Hooch and Howls

Title: Hooch and Howls

Author: Karenna Colcroft

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-60820-7763

Genre: {M/M/M} Historical, Werewolf

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Sometimes desperate times require desperate measures if you want to survive. During the financial depression, as well as the time of prohibition, best friends and secret lovers Roger and Jonathan turned to the Canadian bootleggers in hopes of making enough money for a fresh start out west. However, the job went horribly wrong and it takes the lonely werewolf, Malachi, to liberate Roger and Jonathan from the dangerous chaos their life had become.

Hooch and Howls is a well-written romance with just enough background to fully grasp the dilemma each man is dealing with. Set in Herman’s Island, Nova Scotia at a time when honest men were forced to discard their non-profit fisherman’s jobs for the illegal activities of rum-runners, the plot highlights the in-depth characters especially well. Malachi is financially stable, yet he is faced with being gay, as well as being a werewolf, which placed him in the position of being an outcast in both societies. Roger is an opportunist, however his intentions are honorable and his motivation is survival for himself and Jonathan. Jonathan is naive to all the criminal predators waiting to take advantage of the unwary. But after a few dangerous encounters of being prey, Jonathan quickly learns that Roger is the only person he can trust.

Karenna Colcroft has created an outstanding saga that I very much enjoyed. The heartwarming plot illustrates some of the pitfalls of life when a country is in a monetary crisis. Also displayed are exceptionally sensual intimacy scenes.      

Genie’s Wish

Title: Genie’s Wish

Author: Susan Laine

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-61372-674-7

Genre: {M/M/M} Fantasy Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

More Than Pride

Title: More Than Pride

Author: Amber Kell

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-1-78184-001-6

Genre: {M/M/M} Wereshifters

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Heart of Ice

Title: Heart of Ice

Author: SA Welsh

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: spsilverpublishing.com/

ISBN: 9781920502577

Genre: {M/M/M} Paranormal Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Demon warrior Frost Dante has his hands full with six younger brothers, all looking to him for guidance during assignments or when their parents are away on business. Add to that the twin snow leopard shifters Blair and Cian Pardus, rescued by Frost, are his mates. Frost is thrilled to have mates, even though Blair and Cian add more chaos to the household. However, Frost suspects there is a sinister plot in the works that endangers all of his loved ones.

Heart of Ice is the first book in the Demon Souls series, an exciting action-packed romantic suspense. Four sets of twins born in the same family were rare among the demons. Plus every set of twins born to the Dante line is powerful; their gifts made the family the Guardian Warriors who protects the supernatural race. Being the eldest son and having lost his twin, Frost is the most powerful of all the demons, yet he hides his abilities rather than create fear in his family. Frost is a compassionate protector with a good deal of common sense. These traits are illustrated in Frost’s affectionate interaction with his mates, Blair, who is a budding chef and Cian, who is close to finishing his studies to be a doctor. Blair and Cian are equally as loving and protective of Frost.

SA Welsh has created an amazing exhibit of an unconditional loving family, including the normal playful sibling roughhousing, a loving bond between mates and family members working together to solve a mystery. Heart of Ice has an exhilarating, as well as extremely enjoyable balance of humor, sensual lovemaking and displays of magical powers. Ending in a cliffhanger, I look forward to the next installment. 

Tian's Hero

Title: Tian's Hero

Author: Cherie Noel

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: spsilverpublishing.com/

ISBN: 9781920502201

Genre: {M/M/M} Science Fiction, Series

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Sin Row

Title: Sin Row

Author: Scarlet Blackwell

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-0-85715-569-6

Genre: {M/M/M} Futuristic, Dark Fantasy

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Between Heaven & Hell

Title: Between Heaven & Hell

Author: L.M. Brown

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: spsilverpublishing.com/

ISBN/BIN: 9781920502546

Genre: {M/M/M} Fantasy, Series

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

State of Affairs

Title: State of Affairs

Author: Dany Sirene

Publisher: Changeling Press

Publisher URL: www.changelingpress.com

ISBN: 978-1-60521-756-7

Genre: M/M, M/M/M Dark Fantasy

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Who We Are by TJ Klune

Title: Who We Are

Author: TJ Klune

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher’s URL: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/

ISBN/BIN: 9781613724613

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary, Sequel

Rating: Golden Blush Award

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Bear, Otter, and the Kid are ready for their lives to continue with a little less drama. Unfortunately for all three concerned, it’s going to be some time before their wishes are granted. As their lives continue to play out, will the events make their relationship stronger or will it tear them apart?

Who We Are is a great follow up to Bear, Otter, and the Kid. Readers may want to keep in mind that these are stories that need to be read in order, so if you have not read the first story yet, there may be spoilers below.

I was a big fan of Mr. Klune’s book Bear, Otter, and the Kid so when I saw the author had a follow-up story out, I could not help doing the happy dance. I love the characters, especially the Kid, and the way in which the author has written these two stories. Like the first book, Who We Are is written in the first person from Bear’s point of view. Normally, I am not a big fan of first person POV stories; however, Mr. Klune is one of the few authors whose stories in this style I just love. Bear pulls you right in as if you are sitting next to him on the couch while he tells you his life story. The prologue is sure to cause many of you to bust out laughing, especially by the time the ‘sixteen were-otter babies’ show up.

Only a couple of weeks have passed from the end of book one and the start of book two, and although the guys are still in the honeymoon stage, Bear can’t help stressing over the little things. Bear, Otter, and the Kid have many obstacles to overcome in this new story however, so some of Bear’s stressing is justified. While this small family continues to fight for custody of the Kid, they will also face numerous other challenges and by the end of the story, I found myself needing a tissue. The author really puts a lot into this story and one of the things I liked is that each situation the men find themselves in is true to life and comes across very realistically.

While the book is heavy in the angst department, there are some light hearted moments and this is generally where the Kid comes in. Some of the Kid’s poetry shows up and, of course, there are his over the top comments and questions. But while the Kid usually can be found behind the lighter moments in this story, he is can also be found at the center of some of the tougher moments as well. The Kid also wraps up the story so expect a couple of surprises.

On his blog the author hints at the possibility of a third story. While Mr. Klune claims that it could be some time before we see the next installment I hope it won’t be too far into the future.

Love the Sinner by Avril Ashton

Title: Love the Sinner

Author: Avril Ashton

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

Publisher’s URL: http://www.jasminejade.com

ISBN/BIN: 9781419939686

Genre: {M/M}, Contemporary, Suspense

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Gabe Ashby has always been straight, yet for some reason the leader of one of New York’s worse gangs is setting off all his bells and whistles. When circumstances keep throwing the two together neither, Gabe or Angelo can help but fall in love.

Avril Ashton is a new author to me, but after reading Love the Sinner, I will be looking for more from this author. Love the Sinner is an excellent story, and while I was nervous about reading a new author, the blurb really grabbed my attention and I had to see how the story would end. The characters are wonderfully written and pulled me right into their story. From the beginning, the attraction between Gabe and Angelo is strong and I was curious how the author would be able to bring the men together since Gabe is a detective and Angelo a major gang leader, one who makes no excuses for what he has to do. The passion between the two is intense and the men really heat up the pages.

It is not only the men’s relationship that will hold your interest, but also the situations they find themselves in. The author does an excellent job making this world believable. The conflict Gabe faces as he struggles, with not only his feelings for Angelo but also Angelo’s ‘occupation’, is very realistic. As for Angelo, it is not hard to see him as the tough gang banger and the author doesn’t skimp on the violence. There are some tense moments in the story and I have to say I wondered when everything would blow up in the men’s faces and, truthfully, I could see no way the author could give these two a happily ever after.

I don’t want to give too much away so I will just say that the author does a great job wrapping this story up and more than once, I found myself close to tears. Love the Sinner is a great story and one I will be reading more than once.

Riding with Heaven by L. C. Chase

Title: Riding with Heaven

Author: L. C. Chase

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN: 978-1-61118-866-0

Genre: {M/M} Suspense

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Evan McGrath did not expect to get so lucky when his quest for a rideshare was answered by the handsome stranger, Lucas Briscoe. However, halfway to South Carolina, Evan was starting to feel like his luck had just run out.

L. C. Chase's Riding with Heaven is a riveting stranger-danger tale with very convincing characters. The plot builds from nail biting anxiety to full blown terror. There is an immediate attraction between Evan and Lucas. Also, there is a resistance to act on their attraction. As the story unfolds, each man’s logic against having sex becomes evident. Evan is a graduate student, as well as a talented artist, who has the tendency to be oblivious to his surroundings when he is drawing. His future is in limbo only because his South Carolina home induces morbid nightmares of a past Evan would rather not think about. Lucas is an enigma; he reveals little and misses nothing. Lucas has sexy bad boy charisma, along with a quicksilver mood swing that goes from flirty good humor to cold-blooded dangerous in the blink of an eye. The mounting Domino Slasher clues, in addition to Lucas’ strange behavior,r has Evan convinced he is about to die at the hands of a serial killer.

Riding with Heaven is an outstanding and extremely enjoyable thriller. With each damming clue, the tale seems to get darker. But just when I thought Evan was doomed, the very clever L. C. Chase blends in a smoking hot intimacy scene that left me breathless. 

Second Time Lucky by Ethan Day

Title: Second Time Lucky

Author: Ethan Day

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-60820-697-1

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Luke Landon has never been one to dwell in the past or spend a great deal of time thinking about his future. Luke lives in the here and now world, that is until Owen West, from Luke’s past, returns to Luke’s present and opens the doors to their future.

Second Time Lucky is a well-written, well-paced romantic comedy with realistic characters. The in-depth characters are especially engaging, even the secondary characters reminded me of someone I knew. The complexity of the personalities brought the characters to life. Luke and Owen are well matched, they share most of the same traits; it is only the methods they use to express these traits that are different. Luke is in-your-face-sarcastic, yet he privately manipulates people into being optimistic. Luke tries to hide his compassionate side, although most people who have long acquaintances with Luke can see it, as well as love him for it. While Luke is a private do-gooder, Owen is very public with his desire to help others. Owens’s mission is to mentor GLBT youth in the community. Educating families that sexuality is by birth, not the youth’s desire to commit social sins.

Ethan Day has created a laugh-out-loud hilarious story with illustrations of being who you truly are without shame. Exhibits of tender emotions that will melt your heart, as well as intimacy scenes require an increase in the cooling system. Second Time Lucky is an exceedingly enjoyable happy-for-now saga. Luke and Owen are so loveable, I was sad to say goodbye. Hopefully another visit with them is in the future. 

Frog by Mary Calmes

Title: Frog

Author: Mary Calmes

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Publisher URL: www.dreamspinnerpress.com

ISBN/BIN: 9781613724699

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary

Rating: Golden Blush

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx 

Nothing in Weber Yates’ life is going as he’d planned. His dream of being a champion bull rider never panned out and the one guy’s he’s involved with is totally out of his league…way out. He’s tired and beat up from his last rodeo and on the way to Alaska for a ranch job when he stops in San Francisco to see his lover, Cyrus, one last time.

Cyrus Benning is wealthy, gorgeous and a successful neurosurgeon. He can have any guy he wants and the only man he’s interested in is Weber. After having harsh words months before, Cyrus wasn’t certain he’d ever see his cowboy again. Now that Weber’s back, all he wants is to prove they’re perfect as a couple and can have a great life together. Can Cyrus convince Weber that staying gives him everything he wants and needs? Can Weber come to understand that he’s the most important thing in Cyrus’s life?

Frog is the newest release by Mary Calmes and it’s going right into my keeper pile. I don’t often gush about a book but I totally loved, from the first paragraph to the last word, this heart-warming character-driven romance. It’s funny, special and a real treat because it’s not just a romance but a story of redemption, recovery and moving on.

I say that in all seriousness. Ms. Calmes successfully wove in all the components of Cyrus and Weber’s relationship…the good and the bad…then added a ready-made family in Cyrus’s sister and her boys. It’s often difficult for an author to juggle so many secondary characters into the internal plot but she did it with flair and realism. I love the kids and how Weber helps them after their father takes off. But then Weber’s a pretty classy guy for a beat-up homeless cowboy…loving, protective, polite and caring. Cyrus loves him unconditionally, which might be a little simplistic in today’s world but that’s all right. He knows who he wants and needs and that’s Weber, nothing else matters.

The story is well-plotted, Cyrus and Weber have nicely developed personalities, the descriptions are vivid and there’s some great bantering conversation. Oh and I can’t forget to mention the passion and strong emotional bond between Cyrus and Weber. It’s a romance I intend to enjoy again in the future and I recommend that you give it a try. I think you’ll enjoy it. I know I did.

Hope by William Neale

Title: Hope

Author: William Neale

Publisher: MLR Press

Publisher URL: www.mlrbooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-60820-629-2

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

The theme of Hope illustrates how acceptance, compassion and Hope work together for the contentment we seek in life. The main characters exhibit these traits. Hope is the story of Spencer Hawkin’s journey to happiness with Hunter Harrison.

Spencer’s acceptance of who and what he is, was the source of his breakup with his now ex-boyfriend. Spencer is gay and he embraces what life presents to him with a good attitude illustrated by Spencer’s episode of unrequited love for Cade featured in the third book Always Faithful. Spencer has the ability to open his heart as well as connect with others in a positive way. Spencer is a gentleman whose compassion allows him to love easily whether it is a sick child, friends or a potential lover; Spencer’s perception allows him to recognize the good in most of the people he encounters. It is these qualities that inspired Lucas and Rogan, the main characters in the first book Home to help Spencer acquire a teaching job along with a fresh start in Cleveland, Ohio.

Hunter Harrison is a single dad caring for his adopted son whose heart defect has him desperately awaiting a heart transplant that may not come in time. Spencer is Hunter’s son Ethan’s idol. When Spencer moved to Cleveland and realized Ethan lived close by, Spencer made it a priority to visit the child he met through the Make-a-Wish Foundation. From their first meeting Hunter and Spencer knew there was an immediate attraction between them. However, dealing with the unfortunate circumstances of his child, Hunter rejected any relationship with Spencer other than friends. Yet fate along with the power of hope brings about a positive change leading to a happy ever after.

My impression of Hope is that William Neale has written a part of his life story. The extraordinarily enjoyable romance engages the reader, inspiring me for a while to reflect on a beneficial idealism rather than dwell in a negative reality.

The Luckiest by Piper Vaughn & M.J. O'Shea

Title: The Luckiest

Authors: Piper Vaughn & M.J. O'Shea

Publisher: Loose Id

Publisher URL: www.loose-id.com

ISBN/BIN: 9781611188035

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Series

Rating: Golden Blush

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

After driving his sports car through a department store window, it’s apparent that rock star Nick Ventura is out of control. He doesn’t think he has a problem but since his brother’s marriage, his behavior’s getting progressively worse. Now the only chance Nick has of staying out of jail is if a judge agrees to a stint in rehab.

Luka Novak is a nutritionist at Glenwood rehab facility. He’s determined to provide the medical help that Nick needs but isn’t willing to let the over-privileged rock star walk all over him. Nick’s reputation should have him running in the opposite direction but Luka can’t deny the pull he feels for Nick either. Their rehab friendship soon turns into something more but it doesn’t take Luka long to realize that Nick is uncomfortable confessing they’re a couple and he might always be. Can Nick find the courage to acknowledge his love for Luka to the world or will he lose the man he loves forever?

The Luckiest is the second release in the Lucky Moon series. It takes up shortly after the first book left off and due to the continuing character relationships, the books should be read in order.

Nick wasn’t the nicest guy in Moonlight Becomes You. Truthfully he was a total mess then and hasn’t changed much in the first pages of The Luckiest. The opening scenes are big attention grabbers and show how his poor choices are destroying his life. He’s hit rock-bottom, won’t admit it and is angry at everyone but the person responsible. Himself. Of the two books, this one is definitely my favorite. Nicky starts off as a jerk and his path to change, even with Luka’s help, isn’t easy but the authors do a great job realistically turning him into a likable guy. Yes, he still has problems but he’s growing and becoming a better person.

In reality, this book’s a classic tale of recovery and redemption and we get all the volatile emotions that go along with it. The story flow is smooth, the character personalities well developed and the descriptions vivid. I really appreciate that the love between Luka and Nick develops slowly instead of happening instantly. It makes it so much more plausible. There’s plenty of sex and while it’s sizzling hot, it fits into the scene and isn’t overdone. I also loved the addition of the two legged friends to the story, and the scene where Luka gives Nick a puppy for a gift is perfectly done.

Okay. I’ll cut to the chase. I don’t gush often but I love this book and you should read it. Today. Really. I’m not kidding.

Sinders And Ash by Tara Lain

Title: Sinders And Ash

Author: Tara Lain

Publisher: Amber Allure

Publisher URL: www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/

ISBN: 978-1-61124-270-6

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Fairy Tale

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Eligible females descended on the New York resort like hungry predators in search of fresh prey. Word had spread through the social circles that Ashton Armitage is seeking a wife. Mark Sintorella, referred to as Sinders, the hard working weird guy, does his best to stay under the radar at work while secretly designing women’s clothes at night. However, big shake-ups happen when Carstairs Pennymaker decides to do a little matchmaker.

Sinders And Ash is a wonderfully amusing, well-written romance with creditable characters. On the surface, Ash appears to be a shallow wealthy man with no real purpose in life. This was the opinion Sinders had before they actually met. Yet there is a depth to Ash few people are allowed to see. Ash is in-the-closet gay because his public and family status demands being what is considered acceptable by society. He’s intelligent, as well as considerate of the needs of others. Ash has no wish to marry a female; nevertheless he feels compelled to honor his grandfather’s wishes. Sinder is openly gay, talented and outspoken. He wears a disguise to discourage unwanted attention from bullies. Carstairs is a master at plotting; he aligns all the key players, set the stage then watches as the scenes develops into his desired plan.

Tara Lain has created a splendid heartwarming saga with sizzling lovemaking. Sinders And Ash is an extremely enjoyable happy-ever-after modern day fairytale. 

Shifting Sands

Title: Shifting Sands
Author: Six Author Anthology
Publisher: MLR Press
Publisher URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60820-025-2
Genre: {M/M} Shifters, Anthology
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx



Snake Charmer by Kimberly Gardner - 4.5 Nymphs
Shifter Cyrus Malone is in love with Bobby Lee Sonders. The problem is Cyrus wants to tell Bobby Lee about shifting. Cy just needed to figure out how and when to do it.

All the Moon Long by Ally Blue - 5 Nymphs
Shifter Judson Jorgensen has yearned for Woodrow Villareal’s affections for nearly seven years. Finally on a full moon night, Woody pays a surprise visit to the ranch, where he literally sweeps Jud off his feet, much to the shock of everyone including Jud.

Cock of the Walk by Willa Okati - 5 Nymphs
Shifter Michael Clarence Reilly is determined not to have a relationship ever. However, tenacious Zen Jedrek is just as determined to be Michael’s lover for a lifetime.

Hare of the Bull by Brenda Bryce - 4.5 Nymphs
Gordy Phillips tried everything he could think of to get close to the ranch’s housekeeper Tristan Neely. However, every time Gordy came near him, Tristan would run like a scared rabbit and hide in the store room.

Lost and Found by J.L. Langley - 5 Nymphs
Shay Duncan is in a major predicament when he rolls into the pond to escape his captors with his feet and hands tied. Lucky for Shay, he is rescued by shifter Ben Eagle, who just happens to be in the pasture that full moon night.

Pulling the Dragon’s Tail by Jet Mykles - 5 Nymphs
Shifter Daniel Long is caught with an unrequited attraction to Russell. Daniel and Russell were meant to be together, according to Russell’s estimation. However, Daniel is determined that will never happen.

Shifting Sands is a well-written romantic comedy, comprised of six stories featuring each of the Texas ranch’s residents. The superb plot showcases the perils of the cowboys who are on a quest to claim a mate. The owner's Chinese wife takes one of the cowboys and leaves behind a curse that dooms the remaining populace to a life of shifting. Every month when the moon is full, each man takes on the form of an animal.

All of the characters share more than shifting. They are all compassionate gay men who desire a permanent relationship. They share a bond that is more like family than co-workers. The six magnificent authors have produced a marvelous book, filled with hilarious conversations, emotions along with scorching love scenes. Each story flows into the next giving the reader a sense of continuity. Overall, Shifting Sands is an excellent anthology that I enjoyed to the highest degree.

Cereus: Building

Title: Cereus: Building

Author: Sean Michael, Julia Talbot and BA Tortuga

Publisher: Torquere Press

Publisher URL: www.torquerebooks.com

ISBN: 978-1-61040-570-6

Genre: {M/M} {M/M/M} Paranormal

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx 

Sins of Spring

Title: Sins of Spring

Author: D.J.Manly, A.J.Llewellyn and Serena Yates

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-0-85715-969-4

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Anthology

Rating: 4 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx  

Midnight Seduction: Manlove Edition

Title: Midnight Seduction: Manlove Edition

Author: Anthology

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Publisher URL: www.evernightpublishing.com

ISBN: 978-1-926950-95-2

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Boys Who Love Men

Title: Boys Who Love Men
Author: Martin Delacroix
Publisher: Noble Romance Publishing
Publisher URL: https://www.nobleromance.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60592-159-4
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary, Anthology
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Rose Nymph

7

Title: 7
Author: Mychael Black and Shayne Carmichael
Publisher: Torquere Books
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370- 871-5
Genre: {M/M} Erotic, Anthology
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Love Me Dead

Title: Love Me Dead
Author: William Maltese, Lex Valentine, AM Riley
Publisher: MLR Press
Publisher URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60820-068-9
Genre: {M/M} Paranormal Anthology
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Ghost Hunters – Long Beach - AM Riley - 4 Nymphs
Frequent visitors to the Queen Mary Hotel, Rick and James are familiar to the hotel staff. Hunting ghost for years, Rick is still hoping to record a sighting. James does not believe in ghost; he is hoping to become more than best friends with Rick. Standing by to declare his feelings to Rick, a series of events has James asking the question “Can ghosts influence the living?”

Rousing Caine - Lex Valentine - 5 Nymphs
Jason Rockham is the owner of a successful restaurant. However, he is not happy. Jason has been emotionally abused and lost his trust in humanity until he meets Caine at Jason’s family home in Pebble Beach, California. Caine is an exquisite lover that not only makes Jason happy but helps restore Jason’s faith in the power of love.

The Day They Closed The Iguana - AM Riley - 5 Nymphs
Bill Miller, owner of the Iguana Theater and part time actor, lives with the regret of a love that can never be returned and the” what if” questions for years. However, change comes in the form of an offer from the city to buy Bill and the other store owners out before the buildings are torn down. While pondering the city’s offer, Bill meets Frank Connor, a rancher from Montana and the magnetism between them is undeniable. In the midst of the two offers open to him, Bill decides it is time to move on.

Black Candle Reader - William Maltese - 5 Nymphs
Jeremy Taig and his roommate are prostitutes employed by Penningdale Escort Agency. Jeremy caters to clients who are voyeurs, while his roommate caters to clients desiring physical contact. It is the unnamed roommate who narrates his story, giving details of his clients and how they play a role in his fascinating voyage into the dark world of ghosts and of course, there is a love interest too.

Love Me Dead is a collection of captivating ghost stories by three amazing authors. William Maltese illustrates the dangerous side of a hustler’s life interwoven with how psychic utilize candles. Lex Valentine delivers a distinctive and very steamy romance. AM Riley creates two touching tales with a dash of humor. Overall, each story integrates enticing plots which are well paced. The settings are ample and the characters are complete with emotional, as well as sexual, appeal. I thoroughly enjoyed Love Me Dead.  

Melting The Slopes

Title: Melting The Slopes
Author: William Maltese, Jason Edding. Ethan Day
Publisher: MLR Press
Publisher URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60820-085-9
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Hearts Afire: November

Title: Hearts Afire: November
Author: Pepper Espinoza and India Harper
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Publisher URL: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-59578-623-4
Genre: {M/M} Anthology, Contemporary
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Fur and Fang

Title: Fur and Fang
Author: Sean Michael and BA Tortuga
Publisher: Torquere Press
Publisher URL: http://www.torquerebooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60370-700-8
Genre: {M/M} Gay Erotic, Paranormal
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx

Law of the Jungle – Sean Michael – 5 Nymphs
Captain Marco has one true passion, sinking His Majesty’s naval ships. The pleasure from revenge pales in comparison to the gift his crew presents. It is more beautiful and deadly than he could have ever dreamed of encountering. Marco’s new emerald-eyed cat has enthralled him and stolen his heart. When Abrigo shows Marco his human form, the Captain knows there is nothing he wouldn’t do for to protect his mate.

Snake Oil – BA Tortuga – 5 Nymphs
The loss of Haskell’s mate, Truett, has left the drifter lonely. When Haskell encounters a traveling show, he doesn’t know what to make of the owner’s claims. Haskell soon discovers that his mate is alive. Truett has dreamed of his lover and has had little desire to be human again. Haskell will prove the true power of love, as he fights to help Truett regain his freedom.

The Lost Tiger – Sean Michael – 5 Nymphs
Greyson believes in helping strays. His kind heart may not be to the liking of the man he’s dating but to Torao, it’s equivalent to the rising sun after a hard rain. Tired and hungry, Torao has escaped his Keeper and left the only life he knows, but life in a cage is not an option. Can Greyson protect the beautiful were-tiger he now knows is his mate?

Alpha – BA Tortuga – 5 Nymphs
Cage is a lone wolf who has fought for the right of his new den. When he encounters Roman, a wolf claiming the rights to the cabin, Cage is unsure of what to do but he won’t give up without a fight. Roman’s absence was longer than he anticipated, but he’s willing to share the cabin as long as Cage understands whose alpha in their small pack. A misunderstanding could tear apart their pack, and danger is waiting for a silent attack. Will Roman figure it out before it’s too late? Will Cage ever truly trust the alpha?

Fur and Fang is an anthology you won’t want to miss. Each story contains suspense, danger, erotic encounters hot enough to steam the windows. The characters, plots and settings engulf your senses and take you over from the first line. I truly couldn’t pick a favorite among these stories, and both authors are on my must-read list. If I had to pick a favorite character, I would say Greyson because of his selflessness. I have a love of shifters and I was in overload by the time I finished reading Alpha. I’m hoping BA Tortuga and Sean Michael team up again and bring us more Fur and Fang anthologies in the near future. 

Wet Skin

Title: Wet Skin
Author: Laura Baumbach, William Maltese
Publisher: MLR Press
Publisher URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-60820-053-5
Genre: Anthology, M/M
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Studs & Spurs

Title: Studs & Spurs
Author: JL Langley, Kiernan Kelly, Dakota Flint, Angela Fiddler
Publisher: MLR Press
Publisher URL: http://www.mlrbooks.com/
ISBN: 978-1-934531-55-6
Genre: Gay Cowboy Anthology
Rating: 4 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Sins of Summer

Title: Sins of Summer

Author: D.J. Manly, A.J. Llewellyn, Serena Yates

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-0-85715-613-6

Genre: {M/M} Vampires

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Saddle Up ‘n Ride

Title: Saddle Up ‘n Ride
Author: Anthology
Publisher: Total-E-Bound
Publisher URL: http://www.total-e-bound.com/
ISBN: 978-0-85715-392-0
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Western
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Ride ‘Em Hard Cowboy by J.P. Bowie - 5 Nymphs
Openly gay Sheriff Joel Harper has a steamy romance in progress at the same time he is being plagued by hate crimes.

Roping His Man by Simone Anderson - 5 Nymphs
Colton Greenleaf is hoping to get a Physician’s Assistant job in New Orleans and then he realizes his heart will forever be in Wyoming.

A Fistful of Emmett by Jambrea Jo Jones - 5 Nymphs
FBR Acres foreclosure causes Emmett Longley to seek a new job, as well as a new home. Buckin’ Y horse breeder Christopher Younger finds more than a ranch hand with Emmett.

Sing For Your Supper by Jaime Samms - 4 Nymphs
Down on his luck, Taylor Anderson is appreciative for a place to live, as well as the two compassionate men that made singing optional.

Jack’s Way by Em Woods - 5 Nymphs
It is love at first sight when in-the-closet ranch owner Jack Marr meets city boy architect Ben Morillo.

Straight Cowboy by Jan Irving - 4 Nymphs
Cowboy Joshua Ryan is in denial about his attraction for his guess Matt James, until another Western Trail Rides guest shows a sexual interest in Matt.

Saddle Up 'N Ride is a splendid collection of western romance. Each story exhibits a touch of drama, a dash of humor, emotional turmoil, as well as scorching love scenes. Created by six fabulous authors, the impressive stories are well written and engaging. I enjoyed this anthology immensely. 

Blood of a Leo by Dawn H. Hawkes

Title: Blood of a Leo

Author: Dawn H. Hawkes

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: spsilverpublishing.com/

ISBN: 9781920468125

Genre: {M/M} Paranormal, Action/Adventure, Series

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Human Leo Adams realizes he has a chance to escape the drug addict vampire who has kept Leo captive for months. Unfortunately, the vampire drug he was forcibly injected with is deadly to humans. Half dead, Leo stumbles into the alley behind the nightclub and falls unconscious into the arms of lion shifter Maddox.

Blood of a Leo is the first book in the Solomon's Pride Series. The plot is a vampire versus shifters action-adventure blended with shifter mating as well as a dash of humor. The characters are emotionally convincing. Leo is a gay man, disowned by his family and kidnapped by vampires to be a donor. Because Leo is able to endure the drugs forced upon him, he is especially valuable to vampire Mika, who discovered that by blending the drugs into his food source, Mika achieved a longer lasting high. Maddox is a very compassionate man whose cat side reminds me of a gentle playful kitten with Leo but a deadly enemy to anyone who threatens his mate or the pride. The steamy mating scenes are amazing.

Dawn H. Hawkes has produced a fantastic saga. I enjoyed Blood of a Leo immensely.

Game On, Game Over by Chris Quinton

Title: Game On, Game Over

Author: Chris Quinton

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publisher URL: spsilverpublishing.com

ISBN: 9781920501242

Genre: {M/M} Contemporary Action/Adventure

Rating: 4.5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Dragon Minx

Odd Man In by K. M. Mahoney

Title: Odd Man In

Author: K. M. Mahoney

Publisher: Total-E-Bound Publishing

Publisher URL: www.total-e-bound.com

ISBN: 978-0-85715-697-6

Genre: {M/M/M} Science Fiction

Rating: 5 Nymphs

Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Chocolate Minx

Space mercenary Daior Mathews is being held hostage, for reasons unknown to him. Dai has already discovered there is no escape off of the tiny planet, so he waits to learn what his captive’s demands are. That night, Dai is surprised when the guards toss another hostage into his cell. Terran is small, cute and instantly attracted to Dai. Exploring their mutual attraction is a good motive to escape in Dai’s way of thinking, so he contacts his ex-lover Tam, who comes to the rescue.

Odd Man In features a future world where everyone had some form of technological enhancement, the most common being intelligence augmentation. These enhancements have created a not-totally-human race of people. The storyline is a fast paced, action-packed adventure in hide and seek exploits, spaceship battles, galaxy jumps and hilarious commentary. There are moments of steamy intimate scenes as well as emotional insecurities. The characters are especially convincing. Dai and Tam are very much alike in personality, which has lead to numerous conflicts between them, even to the point of injury. Both men are protectors who object to being protected themselves. Terran has a snarky kind of personality on the surface; however he is very lovable along with being the gooey centre that binds the three men together in a contented relationship.

K. M. Mahoney’s Odd Man In is an immensely enjoyable outstanding saga. 

Thief of Hearts: Tempted in Thailand by EM Lynley

Title: Thief of Hearts: Tempted in Thailand
Author: EM Lynley
Publisher: Ravenous Press
Publisher URL: http://www.ravenousromance.com/
ISBN: 9781607773818
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary, Action/Adventure
Rating: 4.5 Nymphs
Literary Nymph Reviewer: Critter Nymph

Love Is Snowblind by Deirdre O'Dare

Title: Love Is Snowblind
Author: Deirdre O'Dare
Publisher: Amber Allure
Publisher URL: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure
ISBN: 978-1-60272-689-5
Genre: {M/M} Contemporary, Action, Adventure
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Scandalous Minx