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The Reckoning by D. Mikels
Off Limits by Lia Slater
Even Demons Get the Blues by Maree Anderson
Shadows by Joan De La Haye
Magic University Book One: The Siren and the Sword by Cecilia Tan
Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Lynn Lorenz
The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten by Christopher Newman
Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between by J.A. Saare
Best Sex Writing 2010 edited by Rachel Kramer Bussel
Bad Cat by Jim Edgar
Windows in Time by M. Jules Aedin
Good with his Hands by Michelle M. Pillow
Apotrope by Chris Owen
Hotter than Hell by L. Shannon
March Misfit by Barbara Stremikis
Pursuing Love by Karen Hall
The Imposter: How a Juvenile Criminal Succeeded in Business and Life by Kip Kreiling
Hell Hath No Fury by Carol Lynne
Tori’s Secret by Mina Carter
Punishment and Mercy by Cris Anson
Too Keen by AKM Miles
Seduced at Midnight by Jaquie ‘Alessandro
The Frugal Foodie Cookbook by Lara Starr and Lynette Shirk
Seal It With a Kiss by Violet Blue

Title: The Reckoning
Author: D. Mikels
Author’s website: Myspace, at Amazon.com
Publisher:  wandering sage bookstore & more
Release Date: June 2009  
ISBN: 978-1-193300672
Length:  Novella
Format: Print
Genre:  Horror/Thriller
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 2.5 (higher for violence)
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

John Morrison remembers what he was doing when the bombs fell: he was packing to leave, separating from his wife of twenty-two years. After the death of his son and the end of his marriage, he figured that his life was over. But after the attack, as the green clouds pollute the air and the water and spread an illness to the world’s population, he realizes that this is just the beginning of the end. People infected by the illness become homicidal monsters, and life becomes a daily struggle just to stay alive.

As John and his fellow survivors fight for existance, he remembers his wasted life, mourns the loss of his son, and is haunted by the behaviors of his past. John knows that it is just a matter of time before they become victims of these demons spawned by the apocalypse or of the sickness itself. Death waits for them; all they can hope for is to hang on as long as possible.

********

A bomb attack from an unknown enemy spreads an illness that turns peaceful citizens into a red-eyed, crazed hoard of killers. A small cadre of individuals, as yet unaffected by the sickness, fights their way through the homicidal masses. A desperate dash for the mountains is accompanied by a far-fetched hope for safety and survival. I admit that I kind of dig these post-apocalypse (zombocalypse?) stories like Stephen King’s Cell and The Stand and the movie 28 Days Later. D. Mikels’ novella The Reckoning fits nicely into this mold, so it makes sense that I would enjoy it. As a tale of apocalypse and violence and survival, it is an exciting, eerie, and well-conceived story. However it is much more than just that, and this is what makes The Reckoning stand out from the crowd and linger with you well after the end.

I won’t give away what makes The Reckoning unique – I’m not so cruel as to ruin the story for you. Suffice to say that after I read the last page, I had to stop and blink for a moment and then mentally rewind and replay the entire story to look at it from a slightly different angle. This element adds depth of the story and elevates it from simply “good” to “memorable” in my opinion.

In this novella, the present struggle for survival is interspersed with John’s memories, and these trips into the past serve as a wonderful contrast: what is now versus what used to be. Not only does this underscore the grim situation that John has found himself in, but it also provides insight into aspects of John’s character that we would never have been privy to otherwise. John strikes us as almost heroic as he deals with the horrors of the present, but we see that this is not actually who he has been in the past. And we wonder: is this a redemption of sorts for John?  

Overall, this is a well-written thriller of a story that many readers should find satisfying. The action is well written and exciting, the danger is omnipresent, and the effects of the illness are satisfyingly revolting. Once or twice the prose felt just a touch overblown, but this did not affect my enjoyement of the story. I found The Reckoning an enveloping and very entertaining read, and I would definitely recommend it to others.

--Bobby

Title: Off Limits
Author: Lia Slater
Author’s website: http://www.liaslater.com/
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Release Date: February 2010
ISBN: N/A
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Kara Reynolds never thought she would find herself handcuffed to a chair in her ex-husband's house. She certainly never imagined her ex brother-in-law would handcuff her to the chair when he catches her breaking into the house. And she certainly never thought she would be as hot as she is for Austin, who is eight years her junior. Even though she knew he had feelings for her before she made a huge mistake and married his brother, she never thought he would act on them. But as she is bound to the chair, all thoughts are turning to pure need for this man whose heart she broke the day of her wedding.

********

This is utterly and undeniably an entertaining read. One of the things I find that makes a short story enjoyable is an author that is able to give plenty of background to make the story come full circle, and Ms. Slater does this with finesse. I didn't feel like I was missing out on anything. I thoroughly enjoyed the thought of the younger guy; especially one as hot as Austin. The characters seem realistic, and I liked how they show so much emotion.

For such a short story there is a lot of depth of feeling. I was drawn to the sweetness of the feelings Austin has for Kara. The sex is steamy and very erotic.

I can't wait to read something else from this very talented author. She is on my "to be watched" list.

Title: Even Demons Get the Blues
Author: Maree Anderson
Author’s website: http://www.mareeanderson.com/
Publisher:  Red Sage Publishing, Inc.
Release Date:  2009
ISBN: 978-1-60310-314-5
Length:  Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Paranormal Romance
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 3.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Leisa has an ugly secret; one that has stained her soul and has ensured her eternal damnation. Steeped in self-disgust, unable to forgive herself or ask for redemption, she has been indulging in a string of self-destructive behaviors that would lead anyone to ruin.

Rezon is a Beguiler demon whose purpose is to seduce women over to the dark side, but his fixation with Leisa has rendered him incapable of doing his job lately. For the past year, he has watched her pick up strange men in bars and indulge in drunken and anonymous sex until he can’t stand it any longer, and he decides to claim her for herself. The sex that results is outstanding, but it also leads to Rez and this human woman forming a bond that cannot be broken. This is a problem, because in three days she is due to die and have her soul claimed by a Destroyer demon. If Leisa dies, then Rez may die as well, and he is the last of his kind.

Now Rez has three days to save Leisa's soul and gain his greatest desire. But even should he accomplish that feat, his troubles aren’t over. He is also tasked with making an impossible choice between love and duty, and this is a choice that may very well affect both Heaven and Hell.

********

Maree Anderson’s Even Demons Get the Blues is a story of love and redemption and demons interfering in people’s lives. This is a darkly humorous tale about a demon who finds himself into a potentially life-threatening situation when he bonds with a human with a damned soul. While I found the story itself to flow somewhat erratically, the dialogue is witty and the characters are quirky enough that they kept me involved and interested throughout the story.

The character Rez is well-developed and quite likeable, and although I never truly warmed up to Leisa, she has an entertainingly smart mouth and makes a good foil for Rez. I enjoyed the demons especially in this story, but I think my favorite of them all must be the Demon King Asmodaeus. He has a foul mouth, a wicked sense of humor, and a dirty mind, and watching him bicker with Leisa and try to be both friend and boss to Rez is quite funny.

Overall, I enjoyed the story's tone more than I did the story itself. I found myself getting a little mixed up and confused over what the actual conflict of this story was. Most of Even Demons Get the Blues seems to revolve around Rez breaking the hold that the demon Malphas has on Leisa (and when that demon arrives on the scene and shows his true form, he is one nasty piece of work indeed). But another conflict is thrown in towards the end, and I truly never quite understood how Rez and Leisa resolved it.

My motivation for reading Even Demons Get the Blues was two-fold: first, I was charmed by the title, and second, I have my eye on the second story in this series, Let Sleeping Demons Lie. While I can’t say that this story lived up fully to the promise of its title, I still quite enjoyed its wit and humor. I’ll be looking forward to reading the second story to see where Ms. Anderson takes this series.

--Bobby

Title: Shadows
Author: Joan De La Haye
Author’s website: joandelahaye.wordpress.com
Publisher: Rebel e Publishers
Release Date:  2009
ISBN: 978-1-9814256-1-0
Length:  Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Horror
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Although she hasn’t seen him in over a year, Sarah is saddened by her father’s unexpected suicide. She knows that she should probably seek counseling for her grief, but when that grief expands into hallucination and night terrors, she begins to question her own sanity. With increasing frequency, she is visited by a creature who comes from the shadows, whispering words of madness and gifting her with visions of blood and death and unspeakable horror.

Sarah’s boyfriend Kevin is no comfort. He is too caught up in his own wants to even try to understand her terrors. He has made a game out of toying with Sarah’s affections as he juggles seeing her with time spent with another, more sexy, girlfriend, and he can’t be bothered with what he sees as a suddenly clinging and needy Sarah. This little game backfires on him, however, when she becomes suddenly violent.

When Sarah’s budding madness sends her to a mental institution, she trades one nightmare for another. Her tormenter follows along with her, laughing and delighting in her agony. He tells her tales of driving her father to suicide and suggests that this is her only option as well. And Sarah begins to wonder: is her visitor, who she has assumed to be a figment of her insane imagination, actually real? And if so, why has he chosen her as his next victim?

********

Joan De La Haye’s Shadows is the stuff that nightmares are made of. This novella is filled with evil, terror, and torment, and I found it overall to be a mesmerizing read. This is the story of one woman’s struggle with madness, another woman’s retribution, and a whole slew of dysfunctional family dynamics.

I’ve found that covers don’t always accurately reflect the contents of the book. Not so in this case; this one is spot on. Meet Jack, Sarah’s tormenter. Not very pretty, is he?  He is the kind of villain that horror movies are written about, and he is especially frightening the first couple of times he appears in this story. The second time he comes to call on Sarah, he appears in a manner that made my stomach lurch and my heart stutter. He is Freddy Kreuger meets The Grudge and proof that things do indeed go bump in the night.

Yet for all Jack’s delight in pain and anguish and his ill intentions, I found myself warming up to him as the story progressed. As the truth about Jack is revealed, I began to wonder if perhaps he is not the only villain here. There is no doubt that he is responsible for the death of Sarah’s father, but perhaps the true evil in this story comes from more human sources. In fact, once we learn Jack’s true nature, he becomes much less threatening. Whether or not this was Ms. De La Haye’s intention, I found myself liking the horrible fellow somewhat at the end.

This is a wonderfully creepy story, although it took me a little longer to settle into it than I expected. I was slightly distracted in the beginning by way the narrative jumps from character to character, but it didn’t take long for it all to fall into place and for me to be so involved in the story that it would have taken a crowbar to pry me away from it.

The fact that the characters live in gated communities in Shadows made me curious about Johannesburg, South Africa. A brief tour of the Internet suggests that this is one of the more dangerous cities in the world, and the story seems to back this up when it says “Nobody took a dark alley in Jo’burg. It would be suicide.” This slightly sinister air felt very appropriate to the story, and it assists in keeping the tension very high.

If you are prone to nightmares or worry about what might be lurking beneath your bed, you may not want to read Shadows just before bedtime. It can be disturbing and downright gruesome at times, so don’t be surprised if you need to leave the nightlight on for a couple of nights after you finish. However, if you are a fan of horror, enjoy the thrill of a shock, and never met a demon you didn’t like, then I suggest you dive right on in. This one’s for you!

--Bobby

Title: Magic University Book One: The Siren and the Sword
Author:  Cecilia Tan
Author’s website: http://blog.ceciliatan.com/    
Publisher: Ravenous Romance
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60777-005-3
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Kyle Wadsworth never though he was anything special until the day he went to Harvard for an interview for his scholarship and ended up in the wrong place.  He soon realizes he is actually going to the secret university hidden in Harvard named Veritas. He is magical and he never even knew, and he’s not even sure they are correct about him. He begins his life at Veritas and discovers many magical wonders along the way. His freshman year involves sexual discoveries, mystery, and a whole new outlook on life.

********

I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and I was pleasantly surprised. Initially it put me in a Harry Potter frame of mind . . . until the sex started. This is definitely not a young adult story. This is a grown up, sexy and fun story. Magic University has a good storyline, and the types of magic used are very innovative and set it apart from other books of this genre. Though at times the author alludes to what is going to possibly happen, she does a wonderful job of keeping the reader guessing right up until the end.

The characters are interesting with a depth that makes them memorable. I enjoyed the secondary characters almost as much as the main characters. I hope to get more of a glimpse into them as the series progresses. I already have book two in the series in hand and will be delighted if it is as good as this one.

Ms. Tan has done an outstanding job of feeding my Harry Potter obsession in a very adult fashion. I look forward to reading her other book in this series.

Title: Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Author: Lynn Lorenz
Author’s website: http://www.lynnlorenz.com/
Publisher:  Amber Quill Press, LLC
Release Date:  February 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60272-644-4
Length:  Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Romance GLBT
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Scott has been living on the streets of New Orleans since just before Hurricane Katrina hit. He knows the city is dangerous – he has learned that through painful experience – but he loves it nevertheless. He may be homeless, but he has a warm place to stay in the shelter and a job at Tiffany’s Waffles and Wings in the French Quarter. When Scott is mugged on his way to work, he is saved from a vicious beating by a young man who is just as desperate as the mugger. And although his savior helps himself to the stolen cash, he returns it later and proves himself to be someone Scott can care for and even trust for a change.

After losing his entire family to the hurricane, Tony can’t bring himself to leave the city. Destitute and living as a squatter in an abandoned neighborhood, he is tied up in his guilt and grief until he meets Scott. Although he had planned to rob the younger man, Tony can’t bring himself to do so. Something in Scott calls to him, reminding him of home and hope and warmth.

Tony and Scott can’t deny their connection or the sense of belonging that draws them together. After years of just trying to survive alone from day to day, can they find love and safety together?

********

I’ve only been to New Orleans once, and that was a lifetime ago as a youngster. When Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, I watched in horror and sadness along with the rest of the world as people lost their homes and loved ones. I felt outraged by the grand-scale incompetence of all the levels of government during the cleanup. But at the end of the day, I was smug and secure in my own home on the other side of the country, and four years later the entire disaster is a fading memory.

Lynn Lorenz’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s reminds us that while life has recovered somewhat in the city of New Orleans, the cleanup is not and probably never will be complete, and many people are still affected. This story about two young men, both homeless and essentially living on the New Orleans streets, concentrates on safety and trust and the building of a home as well as the beginning of a love affair. I found it to be a very sweet, very real story with intense emotions and a couple of young heroes who captured my heart.

In Tony and Scott, Ms. Lynn gives us a couple of characters who we can care about, from their imperfect grammar and their slang to the “bad ass” air that Tony projects. Although they are attracted to each other sexually, there’s a deeper emotional need to be filled as they overcome their past alone-ness, and this is especially evident when Tony calls Scott “baby boy” with such heart-stopping sweetness. The character Miss Tiffany rounds the story out with a little additional realism. From her speech patterns to her attitude, everything about her resounds of the Deep South.

This story brought New Orleans to life for me in a different way than one might expect. There is no Mardi Gras or frolicking in the street. Instead, this is the N’awlins of the everyday residents of that city and especially the homeless residents. We see the homeless shelters, the seedier and more dangerous parts of town, and the local eateries like Tiffany's. I could almost smell the decadent scents of Tiffany’s Waffles and Wings as I read Breakfast at Tiffany’s. It made me hungry without a doubt and called forth a yen for the food that I grew up with in the South.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s may be short, but it packs a powerful story of hope and love that make it a wonderful and affecting read. In this story, Ms. Lorenz calls New Orleans “the city that care forgot.” That broke my heart, in a way, but it also made me open my eyes as well and realize that while the tourist portion of this great city is once again in full swing, a full recovery is a very long way off.

--Bobby

Title: The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten
Author: Christopher Newman
Author’s website: http://www.christophercnewman.wordpress.com/
Publisher:  Eternal Press
Release Date: February 2010
ISBN: 978-1-77065-032-9
Length:  Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:   Historical, Humor
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

In the tiny hamlet of Lower East Drearie, there once lived a tavern maid by the name of Agnes Biggenbotten. Big of heart, tiny of mind, and plush of posterior, Agnes was an object of lust for many of the hamlet’s men and a target for jealousy and degradation by much of the womenfolk. Although she rarely had a coherent thought, she was happy with her life in the tavern, but that life took a nosedive one fateful day when the mayor dropped dead of a heart-attack while chasing her in a fit of lust. Accused of murder and witchcraft as a result, Agnes was forced to flee, leaving her home and the man that truly loved her behind.

This is the tale of Agnes’ adventures, both good and ill, and her education and transformation from an innocent and ignorant barmaid to a lady and a duchess. It is the story of how she loved and lost, how she came into her fortune, and how she finally won her heart’s desire.

********

Christopher Newman’s clever novella The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten is a fast-paced romp of a story that will entertain and delight you. This humorous and completely improbable tale, set in a fictional land that looks suspiciously like historic England, is a story within a story, and it features a host of comic and over-the-top characters, a plot that is a combination of farce and soap opera, and narrator who, quite frankly, steals the show.

The main character in The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten is the storyteller, who promises his listeners “a fantastic tale of love, tragedy, and derring-do” in exchange for a pint of stout. Mr. Newman has given this narrator a unique voice that carries throughout, peppering the story with wry comments and colorful asides and adding an irresistible interpersonal element to the narrative. As I read this story, I truly felt as if I were sitting across the table from the storyteller, listening to his outrageous tale and interacting with him as he speaks. In fact, I was prepared to have to buy him another pint to keep him talking. Couldn’t have him getting a dry mouth before he ended his tale, now could I?

Mr. Newman incorporates a number of characteristics into this story that enhance its comic nature. The names are wonderful and descriptive of the characters. Besides Agnes Biggenbotten of the big bottom, we have the less-than-stellar mayor Dubious Finch, the hateful man of the cloth Milo Proper, the unpleasant but tenacious witch hunter Finneas Weevel, and Duke Von Boor who most definitely is a boor of the lowest caliber. In addition, the titles of the chapters are hilarious and are almost as entertaining as the narrative.

I found reading The Scandalous Tale of Agnes Biggenbotten to be simply a whole a lot of fun. This is a story to read when you need a smile or perhaps a laugh or two. It is fluffy and fun and larger than life, and I found it to be well worth my time. I hope the storyteller comes back soon with another tale. I’ll gladly spring for the first pint; you can buy the next.

--Bobby

Title: Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between
Author: J.A. Saare
Website: www.jasaare.com  
Publisher: Eternal Press
Release Date: February 2010
ISBN: 978-1-77065-014-5
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Source: A
Sensuality: 3
Rating: 5

Reviewed by Teagan S. Boyd

Rhiannon is a necromancer; she can see dead people. Though she isn't happy with her ability, she must deal with it. When she is summoned by the very sexy vampire Disco, she tries everything to avoid him. Rhiannon has never been comfortable around vampires, but Disco is about to enlighten her about her abilities. Apparently she can see dead vampires while most other necromancers cannot. And with vampires being murdered, she is the only one that can help Disco find them. The attraction between them is growing, and Rhiannon must fight it tooth and nail, especially after she must become marked by Disco's family in order to be safe. Never knowing what is around the next corner, Rhiannon fears her feelings for Disco and the old pains from her childhood that may have to face.

******** 

Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between is a unique story with many twists and turns. This story felt like a breath of fresh air. Complex and fascinating characters combined with an edgy, fresh story make for an enticing read. This is a true page turner. Though there is a lot of intricacy in the plot, the author does a wonderful job of explaining it as the story progresses. I found myself enthralled by the dynamics of the story. Some people might think: another vampire story? But I found this particular story to go above and beyond and sideways. The vampire part is major, but the focus is from a different point all together.

Rhiannon is strong, feisty, and full of courage. She has the underlying pain that has made her the way she is and it adds a wonderful element to her personality. Her abilities as a necromancer are interesting. Ms. Saare has done a fabulous job creating those abilities. Rhiannon's interactions with Disco are riveting, I couldn't wait for the next encounter. The witty banter between the characters kept a smile on my face.

The secondary characters are a perfect support for the main characters. They all have a compelling reason for being there and add dimension to an already great story.

I have to say that I have been in a reading funk; nothing has interested me lately. Dead, Undead and Somewhere in Between has definitely pulled me out of that funk. It is a great story, and Ms. Saare is an author I will be keeping my eye on. Her story was so good I didn't want it to end.

Title: Best Sex Writing 2010
Author: Rachel Kramer Bussel, editor
Author’s website: www.rachelkramerbussel.com, http://www.bestsexwriting.com/  
Publisher:  Cleis Press
Release Date:  January 2010
ISBN: 978-1-57344-378-4
Length:  collection of essays, 224 pages
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Nonfiction, Essays
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 4.5
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Best Sex Writing 2010, edited by Rachel Kramer Bussel, is a collection of twenty-five essays from a variety of writers who can be considered experts in their fields. Journalists, sex workers, and educators; men and women; straight and gay and bisexual, these contributors address many different aspects of human sexuality and touch upon fetishes and practices that many would not consider to be mainstream.

When this book fell into my hands, I wasn’t really sure what to expect. I usually prefer fiction over expository writing, so the thought of wading through twenty-five essays felt a little daunting to me. But honestly, I shouldn’t have worried. I found this to be a surprisingly enjoyable and definitely intriguing read. Each of the contributors to this volume has such an individual voice and the topics are so widely varied that the book stayed fresh and interesting from beginning to end. And while I cannot and will not profess to have enjoyed each essay equally, I believe that as a whole the book is quite well done.

The authors of these essays write with a comfortable and casual yet knowledgeable tone that make the subjects as non-threatening as possible. They show wit, humor, and understanding, and there is no doubt that they know their topics. Subjects that might be considered taboo or even threatening to many people are brought into the spotlight, examined, and discussed frankly and insightfully.

In her introduction to the book, Ms. Bussel writes that if there is a theme to this collection, it would be “sexual outlaws.” She encourages us as we read these essays to embrace our inner rebel, look at sex with a fresh perspective, and perhaps even question what passes for the “norms” of today’s society. We frequently fear what we do not understand. This volume attempts to remedy that situation. It advocates that sex is not to be looked upon with trepidation but rather embraced in its many forms.

Perhaps after reading this collection you’re not going to want to go out and participate in the swinging scene, indulge in BDSM and humiliation, or have an extra-marital affair, but you will have a little bit more of an understanding of the diversity of the human experience. And that makes Best Sex Writing 2010 more than worth the read.

--Bobby

Title: Bad Cat
Author: Jim Edgar
Author’s website: http://www.mycathatesyou.com/  
Publisher: Workman Publishing Company, Inc.
Release Date: October 2004
ISBN: 978-0-7811-3619-4
Length: Novel
Format: Print
Genre: Humor, Nonfiction, Cat (Bad)
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 2 (Possible offensive feline material)
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Have you ever wondered if your cat could be a Bad Cat? Look into the pictures and thoughts of bad cats with questionable intentions and definitely bad attitudes. Bad cats captured making tons of trouble and caught showing off their bad habits.

********

I couldn't resist doing a quick review of one of my “go to” books. If I ever need a giggle or a full belly laugh, all I have to do is pick up Bad Cat, and the fun begins. I love the whole thing, from the cats with the hilarious "hobbies" to the laughably accurate quotes that match the pictures; the humor is nonstop. While some may find the adult humor and some language a bit offensive, the laugh factor is undeniable. This is the type of book you keep close at hand for whenever you need a pick me up.

I enjoy Jim Edgar's brand of humor.

Title: Windows in Time
Author: M. Jules Aedin
Author’s website: http://mjaedin.livejournal.com/
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Release Date: August 2009
ISBN: 978-1-61581-026-0
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic and Print
Genre: Suspense, Romance, GLBT
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

A nasty break to his leg and a lack of elevators in his apartment building have Jonah Sellers house-bound and relying on his older sister for such necessities as groceries these days. It’s a good thing he works from home, but that doesn’t keep him from feeling grumpy and downright lonely sometimes. One day, just when he’s on the brink of feeling stir-crazy, he catches a glimpse into the apartment next door, where a man is slowly undressing, staring right at Jonah and smiling. Just as Jonah is beginning to enjoy the show, however, the man vanishes, literally, leaving Jonah fascinated, mystified, and a not just a little bit turned on. One week later, the man reappears, dressed in exactly the same way, performing the same striptease, disappearing once again, and Jonah begins to realize that perhaps the man he is watching isn’t a man at all. Perhaps he is a ghost.

When Jonah’s sister goes on an extended vacation, she arranges for one of her nurses drop in on Jonah occasionally. This nurse, Liam Brooks, is young, very cute, good company, and he is fascinated by Jonah’s ghost story. Both men have been hurt in past relationships. As they slowly come together, they decide to investigate to find out who the ghost is and why he seems to be haunting the window across the way.

What Jonah and Liam uncover is a story of forbidden love, intrigue and greed in old Hollywood. A story of two men who dared to love each other and who paid the ultimate price for that love.

********

M. Jules Aedin’s Windows in Time is a mixture of romance, suspense, and mystery that is two stories rolled into one. It combines the modern story of two men forming a relationship after having been hurt in the past with a nostalgic drama of love and murder in 1950s Hollywood, and it does so in a manner that is both seamless and appealing. Perhaps it was the lure of the ghost story and the tale of impossible love, but I found that this story captured my heart and my imagination, and I truly enjoyed every page of it.

There are two narratives in Windows in Time. Not only do we read about Jonah and Liam, their budding romance, and their preoccupation with the ghost in the neighbor’s window, but we also have the chance to experience the story of Buck and Oliver and Minna fifty years in the past. Although she could have glossed over the story of how the ghost came to be, Ms. Aedin instead involves us in the lives us the ill-fated lovers and makes us care for them. She doesn’t just tell us Buck’s story…she shows us, and this ramps up the emotional impact of his fate and makes us that much more invested in the outcome. In addition, since we the readers know the true story of Buck, Oliver, and Minna, it makes us root for Jonah and Liam to find out the truth and somehow make things right.

Both of Ms. Aedin’s main characters, Jonah and Buck, are well-drawn and engaging, and I would be very hard pressed to choose a favorite of the two. Buck appeals to the romantic and the tragedy lover in me and is a much more serious character than is his modern counterpart. Jonah, on the other hand, is fun in a grumpy, sarcastic, don’t-make-me-eat-vegetables kind of a way. One of Jonah’s most quirky and loveable characteristics is his absolute intolerance of text-speak, and this makes the phone text interaction between him and Liam almost comic.

I found Windows in Time to be very well-written, the stories interesting and woven together perfectly, and the emotion to be very affecting (and yes, that means that I did require a tissue a time or two). And while there is a strong element of tragedy in this story, Ms. Aedin manages to pull off a happy ending very nicely, which the hopeless romantic in me truly appreciated. If you enjoy GLBT romance and a bit of a ghost story, don’t overlook this one; I think you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.

--Bobby

Title: Good with his Hands
Author: Michelle M. Pillow
Author’s website: http://www.michellepillow.com/  
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing
Release Date: February 2010
ISBN: 9781419926648
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Teresa is on an assignment for a paranormal magazine to shoot photos of ghost towns. She never thought she would be spending the first part of her assignment getting her car fixed. Though with a sexy mechanic like Max Draper bent over her hood with such a gorgeous rear end; things are looking up. She just might get a whole lot more than she could have anticipated.

********

Though short in length this book doesn't skimp on content. Fun, sexy, and delicious the story keeps a smile on the reader's face. I enjoyed Teresa's no nonsense attitude when it came to her sexual feelings for Max. She was a fun character as well as witty. Max was wonderfully sexy, and I sure wouldn't say no to him working on my car! The interaction between the characters radiates heat. I especially enjoyed the aspect of Teresa photographing for a paranormal magazine. It added a nice dimension to the story.

I will be on the lookout for more by this talented author.

Title: Apotrope
Author: Chris Owen
Author’s website: http://www.chrisowen.net/
Publisher:  Torquere Press, Inc.
Release Date: September 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60370-804-3
Length:  Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Paranormal Romance, Humor, GLBT
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

As a 300-year-old vampire, Hezekiel has lived all over the world, but he keeps returning to the tiny New England town where he was born and where he was turned into what he is today. He rarely stays long and only visits every ten or twenty years to talk to his accountant and catch up on local news, but this is the one place where he feels at home and where the people know him and aren’t afraid of him. On his last visit, he met his accountant’s son, an annoying twelve-year-old named Scotty with no manners and a mouthy attitude. When Hez returns a dozen years later, the boy’s attitude hasn’t changed much, but he has grown up, and Hez is instantly smitten.

Scotty is obviously fascinated by the fact that Hez is a vampire, but he is not interested in any kind of a physical relationship. Or so he says. Determined to lure the cynical young man into his bed, Hez pulls out all the stops. The boy wants a terrifying vampire? He’ll give him a vampire with all the trimmings – gothic castle, high drama, everything. He’ll stage a seduction so irresistible that Scotty will fall into his bed begging for his attention.

Too bad the best laid plans frequently go awry, isn't it?

********

Vampires seem to be all the rage lately in romantic fiction. Of course, the more common these stories become, the more determined I am to avoid them, contrary creature that I am. Exceptions exist to every rule, however, so it’s not surprising that soon after declaring myself to be not particularly fond of vampire stories, I trip over one that I find simply irresistible. That particular piece of fiction is Chris Owen’s novella Apotrope.

An apotrope is an object whose purpose is to ward off evil, such as a crucifix, holy water or garlic for vampires. Of course, the character Hez is anything but evil, and he is definitely not your typical vampire. Ms. Owen has given him a humorous, casual and somewhat sarcastic tone that runs through both his thought and his speech. He is very self-indulgent and a little jaded but also so determined to gain Scotty’s affections (or at least his company in bed) that he is willing to overlook the young man’s almost constant rudeness. As for Scotty, he has the studied cynicism of the young. The mouthy twelve-year-old who is focused on video games and who finds Hez completely “lame” is just too funny. He doesn’t change much as an adult, although it appears that he puts a lot of effort into being unimpressed with Hez. In fact, I received the impression that he purposely encourages Hez’s crush on him with this game of hard-to-get. Scotty is definitely a brat, but there is something about him that is engaging nevertheless.

If I had to use one word to describe Apotrope, it would be this: adorable. (Sorry, I know that word probably calls forth visions of fluffy bunnies and pointy-tailed kittens, but it still seems appropriate here). This story is light and humorous with characters who will charm and amuse you and a plot that is almost guaranteed to make you laugh. Well, it made me laugh, anyway. Hez cooking up an elaborate seduction scheme in an attempt to flip Scotty’s switch only to have it all go south in a very spectacular way seems to be the perfect example of Murphy’s Law. Such things are not supposed to happen to vampires…it’s simply not dignified.

If you’re looking for a story that will make you grin, I recommend you pick up Apotrope. This is a very entertaining read, not your usual vampire fare, and although it is on the brief side, it’s just a whole lot of fun. I bet you’ll find it as clever and charming as I did.

--Bobby

Title: Hotter Than Hell
Author: L. Shannon
Author’s website: http://www.lshannon.net/
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Release Date: November 2009
ISBN: 978-1-59578-631-9
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Paranormal Romance, Humor
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Lani Monroe is the town librarian in the tiny community of Demon, Arizona. Her visit to the Occult Convention is designed to net her a few interesting tomes for her woefully under-stocked library. Instead, it opens up an entirely new world when she finds herself falling through a void of darkness and landing in the strong arms of the most gorgeous man she’s ever met. When he informs her that he is a demon, she is now in Hell, and he’s about to rock her world in the bedroom, Lani knows that she must be either dreaming or delusional. But oh, what a dream he is.

Meryk, better known as the Prince of Pestilence, is just about to start yet another long and boring meeting with his demon brothers and his Pops when he ends up with a lap full of luscious librarian. Instead of freaking out when he tells her where she is, she reacts with curiosity and not just a little bit of humor. Meryk’s not exactly sure how this mortal came to be in his realm, but he does know that he wants to keep her, because not only is the sex outstanding, but his emotional reaction to her is almost overwhelming.

Perhaps it’s not a match made in Heaven, but as far as Lani is concerned, this is a Hell of a lot better. Now if she could only figure out how to pack this hunky demon up and take him home with her, life would be just about perfect.

********

L. Shannon’s novella Hotter Than Hell is a lot of fun rolled up into a small package. This cute and entertaining story is the first in what is promised to be a series of Hellish Love Stories by this author, and it features a quirky librarian with a passion for books (and a certain gorgeous demon), a prince of Hell with a Calling that doesn’t exactly suit him, his demon brethren, and a Satan who is not exactly what one might expect.

This story might be quick, but it is also sexy and clever and very humorous. I read this on my train commute home one day, and I don’t think that I stopped grinning for the entire duration of the ride. The narrative is fast-paced and almost constantly funny. I had to laugh when Lani compares herself to a “too stupid to live” type of romance heroine when she simply allows Meryk to cart her away to his apartment to be, in his words, ravished. And the everyday names that most of the princes of darkness sport – we have Bubba for Beelzebub, then there are Dave, George, Sam, and others – are so incongruous that they are hilarious.

Ms. Shannon has created characters who are so appealing, well-developed, and memorable that you can’t help but love them. Lani is convinced that she has passed out on the floor of the ladies’ room in the convention center and is having some sort of fantasy erotic dream. Meryk is basically the “runt of the litter” among his brothers, doesn’t like being the purveyor of pestilence, and would quite frankly like to get the hell out of Hell. The chemistry between these two is absolutely combustible, and the interaction between them is playful and sweet as well as sensual.

I would have liked this story to be a little longer. Meryk and Lani are so personable and funny that it would have been nice to spend a little more time with them and perhaps get to see a little bit of Demon, Arizona. Guess we'll just have to wait until the next story to find out a more about their world. According to Ms. Shannon’s website, this Hellish Love Stories series will feature a number of the demon brothers that we met in Hotter Than Hell and the misadventures that accompany them. I’ll certainly be looking forward to reading these stories upon their release. If they are anything like this one, they’re sure to be a treat.

--Bobby 

Title: March Misfit
Author: Barbara Stremikis
Author’s website: http://www.barbarastremikis.com/
Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press
Release Date:  January 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60154-585-1
Length:  Novel
Format: Electronic and Print
Genre:  Young Adult, Historical Romance
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 1
Rating: 5+ Keeper

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

After losing her home and her entire family to a hurricane, 15-year-old Cara must relocate from urban Virginia to rural Indiana to live with a family she has never met before. The Marches, cousins on her mother’s side, live in a tiny home on a farm, and they have five sons already. The farm is a strange and uncomfortable new land for Cara, made even more difficult by the fact that the March men obviously resent her presence. Aching with grief over her lost family, Cara feels like an outsider and a misfit. Her only refuge is what little time she can steal to be on her own and to write in her journals.

The oldest son, Nicolas, at first seems to be the most unpleasant of the lot, but Cara soon understands that he is as much a misfit as she. A grim boy in his last year of high school, he has a volatile relationship with his father and avoids Cara completely. The only time she ever sees a softer side of Nicolas is when he interacts with his younger brother Alan, who has autism. Cara and Nicolas form a bond as they care for Alan, but after a particularly ugly argument between Nicholas and his father, he leaves home, and Cara once again feels alone.

As time passes, tension within the March household stretches to the breaking point. The family is torn apart by anger, distrust, and misunderstanding, and they seem to be headed straight for disaster. Cara has already lost one family; can she survive losing another one?

********

Let’s admit it, choosing books to read is a bit like sifting through the proverbial haystack: you know there are treasures out there, but they are buried so deeply that the search can be a frustrating exercise. There are few things more gratifying than stumbling across that hidden gem, however, and that is exactly what I have done with Barbara Stremikis’s novel March Misfit. This book might be labeled as young adult, but it will appeal to readers of all ages. It is a beautifully written, moving, and thought-provoking story, and I don’t doubt that it will stay in my memory for a good long time.

March Misfit is a story of isolation and courage and love, of feeling alone in a crowd yet finding the strength to stand up for oneself and others. I became engrossed in this story immediately upon opening the cover and simply could not put it down until I had read the final page. Cara and the March family come to life within the narrative, and their struggles, turmoil, and dysfunction captured both my heart and my imagination.

Cara is a well-developed and powerful character in March Misfit. As she attempts to deal with her loss and to accept what fate has handed to her, she is guided by the lessons of her father, and this gives her strength and wisdom that she would not otherwise have. But even though Cara is the main character, this story does not dwell solely upon her. It also switches points of view to visit with other members of the March family. These brief changes in point of view add depth to the narrative and also give the reader a more well-rounded understanding of the family as a unit and as individuals. I was especially affected when the story briefly touched on Alan and his reaction to the family drama. This was completely unexpected, given Alan’s autism, and I was floored by my own emotional response.

By now, I’m sure you can tell that I think March Misfit is a truly outstanding story. I do, it is, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. It is my understanding that this is Ms. Stremikis’s debut novel. All I can say about that is simply…wow; I’m incredibly impressed. This is an author to watch, in my opinion. I will be eagerly awaiting her next release, and I’ll be placing March Misfit on my keeper shelf.

--Bobby

Title: Pursuing Love
Author: Karen Hall
Author’s website: http://karenhallbooks.com/
Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press
Release Date: January 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60154-629-7
Length:  Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Historical/Victorian Romance
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 2.5
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Sharyn Winslow may be an ex-con, but she served her time for theft and has changed her ways. For the past few years, she has devoted herself to running The Lilac Street School, whose mission is to give women returning to society the skills they need to support themselves and stay out of trouble. When Sharyn takes in a young pickpocket in order to save the girl from prison, she finds herself dealing with police detective Nicholas Tyler – the very same police officer who sent her to prison six years ago.

Nick is determined to earn his promotion to police inspector, and that means keeping an eye on the young criminal in Sharyn’s care. He is not too happy at having to deal with this trouble-making woman and her so-called school, but it isn’t long until he begins to look forward to visiting, and he even finds himself helping out when he can. As Sharon and Nick spend time together, they begin to look past their mutual distrust and to develop feelings for each other. But will their budding relationship survive Nick having to fulfill his duty as a police officer? Because even though Sharyn swears that the young girl in her charge is reformed, eye witnesses tell a different tale.

********

Karen Hall’s novel Pursuing Love is a story of love, corruption, and suspense set in Victorian London. It features a hero who is gunning for a promotion, a heroine bent on social reform, and the commotion that occurs when their paths and agendas intersect over the future of a young street thief. I found this to be a very pleasant read, well-written and with colorful and lively characters who truly came to life for me.

With all of the historicals about London “society” out there, it was a pleasant change of pace to find one that features the “common” man of Victorian England who lives on his salary rather than on his riches. In Pursuing Love, the author does a good job conveying the environment and the people, the smells and filth of the street, the disquiet that exists even with – or possibly due to – the presence of the “peelers,” or police officers.

The two lead characters in this story, Nick and Sharyn, are a very appealing duo. While the combination of ex-con and police officer at first seems highly improbable, we find out as the story progresses that these two have more in common than they initially might want to admit. Nick starts out seeming stern and impossibly rigid, but we soon begin to understand the motivation behind his ambitions. He is very much a hero and is almost too good to be true. How can you not love a man who likes children and is willing to admit to his mistakes?  The connection between him and Sharyn is sweet, and I found myself wanting to see them overcome their differences and make a relationship work. To complement these two, Ms. Hall gives us a cast of secondary characters who are well-drawn and pretty believable, from the adorable Little Jack and the distrusting adolescent “Lightfingers” Lacy to the various police officials and constables who are Nick’s associates.

Along with the love story, Pursuing Love has a well-maintained thread of suspense that runs throughout it. Whether the tension is over the financial future of the school, Lacy’s nocturnal wanderings, or possible corruption in the police force, there is always is enough conflict to keep the reader fully involved in the story as it builds to a climax.

Overall, I found this to be a very enjoyable novel and reading it to be time well spent. It captured and held my attention for the duration of the story, charmed me with its romance, and entertained me with its action and intrigue. I will definitely be checking out Ms. Hall’s backlist to see what else she has to offer us.

--Bobby

Title: The Imposter: How a Juvenile Criminal Succeeded in Business and Life
Author: Kip Kreiling
Author’s website: http://www.kipkreiling.com/, http://www.transformationhelp.org/
Publisher:  TransformationHelp Press
Release Date:  2009
ISBN: 978-0-615-32055-7
Length:  284 pages
Format: Print
Genre: Nonfiction/Memoir/Self Help
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 1
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

By age six, Kip Kreiling was stealing money from his family. By thirteen, he had been arrested multiple times and had run away from home. By sixteen, he was a hardened juvenile criminal, selling drugs on the street, stealing, and well on his way to a life of crime and incarceration. Yet today he is a successful businessman, a family man, a corporate consultant, and head of a nonprofit foundation whose mission is to help improve the human condition. What happened in his life to affect such a dramatic change and turn his life around? Within these pages, Kip Kreiling explains his transformation.

********

When the book The Imposter by Kip Kreiling landed in my lap, I wasn’t sure what to think. I was curious, of course. Who wouldn’t be when faced with a subtitle that reads How a Juvenile Criminal Succeeded in Business and Life? But as I’ve mentioned recently, I’m not really an aficionado of self-help books, so I was also a little bit afraid. My fear, sometimes attention-challenged creature that I am, was that it would bore me silly or put me to sleep. A promise is a promise, however, and I was determined to read this book even if it killed me and to write my honest opinion of it.

Now that I have read The Imposter, I can report back to you that those fears I mentioned were completely unfounded. This is a fascinating, informative, and completely enjoyable read, and I am very grateful that the author brought it to my attention.

In this title, Mr. Kreiling lays out the eight principles of human transformation that he advocates will help change people’s lives. Almost as soon as I cracked the cover of this book, I was drawn into its unique blend of memoir and expository writing. It is quite well written, the narrative flows comfortably, is easy to read, and most important of all, is easy to understand. In The Imposter, Mr. Kreiling mixes his memoir with discussion. He makes no excuses for his early behavior but instead tells his story in a straightforward manner. He sets out his steps to personal transformation very clearly and illustrates them so that they make perfect sense to the reader (well, to this reader, anyway).

This fascinating work truly spoke to me. Mr. Kreiling does not tell his memoir linearly; instead, he uses events from his life to help clarify the principles of personal transformation. However, his own life is not the sole source of illustrative material for this book. Mr. Kreiling uses facts and anecdotes and historical examples that demonstrate the points he is making, and he does it in a way that makes for a truly enjoyable reading experience. Some of the stories are quite touching; all are interesting.

When I first opened this book, I was a little bit surprised at the size of the type. I wouldn’t call it large print, but the type is large enough to be easy on the eyes and to provide plenty of white space on each page. Struggling with a tiny font packed solidly into a page tends to give me a headache and make me resistant to reading the material on said page. That is certainly not the case here. Perhaps this is a strange characteristic for me to comment on, but the physical layout of the pages took much of the intimidation factor away from this book for me, and I found myself much more open to the message that Mr. Kreiling conveys as a result.

My overall opinion of The Imposter is a very positive one. Not once as I read it did I become bored; I remained glued to the pages from beginning to end, absorbed by the narrative and intrigued by its message. Perhaps this is not a book that I would have chosen to read on my own, but I am extremely glad that I did read it, and I have no qualms whatsoever about recommending it to others.

--Bobby

Title: Hell Hath No Fury
Author: Carol Lynne
Author’s website: http://www.carol-lynne.net/
Publisher:  Resplendence Publishing, LLC
Release Date: February 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60735-113-9
Length:  Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Paranormal Romance GLBT
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Eons ago, Lu (don’t call him Lucifer) broke the laws of his fellow Archangels and was ejected from Heaven. Since then, he has worked to create a place he can call home. To others it may be Hell, but he simply calls it The City, and he has worked diligently to rule its citizens well and to keep them as content as possible. When Lu’s closest friend brings him word that an old enemy has escaped from his containment and is promising to kill him, he recognizes that this is a threat not just to him but to the integrity of Heaven as well. He knows that the threat is serious when the Archangels, who have basically turned their back on Lu, dispatch the guardian angels of the Gates of Heaven to protect him.

As leader of the guardian angels, Dominic disdains Hell and everything to do with it and is less than pleased with this assignment. But however much he expects to despise Lucifer, he also finds the man to be incredibly tempting. Lu brings out baser instincts that he hardly knew existed, and moreover, conversations with him make Dominic realize that Lu is not the die-hard baddie and source of all things evil that he is rumored to be. Not only is Lu a fantastic kisser and amazing in bed, but he brings out Dominic’s protective side as well.

As love between the angel and the prince of darkness begins to grow, the situation becomes even more complicated. Lu knows that there is no way that the angel would give up his seat in Heaven for a forever in Hell; he would never ask his lover for such a thing. Moreover, Lu’s enemy is growing closer, threatening to let loose the evil of the darkest regions of Hell, an evil Lu has spent hundreds of years trying to contain, if he doesn’t surrender himself. Lu knows he has no choice. Sometimes doing what is right means sacrifice, even when that means losing everything you’ve worked for as well as the one you love.

********

Fans of Carol Lynne have certain expectations. In general, this popular author delivers hot men, blistering sex, and a pretty interesting story, and she does a great job of weaving series of stories together so that her characters become beloved and familiar to her readers. I usually enjoy her offerings, but what I really love is when she goes out on a limb and gives us something completely different from what might be considered her “norm.” So when a new title cropped up promising a story of Heaven and Hell, I was definitely intrigued. And yes, I’ll admit that running through the back of my head was a little perv shouting, “Satan and an angel getting it on? Whoo hoo!” This new title, Ms. Lynne’s novella Hell Hath No Fury, has many of the hallmarks that make her fiction popular, but it is also completely unique. I found this story of love and redemption to be original, touching, and a truly entertaining reading experience.

Ms. Lynne gives her readers a unique version of the fall of Lucifer and Hell in this tale, and I found it to be both fascinating and well-conceived. Those who are devoutly religious may not appreciate her vision, but I enjoyed reading about a Lucifer who isn’t evil and who is willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good. The image of Hell as a city surrounded by fire might not be original, but the idea of The City as a place where sinners can be given a small amount of dignity and respect as well as a safer and saner outlet for their previously destructive energies certainly is.

Lu, who detests being called Lucifer, is a bad boy that you can’t help but love. He does his best to uphold his prince of darkness veneer: the sneering, conceited, egocentric and self-indulgent party animal who cares about little more than where his next blowjob is coming from. But it soon becomes clear that this is not who Lu is at all. Sure, he’s vain of his good looks and sometimes arrogant, but he cares for the citizens of Hell, loves his brothers, and still worships his God. And if that doesn’t win you over, then catch him right before bedtime with his favorite cocktail in his hand, and you'll surely melt into a puddle of mush. Although Lu literally can’t keep his pants on, we can’t begrudge him his indulgences when we see deep down what a good person he actually is.

There is definitely sex in this story. Lots of sex. Lots of very exhibitionistic sex, to be more precise. And while a plentitude of steamy sex scenes is a characteristic of many of Ms. Lynne’s stories, in Hell Hath No Fury, this takes on an additional dimension. This is Lucifer’s way of re-directing the frequently destructive energies of his citizens into an activity that basically does no harm. You can’t catch STDs in Hell, can you? For sure, sex in public is naughty – these are naughty people – but it beats assault, theft, and all the other chaotic possibilities hands down.

There is plenty of humor in this story, but there is sadness and sacrifice as well. I found myself wiping away a tear or two as I read Hell Hath No Fury and pondering on the nature of love and punishment and forgiveness. In this novella, this is not the “hell hath no fury” of Bill Shakespeare or William Congreve. This is literal. There is no fury in this Hell; instead, there is love and friendship. And strawberry milk. Look beyond the cover on this one, and I think you’ll enjoy it. I certainly did.

--Bobby

Title: Tori’s Secret
Author: Mina Carter
Author’s website: http://mina-carter.com/
Publisher: Changeling Press, LLC
Release Date: January 2010
ISBN: 978-1-60521-388-0
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Tori Bennett is so sick of looking for Mr. Right she could just spit. She’s finding men, alright, just not the right ones, and certainly not the Mr. Normal that she’s hoping for. After the latest dating fiasco, Tori decides to put her Fae blood to work on a charm. If she can’t find Mr. Right, maybe she can summon him instead. Or at least Mr. Right-Now. A Wraith may not be a real man, but he can service her needs in a pinch.

Jacob used to be a sorcerer, but now he is stuck being a Wraith until the curse that was on his soul when he died is broken. Unfortunately, the only way to break the curse is for a woman to fall in love with him, and his chances of that are slim to nil in his Wraithlike form. He’s used to being summoned by desperate women needing quick and dirty sex, but what he needs is to make a deeper connection. When he is summoned by the beautiful Tori, Jacob hopes that maybe she’s the one. Something about her is different, special, vulnerable. Wraiths are forbidden to speak, however, so how can he possibly get her to understand how much he needs her, and how much he’s beginning to love her as well?

********

How many of us have dreamed of snapping our fingers and conjuring the perfect lover, the ultimate “Mr. Right” out of thin air, if only just to avoid the hassle of dating? In her short novella Tori’s Secret, Mina Carter gives us a heroine who is lucky enough to do just that. This story is sexy, a touch comic, and has just enough suspense to keep readers hooked. I found this to be a quick and entertaining read and a promising start to what appears to be a series titled Wicked Wraiths.

Ms. Carter has a talent for giving us fun and quirky characters and drool-worthy heroes that will inspire a hot flash or two (and no, I’m not talking menopausal!). With her heroine Tori, she has created a woman who has just enough Fae blood to create magic but not enough of it to be truly useful. She is a little bit scattered and impulsive, but this just makes her more sympathetic to the reader. When faced with a problem – too many bad dates – she decides to take matter into her own hands and flies off without much prep, using the only spell she knows. Ms. Carter ratchets up the humor by letting us know that Tori has had to take evening classes just to understand the Fae language, so we know that the results are not exactly going to be what she expects. 

Jacob is something of a sexual fantasy come true – a man who can be summoned at will and focuses his undivided attention on making love. I would have liked a little more background about him, especially how a wizard such as him got into the situation of being a ghostly gigolo, but he is still an enjoyable and well-drawn character.

Although Tori’s Secret itself is on the short side, it certainly doesn’t skimp on the love scenes. They are detailed and very erotic and are almost guaranteed to make you squirm in your seat and want a Wraith of your very own. It also contains a little bit of a life-or-death conflict, thrown in to kick the suspense up a notch, and a very enjoyable element of humor. The scenes containing the housekeeping Wraiths and Jacob’s interaction with the odious villainess Miknris are almost guaranteed to bring a smile or two.

As the story ends, we are left with the hint that there may be other Wraiths in the same situation as Jacob. I’ll be interested to see where Ms. Carter takes this series and what situations she dreams up for her Wraiths, especially a certain green-eyed Wraith that we meet at the end of this tale. Now if I could only get this song out of my head; thanks to Jacob, I’ve been humming “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” for the last couple of days.

--Bobby

Title: Punishment and Mercy
Author: Cris Anson
Author’s website: http://www.crisanson.com/  
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing
Release Date: January 2010
ISBN: 9781419926891
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Historical
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Widow Mercy Walcott is flogged in front of her whole village as punishment for her wanton ways. In 1694, sex outside of marriage is not tolerated. After her public punishment, her father gives her in marriage to the local Blacksmith, Seth Burroughs. Seth is rough, strong, and very dominant.

Mercy learns quickly that Seth is insatiable as well as in control of her life. Yet she still can't forget the young acolyte, Adam Putnam, who held her during her punishment and used her for his own release. His young hard body has her wanting more.

Seth wants Mercy to be happy and invites Adam to be his apprentice. They soon ensnare Adam in their sexual delights, but Adam's inner conflicts with his strict upbringing have him confused and unhappy. He has fallen in love with the lovely Mercy, and he isn't sure what to do.

********

Punishment and Mercy is a very unique reading experience. The idea of such wanton and naughty behavior with the backdrop of puritanical beliefs makes for one very sexy story. The story definitely pushes boundaries and leaves the reader feeling the heat. Mercy was interesting in her own right, but I found the two male characters stole the story. They were like night and day. Seth was a rugged, dominant type that appeals to anyone who likes the Alpha male while Adam was the sweet, untried man-boy. They both have feelings for Mercy that add different dimensions to the story.

I found the story enjoyable and will be looking for more by Cris Anson.

Title: Too Keen
Author: AKM Miles
Author’s website: http://akmmiles.livejournal.com/
Publisher: Total E Bound Publishing
Release Date:  January 2010
ISBN: 978-1-85715-019-6
Length:  Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre:  Contemporary Romance GLBT
Source: A
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

When Keen Thomas and his best friend and neighbor, Sandy, find out that they are both playing host to their visiting brothers at the same time, they are both excited and a little bit anxious. Sandy’s step-brother, LJ, is still a teenager, and she has no idea what to do with him except perhaps feed him and show him the sights of Nashville. Keen knows nothing about teenagers, but he’s certainly willing to help in any way he can. His own brother, Kale, is his identical twin, and Keen hopes that he and Sandy will hit it off together.

After losing his job due to his boss’s homophobia, Lance Cantu has agreed to visit his stepsister in Nashville for a change in scenery. He is definitely not the teenager that Keen was expecting him to be, and when they meet, the two men make a connection that is immediate and electric. As love between them develops, they spend as much time as possible together, and they are thrilled to see that Sandy and Kale enjoy each other as well. When they open their home to an elderly friend, adopting her as an unofficial grandmother, the additional family member just makes their lives that much richer and more meaningful.

Life seems just about perfect for Lance and Keen. They have each other to love as well as family and close friends, and they can expect that their romantic bliss will last forever. But all good things must eventually come to an end. Being happy is easy and effortless, but can their love withstand hard times as well? When tragedy strikes, will it drive Keen and Lance apart, or will they find a way to deal with loss and carry on?

********

AKM Miles’ novella Too Keen is a story about love, happiness, and building a family with the people you care about. This is a warm and sexy love story that carries many of the hallmarks of Ms. Miles’ writing: a sense of unconditional love and acceptance between characters, main characters who are gentle and caring while still maintaining physical strength, a building of community, and intensely sensual love scenes. I found this to be a sweet and enjoyable read with memorable characters and an emotional storyline.

Our two main characters in this story – Keen and Lance – are almost too good to be true: not a mean bone between them, concerned about the well-being of others, and completely devoted to each other (although a little squeamish about saying the “L” word, in typical male fashion). I find it refreshing to read about nice guys in a genre that is bursting at the seams with dominating alpha males. Although both of these characters are physically strong, their greatest appeal is in their morals and strength of character. Their concern for others makes them take risks that they perhaps shouldn’t; however, the only thing they truly fear is losing each other. The risks they take add a bit of a comic element to the story. Because they are almost super-hero-like in their deeds, they are dubbed the Chaos Magnets by the local police, who are less than charmed by the duo.

Although it contains a few touches of danger, the main conflict in this story revolves around the two main characters improving the life of an elderly woman whom they rescue from an unnecessary life of poverty. This woman, Phoebe, ends up being the glue that binds Lance and Keen’s group of friends and family into a cohesive unit. She is a lovable character – spunky, mouthy, and nothing you would expect from a ninety-year-old. Given her age, she is obviously in the twilight years of her life, and I spent the last part of the story worrying about her and especially about how her adoptive family might handle her passing.

This is the story of the happy coming together of two people and the building of a family. Although their world is less than perfect, these characters have created their own happiness and have formed their own little oasis of peace and love. And while there is an element of sadness, it left me with a cozy feeling overall.

--Bobby 

Title: Seduced at Midnight
Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Author’s website: http://www.jacquied.com/  
Publisher: Berkley Publishing
Release Date: January 2009
ISBN: 978-0425225493
Length: Novel
Format: Print
Genre: Historical
Source: R
Sensuality Level: 2.5
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Lady Julianne has a duty to her family; a duty that she does not relish but must accomplish. She is supposed to marry well and to the right person. She must marry a peer of the realm as befits her station in life just as her father has dictated. Julianne has spent her life hiding her true passions and wants. She wants adventure and she wants true love. She knows her place but she wants to grasp what little happiness she can find even if only for a short time.

Gideon Mayne can't believe his feelings for Lady Julianne are as strong as they are. She is completely out of his reach. He is merely a Bow Street Runner and she is a Lady; there is no future for two people of such different worlds. He doesn’t know how much more he can resist her charms when they are thrown together at every turn. With a murderer on the loose and Julianne in trouble, he is hired by her father to guard her. Can he withstand such a temptation?

********

Seduced at Midnight is a delightfully intriguing tale of murder, suspense, and romance. I enjoy a storyline that can keep me guessing, and is truly unique: I found both of these qualities in this book. The characters are well-written and witty. Julianne is a particular favorite of mine; she hides her true self well and captures the reader's attention from page one. She is not the typical Regency miss.

Gideon is intriguing as well. He is a strong character with characteristics that make him appealing no matter what his circumstances. His strengths in attempting to find the killer as well as his inner fight with his feelings for Julianne make him a memorable character.
I enjoyed this story thoroughly, and as usual Ms. D'Allesandro comes through with flying colors. She has a special talent for surprising her reader with twists and turn they never expect.

Title: The Frugal Foodie Cookbook
Author: Lara Starr with Lynette Shirk
Author’s website: http://www.cakestarr.blogspot.com/  
Publisher: Cleis Press Inc., Viva Editions 
Release Date: 2009
ISBN: 978-1-57344-363-0
Length: 189 pages
Format: Print
Genre: Cookbook
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 0
Rating: 5+ Keeper

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

The Frugal Foodie Cookbook is now a staple in my household. From making inexpensive lattes at home to making delectable "cents-able" dinners that please everyone, there is a bit of everything for everybody in this fabulous cookbook. I am a self-confessed cookbook addict, and though I admit that usually I buy one and use maybe one recipe, I am happy to report that I have had this book on the counter as a reference for a week, and I have no intention of putting it away anytime soon.

I absolutely loved the recipes, but the tips and ideas are priceless. I learned things that I had no idea worked, and I used the tips personally to see if they were as wonderful as they sounded; they were. I now have the secret to fluffy eggs; I only wish I had known it since I learned to cook.

My kids and husband also give the book two thumbs up. The kids and I made the Cracker Toffee, and they bug me to make it almost every night now! I especially appreciate the base recipes that can be used in numerous other recipes to stretch both the food and the dollar.

I know this cookbook will be a wonderful addition to any household. If you like to eat well and want creative delicious food; this is the book for you. The addition of the tips just makes it that more valuable. I am hooked.

Title: Seal It with a Kiss: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques for Delivering the Knockout Kiss
Author: Violet Blue
Author’s website: http://www.tinynibbles.com/
Publisher:  Cleis Press, Viva Editions
Release Date:  January 2010
ISBN: 978-1-57344-385-2
Length:  144 pages
Format: Print
Genre:  Nonfiction, Self-help, Relationships
Source: P
Sensuality Level: 1.5
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

I’m not real big on self-help books. Not that there aren’t portions of me that don’t need improving – there are lots of those; more than I care to dwell on, to be frank – but when I pick up a book, I’m usually looking to be entertained a bit. And reading about how to fix what’s wrong with me is not exactly my idea of a good time. But when I saw Violet Blue’s Seal It with a Kiss: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques for Delivering the Knockout Kiss, I knew that I’d found the exception to my rule. Truly, how can you get any more fun than a book on kissing? This is sure to appeal to the diva in all of us. After reading this delightful little book, you’ll want to grab your significant other and do a little practicing of your own. Because practice does make perfect, you know.

Seal It with a Kiss is playful, fun, informative and entertaining at the same time. This book offers dos and don’ts, exercises and enlightenment, and instructions on lead up and follow-through of a huge variety of kisses. What kind of kisser are you? What do you do when he’s a kissing dud – is he worth rehabilitating, or should you just toss him back into the sea with the other fish? Ms. Blue answers these questions and explains how to perfect your pucker as well as proper care for your oh-so-smoochable lips. She offers advice on how to avoid stubble burn (yowch) if your guy’s the bristly sort, how to tailor your kissing technique to the personality of your quarry, and how to first capture his interest and then reel him in with your fabulous kissing skills.

Ms. Blue writes with a friendly, almost confiding tone, as if to say “listen up, girlfriend, and I’ll show you how it’s done right.” And while she comes across as an authority of the subject, she never talks down to her audience. The tone is not “oh you poor loser, let me help you get it right,” it is “girl, get your bad self and killer kisses out there and knock ‘em dead!”

I found myself grinning constantly as I read this wonderful little book. In addition, as well as it being a source for humorous and engaging advice, I believe this title could prove to be a valuable addition to the bookshelves of romance authors. It might help those who wish to add a little additional fun and realism to those fictional smooches.

Until I read Seal It with a Kiss, I never thought much about kissing technique. Just pucker up, baby, and go for it, I thought. But now I find myself eager to experiment on my unsuspecting husband. And I wonder…should I sneak up on him with a Mack Attack? Charm him with Angel Kisses? Become the ultimate Snuggle Bunny? Is this going to scare the hell out of him after so many years of marriage? Probably so! But I’m starting to think that perhaps under this forty-something, frequently overworked and overtired exterior there may lie a maven of mack waiting to emerge. Poor man will never know what hit him.

--Bobby