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The following titles were reveiwed in August 2009:

Wicked Hearts by Claire Thompson
Picture This by Cate Masters
You Slay Me by Katie MacAlister
Yorkshire by Lynne Connolly
Force My Hand by Em Brown
Every Good Thing by M. Jules Aedin
Frenzy by Carole Johnstone
Accidental Slave by Claire Thompson
Don't Look Back by Josh Lanyon
Succubusted by Inara LaVey
Wolf Hunt 1: Urban Wolf by Marie Treanor
The King's Tale by Rowena Sudbury
First Comes Marriage by Mary Balough
Her Highland Destiny and Her Noble Destiny by Annie Marshall
Lust at First Rejection by Lillith Payne
Man's Best Friend by P.A. Brown
Rane's Guardian by Carmen Marie Aimer
The Fine Art of Kissing by Catherine Chernow
The Trust She Yields by Jennifer Leelan
Damon's: Speed Dating by Sophia Titheniel
Nikolai's Wolf by Zena Wynn
Heat of the Storm by Elle Kennedy
Kingsley & I by Gary Martine
Cattleman's Club 1: Patton's Way by Jenny Penn
The Skeleton's Shadow by Anastasia Rabiyah
The Macgregor's Daughter by Dee Julian
Blue Fire by Z.A. Maxfield

Title: Wicked Hearts
Author: Claire Thompson
Author’s website: http://clairethompson.net
Publisher: Romance Unbound Publishing
Release Date: August 2009
ISBN: 978-1-44866-926-4
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic and Print
Genre: Contemporary GLBT
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Reese Armstrong and his pal Hank have been together since high school. Cold, calculating, and basically impenetrable of heart, they have playing ugly little games to amuse themselves. Or at least Hank’s amused; Reese has quite frankly grown tired of being used for his so-called friend’s entertainment and would like nothing more than to cut away and start a life of his own. But that’s not going to happen; not only has Reese become accustomed to the lifestyle afforded him by his wealthy friend, but Hank also holds Reese’s darkest and most damaging secret.

When Hank dares Reese to seduce the geekiest computer programmer in his office for a large sum of money, Reese jumps at the offer. He needs the money, and they’ve played this game before. All he has to do is get their sexual encounter on tape and deliver it to his friend – it’s a piece of cake. But Reese doesn’t count on his reaction to the man Hank chooses, Jeff Hartman. Soon what started as an ugly dare becomes an affair of the heart, because even when the terms of the bet are met, Reese finds himself unable to pull away from Jeff. For the first time in his memory, Reese begins to feel love.

But what will happen when Jeff finds out the truth about Reese? Because Hank is not happy with this new direction his friend’s life has taken lately, and he is more than willing to fight dirty to ensure that his hold over Reese remains unbroken.

********

Claire Thompson’s novella Wicked Hearts is a story about cruelty, shame and the redemption that love can bring to even the hardest of hearts. Well-written and neatly executed, it hooked my attention early on with the nasty “dare” between Hank and Reese. I read with horrified fascination as they picked their quarry and moved in for the kill, knowing that there was no way on earth anything positive could result from such a scheme.

Reese is a product of an ugly childhood, a poisonous relationship, and self-disgust over an unfortunate teenaged incident. He is a complicated character, and while he elicits a certain amount of sympathy in the reader right from the start, he is definitely an anti-hero at the beginning of the story. It is only as the story progresses that we can find it in our hearts to actually like the guy. Reese must see the error of his ways, suffer for his choices, and come to terms with his guilt and shame in order to redeem himself.

Jeff is a character designed to bring out our protective instincts. It is through his eyes that we first see Reese’s cold and calculating and essentially heartless persona, and we can’t help but hope that he won’t allow himself to be seduced by the man. Jeff is not a complete milquetoast, however. He has the insight to acknowledge Reese’s efforts to change his ways and the strength to forgive the incredible trespass against him.

Wicked Hearts has a villain that is truly black-hearted. Hank is a character that you love to hate, and I’m not sure if he has any redeeming characteristics at all. He is nasty, calculating, and self-centered, wealthy enough to indulge all of these negative traits, and amoral enough to feel no guilt. Every once in a while we see a brief flash of humanity in him, but it is quickly glossed over by his unpleasant veneer.

I found this novella to be a quick and entertaining read that definitely engaged me in the lives of the characters.While I was shocked at the misdeeds of the protagonist, it was a pleasure to see him mend his ways and become a real human being. And while it might have been nice to see the villain receive his comeuppance in the end, it was much more realistic and still quite satisfying the way the author presents it. Nice job, Ms. Thompson.

--Bobby

Title: Picture This
Author: Cate Masters
Author’s website: http://www.catemasters.com/
Publisher: Eternal Press
Release Date: August 2009
ISBN: 978-1-926704-37-1
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary Chick Lit
Sensuality Level: 2
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Sydney Welles’s recent love life has been composed of one disastrous date after another. She’s not sure why her luck has been so phenomenally bad lately, but she can track the beginning of the trend back to one particular date a year ago. Her evening with Ben Taylor began with such promise but ended abruptly and painfully when he was dragged away by a furious girlfriend. Since then, Sydney hasn’t been able to get Ben out of her mind. When she finds out that he has been hired on as a photographer for the newspaper she works for, she is a little anxious over their impending reunion. But Ben doesn’t remember her, and this sends her heart crashing to her feet in pain.

Somehow, they have to work together, so Sydney does her very best to swallow the sting of rejection and act like the professional she is. She is surprised to discover that she and Ben make a good team, even though the hours she spends in his company while on assignment frequently feel torturous. When an undercover investigation ends in a kiss, Sydney knows she’s in serious trouble. It took her months to recover from his kiss the last time, so what now? How can she let herself become fixated on a man who can forget her so easily?

********

Cate Master’s novella Picture This is a story about misunderstandings and second chances. Although a light and quick read, it is well-written enough to grab a reader’s interest and hold on to it as we watch the main character scramble to hold herself together in the face of what feels to her like emotional adversity.

I found myself drawn into the story by the puzzle presented by Ben’s behavior and also charmed by both the story’s touches of humor and its colorful and personable characters. In Sydney and Ben, Ms. Masters has given us a hero and heroine who feel very “real” and quite human. Ben is not a typical self-assured macho romantic hero but has a more “everyman” air to him that makes him sympathetic. Even though his behavior towards Sydney is assuredly odd, we know that there has to be a rational explanation for it. Or at least we hope there is.

Sydney is a quirky and loveable heroine who wades around in a sea of angst and scattered thoughts. Even though she’s obviously an intelligent woman and a talented journalist, she is something of an emotional mess. The thought of being so completely forgettable to Ben is a huge blow to her self-esteem, making her feel like a humiliated and unlovable loser. Her relationship with Ben is a repeating cycle of advance and retreat as they do their best avoid dealing with the issues between them. This made me want to sit them down and force them to actually talk to each other instead of pretending that there isn’t a problem.

Overall, I quite enjoyed reading Picture This. The story is fun, and the main characters are well matched and sweet together. It mixes a little humor and romance together into a snappy and readable package that will leave the reader with a smile as well as a renewed belief in happily ever after.

--Bobby

Title: You Slay Me
Author: Katie MacAlister
Author’s website: www.katiemacalister.com
Publisher: New American Library - Onyx
Release Date: September 2004
ISBN: 0-451-31152-8
Length: Novel
Format: Print
Genre: Paranormal Humor
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by Teagan S. Boyd

Aisling Grey has been sent to Paris by her uncle as a courier to deliver a golden dragon statue. Unfortunately, the person she is suppose to deliver it to just happens to be dead, and it looks like a demon could be responsible. Though an expert on demonology, Aisling doesn’t believe in demons, or dragons or any such stuff . . . until she finds out she is a Guardian, a keeper to the Gates of Hell. Oh, and she just happens to be a mate to one very sexy real-life dragon, Drake Vireo, who might also be the murderer of the dead bodies that seem to show up wherever Aisling is.

Aisling is determined to prove her innocence by finding the real killer. She may not know much about "The Guardian" part, but that doesn't stop her from summoning her own demon to help her. Who would have thought that a demon might come in the shape of a big hairy Newfoundland dog with a smart-ass attitude?

********

I will say right off the bat, this book will have you laughing out loud and will tickle your funny bone consistently. I couldn't get enough. You Slay Me had me hooked from page one. I can't decide what character I like the best, Aisling or the demon dog Jim. They both are hilarious. Aisling comes across as possibly not the brightest light on the tree, but I soon realized that she is reacting to a completely untried world and is just trying to make the best of a bad situation. Her character is wonderfully written and has some fabulous lines that I won't be forgetting. Drake is downright sexy. I didn't realize just how sexy a dragon could be. The chemistry between Aisling and Drake is smoking hot, and I couldn't get enough of them. Jim, the demon in the form of a Newfoundland, will have the reader in stitches. I find myself in a fit of giggles just thinking about his character and the things he says and does.

Ms. MacAlister is an extremely gifted storyteller; she creates a world unlike any other and infuses it with humor and sensuality and keeps the reader hanging on every word. My only consolation at the end of this book was knowing that there are more books in this series to read.

Title: Yorkshire
Author: Lynne Connolly
Author’s website: homepage.ntlworld.com/lynneconnolly/
Publisher:  Samhain Publishing, Ltd.
Release Date: December 2008
ISBN: 978-1-60504-269-5
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Historical Suspense/Mystery
Sensuality Level: 2.5
Rating: 5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

When Rose Golightly travels with her family to Hareton Abbey in a remote part of Yorkshire, she expects to witness the betrothal of her cousin. What she gets is something completely different. Within twenty-four hours of her arrival, her cousin is dead, her brother has been named the sixth Earl of Hareton, and Rose has fallen completely and inappropriately in love.

Rose is the older daughter and is considered somewhat off-the-shelf at the advanced age of twenty-five. She has lived perpetually in the shadow of her beautiful younger sister and has been content overall with her life. When she meets Richard Kerre, Lord Strang, she knows she’s beneath his notice. The man is the picture of society, dressed and painted to the highest fashion and with a reputation for playing hard and fast. Rose is at first suspicious when Richard professes to have fallen for her at first sight, but he is apparently quite genuine in his feelings. There is one problem, however: Richard is already engaged to be married.

As Richard tries to determine who murdered the old Earl and therefore clear Rose’s brother of any suspicion of wrongdoing, he also works to extricate himself from his commitment to another woman. Reputations and futures are at stake. If he breaks his marriage contract, it will not only ruin him financially but will also cause a scandal of epic proportions. Regardless of their feelings, Richard and Rose may be forced to turn away from a love that could only come once in a lifetime.

********

Yorkshire is the first book in Lynne Connolly’s Richard and Rose series. Set in the England of the mid-1700s, this novel will appeal to lovers of historical romance as well as to mystery buffs. It is very well-written, quickly paced, and intriguing, and once I picked it up to read, I had a very difficult time putting it down.

I’m not a fan of prologues in novels, nor is first-person narration my cup of tea. That said, Ms. Connolly pulls both of these literary devices off beautifully in this story. The prologue drops the reader in medias res and captures our attention very cleverly and concisely. After reading it, there is no way that the reader would not want to dive right in to the body of the work to find out exactly how Rose arrived in the situation she finds herself in. Likewise, the first person narration as told by Rose brings us close to her character, sharing her insights and her innermost feelings with us.

This story is filled with wonderful and colorful characters that are so full of life they almost spring from the pages. Of course we must love Rose. She is a practical and no-nonsense woman on the surface and professes to be content with her lot in life. But she’s not, really. She yearns for beauty, the fine fashion of society, and the freedom to love whom she pleases. I found her to be a very “real” character, and by the end of the story, she felt like a friend to me. Richard as well is a pleasant surprise. When we first meet him, he is dressed like a peacock, bewigged, powdered and painted within an inch of his life, but we soon find out that under the gaudy surface lies a personality that shines. And equally fascinating are the secondary characters in this story: from Rose’s younger sister Lizzie, whose practicality is at odds with her dazzling beauty, to the odious puritan minister who preaches Armageddon and self-denial while at the same time ensuring he lives in luxury.

The setting also comes to brilliant life in this book. Through Ms. Connolly’s vivid imagery, I could almost see the crumbling disrepair of the house, feel the cold and damp within, and smell the dust and mold.

The book blurb on the Samhain Publishing website teases that this series is addicting. I can only agree. I enjoyed this book very much, indeed. Although Yorkshire is the only book of Ms. Connolly’s that I have read to date, I have every intention of continuing with this series. And I shall be checking out what else this very talented author has to offer as well.

--Bobby

Title: Force My Hand
Author: Em Brown
Author’s website: N/A
Publisher: Ravenous Romance
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60777-089-3
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Historical
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 3.75

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Darcy Sherwood has been forced to make her way in the world while supporting her family after her father died and left them with nothing but debt. No longer acceptable among the aristocrats because she works in a gaming hell, she does what she can to survive. The man that ruined her sister has lost his estate to her in a card game and she intends to extract a bit of revenge. She never reckoned the feelings she would have for the family member that comes to get the estate back. Radcliff Barrignton, the Baron Broadmoor, is determined to get the deed to Brayten estate from the strumpet that conned his cousin.

Angered by the accusations Broadmoor throws at her, she tells him without thinking that in order to get it back he must court her and act like a man in love. A battle of wills and desire ensues and, the feelings they develop for each other could be their downfall since neither will admit what they want.

********

Who will submit to whom? I found myself hanging on that very premise throughout the story. I never was sure what to expect and found myself surprised a few times. The story is enticing with the added dimension of a bit of BDSM and ménage. The battle of wills kept me engrossed in the story, and I found myself not sure of the outcome until the very end. Darcy is courageous and determined. She has faced her predicaments in life head-on and has made the best of what she has. The interference from the arrogant Broadmoor adds the wonderful conflict I enjoy so much . The characters' personality types feed off of each other. The sex is pretty darn amazing and adventurous. I enjoyed this quick read. 

Title: Every Good Thing
Author: M. Jules Aedin
Author’s website: http://mjaedin.livejournal.com/
Publisher: MLR Press
Release Date: August 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60820-086-3
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Fantasy GLBT
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Sold into slavery to pay his parents’ tax debt, Arieh Sef’ea is confused, terrified, and angry. He life had been only just beginning; he is on the brink of manhood and had planned to be acknowledged as an adult and apprenticed to a carpenter soon. Instead, he finds himself naked, oiled, and painted and on embarrassing display at a slave market. When he is purchased by Keshan soldier Enitan Viden to be the man’s bedmate, Arieh is horrified. In his religion, such an association is strictly forbidden. Surely he will be damned forever for this.

For all that he is Arieh’s owner and master, Entian is not a cruel man. He has no intention of forcing himself on the beautiful young man but sets out to lure his affections instead. He is determined that if Arieh is to be a part of his life, he has to come to Entian willingly, even though this will require patience and understanding and not just a little bit of frustration on his part.

As Arieh begins to come to terms with his new life, he learns to appreciate Entian’s attention. Perhaps even return his affection. But there is someone in the household who doesn’t want to see Arieh remain a fixture in Entian’s life. Hate and jealousy mix into a deadly cocktail, and when this unsuspected enemy decides to act, it will require both love and ancient magic to avoid disaster.

********

M. Jules Aedin’s Every Good Thing is a novel of love and social politics set in an alternate world. Having never read this author before, I picked this book up on the advice of other readers not really knowing what to expect, and now I am very glad that I did. I found this story to be beautifully written and engrossing, with a plot that hooked me immediately as well as strong and unique characters.

The world and society of Every Good Thing is well-developed and believable. The Kashan civilization has a very Roman Empire flavor to it, replete with an imperialistic mentality, and this slight familiarity makes the setting all the more realistic. From page one, this world springs into colorful reality, enveloping the reader and drawing them in to the story.

Entian is a strong, well-executed, and personable character who has a sense of scruples as well as compassion that one wouldn’t expect to find in a man of his position. He is concerned about the guilt Arieh might feel about betraying the customs and laws he was raised with regarding same-sex relations. This if nothing else would make Entian a sympathetic figure. Arieh is not quite as “real” a character as is Entian, but he is still extremely appealing in his innocence and confusion. He must struggle to resolve the feelings he has for Entian with his religious and social upbringing, which is no small task.

The message contained in this story is one of love and acceptance. The character Junia speaks it very clearly when she says, “Why would anyone who cares for you deny you something that is good? And love, whoever gives it, is always good.” It isn’t who you love, but rather that you love that matters. 

While Arieh and Entian are the main focus of this story, there is a secondary plot in the novel that is just as interesting as the main love story. This story is one of magic and political unrest that involves the Riinean magician Ashar Int’ea, an intriguing figure that I wish we had seen more of in this novel. Ms. Aedin has barely scratched the surface of his story in Every Good Thing, and I sincerely hope that she returns to it sometime in the future. 

Every Good Thing entertained me and captured my imagination. In addition, Ms. Aedin’s writing style has a natural and free-flowing cadence that makes it very comfortable to read, and I found that it quite simply “worked” for me. While this is the first of Ms. Aedin’s work that I have read, I certainly do not intend for it to be the last.

--Bobby

Title: Frenzy
Author: Carole Johnstone
Author’s website: www.carolejohnstone.com
Publisher: Eternal Press
Release Date: August 2009
ISBN: 978-1-926704-38-8
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Horror
Sensuality Level: 1
Rating: 5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, somewhere above the Marianas Trench, a life raft floats with eight men aboard. None of the men can remember how he got there; it’s as if they have all been asleep and wake at once, disoriented and confused. There is no sign of a ship, no memory of a ship even, and no sign of land. All the men can do is hang on and try to survive in the blazing sun with little food and even less fresh water.

As agonizing days and dark terrifying nights pass, supplies dwindle and tempers flare. As the men grow weak, they also realize they are not alone. Far beneath the raft, cold dead eyes stare upwards, watching hungrily, biding their time, and circling patiently. Death, in one horrible form or another, awaits these eight men. It’s only a matter of time.

********

Carol Johnstone’s novella Frenzy is a tense, horrifying, and very well-written foray into a world of terror. This is the kind of horror story that makes you hold your breath, turn the pages quicker, hope desperately for a glimmer of light, and fear that there will be none.

Frenzy progresses through the experiences of one man, Peter Sherlock. We watch the events unfold before his eyes and delve into his mind during his nightmares and recollections. We experience his horror and his agony as he watches what happens with his fellow castaways, and when answers come to light towards the harrowing conclusion, we share in his disbelief and resignation.

One wouldn’t think that a story about eight men floating in the middle of nowhere in a life raft would be all that interesting. One would be dead wrong. This story gripped me soundly by the throat from the very first page, shook me around a little bit just to make sure I was good and rattled, and held me tight until the bitter end. It left me stirred up, shocked, and not just a little saddened. And all I can say is …wow. Excellent job, Ms. Johnstone. I look forward to whatever you have to offer us next. If it is anywhere close to as well-done as Frenzy is, we’ll be in for a treat.

--Bobby

Title: Accidental Slave
Author: Claire Thompson
Author’s website: http://clairethompson.net/
Publisher: Romance Unbound Publishing
Release Date: 2009
ISBN: N/A
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic/Print
Genre: Contemporary BDSM
Sensuality Level: 4.5
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Elizabeth Martin never dreamed the co-worker that thinks she took his job could stoop to drugging her and putting her up for auction at a BDSM slave auction. Lucky for her, Cole, the man who buys her, realizes that something is not quite right with the slave he bought. She knows nothing about the lifestyle and feigns complete disinterest. After helping her to attempt to right her life after the wake of her co-worker's dishonesty, he plans to show her she just might like it better than vanilla.

********

I loved the dirty rat co-worker storyline in this story. Ms. Thompson does a wonderful job of creating a plot that holds the reader enthralled. She tells a well-rounded story and left me with a big smile on my face. The BDSM plays a large part in the book, and while it is intense, it is well-written and the reader can tell that Ms. Thompson knows what she is talking about. I thoroughly enjoyed Cole; his strength of character makes him very memorable. Elizabeth blossoms under his touch, and I enjoyed seeing her find a different side to herself that she didn't expect. The story is fast-paced and hotter than hot. I look forward to keeping tabs on this author and reading her other work.

Title: Don’t Look Back
Author: Josh Lanyon
Author’s website: www.joshlanyon.com
Publisher: Loose Id, LLC
Release Date: June 2009
ISBN: 978-1-59632-972-0
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Mystery/Suspense GLBT
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

After being attacked in the gardens of his museum, curator Peter Killian wakes up in the hospital with no memory of the assault. No memories of anything, in fact. The stone-faced police officer standing at his bedside, however, doesn’t seem to believe that Peter has amnesia. Instead, Detective Michael Griffin accuses Peter of lying and of stealing valuable artifacts from his museum over the past year, and he makes it very clear that he will do everything in his power to ensure that Peter goes to prison. Peter is not sure why Mike Griffin dislikes him so, but something about the man seems familiar, even though desperately searching for memories reveals nothing.

The situation only worsens when Peter gets out of the hospital. Accused by a supposed eye-witness to his thievery and subsequently fired from his job, he is arrested by the antagonistic Detective Griffin.  Clearly someone is trying to set Peter up, but since the police already believe that they have their man, they’re not likely to listen to him, anyway. If only Peter could regain his memory, he knows he might make a little bit of sense out of this unpleasant situation. But someone out there doesn’t want him to remember, and they are not above committing murder to make sure his memories never return.

********

Josh Lanyon’s Don’t Look Back is a well-written and involving suspense that will draw readers into the story from the very first page. Whenever I pick up a book by Mr. Lanyon, I expect to be entertained with an absorbing story and memorable characters, and this does not disappoint in the least bit. It kept me involved in the mystery, captured by the suspense and intrigued by the interpersonal dynamics between the characters.

In this story, Mr. Lanyon gives his readers vivid characters who will spur their curiosity and their imaginations. The tension between Peter and Mike is undeniable and very well executed. We see that they must somehow have known each other before Peter lost his memory, because there is no other explanation as to why Mike would be so antagonistic from the onset. The suspense regarding this issue is intriguing, and the mixture of emotions – anger, fear, and betrayal – that revolves around these characters feels very real.

Peter is an easy character to care about. He elicits a feeling of empathy in the reader as he grapples with his confusion and memory loss. He feels like a stranger in his own skin, and even though he is able to piece together much of his life, there is still much that escapes him. The process of regaining his memories gives him a slightly different perspective on his life, and he is able to look at himself in a more objective light than previously. Unlike Peter, Mike is not so likeable at first. In fact, he initially comes across as something of an ass, but we see that there must be some reason for him being this dead set on finding Peter guilty. He is never a touchy-feely feel-good figure; that is simply not a part of his nature, but he does relax and become more human and sympathetic as the story progresses.

I enjoy a good suspense, and I found Don’t Look Back to be quite satisfying. My only disappointment was the brevity of the story, but everything is resolved neatly, and there are no loose threads left dangling at the end. As always, Mr. Lanyon tells an excellent story with a well-crafted plot and compelling characters. He knows how to spin a suspense that grips the reader for the entire story, but he also doesn’t neglect the interpersonal dynamics of the players. In all, this makes for a very enjoyable read.

--Bobby

Title: Succubusted.
Author: Inara LaVey
Author’s website: http://www.danafredsti.com/  
Publisher: Ravenous Romance
Release Date: December 2008
ISBN: 978-1-60777-102-9
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary Paranormal
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Being part human and part succubus pretty much sucks. No long term relationships; no staying in one place for very long. Lil draws her energy from sex with men, which leads to the men not being able to get enough of her, and the last thing she wants is to kill them with her libido...or theirs. A day at the carnival just might change all of that. One sexy carnie named Damien might have a surprise of his own.

********

Succubusted is short, sweet, and to the point. I loved the story and I loved the characters. The humor is delightful and makes the story pop. The sexual fun is combustible and not to be missed. Ms. LaVey paints a picture with wonderfully descriptive words. Her knack for storytelling is unique and addicting. My only complaint is that I wished it was longer; I wanted more.

How can a person not just adore Inara LaVey? She has a fabulously quirky sense of humor, and she never fails to make me giggle. Inara...MORE!

Title: Wolf Hunt 1: Urban Wolf
Author: Marie Treanor
Author’s website: www.marietreanor.com
Publisher: Changeling Press, LLC
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60521-276-0
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Sci Fi Werewolf
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.25

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

When Jon wakes up dirty, wet, and naked in a filthy doorway, he realizes that he has no idea who he is or how he came to be in this situation. Is he a drunk, a drug addict, a criminal? The crowd who has gathered around him isn’t particularly interested in helping him. Except for one woman, who shows compassion and helps him find his way home. Instead of gratitude, he feels aggression and distrust towards her, although he has no idea why.

Journalist Rose Winter is chasing a story about a giant wolf loose and attacking people in the city when she stumbles across the mysterious amnesiac. Even with him cold and naked, there’s a spark between them, and Rose can’t help but think about him even after she leaves him. Sure, part of the attraction is sexual, but she also wants to help him find answers, even though she knows that circumstances keep them from ever truly being together.

As Rose continues her investigation, she comes to realize that this is not simply a case of a big dog roaming the city. The people who have been attacked by the wolf aren’t human, they’re alien, and the government is very keen on keeping that fact a secret. Suddenly, what started as a special-interest news story is revealing a multi-planetary political conspiracy, and not only is Rose involved, but Jon is as well. Because when Rose finally comes face-to-face with the wolf, she realizes that it looks at her through familiar eyes. Jon’s eyes.

********

Urban Wolf is the first of what appears to be a three-part series called Wolf Hunt by Marie Treanor. This is a science fiction spin on a werewolf story, and it mixes suspense and a dash of political conspiracy with a sensual love story to create a unique and intriguing reading experience.

There is an undertone of humor throughout the narrative that I found very appealing. Not slapstick or even laugh-out-loud, just clever, agreeable and very readable. Ms. Treanor has developed Rose and Jon into likeable characters who are much more than they appear, but while we the reader are privy to Jon’s secret early on in the story, Rose remains an unknown for much of the story. Her secret, when revealed, is unexpected and surprising and gives the story a fascinating twist.

Rose and Jon are a well-matched couple. He is a combination of roughness and tenderness, and she exudes sympathy and intelligence. Both place a lot of stock in loyalty, but they also believe in doing what they know is right, regardless of how it might affect their personal relationship.

Although Urban Wolf resolves the romantic conflict between the two main characters, it ends with a promise of a more global conflict to come. I am definitely looking forward to reading the future stories in the Wolf Hunt series to see what Ms. Treanor has in store for us. And while I can’t say that I particularly like the cover design to this story, I’m definitely willing to look beyond the graphics to the story underneath. I found it both diverting and enjoyable and well worth my reading time.

--Bobby

Title: The King’s Tale
Author:  Rowena Sudbury
Author’s website: http://rowenasudbury.livejournal.com
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-61581-021-5
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Historical GLBT
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

King Christopher rules the small kingdom of Lysnowydh in Cornwall. Newly crowned upon the death of his father, he has no heir, and despite the constant nagging of his council, he has no plans to take a wife anytime soon. He prefers a man in his bed, and he has no intention of marrying for anything other than love. When a snowstorm drives him to seek shelter in the tiny cottage of his woodsman Dafydd, a tall, broad, and quiet Welshman, Christopher not only finds passion, but he finds the unexpected love that his heart has been seeking. When he returns to his keep, it is with Dafydd at his side.

Regardless of the orders of their king, many of Christopher’s subjects look upon Dafydd with distrust and suspicion. He one of the Welsh, who are regarded as violent marauders, and when Christopher appoints him marshal to his troops, Dafydd must prove his worth over and over to men who look upon him with disdain. The bond of love and passion between the two men grows daily, but life at Lysnowydh continues to present challenges for them. Not only must they deal with treachery and treason from within the walls of the keep, but they must also protect against threats of attack from the vicious king of a neighboring kingdom.

Dafydd’s place is at the king’s side and in his bed; of that they are both sure. But they also know that the kingdom needs an heir, which is not something that Dafydd can produce for his king. Although the duty weighs as a burden upon Christopher’s shoulders, he knows that he must ensure the future of his kingdom and the well-being of his subjects. Even though that may mean setting the one he loves aside and taking a woman to his bed.

********

A number of things initially attracted me to Rowena Sudbury’s The King’s Tale. I was intrigued by the fact that it is a historical novel, and the blurb and the small excerpt of story were both promising. But as much as I would like to say that I never judge a book by its cover, I have to admit that the true reason I picked this book up was the visual impact of its cover art. This is a physically attractive novel – from the cover, to the script used, to the small graphic at each chapter opening – and for all that this is an electronic novel and not a tree book, I itched to hold it in my hand as soon as I stumbled across it online. Now that I’ve read it, I’m even more enchanted. I was amazed to find that this is Ms. Sudbury’s first published novel, because this story is simply excellent. It is beautifully written and emotionally gripping, and it will pull its readers out of their armchairs straight into the Middles Ages in Great Britain.

I stayed up late finishing this novel – very late – and probably sniffled my way through a third of it. And while this may have led to a case of slightly burning eyes the next morning, it was worth it. I enjoyed every single page of this story. It was touching, exciting, sometimes violent, and it held me absolutely riveted until the very end. The setting incorporates a realism that I found to be captivating. There is beauty, but there is also squalor and filth. These kingdoms are not those of fairytale castles and rainbow-hued unicorns. Rather, they are places where life can be struggle for survival on a daily basis.

The King’s Tale revolves around the characters Dafydd and Christopher, two men who are opposites yet who complement each other so perfectly that they seem to have been created by nature specifically for that purpose. The bond of love and emotion between the two men is deep and moving. Christopher is very much a king. He acts as his subjects need him to act. He wears a fearsome public face, is quick to anger, metes out swift and ruthless judgment, and offers little quarter to his enemies. Yet for all his arrogant and regal airs, he has a softer side that only Dafydd and a very few others get to see. He cares deeply for his kingdom and the people therein, and he knows that the needs of his kingdom must supersede any personal desires he might have.

Dafydd tempers Christopher with quiet wisdom and gentle ways that hide a great strength. Others may look upon Dafydd as being weak, assuming that he takes the “woman’s role” in his relationship with the king; however, he is no stranger to pain, and he is fiercely loyal to his king and his adopted kingdom. Being a Welshman, he also has a mystical side that keeps him something of a mystery.

I am thrilled that I ran across The King’s Tale during my never-ending search for entertaining reading material. Although I don’t in general re-read my books, I can confidently state that this one is going to be an exception. Do I guarantee that you’re going to like this novel as much as I did? No, of course not. But I do think that you should give it a shot. I’m certainly glad that I did, and I’ll be eagerly awaiting Ms. Sudbury’s next release.

--Bobby

Title: First Comes Marriage
Author: Mary Balogh
Author’s website: www.marybalogh.com
Publisher: Bantam Dell
Release Date: March 2009
ISBN: 978-0-440-24422-6
Length: Novel   
Format: Print
Genre: Historical
Sensuality Level: 2.5
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

The small countrified village of Throckbridge is in an uproar. A real viscount is in their midst, and no one is sure if they have ever had that honor before. Elliot Wallace, the Viscount Lyngate, has found himself stuck in a backward village so that he can execute a responsibility that has been thrust upon him. What he didn't expect was a proposal of marriage from a widow that he can barely tolerate; yet he finds himself accepting and his feelings growing as well as his desire.

Vanessa Huxtable Dew is determined to save her lovely sister from a terrible fate: marriage to the stuffy, narrow-minded Viscount Lyngate. What better way than to propose to the man before he can ask her sister, who would feel obligated to say yes? Things don't go exactly as she planned and though he agrees, she isn't sure what to think about the fires he lights within her. Can she keep emotions out of the picture?

********

As a longtime fan of Mary Balogh, I always get excited with a new book, and as usual she never disappoints me. I was captured by Elliot and Vanessa's story from the onset.

One of the reasons I adore Ms. Balogh's work is that she never writes typical characters: they aren't perfect and they don't fit the usual heroine mold. I felt that Vanessa was easy to identify with, because she isn't perfect As a matter of fact, she has been told so often that she is plain that she truly believes it. Her wonderful personality shines through to make her uniquely beautiful in her own right. She has a depth of character that pulls the reader into her sunny disposition. Elliot is a completely different type of character. As a reader I wasn't sure what to think of him; I wasn't sure if I liked him for a majority of the book. At times I wasn't even sure if he was the best choice for Vanessa.

This tale is one of duty and desire with a spot of intrigue. I recommend it to anyone that wants a departure from the typical historical romance. Ms. Balogh continues to be one of my all-time favorite authors, and I am thrilled to know I have three more books in this series to sink my teeth into.

Title: Her Highland Destiny (and) Her Noble Destiny
Author: Annie Marshall
Author’s website: www.annie-marshall.com/
Publisher: DCL Publications
Release Date: March 2008 and June 2009
ISBN: 978-1-921347-49-8 and 978-1-921347-30-6
Length: Short Story and Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Time Travel Fantasy
Sensuality Level: 2.5
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Her Highland Destiny:

Sergeant Major Kenna MacKellar has retired from the Army after twenty years of service. While visiting castles in Scotland, she is mysteriously pulled from the ruins of Urquhart Castle and dumped in the lap of Iain MacAlister, Lord of Dunstaffnage, as he sits in his bath in 1296. Iain has just received orders from King Edward Longshanks that he must marry immediately. When a beautiful warrior woman lands on top of him from nowhere, it seems to be a sign. She needs his protection, and he needs a wife.

King Edward plans to invade Dunstaffnage whether or not Iain follows Edward’s order to marry. Knowing this, Kenna agrees to marry Iain provided that he allows her to fight by his side. With her military experience, they strategize and prepare for the invasion, and Kenna earns the love and respect of Iain and his men. The thrill of defeating the enemy is replaced by horror, however, when Kenna is pulled away from Iain by the very forces that brought her to him. Victory is bitter if Iain can’t have his warrior bride by his side.

Her Noble Destiny:

During an IED attack upon her vehicle convoy in Iraq, Army captain Jaedin Greer is torn from her position and hurled into darkness. She awakes in thirteenth century Scotland, blind and naked, and is rescued by a man with an sexy voice and a Scottish burr that reminds her of her childhood. That man is Aiden MacAlister, who assumed lairdship of the MacAlister clan upon the loss of his elder brother Iain and his bride Kenna a number of years previously. Aiden has been busy fending off the English and trying to deal with his brother’s property. Remembering how his brother’s bride came to him, he looks upon the arrival of Jaedin as a gift from the Almighty, but Jaedin is prickly and antagonistic towards him.

As passion develops between Jaedin and Aiden, she begins to relax and to even dream of marriage with him. Without her sight, however, she feels lost and useless, and she also yearns for her own time. When Jaedin has a chance to regain her eyesight and return home, she finds that it will come with a terrible price. Is she willing to lose the man she has come to love in order to see again? Perhaps her time with Aiden was only meant to be a dream.

********

Annie Marshall’s Her Highland Destiny and Her Noble Destiny are the first two stories of the author’s Destiny series. These two stories feature women, both US Army soldiers, who travel back to thirteenth century Scotland with a little Fae intervention to find the men they are destined to marry. While stories about time travel and Highland warriors are definitely nothing new, these stories approach them from a slightly different angle. I found them to be unique and entertaining, if somewhat on the brief side.

These stories contrast the gritty ugliness of the war in Iraq with the beauty of the Scottish Highlands in a way that brings both settings to life. The two heroines are both seasoned soldiers, well able to care for themselves, but when they are torn from their familiar settings and deposited in a new environment, they are both given challenges to overcome. In Her Highland Destiny, Kenna must prove that she is as capable a warrior as any of the men. In Her Noble Destiny, Jaedin has to come to terms with the physical handicap that her blindness thrusts upon her.

Ms. Marshall does an admirable job developing the characters to a point where you care about them in these two stories. Both couples are well-matched pairs. Kenna and Iain are both warriors who inspire loyalty in others, and Jaedin and Aiden are stubborn and strong-willed. Love develops between them almost spontaneously, which backs up the “destiny” theme of the series.

I wish these stories were a little longer so we could spend a little more time with the characters, perhaps explore the castles, and witness the development of their relationships a little more; however, I enjoyed the two tales nevertheless. Her Highland Destiny and Her Noble Destiny mesh well together, making me think that future installations may fit in place like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. It will be interesting to see where Ms. Marshall takes this series and to see what the finished puzzle looks like.

--Bobby

Title: Lust at First Rejection
Author: Lillith Payne
Author’s website: www.lillithpayne714.com
Publisher: loveyoudivine
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60054-297-8
Length: Short Story
Format: Electronic
Genre: Historical
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Ames Clancy rejected Lydia Long when she was a chubby girl on the verge of womanhood. His rejection led her to become the hard, business minded woman she is today. Lydia never forgot what Ames said to her and it was the driving force behind her sexual explorations in Europe. Upon meeting Ames again after years had passed, she realizes she wants to make him squirm. The chubby girl has blossomed into a sophisticated and strong woman that knows what she wants...and it might not be Ames.

********

Lust at First Rejection is a unique foray into the world of sexual needs. I thoroughly enjoyed Lydia and her growth as a character. Even though we only glimpse her for a moment as a girl, it is a defining moment, and her changes are so complete it is amazing. Even though the book is set in the early 1900s, it gives the reader a look into women's changing roles in the United States. Lydia's head for business and her sexual demands are thrilling, and her handling of Ames is exactly how any woman would want to handle a man that rejected them. Her needs are not typical and it makes the book very enticing. This book is a quick, easy, read that will have your temperature rising. Ms. Payne has a decidedly wicked storytelling talent.

Title: Man’s Best Friend
Author: P.A. Brown
Author’s website: www.pabrown.ca
Publisher: MLR Press
Release Date: August 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60820-074-0
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary GLBT
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 3.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

When Todd Richards meets veterinarian Dr. Keith Anderson, he believes that he has found someone he can share his life with. The man’s gorgeous, smart, and loves dogs as much as Todd does. Plus, he’s gay and not afraid to show how he feels in public. But just as Todd begins to believe that they might have a future together, a family tragedy pulls Keith away from him and threatens to kill the love they share.

Attempting to rebuild their relationship, the two men relocate to New Mexico, but settling down together in Santa Fe doesn’t necessarily mean a happily ever after for these two. They’ve now got a bed and breakfast to run, guests to keep happy, and a small veterinary clinic to operate. They also have small-town homophobia and horse thieves to deal with. When trouble comes their way, these two best friends and lovers will find that their lives and future could very well fall apart in spite of their best efforts.

********

P.A. Brown’s novel Man’s Best Friend is a quick and easy story about love, friendship, and the work that goes in to building a future. In a way, this is two stories in one. The first half of the book concentrates on the relationship between the two main characters, Keith and Todd, while the second half includes an element of suspense.

Todd tells this story, and his narration has a casual and personable tone that makes him quite likeable. He makes no bones about the fact that he adores Keith and considers him to be the man of his dreams, and when he believes that he has been cast off by his friend and lover, his pain is almost tangible. Keith is a little bit more of an unknown, which can be expected given the point of view of the story.

This is definitely an animal-lover’s story. Even though I might be classified as a “cat person,” I truly enjoyed the dogs in Man’s Best Friend, especially the not-so-vicious Doberman Shadow, who completely ruins any fear factor that he might generate by carrying around a giant stuffed purple gorilla. The Chihuahua, Taco, whose attitude belies his tiny size, is likewise amusing. The contrast in size between the huge Dobies and the miniature Taco is a comic touch that is sure to bring a smile, especially given the indulgent tone of the narrator as he describes his pets.

Ms. Brown has a very readable writing style, and overall I found Man’s Best Friend to be a diverting read. Although the story felt to me like it progresses a little unevenly, with some portions being more interesting than others, it still maintained my interest throughout. I will continue to seek out Ms. Brown’s work in the future.

--Bobby

Title: Rane's Guardian
Author: Carmen Marie Aimer
Author’s website: N/A
Publisher: Cobblestone Press
Release Date: August 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60088-452-8
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary Paranormal
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Rane and Genevieve Silverwolfe are twin sisters that hail from one of the oldest magickal families. The twin witches are very powerful. When Genevieve is taken by an unknown demonic force, Rane must call upon the one man she hoped never to see again in order to save her sister. One of the Five Guardians, Luken is a demon hunter as well as a very powerful witch, and he is the only man that can save her sister. After spending one night with Luken a year before, Rane ran when she realized that she was just another body for him to use to release his considerable magickal energy.

Luken has spent the last year trying to forget Rane without success. When she walks into his club, he feels as if the Goddess is shining down on him. His raging lust cannot be appeased by anyone but Rane. He leaps at the chance to make a deal with her family in order to save her sister. Rane must stay with him until he tires of her.

********

I am always on the lookout for fresh new ideas when I am reading, and I found that with Rane's Guardian. The magical world that Ms. Aimer has created is unique and fascinating. The story development is well done, the author tells the story and gives the background and information as it progresses and does it so well I never felt lost. The characters are strong, and memorable. Luken is a wonderful alpha male; he is hard, forceful, and pure male. Just my type of character, he was thrilling. The chemistry between Rane and Luken is red-hot and sizzling. I couldn't get enough of them. I am entranced by Ms. Aimer's world and hope that she will be writing more about it.

Title: The Fine Art of Kissing
Author: Catherine Chernow
Author’s website: http://www.catherinechernow.com/
Publisher: Resplendence Publishing, LLC
Release Date: May 2008
ISBN: 978-1-934992-54-8
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Ever since her book The Fine Art of Kissing became a best-seller, author Julie Wilson has been known as “The Love Doctor” and has been considered something of a relationship guru. She’s a little taken aback by so many people asking her advice regarding love, but hey, it sells books, right? Talk show host Brad O’Malley has a reputation for no-nonsense journalism and a sarcastic tongue. His ratings have been taking a nose-dive lately, and he thinks that having The Love Doctor as a guest and systematically debunking everything she has to say would be just the thing to boost his show’s popularity. But Julie has no intention of being grilled like the catch of the day, thank you very much. When Brad corners Julie at a book signing and kisses the stuffing out of her as a challenge, Julie finds herself agreeing to participate in a series of interviews on his show in spite of her earlier refusal.

The on-air faceoff between author and cynic is an immediate success. Somewhat threatened by her popularity with his audience, Brad needles Julie constantly, questioning everything from her research to her integrity and even accusing her of grandstanding. When the program producers suggest a “Kissing Challenge,” Julie jumps at the chance to place Brad at a disadvantage, even though it means proving her kissing technique to millions of viewers.

Brad believes that this Kissing Challenge that the producers have dreamed up is a completely hair-brained idea that will cheapen his program. And having Julie kiss Latin heart-throb actor Roberto Conciador and then compare his kiss to Brad’s on live television? Insanity. There is no way that he’s going to let this happen. Julie’s kisses belong to him, and he’s not willing to share.

********

When you pick up a copy of Catherine Chernow’s novel The Fine Art of Kissing, prepare yourself for a treat. This novel documents a battle of the sexes and a clash of wills in an extremely entertaining fashion. It is a well-written, sexy, and sometimes humorous romance that features a hero and a heroine who are complete opposites of each other and who strive to one-up each other at every opportunity.

Ms. Chernow has created a couple of of irresistible characters in Brad and Julie. They act like real people, not cookie-cutter romantic heroes. Brad feels like a real man with real issues – he has the ego that one would expect from a television personality, but he also has a lot of baggage from a failed marriage that influences him and that leaves him feeling vulnerable. And Julie is a little impetuous and self-conscious, but she’s no pushover and is more than willing to stand up for herself. While they can be exceedingly nasty to each other and cut each other to the bone, they also struggle against the more tender feelings they are beginning to feel. The romantic tension between these two positively crackles with energy, and the lead-up to each kiss will leave readers breathless.

The comic relief in this story resides in the character Roberto. He is just plain fun to hate. Not truly a “villain,” he is a poseur and a boor, and we can’t help but laugh at him with his outrageous accent and his borderline unhealthy devotion to his Momma.

As I read The Fine Art of Kissing, I found myself enjoying the spectacle of Julie and Brad’s frequent clashes, but I also rooted for them to realize just how perfect they are for each other. I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end and give this story an enthusiastic “thumbs-up.” This is a light and fast-paced read that left me with a smile on my face as well as a desire to check out more of Ms. Chernow’s work.

--Bobby

Title: The Trust She Yields
Author:  Jennifer Leeland
Author's website: www.jenniferleeland.com
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press - Wilder Rose
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: N/A
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary BDSM
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Lee Sidle has lost all trust in the lifestyle she craves. After an abusive Dom breaks her, she runs for her life. Starting a new life is not easy when you have to give up what you need. Lee has seen the same man every week in the bar she frequents, and she knows he is a Dom. His interest is undeniable, but Lee isn't into the lifestyle anymore . . . or so she keeps telling herself. 

David Peters has been training slaves for years, and when he sees Lee in the bar, he knows she is a natural submissive. He knows just what she needs. He also sees the fear in her eyes. Something pulls him to her, and he finds himself wanting to teach how a BDSM relationship should really be: punishment without fear. Will he be able to let go when her past comes back to haunt her?

********

Though sexy through and through, The Trust She Yields is a heartfelt look into the pain of an abused woman. Lee's experience with her ex-Dom is both frightening, and sorrowful to read. I was drawn to her and her pain. On the bright side, David is delectable as a rescuer. His feelings and understanding of what Lee needs to overcome her fears while fighting his need for her makes this novel complete. I was pulled into the story and was disappointed that it had to end. I enjoy Ms. Leeland's style of writing and can't wait to read more of her work.

Title: Damons: Speed Dating
Author: Sophia Titheniel
Author’s website: http://sophiatitheniel.net/
Publisher: Changeling Press LLC
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-59596-410-6
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Fantasy
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 3.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

The victim of a broken heart and a shattered career, Alyan has been drinking, moping, and in general feeling sorry for himself for the past few weeks. Since he’s an elf, he’s essentially immortal, but that hasn’t kept him from trying to drown his sorrow in self-pity and alcohol. That is, until his irrepressible sister Meredith arrives and drags him out to Damon’s, a hip local nightspot well-known for hookups…and speed dating. Try as he might to dig in his heels and refuse to participate, Alyan finds himself with a pink cocktail in his hand waiting to talk to strangers for sixty seconds a pop. How humiliating.

Will Alyan meet the man (or elf or troll) of his dreams, or will he simply fall out of the frying pan right into the fire? Regardless of his terrible luck so far in the romance department, Alyan’s future is waiting for him within the walls of Damon’s.

********

Speed Dating by Sophia Titheniel is a quick, humorous story that revolves around the romantic woes of a socially inept elf. Many of us think of elves as beautiful and charismatic characters, so the main character being at the opposite end of the social spectrum lends a comic touch. The contrast between an activity as mundane as speed dating and beings as fantastic as elves and dwarves, as well as the numerous sly references to the Lord of the Rings, fit the tongue-in-cheek tone of the story quite well.

Ms. Titheniel has imbued the character Alyan with self-deprecating humor and a certain sad-sack appeal that makes him appealing to the reader. We can’t help but like him, even as we shake our heads at his slightly defeatist attitude. As he sits at the speed-dating table waiting for someone to talk to him, we can almost feel his embarrassment, and when he allows himself to be picked up by a stranger, we worry about his safety. While I was a little nonplussed at first by Alyan having a sexual tryst with a bar pick-up, his dissatisfaction afterward proves that he needs more than simply sex. He needs the friendship that he shares with Damon.

This story is not long enough for us to get to know the secondary characters very well; however, given that this appears to be the first in a series that revolves around the bar Damon’s, we shall probably be seeing more of Damon, at least, in future installments.

Overall, I found Speed Dating to be an entertaining read, and I’m interested to see what Ms. Titheniel has in store with this series. My hope is that she puts Alyan’s pushy sister Meredith in the hot seat in a future story. After her slightly heavy-handed although well-meaning treatment of her brother, she might just deserve a bit of comeuppance.

--Bobby

Title: Nikolai’s Wolf
Author:   Zena Wynn
Author’s website: http://www.zenawynn.com/
Publisher: Loose Id, LLC
Release Date: March 2009
ISBN: 978-1-59632-894-5
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary Shapeshifter
Sensuality Level: 3.5
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Jenna’s older brother, the Sparrowhawk pack Alpha wolf, despairs of her ever finding a mate and settling down to have pups of her own. He’s tried everything, even forcing her to choose a mate, but Jenna’s wolf is too strong to be dominated by anyone. As a last resort, chases her out of the pack, hoping she will take shelter with the neighboring Raven pack and perhaps find a mate from among their strong alpha males. Unwittingly, however, he drives her straight into the arms of the wolves’ enemy – a vampire. And when the vampire Nikolai rescues Jenna from the wolves who are chasing her, a bond is formed that will change their lives.

As Jenna settles in with the Raven pack, her body begins to change. For some reason, she is going in to heat for the second time in a year, and if that isn’t inconvenient enough, it is happening at the time of the blue moon, when the mating fever is at its highest. If she doesn’t want to find herself accidentally mated to any wolf sly enough to catch her, she’s going to have to watch her back very carefully.

Vampires and werewolves may be ancient enemies, but Nikolai knows that Jenna is his Chosen one, the vampire version of a true mate. In spite of the objections of the pack, he has every intention of claiming her as his own when the time is right. As he works to woo Jenna’s affections, he knows that even if he wins her love, he still has to deal with her wolf. And her wolf doesn’t like him at all.

********

Nikolai’s Wolf by Zena Wynn is the third novel in her True Mates series based in the tiny town of Refuge, North Carolina. Although this might be considered a stand-alone tale, readers will have a more complete understanding of the story and the situation if they read True Mates and Mary and the Bear in order beforehand. This is an entertaining, attention-grabbing, and sexy story that is filled with characters who are interesting and well-developed enough that they almost feel like friends by the end.

Although the tale of Jenna and Nikolai was begun in True Mates and continued in Mary and the Bear, Nikolai’s Wolf begins it anew. While this may cause a little bit of repetition for those reading the stories in order due to overlapping story lines, it prevents any gaping holes for those who missed reading the second story.

In the town of Refuge, Ms. Wynn has developed a believable world inhabited by shifters and humans alike. Her society of shifters is fascinating and well detailed, and I found myself caught up in the drama that unfolds as the time of the blue moon approaches. The story of Jenna and Nikolai, although it is the main focus of Nikolai’s Wolf, is only one of several storylines that appear in this book, and the interaction of the different narratives made the story feel richer and more compelling to me.

Nikolai’s Wolf will leave readers wanting to know more about the residents of the town of Refuge and hungry for the complete story of Jenna’s brother Rory and his mate-to-be Shayla. Of all the mated pairs in this series, these two are definitely mismatched, and I for one am looking forward to sitting back and watching the sparks fly between them.

--Bobby

Title: Out of Uniform Series: Heat of the Storm 
Author: Elle Kennedy
Author’s website: www.ellekennedy.com
Publisher: Samhain Publishing Ltd.
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-60504-633-4
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Mackenzie and Will have been best friends since high school, and Navy Seal Will Charleston wishes they were a lot more than friends. Unexpectedly one night, Mackenzie kisses him senseless and he wants more and he wants forever. Mackenzie can’t come to terms with the fact that Will wants her for keeps. She can’t believe he won’t run screaming when she has one of her visions, just like all her other boyfriends in the past. Her visions have always come true and when she sees in a vision that she will inevitably have a hot night of passionate sex with Will...will she be able to deny what her heart is trying to tell her?

********

Heat of the Storm is one hell of a sexy story. From the first words, the heat pours off the pages. Have a fan ready with this one. The story starts off with a bang, and for a shorter novel it packs a big punch. Mackenzie’s visions are a cornerstone of the story, and I was drawn into the vortex of emotions that made up her inner turmoil. Her feelings for Will are undeniable, and yet her visions keep her from showing him how much she cares. Will is completely open in his feelings, and it shows a great depth for this character. The sex is downright steamy. If you are looking for a short, sexy tale to heat up your mind, this is the book for you. I enjoyed reading my first book by Elle Kennedy and will be on the lookout for more of her work.

Title: Kinglsey & I
Author: Gary Martine
Author’s website: http://garymartine.yolasite.com/
Publisher: MLR Press
Release Date: May 2008
ISBN: 978-1-934531-39-6
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary GLBT
Sensuality Level: 4.5
Rating: 3.5

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

Gary Martine’s Kingsley & I is a story about the one true love of a lifetime, a love that is not defined merely by physical terms but that instead encompasses life, the self, and the spirit. It is not bound by gender or creed and thrives on a desire that can never be truly satisfied. This novel documents the beginning of a relationship between two men: the narrator, who can loosely be defined as bisexual, and Kingsley, who is the narrator’s obsession and who is unequivocally gay.

This is without a doubt a unique story. Mr. Martine has written Kingley & I as a narrative with little to no dialogue. Told exclusively from the first person point of view, this novel has the feel of a memoir. It has an almost conversational tone to it, as if the narrator is recounting his experiences to a listener over coffee and that listener is the reader. As I read this book, it took a little while for me to adjust to this writing style, but it eventually drew me in to the story to the point that I was tempted to interrupt the narrator to ask questions.

Kingsley & I is focused solely on the relationship between the two characters to the point that the rest of the world simply does not exist. There are no secondary characters aside from an incidental mention here and there. We never understand what either Kingsley or the narrator does for a living, and I have the feeling that this is due to the fact that the narrator does not consider this to be a pertinent part of his relationship.

While the sexual relationship between the narrator and Kingsley is documented in almost minute detail and the narrator professes to enjoy their physical interaction, I received the impression that he is very confused about his sexuality and his very identity. I felt that rather than being bisexual, the narrator is instead androgynous, because he exhibits feelings and characteristics that are both distinctly female and male. For all that he continuously declares his desire for Kingsley, it appears that what he really craves is the emotion and the closeness that a partnership can bring.

Since this story is told solely from the narrator’s viewpoint, any action that might happen outside of his knowledge stays hidden. We are given a somewhat skewed and one-dimensional view of the reality of this story, but the benefit of this is that it gives the reader a peek into the narrator’s mind and the feeling that they are experiencing the development of this somewhat singular relationship along with him. As I read this story, I had the distinct impression that the narrator is missing something about Kingsley. While he sees his lover as an almost angelic figure, I could not help but wonder what he is not seeing and if Kingsley is perhaps not the paragon that the narrator believes him to be.

Overall, I came away from reading Kingsley & I a little bit confused, but that certainly does not mean that I’m sorry I read it. It has a unique format and tone that makes it different from anything I have read before. This book was definitely a new experience for me. Readers who are looking for something a little unconventional – a break from the usual – may wish to give it a shot.

--Bobby

Title: Cattleman's Club 1: Patton's Way
Author: Jenny Penn
Author’s website: www.jennypenn.com
Publisher: Siren Publishing, Inc.
Release Date: September 2008
ISBN: 1-60601-142-1
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary Menage
Sensuality Level: 4
Rating: 5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Patton has had enough of the men in her life seeing her as a little sister and wanting her to be an innocent. After being brought up in the household of the three sexy Davis brothers, the last thing Patton sees them as, is brothers. She has lusted after them for since she was a teenager. Even though Chase, Slade, and Devin think she has no idea about their illustrious "careers" as Masters of domination and their penchant for sharing their women, she is going to show them how very wrong they are. She may be an innocent, but if she has anything to do with it, she won't be for much longer. It would be best if they didn't find out she has secretly used her supposed college money to start up a racy lingerie business; who knows how three doms with antiquated ideas will react to that tidbit of information?

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Whoa and hold onto your horses, Patton's Way is one heck of a ride. If you like your sex hot, and your men hotter, this is a must read. This is mènage at its finest. I could not put this book down, and I couldn't wait to find out just what the Davis brothers had in store for Patton. The conflict between the leading men and their lady is unsurpassed and kept me hanging on every word. Patton is downright fun, I love the way she is strong and sure of what she wants but at the same time craves being dominated. The sexual encounters are downright naughty and amazing. I was riveted. Ms. Penn also adds a bit of suspense to keep the reader on their toes. After you read this book, one cowboy in your bed won't be enough. Ms. Penn has a delicious way with words and sex, and I can't wait for the next installment in this series. It can't come quickly enough in my opinion.

Title: The Skeleton’s Shadow
Author: Anastasia Rabiyah
Author’s website: http://rabiyahbooks.com/
Publisher: Purple Sword Publications, LLC
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-936165-14-8
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Paranormal/Dark Fantasy
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

After the sudden loss of her beloved parents, Rainee Chambers finds herself retreating to her grandparents’ abandoned home to help herself heal. She feels the need to recapture the happiness of her childhood, a time when she had an imaginary friend who comforted her and shared stories with her. Although the house is now neglected and empty, she retreats to her old bedroom and wonders if her friend, her shadowboy, will visit her once again in her imagination.

But Rainee’s shadowboy is not a figment of her imagination. Liam Morningstar is a bayaak, a skeleton creature of Indian legend, a purveyor of death and a stealer of souls. Although a fearsome creature, he was Rainee’s childhood friend, drawn to her lack of fear of him, and in the years since she left the house, he has pined for her. All he wants now is to cease to exist and move on to the afterlife.

Now that Rainee is no longer a child, will she fear him and therefore fuel Liam’s need to kill her? Or will she somehow be able to help him end the curse of his horrible existence?

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The Skeleton’s Shadow combines Indian legend and the paranormal into a darkly undertoned tale that still manages to tell a story of love and hope. I found it to be unique and imaginative with an undercurrent of horror and a thread of suspense that kept my attention to the very end.

Liam is the creature under the bed or hiding in the closet, the stuff of childhood nightmares. Ms. Rabiyah makes him wonderfully creepy yet vulnerable at the same time. Even though he is one of the main characters in the story, there is still an element of doubt as to whether he truly exists or if he is just a figment of Rainee’s imagination. I vacillated back on forth regarding this a number of times as I read The Skeleton’s Shadow, and I found this uncertainty to be quite entertaining.

Ms. Rabiyah pulls her readers into this story with strong and well-crafted imagery. From the old Chrysler DeSoto that Rainee drives to the dark dusty cellar where Liam hides to the blackberry fields behind the house, it all feels very real. Add to this an almost frightening hero, a sympathetic young heroine and the inclusion of some eerie Indian folklore, and you have an unusual and quite occupying tale. Definitely worth the reading time.

--Bobby

Title: The Macgregor’s Daughter
Author: Dee Julian
Author’s website: http://www.deejulian.com/
Publisher: Wild Child Publishing
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-935013-87-7
Length: Novel
Format: Electronic
Genre: Historical
Sensuality Level: 1
Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by: Teagan S. Boyd

Five years ago, Ameican born Anadreya Richardson was accused of being a spy by the Marquis of Canderlay while in England. When she finds out that she is the daughter of the leader of the Macgregor clan, what better way to escape her accuser and England than as Dreya Macgregor on the clan island of Dragon's Breath. The last thing she expected was to find a man washed up on the beach who has lost his memory and his eyesight. He just happens to be the same man that accused her of the treason.

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The Macgregor's Daughter captured my interest from page one and held it throughout this wonderfully entertaining book. The imagery that Ms. Julian evokes with her words creates a vivid picture in the reader's mind. I felt as if I was right there with the characters. Dreya is a strong, independent woman with a fierce loyalty to her newfound family. She is a well-rounded and interesting character. Lucian is intriguing, and I was never sure what to expect from him. The feelings he has for Dreya create a conflict that makes the story even more interesting. I had a bit of a problem following the brogue in the dialogue; it is hard for me to discern what is being said when it is used. It is the only thing that slowed down my reading. The book is a fast-paced read, and I will be reading more by the talented Dee Julian.

Title: Blue Fire
Author: ZA Maxfield
Author’s website: www.zamaxfield.com
Publisher: Loose Id, LLC
Release Date: July 2009
ISBN: 978-1-59632-980-5
Length: Novella
Format: Electronic
Genre: Contemporary GLBT
Sensuality Level: 3
Rating: 4.75

Reviewed by: BD Whitney

When Jared Kenny’s house burned down, it took most of his life with it. Twenty years of the life he shared with his deceased husband vanished in flames, leaving him with nothing but memories, and he couldn’t help but wish that he had been consumed by the fire as well. But he didn’t die; he was rescued from the blaze by a young firefighter with the most incredible blue eyes he had ever seen, and that young man, Adam, stayed with him and comforted him as they watched Jared’s home disappear forever.

As Jared tries to recover from the devastation of losing so much, Adam is always there to support him. He offers friendship, a shoulder to learn on, and even the comfort of his body. But even as Jared is growing to love the younger man, he knows that he feels overwhelmed, and when Adam is called away to fight a wildfire, Jared breaks off their relationship.

In a new city, a new state, Jared builds a life for himself as an artist. But rather than forget Adam, his love for the younger man continues to grow, until the focus of his life is color blue that can only be found in Adam’s eyes. But something holds Jared back from seeking out the man he loves, until he receives horrifying news from the fire front. The life of a firefighter is a dangerous one, and while fire may have brought the two men together, it can also tear them apart forever.

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ZA Maxfield’s novella Blue Fire is a quick and intense read that is sure to please fans of Ms. Maxfield’s work. It is well-written and tight and fits a lot of story and emotion into a small space without feeling rushed or skimping on detail. This is a story of love, loss, and renewal where fire plays many key roles.

As usual in Ms. Maxfield’s work, her main characters are well developed and complex, and while they are completely different from each other, they both worm their way into the heart of the reader. Adam has a certain innocence to him, partly due to his age but also due to his contrast with Jared and his experiences in life. Adam has a bit of a savior complex, which probably stems from the firefighter in him, but he also has such a good heart that he almost smothers Jared in kindness.

Jared has spent his life in another person’s shadow and finds Adam’s attention almost stifling as well as overwhelming. He needs to break free and create his own persona, but he is afraid that isn’t what is going to happen if he stays with Adam and allows himself to be coddled. He is slightly unstable, self-centered, afraid, and prone to obsession, as is exhibited with his single-minded devotion to the color blue.

I found Ms. Maxfield’s use of fire in this novella to be unique and fascinating. Fire seems to represent new beginnings as well as the end in Blue Fire. It tears lives apart as well as rebuilds them and appears in many different forms. There is the fire of love that burns within, the fire of creative energy, and the physical fire that offers death and life. There is the strictly contained fire of the torch and the kiln as well as the unpredictable conflagration of a wildfire or house fire. These men are brought together, pulled apart, and then reunited by fire in its many forms. It is an obsession, an avocation, a villain, and a savior.

Overall, I enjoyed reading Blue Fire. It is an emotional story that brought tears to my eyes more than once but that also left me with a smile in the end. Ms. Maxfield’s attention to detail, her unique and interesting storylines, and her intelligent and finely-executed narrative draw me to her work repeatedly. And as always, I will eagerly anticipate whatever she has to offer us next.

--Bobby