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The following titles were reviewed by December 2009: 

Dubaku by Edward M. Erdelac
Dark Lord by Kelli A. Wilkins
Unlikely Hero by Sean Michael
Amuse Me by Christy Gissendaner
Better Off Alone by Yolanda Sfetsos
Family Unit by Z.A. Maxfield
Belong to Me by Phyllis Campbell
Keeping Her in the Light by Nicole Fuentes
Three Devils in Bath by Mia Cherish
This Christmas by J.M. Snyder
Vampire’s Lair: Cairo Catwalk by A. J. Ryan
Fantasy's Fear by Vonna Harper
Red Rio Blue by Marianna Lauren
A Taste of Revenge by Karen Erickson
The Dickens with Love by Josh Lanyon
Addicted by Devon Gray
Armageddon Bound Tim Marquitz
Superstar by Rick R. Reed
The Brimstone Betrayal by Terence West
White Elephant by Penny Dreadful
Table for Three by Missy Martine
Take It EASY by AKM Miles
When Ginger Snapped by Kerri Nelson
Conquest by S. J. Frost
Champagne by Inara LaVey 
Tempt Not the Cat by J.C. Wilder
Hot Highland Fling by Eliza March

Title: Dubaku
Author: Edward M. Erdelac
Author’s website: here   
Publisher: Damnation Books, LLC
Release Date: 2009
ISBN: 978-1-61572-8/978-1-61572-023-1
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic/Print
Genre: Horror
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 2.5 (violence)
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Slave traders are taking a load of slaves onto their ship when a statuesque African willingly gives himself up to be taken onboard. The master of the slaves has a bad feeling about the proud African that will not look away or down from the white slave trader; but his greed won't allow him to pass such a man up.

Dubaku has been searching for his pregnant wife who was stolen from him by her own brother. Her brother then sold her to the slave traders to punish her for becoming the wife of a rival tribe, and now Dubaku will stop at nothing to find her and his unborn child; even board the great ship in hopes that she is on it. Dubaku has made a pact with the darker side of shaman magic and will use any means to have his revenge on the terrible men on the ship and the things they do.

********

Dubaku was an unexpected surprise; horror is not usually my "cup of tea,” but I am happy to announce that my cup of tea is quickly changing. I enjoyed not only the scare factor, but I was also captivated by the attention to detail Mr. Erdelac used in his description of the slaving. It was heart rendering in its reality.

The story is complex and evokes a lot of feelings in the reader. I found myself hoping that the slave traders would get what was coming to them. In this instance revenge is sweet . . . to a certain extent. Mr. Erdelac has a talent for grabbing the reader’s attention and keeping them engrossed throughout his story. I look forward to reading more by this talented author.

Title:  Dark Lord
Author:  Kelli A. Wilkins
Author’s website:  http://www.kelliwilkins.com/  
Publisher:  Amber Quill Press, LLC
Release Date:  2005
ISBN: 978-1-59279-391-6
Length: Short Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Historical Romance
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 3.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

When news arrives in the village that Lord Sebestyen Adrik is seeking a female companion and will pay handsomely, Katarina steps forth to volunteer. Rumors about the Dark Lord abound, but Katarina figures that life with him can’t possibly be any worse than her indentured servitude on a goat farm. She’s never had any romantic prospects, anyway, because the local lads figure she thinks like a man and isn’t timid enough to suit them. Even though she has no idea what to expect from her new position, she ventures into it with curiosity rather than fear.

The man that Katarina finds isn’t the monster or the devourer of innocent virgins she has been led to believe. He is kind to her if a little moody, provides regular meals, and insists that she bathe daily. His touch and kisses thrill her, his conversation fascinates her, and she can truly see herself being happy here with this man. But if he isn’t the madman and murderer that people claim him to be, why is Sebestyen’s household staff so antagonistic to him, and why did his last companion kill herself rather than allow him to get close to her?

********

Kelli Wilkins’ novella Dark Lord borrows a bit from the “Beauty and the Beast” tale, wherein a poor young beauty is spirited off to the castle of a mysterious and supposedly monstrous individual and falls in love with him in spite of his shortcomings. This is the story about a man haunted by his past and the woman who, instead of fearing him and believing rumors, helps him discover the truth. I found it to be entertaining if somewhat rushed, with sympathetic characters and an almost gothic atmosphere.

I appreciated the fact that Ms. Wilkins did not make the heroine out to be a ditzy ingénue in this story. Katarina is certainly innocent sexually, and while she is nervous and emotional upon occasion, she is no vapid miss to succumb to fits of vapors. She is smart enough to take the opportunity to get out of her previously miserable life and to believe in the evidence she sees rather than nasty rumors about Sebestyen.

Although reputed to be a monster, the hero is very human in this story. The picture of the tortured hero, not only does Sebestyen suffer physically, but he is also haunted by feelings of guilt that almost incapacitate him. His fits of anger are due to the pain he is in as well as extreme sexual frustration. As a side note, I don’t think I’ve ever read a romance in which the hero suffered from erectile dysfunction before. I spent most of the story wondering how on earth these two were going to have a happy ending because of this, but while Sebestyen might be frustrated, he ensures that Katarina isn’t.

While I enjoyed Dark Lord, I believe that it would have been better served had it been fleshed out a little more and had we been able to delve a little deeper into the motivations behind the characters. As it is, we just barely scratched the surface of this story; I especially would have liked a little more information on Magda, since she is so instrumental in spreading rumors about Sebestyen and keeping him as wretched as possible.

Dark Lord is one of Ms. Wilkins’ earlier stories, and while I found it to be a sweet and diverting read, her skills have definitely developed since its publication. This is evidenced in her much more recent novella Beauty & the Bigfoot. I will be watching for more from Ms. Wilkins in the future and look forward to reading what she offers to us.

--Bobby

Title:  Unlikely Hero
Author:  Sean Michael
Author’s website:  http://www.seanmichaelwrites.com/
Publisher:  Torquere Press Publishers
Release Date:  September 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60370-811-1
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Romantic Suspense GLBT
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Brock Vencenza is a high-power businessman who moves comfortably in the world of corporate sharks. He works long hours and weekends and basically lives for the business, because, well, what else is there? Ever since his lover dumped him nine years ago, he hasn’t been interested in any other relationships. But when his ex calls him desperately asking for help, Brock doesn’t hesitate at all, regardless of their history.

Eric Wilson left Brock all those years ago in order to have the life he needed: a quiet middle-class existence with job and family. He simply didn’t fit into the glamorous world of cocktail parties and beautiful people that Brock seemed so comfortable with. When Eric’s three-year-old daughter is kidnapped and held for ransom, however, it just feels natural to turn to Brock for help. Just because he left the man doesn’t mean that Eric ceased to care for him, and he knows that Brock will help in any way he can. Because Brock has always been Eric’s hero.

Brock’s not so sure about this hero business, but he certainly does know how to make things happen, and soon they are well on their way to obtaining the little girl’s freedom. But the very best laid plans can go awry, and although they do rescue Josie, Eric is badly hurt. Now not only does Brock have an injured lover on his hands, he has a three-year-old to care for while her father recovers. Brock never stopped loving Eric, and nine years later he finds himself falling in love with the man all over again. And with little Josie as well.

They may have rescued the little girl, but the kidnappers are still determined to get to her and to harm her father. Before Brock can even think about making a family, he first has to keep them from harm. And with villains as determined as these are, that’s not going to be an easy task.

********

I was immediately intrigued when I saw the cover to Sean Michael’s novel Unlikely Hero: a child’s crayon drawing superimposed across a threatening background and a title that appears to come straight from a ransom note. Clever, I thought, even promising, and I hoped that the story behind the cover lived up to that promise. I’m pleased to report that that it does, indeed; surpasses it, even.  I’ve read quite a few of Mr. Michael’s novels in the past, and Unlikely Hero is definitely my favorite of the bunch.

This story carries an ever-present element of danger while still telling a story of love, family, and second chances. Mr. Michaels blends a story of suspense, a sensual romance, and an incredibly sweet tale of love between father and child in Unlikely Hero, and he does it in a seamless manner that, quite simply, works. I found it to be entertaining, emotional, and extremely appealing, and it captured my attention completely from the very first page.

In Brock and Eric, Mr. Michael gives us two personable heroes who embody the adage “opposites attract.” They appear to each be separate halves on one whole, because each complements the other so well. Eric is a dreamer, an idealist, a family man. Brock is practical and concrete. Brock is the alpha male, but he is anything but overbearing. Eric is definitely beta, but he has a strength inside him that is not immediately apparent. And let’s admit it: it takes a pretty strong person to raise a child – to choose to raise a child – on his own.

And then there is Josie, the three-year-old charmer who steals the show. Perhaps it is the mom in me, but I found her to be adorable and completely lovable, and I enjoyed watching Brock fall hard for her. Mr. Michael makes her quite believable with her sometimes babbling but always nonstop talk, her occasional tantrum, and her anxiety around strangers. Eric is afraid that Josie won’t fit in to Brock’s “perfect and pristine” world, and it’s true that she doesn’t, but I enjoyed the way that Brock changed his environment to fit her, and I had to laugh at the sudden appearance of Barbies in the bathtub of the once bachelor pad. Brock is so unsure around the little girl at first, and he does make mistakes, but the interaction between the two of them is very sweet.

The action and suspense portions of Unlikely Hero are also well done. The stunt that the teenagers pull seems sadly realistic. To resort to such terrible acts jut to get out of a term paper might initially seem to be extreme, but we see unfortunate stories like this in the newspaper on a regular basis.

In all, I found Unlikely Hero to be an exceptional read and more than worth my time. Even though I am well aware that this is fiction, I can’t help but wonder how life will pan out for these three when they truly settle into a routine, especially given Eric and Brock’s previous breakup. Somehow, I think that Josie will act like an anchor between them. They make a great family, and I know that this little girl is going to keep both of her daddies on their toes for years.

--Bobby

Title:  Amuse Me
Author: Christy Gissendaner
Author’s website:  n/a
Publisher:  Liquid Silver Books
Release Date:  2009
ISBN: 978-1- 59578-607-4
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Paranormal Romantic Comedy
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 3.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

When Thalia, Muse of Comedy, daughter of Zeus, is spirited away from Olympus by a whirlwind and dumped in the middle of a Las Vegas revue, she knows she can’t depend on her dancing ability to get her out of the situation. She might look like a showgirl, but she sure can’t dance like one. Instead, she focuses on her one true talent, and she soon has the audience rolling with laughter.

Ryan Harris, rancher and part-time professional gambler, is among those in the audience. He is captivated and charmed by the gorgeous redhead who can’t dance her way out of a paper bag, and he immediately determines to get to know her a little better. He may be smitten from a distance, but when he finally catches up with her, he realizes that not only is she sexy and appealing, but he feels more comfortable with her than he has with anyone in a long time.

Thalia is not supposed to get involved with humans; that’s one of her father’s rules. She is needed on Olympus and throughout time and space.  She can’t help but fall in love with the cowboy gambler, however, and he obviously reciprocates her feelings. Knowing that her father will eventually come to take her away from Ryan, Thalia is determined to fit as much love and laughter in as possible. Thalia may be resigned to having to leave, but Ryan refuses to let her go. He’s willing to make a gamble to keep her in his life, even though he knows that will mean confronting a very powerful, and possibly very angry, god.

********

Christy Gissendaner’s short novella Amuse Me injects a little bit of fun into romance. This story about the Muse of Comedy who finds her other half in Las Vegas is sure to appeal to lovers of mythology and romantic comedy. The author rolls the bright lights, fun, and nonstop nightlife of “Sin City” into this story, which also dips briefly into the world of tournament poker. As I read, I could almost hear the brash music of the nightclubs and the bustling sounds of the casino; it seems to be the perfect setting for this fun-loving Muse.

Thalia is an appealing, high-energy, klutzy, sensual creature who believes that everyone needs to laugh. With Ryan, Thalia doesn’t feel like the token comic relief who must perform on demand. He makes her feel loved and cherished. In return, Thalia releases Ryan’s sense of fun and spontaneity. He accepts the fact that she is not human with surprising ease, which I believe is partially due to the carnival atmosphere inherent in Las Vegas.

While Thalia and Ryan are the focus of Amuse Me, I also enjoyed the brief glimpse of Zeus that the author offers us. I appreciated the fact that instead of the toga-wearing bewhiskered character that we have grown to know from mythology, the father of gods blends in with the rest of humanity. We see that Zeus, for all his threats of thunderbolts and stern king-of-the-gods demeanor, is a concerned father at heart. He might have difficulty showing his feelings for his comically-inclined daughter, but he definitely loves her and has her best interests at heart.

I have to admit that I found the epilogue of the story to be a little bit random and would probably have enjoyed Amuse Me a little bit more without it. It does, however, further the comic effect and give our protagonists a chance to wander off into the sunset, which adds to the overall fun factor. I found Amuse Me to be an amusing and worthwhile read, good for a smile and a romantic happy ending. I also look forward to reading Ms. Gissendaner’s story about Thalia’s sister, the Muse Polyhymnia, titled Amuse Me Again soon.

--Bobby

Title:  Better Off Alone
Author:  Yolanda Sfetsos
Author’s website:  http://www.yolandasfetsos.com/
Publisher:  Damnation Books
Release Date:  December 2009
ISBN: 978-1- 61572-051-4
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Horror
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 1
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Nell has been trapped in her basement alone for months hiding away from the zombies, and her only company has been the occasional email from another refugee named Todd. When the zombies finally breach the safety of her home, Nell runs for her life and narrowly escapes from being a snack for the walking dead when she is rescued by a group of survivors. In order to protect Nell, the group takes her in to their compound.

As grateful as Nell is for her life, she can’t help but feel that something is not quite right, and when she accidentally witnesses the method that her saviours use to ensure their safety against the zombies, she knows that she is living in a nightmare. Nell wants to rescue her friend Todd, but she knows that she can’t ask for the help of the group. Now all she wants is to get out of the compound. If she plans to survive, she’s definitely better off alone.

********

Better Off Alone by Yolanda Sfetsos is a tense trip into a world that has been devastated by a zombie plague. I found it to be a well-written and affecting horror story that should especially appeal to those fascinated by the living dead, i.e. the zombie groupies among us. Although zombies are not usually my poison of choice, I enjoyed this story and have found that it has stuck with me long afterwards. While quite brief, it is very dark and involving, and I found myself drawn into the plight of the young protagonist from the very beginning.

While this zombie-infested world is somewhat familiar – think Night of the Living Dead, Sean of the Dead, and Zombieland, and you’ll be close – it also contains a twist. Furthering the horror is the realization that the zombies are not just mindless shambling rotting corpses but are somehow evolving into something faster, more cunning, and animalistic.

A strong feeling of despair permeates Better Off Alone. Brief flashes of hope are waved almost teasingly in our faces throughout this story before being snatched away. The main character, Nell, is young and therefore prone to hope, but as the situation unfolds, this crumbles into sadness and anguish. We see that there is only a slim chance for human endurance in this post-apocalyptic world. There is no more room for trust or friendship; survival depends on the strength, determination, and self-reliance of the individual. This is a harsh lesson to learn for someone as young as Nell, but I finished the story believing that perhaps she has what it takes to persevere.

In all, I found this to be a worthwhile read. Yes, it was sad and also a touch depressing, but isn’t that what you look for in a good horror story?

--Bobby 

Best wishes to all of you for the holiday. Although we have no review to post for Christmas Day, author Naima Simone joins us with her guest blog titled Tis the Season. Enjoy!

(Clicking on the picture will take you to the BookWenches guest blog)

Title:  Family Unit       
Author:  Z.A. Maxfield
Author’s website:  http://www.zamaxfield.com/
Publisher:  Loose Id, LLC
Release Date:  November 2009
ISBN: 978-1- 60737-495-4
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Contemporary Romance GLBT
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 5+Keeper

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

The center of Richard Hunter’s universe is his nine-year-old grandson, Nick, whom he has parented since the boy was a toddler. With Nick’s father deceased and his neglectful mother in a constant cycle of drug rehab, Richard has focused on maintaining a safe, loving, and secure environment for the boy. And if that has placed a crimp on his own social life? Well, so be it. But then Richard meets retired Marine Colonel Logan Wilde, the man that the neighborhood children refer to as “Crazy Soldier Guy.” Logan is certainly is not crazy; he’s just a little stern. And a lot hot. And interested in him, Richard. For the first time in years, Richard realizes that he needs another man in his life and in his bed. This man.

Richard is completely unprepared for the impact that Logan makes on him and his life. The man suddenly dominates his thoughts and dreams and makes Richard as clumsy and giddy as a teenager. Even though Logan is Richard’s direct opposite in just about every way, the reserved and conservative ex-soldier captures his heart. For the first time in his life, Richard is in love, and Logan makes no secret of the fact that he wants to become a permanent part of his life.

But making a family together is not as simple as it ought to be. Not only do Richard and Logan have to come to terms with the differences between them, they must deal with a frequently uncooperative nine-year-old, the disapproval of neighbors and judgmental strangers, and even a custody battle over Nick. Regardless of the obstacles that stand in their way, they are determined to come together as a unit, to love each other, and to give Nick the family he so desperately needs.

********

Warning: the following review will probably involve an embarrassing amount of gushing. If that makes you uncomfortable, you may wish to skip reading the review and just run out and buy the book. Because if you enjoy GLBT romance, you absolutely must buy and read Family Unit; this book is simply too good to pass up. And if you don’t enjoy GLBT romance, what on earth are you doing reading this review, anyway?

When ZA Maxfield released her novel Family Unit, I knew right away that I had to read it. It probably has to do with my age, but I’m always happy to find stories that feature main characters that are no longer “spring chickens.” A few lines and gray hairs and a little mileage just make a character that much more attractive to me. In this story, Ms. Maxfield gives us an extremely appealing mixture: two heroes who are in their mid to late forties; one little boy who needs a whole lot of love; humor and laughter; and a plot that mixes romance, sensuality, and just a dash of suspense. This story is as well written as any that I have read by this author, and truly I think I’ve read most of them.

Our heroes, Logan and Richard, are the quintessential example of opposites attracting. Logan is an ex-military, gruff, list-making conservative. Richard is an artistic, emotional, gun-phobic liberal. They disagree on many things, but they complement each other perfectly, and they both want Nick to be safe and happy and loved. Get these two alone together, and the sexual chemistry between them becomes almost combustible. The love scenes in this story are intensely sensual, sweet, funny, and addictive.

Another striking aspect of Family Unit is the outstanding sense of humor that permeates the entire story. Many scenes will elicit a grin, and some will provoke laughter, but there is also feeling of warmth and love and overall good nature throughout that is both compelling and irresistible.

Family Unit is a story that I believe merits re-reading, if for no other reason than it makes me feel good. It made me laugh, tugged at my heart, and reminded me of the importance of home and family. This one is going on my keeper shelf, and I have no reservations about recommending it to others. Read it for yourself – you’ll be glad you did.

--Bobby

Title: Belong to Me      
Author: Phyllis Campbell
Author’s website: http://www.phyllismariecampbell.com/
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Release Date: December 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60154-626-2
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic, Print
Genre: Historical
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

After two years, the time has come for Charlotte Ashton Hamilton to confront her absentee husband. He left her three days after they were married, and two years later she has grown into a stunningly beautiful woman who wants a home, husband, and children. She is determined to get her husband to sign the annulment papers to end their farce of a marriage; no matter that she still has feelings for him. She never thought she would become embroiled in the dangerous game of cat and mouse while her husband is being hunted for crimes he didn't commit.

********

I constantly find myself on the look out for a good historical romance. One that will keep me entertained while not being the same old perfect miss that is the toast of the ton and blah, blah, blah. Belong to Me fits the bill perfectly; it is a deliciously different story that still gives me my historical fix. The blending of romance, sexual tension, and suspense makes this story a page-turner. I was captivated from page one. I must have conflict in my historical, and Ms. Campbell is a true queen of this; she appeased my need wonderfully.

Charlotte is a wonderfully written character; she is caught between a rock and a hard place and comes out fighting. I found myself on numerous occasions wanting to give her a high five. Her doubts and inner feelings lend an air of reality to the character. I especially enjoyed her interaction with Lord Thatcher.

The many twists and turns in this story make it especially gratifying. I am already a fan of Ms. Campbell; I believe she has outdone herself with Belong to Me.

Title:  Keeping Her in the Light
Author:  Nicole Fuentes
Author’s website:  http://confineselute.blogspot.com/,  http://keepingherinthelight.wordpress.com
Publisher:  Eternal Press
Release Date:  November 2009
ISBN: 978-1- 926704-88-3
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Suspense, Horror, Psychological Thriller
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 1
Rating: 3.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Kidnapped by a madman, Allie Foster wakes to darkness and fear. She craves the light, but when she finally finds it, it illuminates a nightmare – a room filled with the dead, broken bodies of other women just like her. Allie is made of tough stuff, however. Instead of resorting to panic, she ventures forth and finds that her captor has definite plans for her. Oh, he certainly intends to kill her, but he means to toy with her awhile first.

Days of uncertainty pass as the killer engages Allie in philosophical conversation, forcing her to confront the pain in her past while at the same time agonizing over her uncertain future. And while her fear never truly goes away, something within Allie begins to relax, and she begins to feel a twisted kind of kinship with the captor. She knows it is dangerous to trust him; there is no doubt that the man is unbalanced, but his intentions are unclear. Does he plan to keep Allie as a guest and debate partner, will he set her free, or will he finally follow through with his promises and end her life?

********

Nicole Fuentes’ novella Keeping Her in the Light mixes suspense and horror into a psychological thriller about a woman who finds that light does not always represent safety and that sometimes darkness holds the key to hope. This is a tale of Stockholm syndrome and its opposite, Lima syndrome, and how they affect a killer and his prey.

I found this tale to be arresting and somewhat entertaining, although it did almost lose me in a couple of places. I found the portions of the story that revolved around the heroine’s philosophical discussions with her captor to drag just a little. They confused me more than enlightened me, and this lead to a certain amount of impatience on my part. However, these discussions also helped to reveal the killer’s personality – or, rather, personalities – so it made an odd kind of sense to me that the conversation was difficult to follow.

Both of the main characters are interesting and well drawn. The killer is obviously sick and not just a little bit evil, but I was drawn to him. Ms. Fuentes does a good job differentiating his personalities, and watching each of them interact with Allie and with each other was horrifyingly fascinating. He very purposely sets out to create Stockholm syndrome within Allie, and as she succumbs to it, I followed along. Although I was a little slower to warm up to Allie, even though she is the innocent party, I had to sympathize with the misplaced feelings of responsibility that keep her tethered to her captor’s side.

Readers should be forewarned that Keeping Her in the Light is graphically violent. That said, the violence and gore do not overpower the story but rather underscore the nature of the antagonist and the strangeness of the situation.

Overall, I found this to be very suspenseful and not just a little bit creepy, and I quite enjoyed the sense of uncertainly that permeates the story. Even given the strange affinity that grows between Allie and the killer, it was clear to me that he had every intention of finally killing her. The main question in my mind (and hers as well, I’m sure) was how he would do it and which of his personalities would commit the deed.

--Bobby

Title: Three Devils in Bath
Author:  Mia Cherish
Author’s website: http://www.miacherish.net/  
Publisher: Amber Quill Press
Release Date: November 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60272-608-6
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Historical Extranaturals
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Mariotte Sabrier came to Bath to get away from her life in Louisiana, where her half-brother has all but gambled away their inheritance. When she took a job in a questionable establishment as their pianist and tutor for French, she never thought she would get an offer that she couldn't and wouldn't refuse.

Lord Cedric Edgard, Lord Troyes, and Dane Melbourne are referred to as The Three Devils by the ton due to their rakish ways. The three vampires have been together for years and the love they have for each other transcends time. Never have they wanted a woman as they want Mariotte. She imbues the qualities they all find attractive and she has an aura of mystery they can't deny arouses them.

Lord Cedric offers Mariotte an extremely handsome sum to become a mistress to all three men and reside in his home as his "ward,” and when the arrangement no longer suits them she will a wealthy free woman able to pursue an eligible marriage. Can three jaded men find what they have never found before in a Creole woman with a questionable heritage?

********

Three Devils in Bath is a complex story with many facets. There is unbridled passion, complicated relationships, mystery, and political paranormal drama. This mixture is elemental to the unfolding of the story. Mariotte is complex in so many ways; she is strong yet unsure of herself and what she wants. She has been raised to do the proper thing, but being proper has only gotten her two broken engagements and the loss of her inheritance. Her strength is admirable, and her ability to accept her desires and needs makes her a memorable character.

The men are a completely different story. They have their own depths, and the world they live in is fascinating. Their comfort with their sexuality brings an edgy sensuality to the story, and the addition of Mariotte pushes it over the edge into a pure heatwave. The separate relationships between the three men and Mariotte are unique, and it is easy to see why the story evolves the way it does.

Mia Cherish does a wonderful job of giving background and history. She has a flair for the dramatic and it comes through in her writing. Her attention to historical facts, as well as the paranormal world she has created is wonderfully written. I remain a big fan of her work.

Title: This Christmas
Author:  J.M. Snyder
Author’s website:  http://www.jmsnyder.net/
Publisher:  eXcessica Publishing
Release Date:  December 2009
ISBN: n/a
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Holiday Romance GLBT
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 2.5
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Having recently broken up with his unfaithful boyfriend, Ned is alone and angry at the world on Christmas Eve. Alone in his dorm room, he plans to sit and wallow in self-pity with only a gallon of ice cream and bitter memories for companions. Right now, he hates the holidays and all the empty promises they represent, and he has no intention of allowing anyone or anything to bring him cheer.

Regardless of Ned’s intentions, Fate has other plans for him this Christmas and sends him Bobby Cratchett, Ned’s former high-school crush. Bobby is alone over the break as well and invites Ned to join him for a meal and maybe a little companionship. As determined as Ned is to avoid Bobby’s advances and to hang on to his ill temper, he can’t help but wonder “what if.” It will take a little holiday magic and a well-timed power outage to remind Ned that this is the season of hope. Sometimes endings, painful as they may be, come with new beginnings; all Ned has to do is reach out and accept what is offered.

********

What’s Christmas without a little Dickens? J.M. Snyder’s holiday tale This Christmas borrows a bit from Mr. Dickens and incorporates elements of his A Christmas Carol into a story about letting go of the past to embrace the future. This is a well-written little story that will appeal to those looking for a little bit of the holiday spirit as well as a touch of wish-fulfillment.

Ms. Snyder’s use of the present tense draws the reader right into the story, making the action and emotion feel very “right now.” She gives us two young heroes who each face a lonely Christmas, one of them nursing a broken heart and a sour outlook on life while the other misses his family. While this is a very quick read, it packs a lot of emotion in its few pages, and Ms. Snyder does an excellent job developing Ned and, to a somewhat lesser extent, Bobby into characters that the reader can identify with.

I enjoyed the way that This Christmas mirrors A Christmas Carol and found it great fun to figure out where the similarities lie. The character Bobby Cratchett is a bit like his namesake, determinedly cheerful and making the best of what he has even when a bit of sadness lurks inside him, while Ned is like Scrooge in that everything to do with Christmas makes him cranky. Bobby wants to share fellowship while Ned will go out of his way to feel miserable and sorry for himself. Ned meets the Ghost of Christmas Past while caught up in his memories of his ex-boyfriend, and he encounters the Ghost of Christmas Present when he dreams about Bobby and Bobby’s apartment. The storm outside and the subsequent power failure gives an eerie ghostly feeling to the tale that is not unlike the Christmas Eve that Ebenezer Scrooge experiences.

This Christmas has a very “slice of life” feeling to it; Ms. Snyder has given her readers a peek into what may very well be a turning point in the lives of the two main characters. We aren’t given a happily-ever-after, but we are teased with the promise of a rosier tomorrow for these young men. And that little bit of Christmas cheer and hope for the future makes this story well worth the read.

--Bobby

Title:  Vampire’s Lair: Cairo Catwalk   
Author:  A. J. Ryan
Author’s website:  http://blogs.myspace.com/ajr63  
Publisher:  Eternal Press
Release Date:  November 2009
ISBN: 978-1-926704-84-5
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Paranormal GLBT
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Models Nashville Sommers and Ryan Thomas have the twin blessings of youth and beauty that have made them rising stars in the fashion world. They work well together and have a chemistry that sparks between them both on camera and off. But while Nash has yearned for his friend ever since they met, Ryan’s feeling are not quite so deep. Ryan’s one true love is himself.  Nash accepts his friend’s self-obsession; he finds it attractive, even. He’s more than willing to accept any scraps of affection Ryan will dole out and to follow wherever his friend leads.

Ryan’s motto of live for the moment and his unending vanity will catch up to the two young men in Cairo, when a night of too much alcohol and the promise of sexual adventure will change their lives forever. Nash and Ryan will be offered eternal youth and beauty, but they also discover that everything comes with a price. And that price may be too terrible to bear.

********

I’ll say this much about author A. J. Ryan: he’s diverse. The last story I read of his had me holding my sides in laughter; his vampire stories, on the other hand, are dark and fascinatingly disturbing. Cairo Catwalk is the second of A. J. Ryan’s Vampire’s Lair series. In this story, two young men find that the adage “be careful what you wish for” is all too true. I found it to be well-written, highly sexual in nature, and definitely different from the usual vampire fare. And while it is not necessary to have read the previous story, Miami Moon, to enjoy and appreciate Cairo Catwalk, it will surely enhance your reading experience if you take them in order.

The world of Mr. Ryan’s vampires is unveiled just a little bit further in this tale. We learn that there are three types of vampires: the hunters, the gatherers, and the healers. Miami Moon revolved around the healers; Cairo Catwalk involves the hunters and the gatherers, who are not quite as benevolent as their healer brethren. While they are creatures of extreme beauty and eternal life, this beauty masks something not so pretty.

The beginning of the story is light in nature and gives the tentative feeling of romance; however, this is not a romance. It is a tale of sex and darkness and blood, whose narrative pulled me in, holding me hostage as the story unfolds. As the young men navigate through the City of the Dead, we are drawn into a world of darkness. We know in our hearts that they are going someplace they can never return from. Mr. Ryan pulls us steadily into Nash’s quickly-escalating fear, and we can only watch as beauty morphs into terror and pleasure turns to violence and pain.

The two young heroes are sweet and foolish and somewhat shallow, although Nash definitely has more depth and mental capacity than his friend. They allow themselves to be guided by their libidos, and although Nash does contemplate the possible repercussions of their overly trusting actions, he allows the desires of his heart and his body to override his common sense.

The ending seems to parallel that of Miami Moon. It is a new beginning of sorts, mysterious, dark, and a little thought-provoking, and I thought it quite well done. It left me a little bit unsettled, as befits a good vampire tale, and it also made me curious for more. I wonder what kind of Vampire’s Lair Mr. Ryan will take us to next, and what we will find when we get there.

--Bobby

Title: Fantasy's Fear    
Author: Vonna Harper
Author’s website: http://www.vonnaharper.com/  
Publisher: Loose Id, LLC
Release Date: 2007
ISBN: 978-1-59632-533-3
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary BDSM
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Lorelle Stapleton is a high-powered District Attorney who controls almost every aspect of her life save one: her forbidden fantasies about being a sex slave. Night after night she dreams of the man that will make her submit to his every whim. Being a high profile person in her work, she doesn't feel comfortable trying out the BDSM scene, so she goes to Fantasies Unlimited and pays for the ultimate fantasy.

She never dreamed that her fantasy would be tall, dark, handsome, and ruthlessly dominant. Giving up control is even harder than she imagined, and her Master expects complete submission. It's her every desire...or is it?

********

Fantasy's Fear is a powerful story of self-discovery. I wasn't sure what to expect when I first started reading. The story is written so that the reader gets a look into Lorelle's erotic dreams of submission and it left me wondering what could possibly happen next. The fantasy that Lorelle pays to live out is not for the faint of heart; it is BDSM, and it is steamy. Lorelle isn't sure if she really wants to live that lifestyle but knows she has a need to be dominated.

Arkin is over the top, and so very alpha male. His story is just as integral to the plot as Lorelle's. His reasons for educating submissives go deeper than even he realizes. The interaction between Lorelle and Arkin will raise you temperature by several degrees. Ms. Harper's story is edgy and will keep the reader engrossed throughout.

Title:  Red Rio Blue
Author: Marianna Lauren
Author’s website:  http://mariannalauren.wordpress.com/
Publisher:  Loose Id LLC
Release Date:  November 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60737-496-1
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Vampire Romance
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Aubrey Hunnisett, owner of the Rio Blue nightclub, has never been one to pass up an opportunity. When she sees that traffic in Club Lunar, owned by Michael Lennox, is slowing down considerably, she figures she’ll step in with an offer to buy, make the club over, and reopen to big profits. The fact that a young woman was murdered in the club and another close by is tragic, especially since the killer has yet to be caught, but that doesn’t mean that Aubrey is taking advantage of another person’s misfortune. At least, not in her own mind.

Michael Lennox is a vampire. He knows that his fellow vampire and greatest enemy, Richard Sands, is behind the murders and is initially suspicious of Aubrey’s involvement when she makes her offer. Michael is drawn to Aubrey, and although he originally intended to merely read her mind with a bout of very hot and exhibitionistic sex, the woman he finds within the recesses of her soul make him want to posses and protect her forever.

Sands is completely focused on ruining Michael, and once he learns of Michael’s interest in Aubrey, his focus shifts to her, and he begins a campaign of stalking her and her club designed to terrorize her. Michael wants to keep Aubrey from harm, but she has no intention of abandoning Rio Blue to go into hiding, regardless of how she feels for this mysterious vampire. She’ll fight to protect her club, but Sands has no intention of stopping until the walls of Rio Blue run red with blood.

********

Marianna Lauren’s Red Rio Blue is a short and sexy trip into a world of nightlife, passion and danger, where life starts after dark and death stalks the unsuspecting. What begins as a simple bid to purchase a nightclub turns into a deadly game of hide and seek between vampire and victim.

Portions of Red Rio Blue are set in nightclubs, and Ms. Lauren makes these venues feel very real. I could almost hear the pulse of the music’s bass and see the crush of bodies dancing. In the after-hours, when the clubs are closed, they have an almost abandoned feel to them that sets a perfect stage for an encounter with a malevolent vampire.

In this story, Ms. Lauren gives us a cast of character with definite attitudes. Michael is the quintessential sexy vampire, someone that we might not mind meeting alone in a dark alley at all. Aubrey is a pretty tough lady. Strong and self-sufficient, she walks confidently through life in her four-inch heels. While she doesn’t show it on the surface, we see that within she has the same insecurities as other women, and this transforms her from something akin to “bitch goddess” to a softer and more human individual. She appreciates being cared for by Michael but has no intention of allowing him to rule her life. The villain, Sands, is a satisfyingly nasty character. He exudes such viciousness that he becomes a character we can love to hate.

Of all the characters, I have to admit that my favorite was Jackson DiPasquale, the manager of Rio Blue. Ms. Lauren draws him to be larger than life, with his rings and chains and territorial attitude towards both Aubrey and Rio Blue. Although not a comic character, he adds a little bit of humor when he refers to himself as a VLM or Very Large Mammal and when, at the end, he finds out that Aubrey and Michael have been tippling from an extremely expensive bottle of the club’s brandy. Jackson is almost always hovering in the background, whether he is physically in a scene or not.

The sex scenes in Red Rio Blue are extremely intense. Michael indulges Aubrey’s fantasy of exhibitionism numerous times, and while this is definitely not my fetish of choice, Ms. Lauren does a good job of turning up the thermostat to scalding. Readers will no doubt be fanning their cheeks by the end.

Overall, this is a diverting read, especially if you’re a lover of vampire fiction. Ms. Lauren quite successfully pulls her readers into the drama of her story, and she makes her vampires believable and sexy and just a touch on the frightening side.

--Bobby

Title: A Taste of Revenge
Author: Karen Erickson
Author’s website: http://www.karenwritesromance.com/  
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Release Date: August 2007
ISBN: N/A
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 2.5
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Samantha Ellis has just caught her fiancé in their favorite restaurant with a skinny bimbo wrapped around him. If that isn't bad enough, her now ex has decided to tell her exactly how "terrible" she is in bed.

A white knight comes to her rescue in the form of a former classmate; who apparently had a crush on her in school. The skinny boy she remembers has filled out in all the right places, and before she knows it they can't keep their hands off each other.

********

This is a super fun, super short story that will bring a smile to your face. I am a sucker for a white knight that rescues the damsel in distress, and this book does not disappoint in that category. Samantha is realistic and easy to identify with. I adored Donovan; he sounded and acted deliciously. The story packs a big punch for being short; it was very entertaining. I will be looking for more by Ms. Erickson.

Title: The Dickens with Love
Author: Josh Lanyon
Author’s website:  http://www.joshlanyon.com/
Publisher:  Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
Release Date:  December 2009
ISBN: 978-1- 60504-837-6
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Holiday Romance GLBT
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

James Winter is a rare book finder, well respected and considered one of the best in his field. Or at least he used to be. Three years ago, he got caught up in a scandal of forgery and murder that cost him his home, his career, and ultimately his self-respect. As a result, he has been reduced to selling books to the masses at a major book chain and taking the occasional dubious commission from private collectors. When his biggest client sends him to investigate an unpublished and hereto unknown manuscript by Charles Dickens, James’ directions are to determine if the manuscript is genuine and, if so, to offer a preemptive bid to purchase it. And above all, James is not to divulge his client’s name to the owner of the manuscript.

James expects the owner, Sedgwick Crisparkle, Professor of Chemistry at the University of London, to be a dried-up academic. He couldn’t be farther from the truth. Sedgwick is young and incredibly attractive, and although he refuses to deal with James due to his tattered professional reputation, he is clearly on the prowl to get James into his bed. Although James has always been reluctant to let anyone get too close to him, he finds himself falling hard and fast.

Now James is caught between his growing feelings for Sedgwick and his professional responsibility to his client. He doesn’t like lying to Sedgwick, but if he plays his cards right, he can broker a deal that is more than favorable to his lover. He doesn’t count on Sedgwick’s fury when he learns the truth or the way that the man shuts James out of his life as a result. Christmas may be a magical season, but the way things are going right now, James’ own particular Christmas story is not going to have a happy ending. It is going to take a measure of faith, a whole lot of love, and perhaps even a black eye to pull a off this Christmas miracle and to bring Sedgwick back to his side.

********

Josh Lanyon’s novella The Dickens with Love is a story of love, redemption and holiday spirit that will entertain and charm its readers. Basically, this is a Christmas story about a Christmas story; it is clever, well-written, and frequently humorous, and it captures the many facets of the holiday season. Within the pages of this story, we find Christmas cheer, seasonal depression, music both annoying and inspiring, fellowship and family, and that magical feeling of anticipation that comes no other time of the year.

Lovers of Charles Dickens – actually book lovers, period – will find this to be a fascinating tale. What bibliophile doesn’t dream of finding an undiscovered manuscript written by a master? Although the tale in question, The Christmas Cake, is a complete fabrication, Mr. Lanyon has built up a solid story around it and has made its existence seem entirely plausible. He includes wonderful small excerpts from this fictional work, and although I cannot profess to be an expert, these passages simply screamed “Dickens” at me. Of course, now I want to read The Christmas Cake, and it doesn’t exist, darn it.

Along with a very witty and well-paced narrative and an involving plot, Mr. Lanyon gives us a couple of almost irresistible main characters. First there is James Winter, the narrator of the story. He is something of a loner and has a self-deprecating wit and a hint of sadness that will reel you right in to him. Then we have Sedgwick Crisparkle, great-great-great-grandson of Canon Crisparkle, a character in Charles Dickens’ The Mystery of Edwin Drood. Sedgwick wears a stern demeanor like a mask, but under his many protective layers is a man who has a lot of love to offer others.

Mr. Lanyon has a talent for making the reader feel the emotions of his characters. We laugh when they laugh, and we hurt when they do; we experience their ups and downs. During one memorable scene, Sedgwick calls James a whore in a fit of anger, and the effect is like a slap in the face.

While The Dickens with Love is not a whodunit, Mr. Lanyon still incorporates an element of mystery as James investigates the Dickens manuscript and tries to untangle its background and origins. I found this process of discovery to be a very interesting and well executed addition to the story.  In all, I truly enjoyed The Dickens with Love. This story is smart, fun, and just plain entertaining, and I found reading it to be an excellent way to usher in the holiday season.

--Bobby

Title: Addicted
Author: Devon Gray
Author’s website: http://www.authordevongray.com/  
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Release Date: 2008
ISBN: N/A
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Jane has left her job to take the summer off and decide what she wants to do with her life. She never thought she would be facing one of the hardest obstacles of her life. An addiction. From the first searing glance to the clandestine meetings, she can't get enough of Stone. Will he be the end of her or can she overcome an addiction that is all consuming?

********

Addicted is emotional, forbidden, and downright sexy. While it is a romance, the backbone of the story is rooted in a much deeper emotion than the word "romance" could touch. The sensual, almost dark sexual encounters are unbelievably sexy. Stone's sexual prowess is undeniably any woman's fantasy.

The story will pull you in and have you panting for what is coming next. The complexity of the characters is an integral part of the book; they have a depth that is well-written. I am not usually a fan of books written in the first person, but this story was made for this type of writing, and it makes the story even more poignant. Ms. Gray displays an exceptional talent for writing, and I can't wait to read more of her work.

Title:  Armageddon Bound
Author: Tim Marquitz
Author’s website:  http://www.tmarquitz.com/
Publisher:  Damnation Books
Release Date:  September 2009
ISBN: 978-1- 615729001-9
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Urban Fantasy
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 2.5 (4 for violence)
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

In a world where God and Satan no longer exist, opposing forces struggle over the oncoming tide of Armageddon. Fifty years ago, God and Satan, weary of the ever-present battle between good and evil, decided to mend their differences and abandon mankind. Ever since then, angels and demons have been in limbo. With no higher powers to lead them, they have struggled to make sense of their existence, and the world has been a place of confusion and turmoil.

Frank Trigg, demon and nephew of Satan, refused his birthright long ago and now works with the Demonic Resistance and Containment organization to help hold back the forces who would bring forth Armageddon. He will admit that he’s not big in the brains department, but he is as tough as a demon can get, and even though ultimately he has his own best interests at heart, he is loyal to the forces of DRAC.

Recently, the demon Asmoday has been making a bid for ultimate power. He plans to gather power, tear holes in the dimensional wall between earth and Hell, loose the most terrible fiends in existence on the world, and bring forth Armageddon. Frank and the rest of his team are tasked to stop him, but that is easier said than done. Because Asmoday is not working alone. He has some unexpected, extremely powerful, and otherworldly assistance that tip the balance in his favor.

Not only must Frank battle against Asmoday and his minions, he must deal with the demon Baalth, dodge assassins sent by his ex-wife, and somehow cooperate with his beautiful and antagonistic angelic cousin. It’s a good thing that demons are hard to kill, because Frank’s in for a really rough time. And there’s going to be one Hell of a mess to clean up when this is all over.

********

Tim Marquitz’s novel Armageddon Bound is a trip into a world gone all to Hell. This is a fast-paced and exciting story keeps the pages turning as our hero tries to help save the world – and, of course, himself – from the End of Days. It features magical beings of both biblical and monstrous origins: power-hungry demons, kick-ass angels, magicians, vampires, and more. As I read this story, I found myself pulled in to this grim and hopeless world, wondering if the protagonists could possibly prevail over the powerful forces against them. They seem almost guaranteed failure.

The action in Armageddon Bound is pretty much non-stop, and the interaction between the angels, the demons, and the other characters is fascinating. We get a glimpse into a Heaven and a Hell that are unique in that they are almost abandoned. I’m not sure that I’ve ever read a story where angels weren’t completely the good guys. In Armageddon Bound, Mr. Marquitz gives us angels who are certainly beautiful but who are not necessarily the perfect heavenly creatures that they were when God was around. And demons who are not all bad but perhaps just want to continue their existence unmolested. Or, as in Frank’s case, to just get laid.

The narrator, Frank Trigg, is a strong and well-developed character. He has an irresistible, dry, self-deprecating humor that makes him completely personable. Rescuing angels, romancing succubi, saving the world, he moves from one dangerous situation to another, and although he gets his butt kicked repeatedly, he always comes back for more. Frank would tell you that this is a sign that he is less than intelligent; I say it shows his stubborn devotion to his cause. Blessed with a healthy libido, Frank is always looking down the ladies’ shirts, and he admits cheerfully to being something of a dog.

There is a good amount of grim humor in this entertaining story.  Sure, there is also much graphic violence and bloodshed, but it is appropriate to the high adrenaline factor of the story. Readers looking for nonstop action, a good-versus-evil struggle where the lines between “good” and “evil” are so blurred as to be almost nonexistent, and well-drawn, interesting, and offbeat characters may wish to give Armageddon Bound a shot. I’m glad I did, because it was definitely a good time.

--Bobby

Title: Superstar
Author:  Rick R. Reed
Author’s website: http://www.rickrreed.com/
Publisher: Amber Quill Press
Release Date: November 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60272-605-5
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary GLBT
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

As Leon stands on one of the tallest bridges in the country contemplating suicide by gravity, his mind wanders back to the series of events that lead to this decision to end his life. Memories of a one-night-stand with a beautiful rock star, broken promises of love, and years of yearning for a man out of his league assail him. But even as Leon contemplates the drop ahead of him, he meets a stranger who shows him that life is perhaps not as desolate as he has come to believe.

********

Readers who are used to associating Rick R. Reed with horror and suspense are in for something just a little bit different when they pick up his Superstar. This is a brief but very intense story about unrequited love, obsession, despair, and redemption. Told in a series of flashbacks as the main character prepares to end his life, Superstar entangles its reader in the psyche of the narrator, Leon, as he contemplates his shame, regret, and anger. And even as we judge him somewhat for the choices he has made and the actions he plans to take, we can’t help but share in his emotions.

Most of this story is told by Leon to his love interest – a rocker who is never named and who doesn’t, in fact, deserve to be named – in a sadly accusatory tone. While he is essentially the “injured party” in this non-relationship, we can see that Leon is not completely blameless. He teeters on the verge of being a stalker and has clung to hopes that he has always known to be impossible for so long that we begin to wonder if maybe, just perhaps, Leon is using the rocker as a convenient excuse for self-destructive behavior.

We can see that Leon doesn’t really want to die; he is purposefully taking time to wallow in memories, contemplating the drop, looking at the scenery, and talking with the young man who is trying to save his life. He has researched his choice of suicide thoroughly and gets caught up with an almost manic giddiness in the details of exactly what will happen when and if he takes a dive off the Aurora Bridge. He seems to have chosen this method in order to punish his love interest, and the fact that this person never really cared simply magnifies the tragedy.

Although much of Superstar is a tragedy, just a glimmer of tentative hope peeks out at the end. Instead of having a happy ending, I would consider this a hopeful ending instead, because although there is no wandering off with joined hands into the sunset, it is evident that the future for both of the characters involved could possibly take a turn for the better.

Superstar is a story that is more than worth the reading time. It is well-written and suspenseful, as we would expect from a story by Mr. Reed, and it packs a novel’s worth of emotion and psychological drama into a few pages and a very short time frame. This is not what I would consider a “fluffy” read; it is a highly involving, arresting, and even somewhat thought-provoking. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

--Bobby

Title: The Brimstone Betrayal
Author: Terence West
Author’s website:  N/A
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press
Release Date: 2007
ISBN: 978-1-60313-122-3
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Paranormal Fantasy
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 2 (for violence)
Rating: 5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Vampire Rose Webb is a Seeker for the Brimstone Syndicate. Her job is to help the Syndicate regulate the Inhumans and enforce the Syndicate's laws so they stay hidden from the humans. While on a job, strange things happen; a legal nest of Vampires is decimated, and a very magical cover-up alerts Rose to a potential problem within the Syndicate. Strange things are happening all around her, and much of it can't be explained. Rose is determined to find out what is going on and with her trusty sidekicks, a young werewolf and a mouthy goblin, she intends on getting to the bottom of it.

********

From the first page I was drawn into The Brimstone Betrayal with a vengeance. The story is fast-paced, intense, and kept me riveted; I couldn't put it down. Mr. West has created a dynamic world that keeps the reader hanging on the edge of their seat wondering what kind of creature they will encounter next. The descriptive narrative as well as the in-depth look into the workings of the paranormals brought the story to life and I could easily picture what everything looked like.

Rose is the kind of character that I really enjoy; she is edgy with a hidden sensitivity that makes her very realistic. It also doesn't hurt that she totally kicks ass! Her misgivings about being a vampire and her struggle with who she is and what she was only add to the reality.

The secondary characters are both interesting and integral to the storyline. Toby, Rose's partner and a werewolf, is well-written, and I hope to see more of him in the next book in the series. Karl, the illegal goblin, is a particular favorite of mine. He brings humor to the story which just makes it that much better.

I found The Brimstone Betrayal to be a magical journey that I am so glad I took. The story is fascinating, and the characters very memorable. Mr. West has done an outstanding job of writing a story that is unique and a must-read. I can't wait to start the next book in the series.

Title: White Elephant
Author: Penny Dreadful
Author’s website:  N/A
Publisher:  Sugar and Spice Press
Release Date:  September 2009
ISBN: N/A
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Young Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 1.5
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Jayne Symon is a sixteen-year-old girl who talks to cats, and while that might not seem terribly out of ordinary, in Jayne’s case the cats talk back. All she wants is to be normal; unfortunately, she is anything but. She has the Gift, although she frequently considers it a curse, and she can hardly get close to a cat without it wanting to talk to her and to make demands to be fed, petted, and taken home with her. When her aunt goes on vacation and leaves Jayne to care for the flat and her cat Casper, Jayne expects to pass a couple of boring weeks alone. However, the first thing she finds when she returns from taking her aunt to the airport is a handsome young man, who comes tumbling out of her kitchen pantry. From then on out, life is anything but boring.

Gregory Hanson is the son of a multi-millionaire. He has always considered himself an outcast and a loser and just wants to make his own mark on the world without having his privileged background interfere. Breaking in to Jayne's apartment was admittedly a foolish stunt, but when he looks up into the girl’s face, he instantly loses his heart. Too bad she’s a little bit crazy and insists that she can communicate with her cat.

Gregory has no choice but to believe Jayne’s story when a murderer begins to strike at the Gifted in the city, cutting out their tongues and stealing animal familiars. Jayne knew the victims, and Gregory begins to fear that she may very well be next in line. Gregory means to protect Jayne. He’ll do just about anything to keep her safe, even if that means facing down his greatest fear. But the killer is closer than both of them realize, and he has no intention of stopping before Jayne – and also Gregory – are dead.

********

I’ll admit that White Elephant by Penny Dreadful was an impulse buy for me. While I don’t usually read novels that are targeted at young adults, I think it must have appealed to the cat lover in me and some long-forgotten childhood wish that I could talk to animals. Whatever the reason I picked it up, I’m glad that I did, because this novel was clever and interesting and fun. It features a couple of kids who long for normal lives, a fascinating murder suspense, a sweet love story, and more blood and violence than I ever would expect to find in a novel directed at young adults.

While I truly enjoyed both Jayne, the slightly wacky cat lady, and Gregory, the poor little rich boy, the character who most appealed to me in this story was Jayne’s cat Casper. With a name like Casper, you’d expect a white cat, but he is black as pitch. He is pushy and demanding and very much Jayne’s owner rather than the other way around. But as gruff as he can be toward his mistress, he loves her; just don’t try to get him to admit that in her presence. I found him most entertaining, especially his insistence that there are only two times in a day: eating time and not eating (i.e., sleeping) time. And his unhealthy love for bologna and tendency to overeat this dubious delicacy truly tickled me.

White Elephant is pretty fast paced and does an excellent job of stringing out the suspense regarding the identity and motivation of the killer. And although, as I previously mentioned, the story entails a good deal of violence, it is not unnecessarily gory. It is just enough to make the danger appear real and the threat feel serious.

Overall, I found this to be quite a diverting read. It contains a well-balanced blend of romance and suspense, engaging young protagonists, a menagerie of intelligent animals and enough clever humor to let you know that it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Nicely done.

--Bobby

Title: Table for Three
Author: Missy Martine
Author’s website: www.missymartine.com 
Publisher: Siren Publishing, Inc.
Release Date: November 2009
ISBN: 1-60601-548-6
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

After escaping an abusive husband that left her scarred inside and out, Cassandra Abernathy spent a long time virtually housebound from fear. An unexpected inheritance is the answer to her prayers. An uncle she never knew about has left her his house and a small bank account in Oregon. Leaving Texas is just what she needs to get on with her life. Plus-sized and over forty, the last thing she thought would happen is for her to catch the eye of two utterly gorgeous brothers. At their persuasion, she gives them a chance to get to know them. Cass never thought she would experience any of the feelings that David and Matt bring out in her. How can two young studs ever want older damaged goods? Can Cass let go of her past and make a future for three?

********

I enjoy a book that can blend a heartfelt story with a sexy background. The backbone of the story is the traumatic hand in life that Cass has been dealt. Her own doubts in herself are realistic and show what abuse can do to a person. The author does a fine job of letting this show through in the story. Her blossoming under the care of Matt and David is heartwarming and extremely sexy. The sexual scenes sizzle. The story has many dimensions and will keep the reading interested throughout. Ms. Martine has a talent for pulling her reader into the story and not letting them go.

Title: Take It EASY
Author: AKM Miles
Author’s website:  http://akmmiles.livejournal.com/
Publisher:  Torquere Press Publishers
Release Date:  November 2009
ISBN: 978-1- 60370-863-0
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Contemporary Romance GLBT
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Edward Albert Stanton Young, more commonly known as Easy, may be a long-haul trucker, but he always makes his way home to Nashville, Tennessee, and the café and truck stop that his mother runs. Not only does Mama Sasy’s café have the best food and pie in the upper forty-eight, but it also acts as a half-way house and refuge for young gay men having trouble with their lives. Having been blessed with a mother who loves him unconditionally, Easy always finds a way to help his mother and her young protégés out whenever he is home. He has never gotten involved with any of the young men, however. At least, not until Manuel Nandoza stepped through the café door and into their lives.

The victim of gang attacks in his home town of Tampa, Mano left home to save his life. When Mama Sasy takes him into her fold, he knows he’s found another mother to love. And Easy? Well, he might tower over the diminutive Mano, but he isn’t rough and mean like most big men Mano has known. As Mano begins to rebuild his life, he falls for the sweet and gentle trucker.

But happily-ever-after is not so easy as that. Just as the two men begin to think that they might have a future together, the police show up at Mano’s door to arrest him, and his painful past catches up to him with a vengeance. Suddenly, Mano’s newly found confidence is replaced by fear, and his happiness dissolves into despair. The evidence against him appears to be overwhelming, but Mano doesn’t take into account the sheer tenacity of his lover and new friends. Because when his lover’s future is at stake, Easy is more than willing to do what it takes to save him – even put himself in danger.

********

Many different factors lead up to my decision to review a story. I’ve talked about covers and blurbs and titles, and sheer bloody-mindedness plays a role as well, i.e. I like my “boy books” by gum, and if you’re reading this, I know that you like them as well. This time, this book, the driving force was music. The Eagles, to be exact. I do so love The Eagles and could probably play “Hotel California” on a continuous loop and not get tired of it. So when AKM Miles generously sent me a copy of her latest novella Take It EASY, I was all over it. Even as I opened the book, this story had one point in its favor already for making my little mental iPod shuffle on over to my favorite band. And while the catchy title and the main character’s clever name hooked me in to this story initially, it was the sweetness of the characters, the unconditional acceptance of the support network, and the unexpected spark of danger that held it fast throughout the tale.

“Romantic hero” is not exactly the image that comes to mind when we think of a long haul trucker, but that is exactly what AKM Miles gives us in her novella Take It EASY. This is a sweet yet sensual gay romance about a man who finds love and acceptance when he last expects it, and it combines a hint of danger and suspense with the romance to keep the pages turning.

Ms. Miles populates this novella with a cast of characters we can either care about or revile. Easy is almost too good to be true; he is Mano’s knight in shining armor, except that he carries a baseball bat instead of a broadsword. He is a gentle giant who is not afraid to stand up for himself or for those he loves. Mano, on the other hand, is smaller and more vulnerable. He has been a victim most of his life, so stepping into Mama Sasy’s café is like arriving in an unexpected utopia for him. In addition to these two, we have Sasy, whose name is a play on words similar to Easy’s, their benefactor Nick, who is attempting to make up for his errors in the past, and a number of other colorful minor characters. And we can’t forget the villains in this story. Ms. Miles gives us a set of thugs who are exceedingly nasty and very “gangsta,” and it is with great anticipation that we wait for this lot to receive their just desserts.

The portions of the story that involve the big rig are very interesting, and the author works this detail into the story without it seeming contrived. I never realized the intricacy involved in the working of these vehicles. While it in no way made me want to get behind the wheel of one of these monsters, I do think that I’ll be looking upon these drivers with just a little more respect in the future.

Along with Easy and Mano’s story, Take It EASY involves a side plot regarding the philanthropic Nick and his search for his son. Ms. Miles does a good job of tying up loose ends with this minor but emotional subplot so that the reader is not left hanging at the end.

Overall, I enjoyed the time I spent reading Take It EASY. It is a sweet story with a lot of love – of both the romantic and the family/fellowship kind – in it. It acknowledges that the world “out there” is not as accepting of individual differences as it should be, but it also gives us a measure of hope and a happy ending.

--Bobby

Title: When Ginger Snapped
Author: Kerri Nelson
Author’s website: http://www.kerrinelson.com/  
Publisher: Hearts on Fire Books
Release Date: December 2009
ISBN: N/A
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary Holiday
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 1
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Ginger's husband has dropped a bombshell over breakfast the day after Thanksgiving; he has been cheating and is leaving her. If that isn't enough, he has taken Ginger's multi carat engagement ring to put a down payment on a condo for him and his bimbo. So to say that Ginger is having a bad day is an understatement. What does a girl in this kind of pain do? She goes shopping . . . and snaps.

********

When Ginger Snapped is an absolutely delightful holiday story. It will restore your belief in happiness and leave you with a smile on your face and warmth in your heart. Ginger was a hoot; her thoughts and how they evolved while she was shopping on Black Friday were hilarious. I found myself easily identifying with her and her feelings.

Cas was a pleasant surprise. His character added depth to an already great story. There is so much feeling packed into this short story, and I enjoy when an author can accomplish so much so quickly. The characters are memorable and well-rounded. I especially loved that Ms. Nelson used my name for one of her characters. Loved it. If you are looking for a holiday read that is fun, heartfelt, and quick; this is the story for you.

Title: Conquest
Author: S. J. Frost
Author’s website:  www.sjfrost.com/
Publisher:  MLR Press
Release Date: October 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60820-088-7
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Contemporary Romance GLBT
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Jesse Alexander has one dream in his life: to make it big in the music scene with his band Conquest. He is a talented vocalist and songwriter and can play many different musical instruments, but he is also cocky and quick-tempered and tends to speak before he thinks. With the band playing in bars and small venues, his talent has yet to be discovered by the record labels. That is about to change.

Jesse’s inspiration and idol has always been Evan Arden, a star who disappeared from the public eye at the pinnacle of his popularity. When Evan returns to Chicago after a three-year hiatus from music, he stumbles across Conquest playing in a bar, and not only does he find Jesse attractive, he also recognizes the magnitude of the young man’s talent. Soon, Jesse and his band have a recording contract, and the fame that he craves is almost within his reach. And even beyond that, he has Evan in his life, and Evan seems to be just as in love with Jesse as Jesse is with him. The future looks sweet.

The price of fame can be painfully high, however. While Jesse has never made any excuses for himself or his sexuality, he finds that the music-loving public is perhaps not quite as accepting as he would like. He and Evan must hide their relationship if they value their careers, because all it would take is one unguarded statement or tabloid photograph to bring their worlds tumbling down. While Jesse would rather ignore that reality, Evan knows that they may one day have to make a difficult choice between their love and their music.

********

S.J. Frost’s novel Conquest takes its readers on a trip into the world of recording artists and rock music and the conflict that can exist between the personal and public lives of the musicians. This is a story of love, heartbreak, and reaching for dreams that is both entertaining and touching. Along with a dream-come-true story for the main character, it includes a thread of tension that runs throughout which promises that all isn’t going to be sweetness and light forever.

The music world that exists in this novel feels very realistic, although I don’t have any personal experience to measure it by. Along with the characters, we experience the dry business end of music, the drudgery of recording, the thrill of a performance, and the interpersonal dynamics of the band members. Ms. Frost includes songs throughout the narrative whose well-written and poignant lyrics made me want to hear the music that they supposedly accompany.

Conquest incorporates a blend of many emotions and conflicts which seems very fitting for the high-stress and highly visible nature of the setting. While I enjoyed the sweetness of the heroes' initial relationship, it was the conflict stemming from jealousy, suspicion, anger and heartbreak that tugged me straight in to the story and kept me hooked.

Along with a plot rife with conflict and emotion, Conquest gives readers characters who will spur both sympathy and exasperation. Neither Jesse nor Evan is perfect, but it is their very imperfection that makes them more human and therefore more attractive heroes. Evan can be a self-important jerk, and he is very slow to share any personal part of himself, but we can clearly see how enamored he is with his lover. Jesse bounces between being sweet and egotistical with the energy of the young; he is very aware of how attractive he is, and he makes sure that everybody knows it. While this is cute and cocky, we see how this can also be a bit wearing. But even with the tantrums and drama, we know that underneath the diva personality is a sensitive individual, even if he can be mouthy and somewhat pushy at times. Between them, Jesse and Evan make an extremely sweet – and probably very high maintenance – couple.

The story ends with a little bit of a cliffhanger, because we don’t truly know how Jesse and Evan’s decision will affect their careers. If the tantalizing little blurb at the end of the book is anything to go by, Ms. Frost will be giving us a sequel to Conquest soon. Who knows what life will throw at these two and whether or not their mutual devotion can survive the demands of the tour and the constant scrutiny of the press? They have their happy-for-now; we can only hope that it evolves into a happily-ever-after.

--Bobby

Title: Champagne
Author: Inara LaVey
Author’s website: http://www.danafredsti.com/
Publisher: Ravenous Romance
Release Date: 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60777-303-1
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Jeanette is accompanying her boyfriend Daryl on a wine tasting trip across France. She knows about an hour into the plane ride that she has made a big mistake, and her dying relationship is going to make for one very long trip. Besides being condescending and downright rude at times; Daryl is a complete bore. On the final leg of their trip, they are going to visit a very distinguished French couple that own a renowned vineyard. Jeanette is sure she is going to go right on having a boring time...she could not have been further from the truth. Marie-Elise and Amaury Roux-Dubois may have invited Daryl to visit but it is Jeanette they have their eye on. They introduce Jeanette to sexual delights while teaching her all about champagne and wine. Jeanette is entranced with her new surroundings.

********

Well-written with Ms. LaVey's usual flare for humor, sex, and fun, Champagne is a wild ride through France. I have a completely new outlook on drinking champagne after reading some wonderfully racy sexual encounters. Jeanette is a memorable character. I feel as if she is real and her thoughts are realistic, and I especially like her unique sense of humor. On the flipside I couldn't stand Daryl; he is rude, arrogant, and condescending to Jeanette while being a boot-licker to the Roux-Dubois just because they are wealthy. I love when an author can make me dislike a character that much.

This book is full of wonderful information about champagne as well as the workings of a vineyard. The characters are witty and the dialogue interesting. The sex is carnal and adventurous. Ms. LaVey has a way with words and humor; she never fails to leave a smile on my face. 

Title:  Tempt Not the Cat          
Author:  J.C. Wilder
Author’s website: http://jcwilder.com/
Publisher:  Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
Release Date:  October 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60504-809-3
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Paranormal Romance
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Erihn Spencer may be a popular romance novelist, but she does not write from experience. Kidnapped as a teenager and brutally raped and disfigured at the hands of a madman, Erihn still suffers from PTSD and lingering fear eighteen years later. She gives men a wide berth, hides herself behind too much hair and baggy clothes, and lives vicariously through her friends and the steamy novels she writes. But when Erihn meets Fayne, her reserve flies out the window with one heart-stopping and spontaneous kiss.

Erihn prefers to work in solitude, so when a friend offers to loan her a remote house in the Colorado Rockies, she jumps at the chance to finish her research and begin writing her new novel there. Soon after arrival, however, she realizes that she has been set up by her so-called friends, because Fayne is also in residence. Stranded in the house by a storm, Erihn finds herself coaxed out of her shell by the large and gentle Fayne, responding to him as she has done no other man.

But their blissful interlude is short-lived. Fayne has secrets that he hasn’t shared with Erihn, and he also has powerful enemies who have every intention of destroying him and those he holds dear. When that enemy makes it to their door, Erihn will find herself once again sucked into a nightmare of violence and darkness. It will change not only who she is but also her entire perception of the world.

********

Stories about werewolves abound, but stories that feature were-cats instead of their lupine cousins doe not seem to be quite as common. J.C. Wilder’s Tempt Not the Cat is one for the cat lovers, featuring a stolen diary that contains dangerous secrets, a behind-the-scenes struggle for power in a preternatural underworld, and a heroine who writes paranormal romances that are more realistic than she would ever have believed.

While the main plot in Tempt Not the Cat involves the romance between Erihn and the were-cat Fayne, there are several other subplots that combine to make this a very involved story. When I picked up this novel, I felt as if I had stepped directly into an ongoing drama. This makes sense, because Tempt Not the Cat is part of the author’s Shadow Dwellers series. Overall, Ms. Wilder does an admirable job of weaving the back story into the narrative so that we understand the basis of the conflicts without needing prologue or a long aside to get those of us unfamiliar with the series up to date. While I did have a feeling that I may have missed a little bit of character development of minor characters, I still feel as if this is a stand-alone novel. On the whole Ms. Wilder keeps these conflicts and subplots distinct and organized, and even though this is the first story by this author that I have read, I felt as if I got a pretty good taste of what was going on in the series.

With her main characters, Ms. Wilder gives us a damaged heroine who is just learning to come out of her self-imposed isolation and a hero who is a fascinating blend of warrior and caregiver. The interaction between Erihn and Fayne is sexy to the point of being combustible, and I dare any reader to read the love scenes without getting a little bit hot and bothered themselves. The were-cats are very sexual beings of power and grace in Tempt Not the Cat, and they entirely fit the sensual image of a feline. Another characteristic that these were-creatures share with their domestic counterparts is a susceptibility to the chemical lure of catnip. The scene involving the big cat’s ingestion of this herb is sure to bring a smile to the reader’s face.

After finishing this story, I definitely plan to read other volumes in the Shadow Dweller series. Ms. Wilder has captured my imagination with this world, and other characters in this series are definitely clamoring for my attention.

--Bobby

Title: Hot Highland Fling
Author: Eliza March
Author’s website: http://www.elizamarch.com/
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Release Date: August 2009
ISBN: N/A
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Ailsa Jackson is on her way to Scotland to interview and write an article on a wealthy American who has recently inherited his ancestral castle. Her libido is on overdrive and her thoughts are on brawny Scottish men in kilts; she never thought she would be meeting one of those fine highland men in the flesh...kilt and all. The timeless question is soon answered: what do men wear under their kilts?

Robert Colin Fitzgerald Desmond III, Lord Brantham, can't believe he agreed to an interview with his crush from his nerdy college days. Ailsa is just as glorious and sexy as he remembers. Unfortunately, he overhears her telling someone on the phone that she is finished with boring Americans. Before he can stop himself, he is introducing himself as Colin and using the brogue that so easily slips back into place.

*********

Hot Highland Fling is a  naughty, sexual romp that will make you want to run and find your very own Highlander. This is a short story that packs quite a punch. The sexual chemistry between the characters is immediate and blatant. Aisla may claim she wants a no strings relationship, but any woman would find that hard to stick to after more orgasms in an hour than she can count. Aisla is strong, confident, and knows what she wants. Her fiery and adventurous personality is intoxicating.

Colin is a dream come true. His nervousness at meeting his college crush is adorable, and he more than overcomes that and steps up to the plate. He comes across as sexy and caring; this is a great combination.  

If you like your sex hot and often, this is a book you will enjoy. Ms. March pens an exhilarating story.