tiny thoughts of a future, followed by learning the art of compromise to have anything at all. Spattered with details of life on the canals and rivers, their story swings from hope to despair and back, several times. There’s a lot of sex in this book, but it does drive the plot.
The pacing lurches a bit – the first two thirds of the book cover one short, intense week, but the next third encompasses a month that both seems too long and in a few respects like not enough; the time doesn’t seem to match the calendar or pace of certain real world transactions, but that may also reflect my imperfect understanding of how both winter and money are managed in England. An occasion of over-telegraphing of what is to come then fails to follow through, hiding an unexpected personality transplant in a pivotal secondary character. That character was a great deal more likeable afterward.
But I love Dan, whose free spirit begins to liberate Robin from the shell he’s built, and Robin, who forces Dan to think, and I want them to be happy together. If they don’t like the place they’re in, they don’t have to wait two weeks for British Waterways to roust them, they’ll lead each other to a better space.
Rated 4 Delightful Divas by Cryselle!
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Posted in 4 Divas, Barging In, contemporary, Cryselle, Erotic, GLBT, Josephine Myles, m/m, Samhain Publishing, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
July 11th, 2011
 Bad Company by K.A. Mitchell
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Comedy, M/M, GLBT
Length: 154 pages
Summary:
Some things are sweeter than revenge.
“I need a boyfriend.”
Hearing those words from the mouth of his very straight ex-friend is enough to make columnist and editor Nate Gray choke on his Corona. It’s been thirteen years since Kellan Brooks’s father crushed Nate’s family on his climb to wealth and power. Even longer since he entrusted Kellan with the confession that he might be gay—only to have his best friend out and humiliate him to their entire high school. The last thing Nate expects is Kellan begging for his help.
Breaking off his engagement to a senator’s daughter was the last straw for Kellan’s CEO father. Frustrated at being cut off, his father’s stinging words—that he wishes Kellan had never been born—still ringing in his ears, Kellan turns to Nate. In a move worthy of a corporate raider, Kellan plans the ultimate revenge. Come out as the boyfriend of the man his homophobic father betrayed.
Convincing Nate to play along isn’t easy. It’s even harder to figure out why the lie feels so close to the truth.
Product Warnings: Contains old friends, old enemies, a dramatic cat rescue, soft drink references and a lot of teasing before the steamy sex. Readers are cautioned against drinking any beverage while reading to avoid accidental snorting or spraying of said beverages.
Lasha’s Review:
K.A. Mitchell’s
Bad Company is a delightful if somewhat unrealistic tale of Kellan Brooks’ plan to get revenge on his father for cutting him off after his latest engagement crashes and burns. In order to do that he goes to former childhood friend Nate Gray and ask him to be his pretend boyfriend to tick his father off completely. Kellan isn’t gay, but Nate is. The drama unfolds after this event as Nate and Kellan have to pretend to be madly in love, which isn’t hard for Nate because he’s secretly had a crush on his former best friend forever; but the question is, after all is said and done, will Kellan still want Nate after the charade is over?
Bad Company is one of those novels you have to suspend disbelief in the plot and just go with the flow because once you do you’ll fall madly in love with the two main protagonists. Nate and Kellan are adorable together, whether they are fighting or making love, they leap off the page with their passion for each other. Plus the banter between these two characters is some of the cleverest I have read in a long time. It rivals Dave and Maddie from Moonlighting – that is a high compliment from me since I loved that show! But most of all I love Kellan’s journey from spoiled rich brat to a more responsible person who will fight to keep Nate.
In the past I have enjoyed Ms. Mitchell’s books, but to me with Bad Company she has surpassed her previous novels and created two characters who are dynamic, complicated and flawed, yet redeemable. A true talent is exposed in this work. Hopefully she will continue in this universe…and a big shout-out to her for using my hometown of Baltimore as the back-drop for this story.
Rated 4 ½ Delightful Divas by Lasha!
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Posted in 4 1/2 Divas, Bad Company, contemporary, Erotic, GLBT, K.A. Mitchell, Lasha, m/m, Samhain Publishing | No Comments »
May 31st, 2011
 The Turning Kiss by Eden Bradley
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Erotic, BDSM
Length: 81 pages
Summary:
They have nothing to lose…except the one gift they never expected to find.
Midnight Playground, Book 3
Ilana escaped a life of sex slavery, using her extraordinary beauty to survive among the few remaining wealthy humans in London. But she has higher aspirations. For two years she has haunted the BDSM dungeons of the Midnight Playground, hungering for The Turning Kiss—that deep drink that will make her one of them. An immortal vampire.
Turned out onto the streets of Edinburgh as a child, Calam’s tortured path led him to a job at the club, where he also engages in exotic and dangerous sex play with its clientele. Craving, like Ilana, the eternal escape of the Turning Kiss.
Ilana is undeniably drawn to the beautiful Scotsman, but she has no time to waste; the club takes no one over thirty. When a sinfully compelling vampire pair brings them together for an unusual foursome, she and Calam are shocked to discover it isn’t the vampires they crave, it’s the tenderness and emotion they feel for each other.
After years of seeking to feel something, anything, other than the pain of the past, the ultimate gift is within Ilana’s reach. Yet the cost—leaving her heart behind with a mortal—could be more than she can bear.
Product Warnings: Three hot bisexual vampires and two mere mortals getting down and dirty at the vampire sex club. Beware of spankings, bondage, several kinds of whips, everything anal and an orgy or two…or is it three…?
Deb’s Review:
The Turning Kiss by Eden Bradley was unpredictable in the best ways any great book should be. There was a twist to this book, which shocked me in a good way though, especially given that there was so much passion and I “heart” you moments.
I could not contain myself. Calam and Ilana’s story is unusual but fit into the series nicely. When I think of Calam, I view him as a sweet, lost boy that wants to be loved. He thinks he is worth so little, but in fact he is a diamond in the ruff. Will being a member of the Midnight Playground truly make him feel alive?
My first impression of Illana was that she’s a dominatrix, but I will let you discover where that leads. *g*
She has her own demons to battle and her own needs to feed.
I will say that I am amazed you can almost read these books as a standalone even though it is part of a series. I have to know will Ever get a story? He is so lonely and needs to find some peace.
I have to say it again, if you want a series that touches you in the most pleasurable ways, add Eden Bradley’s Midnight Playground Series to your Vampire Library.
Rated 5 Delightful Divas and a Recommended Read by Deb!
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Posted in 5 Divas, BDSM, contemporary, Deb, Eden Bradley, Erotic, Recommended Read, Samhain Publishing, The Turning Kiss, Uncategorized | No Comments »
April 24th, 2011
 Northern Exposure by Jayne Rylon and Mari Carr
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Erotic, Contemporary, Menage, Cowboys
Length: 136 pages
Summary:
All roads lead home when that’s where you’ve left your heart.
Compass Brothers, Book 1
Silas Compton always had his eye on Lucy, the veterinarian’s daughter. He was even content to wait for the girl of his dreams to grow up before getting anywhere near her with his family’s double-edged legacy.
Waiting around led to fooling around with his best friend—and an impulsive eruption of desire that Lucy’s innocent eyes weren’t meant to see. Figuring Compton Pass wasn’t big enough for the three of them or the pain he’d caused, Silas let loose his tightly reined wanderlust and headed for Alaska.
Ten years later, when an oil rig accident sends him home, he braces himself for the reopening of old wounds. Instead he finds himself in the care—and welcoming arms—of Lucy and Colby, whose marriage has plenty of room for the man they both still love. And forgive with all their hearts.
As things start to unravel at Compass Ranch, Silas must dig deep for the strength to assume his rightful place in the Compton family…and lay the foundation for a future with his lovers. If he can forgive himself.
Warning: This book is overflowing with sexy cowboys who like to saddle up and ride each other as well as the woman of their dreams. The likelihood of becoming addicted to their ranch family is high. With three more stories yet to come, beware. You won’t be able read just one!
Deb’s Review:
Oh my…Oh my…what pleasure these two authors weave.
Mari Carrand Jayne Rylon give us a story that melted my heart as well as curled my toes. Good heavens ladies, I barely made it through the first Compass Brothers book and there are three more to go. *grin*
Northern Exposure (Compass Brothers book #1) had me laughing, crying and gasping throughout. The flow never slowed down, keeping us always on the edge.
Silas, Lucy, and Coby…their story is an unusual one but they all have something to give to it; from Silas striking out on his own and then returning home injured, Coby and Lucy’s life together, to all three truly discovering what each of them wants. I enjoyed that these authors did not shrink away from the intensity of the plotline. The sex scenes were enough to have me saying, WOW! I found the whole book quite powerful, but at the same time I wanted them to express more emotions. Perhaps we will see them grow as a threesome throughout the other books.
There were many second level additions that helped this book flow flawlessly. Vicky and JD sound like they were a handful in their youth.*grin*
There were a few surprises along the way as well. (You will have to read the book to see what I am talking about, because I’m not sharing *grin*)
I cannot wait to have the other Compass Brothers stories. Yes, I know I am greedy. *VBG*
Rated 4 1/2 Delightful Divas by Deb!
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Posted in 4 1/2 Divas, contemporary, Deb, Erotic, Jayne Rylon, Mari Carr, menage, Northern Exposure, Samhain Publishing, Western/Cowboys | No Comments »
April 4th, 2011
 With Abandon by J.L. Langley
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Genre: Paranormal, Shape Shifter, GLBT
Length: 206 pages (PDF)
Summary:
Love was never part of his plan…until it pounced.
With or Without, Book 4
As heir to an old and proud heritage, Aubrey Reynolds works and lives for his family, his employees and his pack. Agreeing to watch after a visiting werewolf is no big deal—until he discovers the newcomer is his mate. His very male mate…which is a very big deal, indeed. Revealing his sexuality was never part of Aubrey’s well-ordered life plan.
Much as he loved caring for his eight younger brothers, Matt Mahihkan knows it’s time to grab the opportunity to attend college in Atlanta. Realizing Aubrey is his mate should have been a delightful experience…except Aubrey treats him more like a dirty little secret than a lover. Yet Matt is a patient man. Aubrey can’t stay in the closet forever. Can he?
In time, they settle into a comfortable, if complicated, routine. Until a rogue werewolf with an axe to grind forces Aubrey to add to the wedge of secrets driving him and Matt apart, leaving Matt exposed to danger…and Aubrey forced to choose between love and duty.
Lasha’s Review:
The anticipation for the next installment of J.L. Langley’s With or Without series has been high for months and in Aubrey’s story, With Abandon, the author does not disappoint her readers.
We were first introduced to Aubrey, Keaton’s brother in Without Reservations and quite frankly, he was not a likable character. Not much has changed since that initial story, Aubrey is still his non-lovable self-centered self, but with the entrance of Matt, his mate, we finally get to see a glimpse of the real Aubrey. Personally, it took me a good hundred pages to warm up to Aubrey, as I still was holding onto my distain for him from the other books; but once I learned to understand him, everything made sense. Matt, on the other hand, is an immediately likable character and it is through him that I think the reader eventually falls for Aubrey, just like he did. Once again J.L. Langley is able to weave a romance between two unlikely protagonists who seem opposite in every way and make it work. Matt and Aubrey’s chemistry is hotter than the surface of Venus and completely draws the reader in. While Keaton and Chayton are still my favorite couple in this series, I must admit that Aubrey and Matt are now my second favorite. Yes, I liked them that much!
The next book in the series will feature Bambi, a character introduced in this book, who absolutely fascinates me. I am very excited for that. Now I know that means that Sterling and Rhys’ story will be pushed back, but for fans of this series – like me – I eagerly await any installment from JL Langley’s imagination. In general, With Abandon is recommended not only for fans of the series, but for anyone who loves shape shifting romances.
Rated 4 Delightful Divas by Lasha!
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Posted in 4 Divas, Gay, GLBT, J.L. Langley, Lasha, Paranormal, Samhain Publishing, With Abandon | No Comments »
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